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