Hypertherm Plasma Cutters

Just like with traditional plasma cutters, you’ll find Hypertherm plasma cutters in all sorts of sizes, shapes, and models appropriate for hobbyists, artists, and of course, industrial shops. Because the variation is so wide, it’s extremely important to first consider how the cutter will be applied prior to buying one. Metal thickness – that is, the thickness of the metal that you’ll cut, should play a vital role in your purchase decision.

Many people prefer hypertherm plasma cutters to their alternatives because they can cut through metal fast without leaving a messy residue. They’re additionally cheaper to operate as well. Consider the costs associated with gas cutters. With hypertherm plasma cutters, only a minimal amount of gas and electricity is used. What’s even better is that they’re easier to use too – especially when compared to the learning curve required for gas cutters.

One of the things that makes hypertherm plasma cutters advantageous is the fact that they cut any kind of metal that conducts electricity. Oxygen gas cutters, the plasma cutter predecessor, can’t cut through that kind of metal and it explains why plasma cutters are becoming the new rage. Oxygen gas cutters for example can’t cut through copper or stainless steel -- but the plasma cutters can.

Depending on their size, hypertherm plasma cutters may come equipped with a built-in air compressor or require an external air compressor. Cutters that come with built-in air compressors are most appropriate for cutting thin metal. Cutters that use external air compressors are more appropriate for cutting thick metal. This is just another reason why you need to know your metal thickness prior to making a purchase decision – particularly since you may need to buy additional equipment. If you aren’t sure about your metal thickness, buy a cutter that’s rated to cut metals thicker than what you believe you’ll ever need.

Another thing you should look for when perusing plasma cutters (especially those that work with external air compressors) is pressure requirement. Pressure requirements describe the number of cubic feet/minute that a cutter needs. You’ll also need to use an air compressor that can provide an adequate air supply. Check for an air supply line dryer as well. This feature prevents damaging moisture from reaching the cutting surface.

Another thing you’ll need is a proper voltage-to-power source match – even if you’ll use a generator with the cutter. Using a hypertherm plasma cutter with a low powered generator is a recipe for failure. It’s always best to use a generator that’s rated higher than a plasma cutter’s maximum output.

You’ll find that your hypertherm plasma cutter’s output capacity and metal thickness is directly correlated to cutting speed, so seriously consider how you’ll use the cutter prior to committing to one. Failing to do so could result in a waste of money – either through over spending or under-spending.

One word of caution here, and that is to beware this tool’s ease of use. Just because the hypertherm plasma cutter is easy to use, that doesn’t make it appropriate for haphazard use. You must always practice safety procedures when using any plasma cutter. That includes wearing protective clothing, gloves, and goggles, and working in a well ventilated area since inhaling cutting particles can be deadly.