Thermal dynamics or Hypertherm?

[S Griffin]

Hey guys, I just ordered a new Plasmaroute CNC ZR4800 machine. I ordered it with the Theramal Dynamics A80 plasma machine. I will be cutting mostly 1/8" and 1/4" steel, but occasionally I will cut 1/2" stuff. Did I make the right choice on the plasma machine? It seems most people on here use Hypertherm. I have a Hypertherm machine now that I use for my hand work in the shop and I have been very happy with it. But, when I spoke with several different companys about buying the cnc plasma table, everyone told me to go with the Thermal Dynamics machine. Is it just because they make more money on them or what? If anyone with a Thermal Dynamics machine could post some pics of their work and experience, I would greatly appreciate it. I build race cars mostly, but also do alot of lowriders and street rods. My machine is supposed to be ready around the first of October, but if I need to make a change on my order, I would like to figure it out as soon as possible.

Thanks for any input. This site has been very helpful for a cnc newbie.

[tof1]

Hypertherm. Have you seen both units in person? If not, stop by your local welding shop and ask around. Not to mention the Hypertherm fine cut consumables are great. Or you can go with the new Powermax 45 for less than you probably spent on the Thermal Dynamics...

[S Griffin]

Yes the Hypertherm is cheaper. Yes I have seen both of them. It seems that the people selling them always recommend the Thermal Dynamics machine. I like the fine cut consumables idea on the Hypertherm machine. But, I was told I didn't need them for the TD machine. Have I been mislead by salesman?

thanks

[DanOSB]

if i i was you ill go wtih hypertherm jim colt is on this site to support users and thier tech support is awesome.. quality and price is good on hypertherm..

i have powermax and am considering getting 45 model soon for my cnc machine..

Cheers
Dan

[slammedxonair]

i dont have any first hand experiance with TD I guess there pretty good but I have a Hypertherm 1250 and love it

[PlasmaGuy]

I have made this post numerous times and I'll do it again for you sir. I complement you on your research.

Buy Hypertherm. Unless something has recently changed, Hypertherms business is exclusively plasma. Their customer service is first class. We have J.Colt's advise too.

I have a 1650 that has been run very hard for 5+ years. Anytime I have a question they are as near as the phone. David Taylor, the area rep has dropped by my shop!

I'd love to hear why dealers are pushing TA? In todays economy, $$$ gets peoples attention. Maybe there is more profit is selling Thermal Arc over Hypertherm?

Good luck!

Tom Pace

[jimcolt]

The Hypertherm units are not always the least expensive to buy.....but they are the least exppensive to operate. Longer consumable life, better cut quality and better reliability.......as well as the fact that the entire system is built in Hanover , NH, USA.....by employees that also own the company!

I may be a little biased...but I'll stand behind the above statements!

Jim Colt Hypertherm

[WSS]

S Griffen,
As Jim states that the machine is built in Hanover. Should also be mentioned that it is assembled by hand with American parts. I had the hood up on mine to hook up some wires and was impressed with the detail. The machine is "hand" made not robot or machine made. You can see the bend lines on the internal sheet metal parts, the zip ties carefully placed, an extra cord grip is nicely tucked away inside as well. An American piece of equipment all the way through.

WSS

[S Griffin]

Thanks to all. I am going to change that order over to a Hypertherm machine.

One more question now, Which one? Do I go with the 45 or 1250?

[Dustin407]

I've been using a TD for a couple years now and Im very happy with it. The quality of the unit is very good overall, the price was reasonable too. I have not had any experience with the hypertherm units but im sure they are great, especially if they are built in the USA. Alot of people on this site are using hypertherm so you may have a lopsided poll of opinions. Its like saying do you like the yankees or red sox but you asked the question in NY. Im sure both units will get the job done in the end. Also I have had some bad customer service with TD a couple of times, just lack of knowledge on my questions....

[slammedxonair]

Thanks to all. I am going to change that order over to a Hypertherm machine.

One more question now, Which one? Do I go with the 45 or 1250?

Thats gona be up to your requirements, and that is basically the entry level system with new technology and the top end of the single phase machines but I'm sure Jim can help you out better with your choice.

[jimcolt]

It sounds as though the Hypertherm Powermax45 will meet your needs.....assuming that the 1/2" material is "occasional" cutting.

The Hypertherm lineup is: Powermax45, 45 Amps, 3/8" recommended pierce.....Powermax1000, 60 Amps, 1/2" recomended pierce....Powermax1250, 80 Amps, 5/8" recomended pierce....Powermax1650, 100 Amps (3 phase power only), 3/4" recomended pierce.

I own both the Powermax1000 and the Powermax45.......both have been used on my PlasmaCam machine extensively. While the 1000 has a little more speed and power...I prefer the cut quality and consumable life that the newer generation Powermax45 provides. If I was cutting more 1/2" than 1/4"...I would choose the 1000, if I was occasionally cutting 1/2"...but spending most of my time on thinner materials....then the 45 would be my choice hands down. The 1250 blows the doors off both the 45 and the 1000.....but is a bit pricier!

All of Hypertherms specifications are on the conservative side.....if Hypertherm says you can production pierce 3/8"......you can rest assured that it will be able to pierce a little thicker...using good pierce technique. I do 1/2" with my 45 with no issues....and have done a bit of 5/8" with it as well.

Jim Colt