Plasma cutter

[SoCalTA]

Hello gang ....

I am getting close to getting my MM210 with the spoolgun option and now my question is about plasma cutters. Just like the welding I am doing light fabrication and thus light cutting. Most likely nothing thicker than 1/4 inch in any metal. I will be using AL. Basically I need something basic thats reliable and gets the job done. Nothing fancy. I would even entertain a used one. Any suggestions from the gurus would be greatly appreciated.

[MAC702]

I use the Miller Spectrum 375 Cutmate in my shop, mostly for mild steel up to 1/2", though most of my long cuts in sheet are with light stuff, 24-gauge through 1/8".

The one time I had to do 1/4" Al, I was surprised that the machine seemed to have a harder time at it. I put in new consumables, and while it did a better job (penetrated that time) it was still struggling, it seemed, at max power.

If you are going to be doing Al up to 1/4" as a mainstay, I might recommend getting the Miller Spectrum 625. You will appreciate its greater power for Al penetration and therefore greater speed.

[SoCalTA]

Thanks Mac

The 1/4 in AL was me thinking what would be the greatest thickness possible even though the chances are very slim I will be there. With what you told me about your uses/thickness I think the 375 is what I should be looking at.

Thanks for your input. Of course all others are welcome and I am still open to a second hand machine.

[HAWK]

Heh Guys,

Sometimes I jump when I should not and add more kick than I need, but the Spectrum 625 is a FANTASTIC MACHINE! I use it and the Spectrum 2050 weekly. The 625 is at my buddy's shop-the 2050 on my truck. If you can afford it , then get the 625 unless the lack of 120 VAC power input is a problem. I have mixed feelings on the 375: Some okay, some bad, but nothing fantastic. The 625 and the 2050 are both FANTASTIC MACHINES. It always takes a little more power to cut aluminum than steel-typically figure on slowing your travel speed and decreasing your material thickness by 20% from that machine's rated capacity on mild steel. The 375 will do the job at a price of consumable consumption and just plain old hard on the machine because is really not designed to do what you are wanting to do.

My .02 cents from a Miller fan and MRO/Pipe Welder.