The "Plasma Plunge" - Miller vs Thermal Dynamics

[yomax4]

TD has an inexpensive CNC Interface Module that the Interface cable screws onto. That enables the machine to get instructions from the CNC ie: Arc Start,Stop, OK to Move ect. It is very simple stuff. I am unsure about the Hypertherm. Go to the Thermadyne.com website and look up a Thermal Dynamics A40. It is an automation 60 amp unit that comes with a machine torch and is CNC ready. Then you can add a manual 1 torch for hand cutting. Good luck..

 

[Redneck in training]

NEW, 50amp Plasma Cutter,Seimens igbt,cuts to 1

Has anybody heard about Siemens plasma cutters or is it one of those to good to be true deals.

 

[kennyd]

NEW, 50amp Plasma Cutter,Seimens igbt,cuts to 1

Has anybody heard about Siemens plasma cutters or is it one of those to good to be true deals.

Looks like the same Chinese one that Horrible Fright and other companies sell with different colors...

 

[J_J]

yeah, but my big question is how/where do you plug it into the computer/table controller so that the software can tell it to turn the torch on and off? the thermal dynamics and hypertherm units note their products as usable for automated torches, so they must be able to be driven by software - including arc on/off. i just wonder if this is able to be done on either brand with the hand torch without having to "hotwire" it.

I believe some of the controllers use a relay to activate the start and stop. So if you have the schematic for the plasma cutter, find the wires going to the switch on the hand held torch, at the plug, and connect them to a double throw switch. Label the switch "C" for computer, and "H" for hand held mode.
If wired correctly, you should be able to switch from computer or hand held mode with the flip of a switch.

I believe there is also a time delay between the air start and stop, and for the the plasma cutting to commence.

 

[Scooby074]

Looks like the same Chinese one that Horrible Fright and other companies sell with different colors...

Yepp.. not built by siemens.. Available under many different names (clarke, chicago electric... etc)

the only thing siemens there are the transistors themselves. Everything else is Chicom.

Some say theyre not a bad value but the consumables can be expensive and hard to get. Theyres also problems with dealers going out of business or being hard to get help from.

Personally id stay away and get a better known brand.

Also some of those chinese models dont have High Frequency start, which makes cutting through paint and rust next to impossible without first cleaning off the contaminant

 

[yomax4]

Actually, None of the Big names have High Freq. Start anymore. No problems cutting Rust, Grease, Paint, Galv or Glass if prepped right. :thumbsup:

 

[Scooby074]

Actually, None of the Big names have High Freq. Start anymore. No problems cutting Rust, Grease, Paint, Galv or Glass if prepped right. :thumbsup:

I thought HF was still used by most? I guess contact start has taken over?

anyways, most of the cheapies dont have any assist for starting, which matters for dirty or painted metal, or cutting mesh

 

[AHNC]

I have a Hypertherm 380. Little machine, certainly not up to your needs. I live in MA and when I was ready to buy I went up to Hypertherm in Lebanon, told the fellow I was interested and he took me into the lab. Wow! Candyland! :laughing:

It was all there and operating. Very pleased with my 380. Good luck on your buy!

 

[Spudland_Dave]

I live in MA and when I was ready to buy I went up to Hypertherm in Lebanon, told the fellow I was interested and he took me into the lab. Wow! Candyland! :laughing:

It was all there and operating. Very pleased with my 380. Good luck on your buy!

Thanks....I thought about that...if Hypertherm or TD had an "outlet store" with scratch & dent or Reconditioned models, I probably would have taken a ride by now to pick one up. Plus like you said, actualy touching & feeling one makes a difference....

 

[yomax4]

TD has been making plasmas for 53 years in West Lebanon NH. Unsure about the other guys but I wonder where they came from being in the same small town and all.? TD has a 4yr warranty. I wonder why every one else only gives you a 3yr.Whyis TD $400 less for the same amps output? All Plasmas are good but don't forget to compare tit for tat..