Which Plasma Cutter?

[Pmedic828]

I am interested in purchasing a new plasma cutter that is around 40 to 60 amps. I can't afford to purchase an expensive machine and my limit is around $700. I was wondering if anyone has experience with the harbor freight or the eastwood 60 amp plasma cutters. Is one recommended over the other and why = i am planning to use this mostly to cut 3/8 inch steel but may use on occasion up to 1/2 inch. I don't plan on cutting any greater a thickness than that and want to know which one is the best and why. This machine will be used as a hobby and for cutting larger sheets down to size for milling and lathe work. Thanks everyone in advance!

 

[xalky]

You get what you pay for. I had a longevity plasma cutter that worked really well. Everlast also makes similar machines. Check them both out for a decent chinese plasma cutter. I think you'll get more bang for your buck from them rather than an Eastwood. I'd stay away from the harbor freight model. I haven't heard anything about the eastwood. Try to get something with a pilot arc start.

The downside to most of the chineese cheap models is they can wreak havoc with any electronics in the nearby vicinity. 25ft is probably a safe distance for emf interference from these units.

If it was me, I'd buy an everlast. I have one of thier tig welders and I'm pretty happy with it.

Marcel

 

[Charley Davidson]

$700 might go a long way on Craigs list getting you a better unit than the ones you mentioned. I have a Lincoln I need to get checked out that needs a torch, if it checks out I would sell you mine for a fair price that would put you in under or at that dollar amount after you you purchase a torch. Just food for thought.

 

[righto88]

I went with the Harbor Freight plasma cutter and have been very happy with it. I had it almost a year in the box
and finally opened it and put it to use in August of this year. I have used it almost daily since then. I always used
oxy/acc before. I don't think I've used the oxy/acc since I started using the plasma cutter.

Sure if I had the money I would of went with a "name" brand.

But this one for the money has lived up to its reviews.

 

[davidh]

also consider the cost and availability of consumables. . . .

 

[xalky]

I went with the Harbor Freight plasma cutter and have been very happy with it. I had it almost a year in the box
and finally opened it and put it to use in August of this year. I have used it almost daily since then. I always used
oxy/acc before. I don't think I've used the oxy/acc since I started using the plasma cutter.

Sure if I had the money I would of went with a "name" brand.

But this one for the money has lived up to its reviews.

That's good to know!