Hypertherm 30xp vs 45 decision?

[dragoneggs]

I'll bet a plasma will kill that compressor in no time. Sounds like the tank may be in the danger zone already.
With the cost of a plasma, new compressor, and air dryer. Makes a port-a-band look real good right about now.

Well killing my compressor isn't such a bad thing (unless it kills me in the process) because I could then justify a new and bigger one! I am dreaming about a plasma because I want to unleash the inner artist in me! :laughing: Making other than straight cuts... you know, circles and freehand. Sounds like fun.

 

[Shield Arc]

You'll need one of these then. You plan on cutting things like this?

 

[dragoneggs]

You'll need one of these then. You plan on cutting things like this?

Exactly... what is that attachment and just how does that work? Are you just tracing? I am not getting the gist of it yet.

Looking at the Hyperthem website the inlet air specs... guessing my compressor should handle the 30XP (requires 4scfm @ 80 psi) the 45 (6scfm @ 80psi) could be marginal.

 

[Shield Arc]

The attachment is for burning circles with a plasma. Use a center punch in the middle of your circle. Start your cut.

 

[dragoneggs]

The attachment is for burning circles with a plasma. Use a center punch in the middle of your circle. Start your cut.

Yeah I understood the circles. I am assuming the artwork was all freehand? Very nice.

 

[oldtimer 66]

I bought the Hypertherm 65 and I wish I had bought the 85. I run the 65 on a 50 amp breaker although it calls for some slow burn fuses/ maybe around 75 amp I could look the correct amperage up. I run my air pressure around 110 psi and I purchased one of the toilet paper style filters. Unit works great. Get extra nozzles and tips when you order. Get some alum bar stock for straight cuts/ .62 thick, and use quick clamps to hold
Wells band saw, Miller Thunderbolt, Lincoln 256, 225 and 250XL Lincoln spool gun

 

[Shield Arc]

I am assuming the artwork was all freehand?

Yeah right!:laughing: No it was all cut on my CNC table.

 

[dragoneggs]

I bought the Hypertherm 65 and I wish I had bought the 85. I run the 65 on a 50 amp breaker although it calls for some slow burn fuses/ maybe around 75 amp I could look the correct amperage up. I run my air pressure around 110 psi and I purchased one of the toilet paper style filters. Unit works great. Get extra nozzles and tips when you order. Get some alum bar stock for straight cuts/ .62 thick, and use quick clamps to hold
Wells band saw, Miller Thunderbolt, Lincoln 256, 225 and 250XL Lincoln spool gun

I just don't see myself needing that much power ever and if I do get into big stuff, I am running over to Shield Arc's place. :laughing:

Anybody else care to comment on compressed air needs?

 

[dragoneggs]

Yeah right!:laughing: No it was all cut on my CNC table.

See... now you are making me really jealous and unintentionally (on purpose?) pushing me toward the Hypertherm 45 (CNC capable)! Dang it, SA!

 

[oldtimer 66]

I forgot to mention my air compressor, Black Max 5 hp 2 stage runs at 175 psi. 80 gal tank. It's 18 years old Handles the 65 OK