Plasma cutters are an important tool to have when it comes making sure you have the right automotive service equipment to get repairs done right. Like mig welders, this equipment uses electricity and gas to work, but that's where the similarities end. If you're looking to buy plasma cutters for your home shop or commercial garage, this article will explore a few things you should know before making a final purchasing decision.
Types and Features of Plasma Cutters
This type of automotive service equipment comes in three main types:
Compact - Noted for high power in a small, portable package, compact machines like these run off a standard 120V AC outlet, making them ideal for repairs on the go and onsite repairs. They cut everything from aluminum and stainless steel to carbon steel with ease and will remove spot welds almost instantly.
This style also uses a basic air compressor rather than requiring special gases and classes to haul it from place to place. Quality models will come with fans to keep everything cool and extend the life of the machines, built-in regulators with air reducers for total control, electrodes of various lengths, and different nozzles.
Low Amp Plasma Cutters - Low amp automotive service equipment models are similar to mig welders in the fact that they run off either 120 or 230V outlets. You can't beat this type of machine when it comes to cutting stainless, carbon steel, or aluminum, or removing spot welds. They also have built in pressure regulators, easy-to-use control panels, and fans to keep them cool. Larger wheels ensure that they move around far more easily and, because they run cooler, these machines won't over heat and damage the metal. For ease of use, look for models with compact handles, long tips, and longer nozzles, which are designed specifically for tight areas.
High Amp Styles - This type of plasma cutter runs upwards of 85 amps and weighs in at almost 100 lbs. Generally, thought of as stationary automotive service equipment, this style is available in 'engine driven' models or with a 'valet style' undercarriage for improved maneuverability. Machines that include VORTECH technology and dual winding technology give you a fast arc, better cutting speed, and improved performance with superior cutting abilities.
Features such as quick disconnects make it easy to remove and change torches while LED panels and indicators make the system easy to read and control. Other features to watch for include Parts-In-Place and lockout circuits for improved safety. For increased precision, particularly with repetitive or difficult cuts, select plasma cutter models with a CNC/Robotic interface.
Use & Application of Different Types of Plasma Cutters
Once you're aware of the types of plasma cutters you can choose from, you'll need to weigh the benefits of each style in order to determine which type is best for you.
Compact plasma cutter models are ideal for on site repairs of lighter metals of 3/8" or less in thickness. This means that those in auto body, farm, hobby, HVAC, and sheet metal fabrication absolutely love these machines. Additionally, since they run on 110V outlets, you won't be fighting to find somewhere to plug them in either.
Low amp machines are ideal for those industrial uses such as HVAC, light plate, and sheet metal fabrication. They make quick work on metal up to 3/4" thick and have winding technology, lower dross levels, and quick arc transfer rates for easy starts and fast restrikes so that you find it easy to work on even expanded metal.
If you'll be cutting metal up to 1 1/4" thick, you'll definitely need to look at high amp plasma cutters. This style of automotive service equipment is ideal for the most intense, industrial situations. In fact, this style is a favorite model for those working in fabrication, maintenance, and other heavy-duty applications.
Best Plasma Cutters Brands
Lincoln, Thermal Dynamics, and Marquette are just some of the best brands of plasma cutters you can find on the market. However, the reason why these brands have earned that title is far more important.
Warranty is an important aspect of any quality automotive service equipment brand. You want to be sure that the style of machine you purchase comes with at least two years worth of parts. This is vital since these cutters can be extremely expensive to repair. Also, be sure to go with a brand that has been around for awhile in order to improve the likelihood that you'll be able to get parts 10 or 15 years down the road.
ISO certification is also important when identifying quality brands. This system ensures that each machine meets strict industry standards and is tested before it ever leaves the plant. The plant itself is assessed and tested on a regular basis to ensure that it meets standards from start to finish.
Most importantly, make sure that you only purchase from a reputable dealer who offers quality equipment at a competitive price. This will ensure that you get the automotive service equipment that you ordered without worrying that the price is inflated, or that the certification and brand has been faked. You'll get quality equipment and quality customer service, and that's worth the time you take to research machines and dealers.
