Cnc plasma table

[superclarkey]

I'm sure this is a thread that comes up allot on here, but I just wanted to ask some basic questions without getting too deep into it.

Looking to build/buy a plasma table, unsure of the size but would need to be at least 1m^2 to 1.5m^2, I would cut upto say 10mm plate max.

My question is firstly is the hypertherm powermax 45 a good choice for this?

How much would it cost to build a good quality table, not really a crappy just get the job done one but a acuarate table that will last me years etc.

How much does the electronics cost and software to run it?

Guess I'm asking how much extra after I've bought the hypertherm 45.

Thanks in advance and any useful links to read would be appreciated.

 

[gerrymoore]

I built my own - much smaller - CNC table and run it with a hypertherm powermax30..get great results mainly on 2mm and 3mm... but you have to be pretty good with the mechanicals, electronics, design, and setting up and using the software..if not.... best to just buy one I would suggest and then get some training. There are some good CNC forums but it's not 'easy' to DIY a table....good luck anyway..once you've got one you will never cease to be amazed watching it at work

 

[superclarkey]

I think if i can look into what is required then I could make my mind up if i could do it, but as long as I don't need to design the software I think I'll be ok, I'm great with electronics and fabrication so I can't see it being too much of an issue, as you can buy most of the components anyways.

Just ordered my Hypertherm 45 excited to do some cutting as I've never had a plasma before!

 

[superclarkey]

Any one got some good links for me to have a read?

 

[T0rnado69]

a guy built a 8x4 table..... long thread but lots of pics and info and a good read.

 

[superclarkey]

Thanks I'll have a read through it if you have anymore let me know

 

[superclarkey]

Well I have to say out of the box its just breath taking!

 

[T0rnado69]

Well I have to say out of the box its just breath taking!

sure does.......

where about did you get it from superclarkey?

 

[superclarkey]

Rapid welding :-)

 

[morssdn]

That second shot is very clean for what looks like 10mm; did you do that along a straight edge? I got my PM45 from the states which saved a bit though it's missing a supply inductor which would give it the CE marking I paid for the 45 over the 30 because of the possibility of connecting up the cnc controls in the future though I admit I'm a long way from that yet. The cost of a proper machine torch is a bit of an off-putter as well but I'm just a hobbyist.

 

[superclarkey]

I bought it as a off the shelf ready to go package, so comes with the touch, and I know what you mean its like £500+ for a replacement so I will be taking very good care of it thats for sure!!

I set the gas pressure and away I went, I used a straight edge to do that cut and just nice and steady movement, (I've not owned a plasma cutter before, but I've used loads) so I know the travel speed, it was a perfect cut, hardly and gross or whatever they call it and it was smooth to the touch, I'm sure as the torch consumables wear out that it will go down hill.. But having the shielded shield cap on the end makes a big difference.

I had an R-Tech plasma for a while and it as just a waste of time, This is worth every penny and I'm sure the gun makes it amazing too.

Like you the only reason I bought this machine is for CNC future capabilities, I will actually really ever cut more than 10mm, and normally around 5mm max most days.

 

[awemawson]

I see no real reason a 'machine torch' cannot be constructed from the bits of a hand held one and a bit of ingenuity. After all it's only the same thing without the switch and mounted in a straight tube.

 

[T0rnado69]

Rapid welding :-)

nice..

im still trying to decide what one to go for.

the 45 or 65.

and must have CNC future capabilities, as i do plan on making a table in the furture...

 

[superclarkey]

I would honestly say if your cutting upto and slightly over 10mm the machine i've bought I can't see any reason to go any higher, the speed to which it can cut 10mm plate is just blistering fast!

 

[T0rnado69]

im not sure if i would ever cut anything over 12mm
but i do have some 20mm plate.

i assume its this one you got.

the PM65 is £898 more

 

[superclarkey]

Very unlikely to cut anything over 10mm plate but it's nice to know it can do it.

Yes that is the exact version of the machine I bought.

Out of interest what parts in the torch actually wear out, do you replace the lot
Each time, or just electrode and nozel?

As I noticed the parts are not too cheap. Lol

Does anyone know a good kit to buy for the rails and motors etc?

Best software to buy?

 

[gerrymoore]

I use Drawplus 8, sheetcam and mach3...all work brilliantly for me.

 

[T0rnado69]

yer normally just the electrode and nozzle
but from what ive read they last a fair while..

unlike the consumables for the cheaper Chinese cutters

as for rails and motors etc.

buy good quality ones, so you only buy once
and not throw them away
and end up buying good ones you wish you had bought in the first place.

but i guess that does depend on your budget for the rails,motors and drivers.

 

[superclarkey]

I've set a budget for building the table at around £3k, the plasma was just under £2k so hoping it can all come in under £5k. Think that's possible for good quality gear?

 

[T0rnado69]

i remembered when i was looking and asked questions on mycncuk..
and there is a few members that build these for a living for people.

and they pretty much said dont waste your money on cheap motors,drivers and rails.

after you have pulled all your hair out and binned the cheap crap you bought off ebay.

your buy good ones, which you wish you had done the first time.

i think it out was not far short of 1K.

im sure i see in one thread i read the guy had listed his costs...

EDIT...

here we go i found it

impressive for a month's build.


so does your PM45 have the port in the back for cnc connection ?