Plasma Cutter Recomendation (for future CNC)

[Ed from NY]

I'm looking for a plasma cutter to cut metal plates in smaller pieces before loading them in a mill. Initially I would be using the torch manually, but I would like to be able to use it for a DIY CNC conversion later.

I figure I will mostly be cutting 1/16 - 1/4 carbon and stainless, but I would like to use it for aluminum as well as being able to handle thicker material up to perhaps 1". I would like to hook it up to an N2 cylinder instead of a compressor. I plan to use it in a standard 230V household circuit.

The model I'm considering is the Hypertherm 1000... a 60A model.

Is this a good idea?

Is Hypertherm a good brand or is there a strong reason to consider others?

Can I use the "machine torch" manually or do I really have to get a "manual torch" now and then upgrade to a "machine torch" ?

Anything I should know about hooking this particular torch to a DIY CNC setup... not sure what to look for?

Also I do not understand why I need a "Torch Control" like the MP1000-THC... why can't I just hook it up to a small Z-axis? And if I do need a THC is the Hypertherm 1000 a good choice for the DIY?

One more noob question... perhaps very stupid... sorry... because I'll be using a bench mill (SX3)... do I have to worry about unevenness of the plasma cut and change in the metal temper possibly affecting the quality of the milling? Meaning can I expect to do one pass to remove a little material and be done or will I have to cut 1/2" away and bring in the mill in 2-3 passes?

Thanks!

[massajamesb]

The Hypertherm 1000 will never let you down, and it will cut what you have mentioned above with no problem. Hypertherm is simply the best, no if's and's or but's. Parts are available everywhere, so you won't be left hanging looking for some obscure Chinese tips. There are Hypertherm dealers and repair stations world wide (not that you will ever need much repair, they are tough as nails). They have Miller made torches, which in my book is exceptional quality as well. They cut cleaner than any of the competition, and draw less power out of the wall, while at the same time conserving tip life over competitors models.
So a big YES on the Hypertherm. You will never regret it, only enjoy it.

There is no difference between the hand torch and machine torch when it comes to consumables, or the way they cut metal. They both work . Buy a hand torch, when you get a cnc, wire a relay across the trigger leads to fire the torch from software. A machine torch already has this, but it is hard for me to justify the extra 600 bucks. If down the road you just can't go on without a machine torch, buy one. I think if you set up your hand torch right, you will be happy. A lot of us DIY cnc guys are running a regular or modified hand torch.
THC is a wonderful thing, and I applaud those who own one, and especially those who actally make them. With most sheets of steel, it is very hard to keep a constant torch tip to workpiece height while cutting. As the torch moves along, the tip height will vary, which can show up in your cut, or if the problem is bad enough, make you lose your cut altogether. A Z axis will be mandatory with THC, a Z axis simply lets you adjust cut and pierce height by itself. If you ever cut anything thin, you will pray to the great credit card that you had purchased a good THC.
As far as cut quality, if you don't have the right speed, cut height, enough power, whatever, then you might get ugly cuts. Practice is the only thing that will show you all this, though I think with the plasma you are going with, you will be fine
Be aware that plasma is not a highly accurate process when it comes to cut quality. I don't like plasma cuts on anything thicker than 3/8, because plasma is infamous for the 3-5 degree bevel it leaves when it cuts. This can be helped by trying your cuts clockwise, then counterclockwise to see which direction leaves less bevel.
If you are cutting with N2, you will have some pretty nice cuts,given everything else is set up right. Good luck!

[Ed from NY]

Cool

It sounds like I'm all set for now then.

Thanks a lot!