HF vs Blow Back vs HV for plasma table

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03-20-2015, 03:44 PM
RobC

HF vs Blow Back vs HV for plasma table

I'm looking at plasma cutters for use exclusively in a plasma table (I already have a HT PM45 one for doing free-hand work). I see that most are HF start, and I assume that's the newer technology, but the PP60C is High Voltage start, which I'm not familiar with.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each type, specifically when it comes to plasma table work, reliability, and quality of cut?

For background, I'm looking for a machine that will cut from 14ga to 1/2 inch for the most part, with occasional parts maybe up to 3/4. Seems this is the right range for the PP60C, but is there a unit that would be a better fit?

Right now I'm sending all this work out, and it's killing me both from cost, but more so, lead time perspective.

Thanks
03-20-2015, 04:34 PM
performance

For 3/4" you are going to need 80 amps for cnc. Blowback will work just fine.
03-20-2015, 05:56 PM
Rambozo

HF start can cause interference to the CNC control, so it is prefered to use blowback or high voltage start for CNC. It keeps you from having to shield everything, and having to chase down interference problems. Once cutting, they all cut the same, this is just for starting. Will you use a machine torch or a modified hand torch on your CNC? Also another thing to keep in mind is that if you are using an automatic torch height control, you might have a little more work to do. Everlast has their own voltage divider built in and the values are not what many torch height controls are looking for. Everyone is a little different and there doesn't seem to be a common standard yet.
03-30-2015, 06:04 AM
RobC

I will be using a machine torch, thus my preference for the PP60C. Id otherwise be looking at the 80 or 100, but adding another 500 bucks for a machine torch just pushes the budget too far right now.

After the table is set up and running i`lllook into adding torch height control, but ive read what a hassle integrating one can be, so i`ll tackle that seperately.
03-30-2015, 02:40 PM
Rambozo

Everlast should think about a "C" version of the newer machines like the 80 and 100 with a machine torch bundle. You can never have too much power for a CNC.
03-30-2015, 08:31 PM
everlastsupport

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rambozo

Everlast should think about a "C" version of the newer machines like the 80 and 100 with a machine torch bundle. You can never have too much power for a CNC.

Funny, I have a 50 in the box (spare) and a 80 we use all the time. I have had a bunch, 50-70, got the 80 and it never left the cart. Power is nice and we freehand with it, normally clean cuts with a good filter.