I took the leap! I found all the things I think add up to a reasonably priced and capable plasma system.
Super excited, I have wanted this since very early on. Of course, I intend to add it to one or both CNC’s. My goal is to have something I can recommend, that works. I really want to see what it takes to not fry boards, see how necessary a Torch Height Controller really is, and what sort of budget is required.
I put this in the lounge so I can keep track of costs, trials, and tribulations…but also work at a slower pace. I have the Zen to finish up before I spend any significant time on this.
That is a ton of money, but it does include a compressor (multi use) and the plasma capabilities are pretty insane, 1/2" no problem. Hoping the CNC port is useful. If this is a bust I have a friend that will take the plasma off my hands so not a complete gamble.
I hope everything is over rated and the duty cycle of both the compressor and plasma can handle sustained at least 3/8" cutting.
Very Exciting! I love the idea of plasma cutting but don’t have anywhere near the need to get into trying it for myself.
I wonder if it would be worth looking for a torch end that didn’t have the 90* bend so that you don’t have to deal with the torque having the handle slung out to one side is going to bring to the party.
(edit to add some enthusiasm before asking a “downer” question.)
Agreed. I don’t really have a need as much as a want personally but a bunch of my neighbors are really into big trucks and offloading so I figured it would get a lot of use making repair and upgrade parts for them. That means I will hopefully put a lot of time into it…and the other upgrade I hope to make.
As for that torch. I did look at the straight ones but I don’t think they actually make too much of a difference. The LR the angle torch is better and the MPCNC the straight one would be best. I do plan on fully constraining the torch and the first bit of cable.
I am sure you have been plenty busy as of late, however, have you put in any more thought into making a Plasma machine? I am interested in building one myself but I cannot decide on whether to go the Rambo and Marlin route or the LinuxCNC and Mesa route.
It looks like if you are cutting thinner material, THC is a must. So go with linux/mesa. I cut some body panels those things moved inches!!! So I am assuming even 1/4 material moves a bit and nozzle distance has a huge effect of cut quality.
Don’t be hard on yourself if you don’t have robotic precision.
If you’ve ever watched the new yankee workshop, Jimmy Diresta, or Frank Howarth. The process is rough cut using a jigsaw/bandsaw/coping saw/whatever and then either rout to a template or sand to the line using belt/disc sanders.
They all plan to be human. At least until they start using a CNC.
