by
Alistair McDonald
Posted on
17/10/2024
Are you looking at CNC cutters for your workshop?
A CNC plasma cutter is an excellent choice, producing clean and accurate cuts. Depending on the machine, a plasma machine can cut a wide range of materials, such as steel, aluminium, stainless, brass, and copper.
The question is — how can you choose the right machine for your application? In this article, we share 10 tips for choosing a CNC plasma cutter so you can make an informed decision.
1. Cutting material
Firstly, what type of materials will you be cutting with your new plasma cutting machine?
An entry-level plasma machine is suitable for cutting up to 12mm steel, while mid-range CNC plasma machines can cut up to 32mm thick steel. With a high-end industrial CNC plasma system, you can cut steel plates up to 60mm thick and more.
The capacity of your plasma cutter will vary so you need to know the specific requirements of your projects. For example, our XT 30 MK3 can cut steel up to 32mm thick while our smaller KT12 cuts steel up to 20mm thick. You can read more about this in our article, what thickness can a CNC plasma cutter cut?
2. Table size
Secondly, what are the dimensions of the workpieces you need to cut? Larger tables allow you to work with big pieces of sheet metal while a small table might limit you to cutting smaller sections of a larger material. This may increase the number of joints required and therefore weaken the structural integrity of the final product. A larger table also increases efficiency on larger projects, without needing to reposition the material.
At Surefire, we have a range of tables suitable for all applications and production levels. Ranging from 1.2 metres to 4 metres, these tables include options for entry-level hobby CNC all the way to high-production industrial uses. View our range here.
3. Power requirements
When choosing a CNC plasma machine, you’ll need to consider the various power requirements, such as the type of power supply, voltage, and amperage.
Single-phase power is common in most home workshops but is not suitable for industrial-level plasma cutting. Three-phase power is more common in these high-production settings.
In terms of voltage and amperage, a 120V and 30-amp machine may be sufficient for a smaller workshop cutting thin sheets. On the other hand, industrial plasma cutters will usually be 400V or higher and over 100 amps.
4. Accuracy and precision
Will you need your cuts to be highly accurate and clean? If so, it may be worth investing in a high-definition plasma cutter. These high-end machines produce finer cuts that are ideal for intricate designs. However, standard plasma cutters often offer sufficient accuracy for your investment.
5. Software compatibility
When choosing between CNC cutters, you must consider their compatibility with the CAD and CAM systems. This will ensure smoother workflows and fewer technical bottlenecks.
This is why we developed SURECONTROL™, our highly intuitive CNC software. It’s compatible with all of our plasma-cutting machines and comes included in every package.
With a simple and user-friendly interface, you don’t need to learn complicated G-code to operate your machine. Just draw the part using CAD software, load the part into SURECONTROL™, select your material, and press start.
6. Durability and maintenance
Another critical factor is the overall durability of your plasma machine. We recommend checking expert reviews and industrial standards before committing to a particular machine, focusing on longevity and maintenance requirements. While a cheap plasma cutter may be tempting, it will generally cost a lot over time in repairs and lost production time.
At Surefire, we use Hypertherm plasma cutters, offering exceptional cut quality, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. They’re also backed by a comprehensive warranty of up to 3 years. We also supply spare parts, air filters, and other accessories to keep your operations running smoothly.
7. Safety features
When using a plasma cutter, it’s worth looking for a machine with advanced safety mechanisms. These features protect operators from accidents, maximising efficiency without risking any accidents.
For example, our plasma cutting heads are fully enclosed in a metal enclosure to protect your workers. We also have a range of protective face shields and visors that meet the AS1337.1 high-impact rating.
8. Water bed fume control
When using a plasma cutter, a waterbed or water table reduces harmful fumes. This is the most cost-effective and quiet method of fume control, compared to extraction or other alternatives.
Waterbeds also help to cool workpieces during the cutting process. This reduces warpage and means the piece can be handled almost immediately after the cut is complete.
9. Finance
With some suppliers, you can purchase a CNC plasma cutter with a payment plan. This enables you to invest in the right machine for your needs without burning through your allocated budget.
For example, Surefire CNC partners with established finance companies to make your financing journey easier. Alternatively, we can work with your finance provider to ensure a seamless transaction. Our packages start from a finance cost of around $30 per day, based on a 5-year term.
10. CNC plasma cutter packages
When purchasing a CNC plasma cutter, we recommend opting for an all-in-one package. This simplifies the buying process but also means the various components are designed to be used together, improving efficiency and performance.
At Surefire, our packages contain everything you need, including the table, software, and plasma torch. They arrive at your site in a robust timber shipping crate and are easy to unload. Every package comes flat-packed with a comprehensive setup guide and on-demand virtual support.
Browse our plasma cutting packages >>
Our CNC plasma cutting machines
At Surefire CNC, we believe well-designed CNC Plasma Cutters can be cost-effective and easy to use. That’s why we own the entire production process of our plasma machines, including design, engineering, manufacturing, supply, and servicing. This means you can enjoy a machine that is reliable, well-built, user-friendly, and affordable.
KT Series
Our KT Series is designed for smaller workshops and hobbyists, with easy operation, Australian-based technical support, and the option to expand later.
XT Series
Our XT Series is engineered for industrial applications, with easy operation, exceptional durability, and Australian-based technical support.
If you aren’t sure which plasma cutter is right for your application, try our Product Selector tool. With a few simple questions about your projects, we’ll show you the best model for your workshop. Alternatively, contact our team of experts today to discuss your requirements.
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