Hi!
I have a cheap HF plasma cutter that i have mounted on a self-made CNC-table. The HF ignition is so bad that i had to make the pierce height lower than the cut height lower than the cut height. So i really need a better plasma cutter with pilot arc. I will probably buy a cheap Chinese one because of this is just a hobby project.
But my question is what type of torch should i be looking for? P80? Is there anything special to look for to get good cut quality
I will hock up the plasma to a LinuxCNC board and run it with a THCAD THC.
Does the torch affect cut quality?
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- acourtjester
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Re: Does the torch affect cut quality?
You need a non-HF torch which is also the type of plasma unit you need, and it is better to get one with a CNC control connecter built in for the signals. This connector should have torch fire, Arc OK, and Arc voltage signals. The LinuxCNC and THCAD-10 for THC works but is a real learning experiences. I have mine working but it was a long trip and it still is not perfect. Members here and the LinuxCNC site were a great help, I would not have gotten this far without them. You need to have a Linux operating PC and then select the CNC related package you plan to use that is for Plasma. I am not saying don't use linuxCNC just have an open mind.
DIY 4X4 Plasma/Router Table
Hypertherm PM65 Machine Torch
Drag Knife and Scribe
Miller Mig welder
13" metal lathe
Small Mill
Everlast PowerTig 255 EXT
Hypertherm PM65 Machine Torch
Drag Knife and Scribe
Miller Mig welder
13" metal lathe
Small Mill
Everlast PowerTig 255 EXT
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Re: Does the torch affect cut quality?
I agree with Tom, you definitely want to buy a plasma cutter with non-HF start. Since the Hypertherm 45xp is out of your price range, I would take a look at some of the plasma cutters the guys on the Langmuir forum are using. I think some of these cutters are in the $400 to $500 price range and may suite your needs quite well.
David
https://forum.langmuirsystems.com/
David
https://forum.langmuirsystems.com/