Best value torch consumables question.

[8ob]

I was thinking of changing the torches on my plasma cutters, one will be permanently hooked up to the table, one in the workshop and one I drag about. I would like to change all three so I only need one type of consumable. What torch type/ consumables are the most economical in use?

TIA

Bob

 

[Dutch Welder]

It all depends on what cutter you have (more important what type of arc starting it has)
As consumables depend on what type of machine you have.

 

[8ob]

It all depends on what cutter you have (more important what type of arc starting it has)
As consumables depend on what type of machine you have.

I was looking at the p80 style torch, comes in both hf start and non hf start, consumables appear to be the same. I was hoping to fit the same lead and torch style on all them them so I was only using the one type of consumable.

Bob

 

[hotponyshoes]

In terms of 'best value' I'd say the expensive big brand ones. But then it will cost you for 3 big-brand torches!

I say the branded ones as they just work perfectly out of the box and last well.

Or, get the cheap torches and buy the packs of 100 consumables from China.
You'll have to sort through them when they arrive. Chuck 20% out instantly. Chuck another 20% out after fitting them and finding they don't work correctly. Then expect 25% lifespan from them.
But even after all that they still work out far cheaper than the branded ones.

Depends on how much you value your time?

Given the choice, I'd use branded ones from a local dealer that has good stock levels so I had the benefits without having to keep £££ of them in stock myself.

 

[Erie Fred]

I was looking at the p80 style torch, comes in both hf start and non hf start, consumables appear to be the same. I was hoping to fit the same lead and torch style on all them them so I was only using the one type of consumable.

Bob

I have qty (3) P-80 torches, used on a few of my plasma power supplies over the years.

I worked hard making many sample pieces to create my own sort of chart (I have never found one online) and have found the limits of the P-80.

I have never seen a snap start P-80, got a linky ?

Also, what thickness are you planning on cutting ?

 

[zzr1200]

This is basically what I have/use for a 50 amp and 125 amp machines .....

P80 torch:-

https://www.amazon.co.uk/RIVERWELD-Plasma-Cutter-Standard-Quality/dp/B01EYBNL1A

P80 cnc torch:-

Uadme Plasma Cutter - P80 Straight Head Cutters Machine Arc CNC Cutting Torch Head Body Machines Welding : Amazon.co.uk: DIY & Tools

Great prices on your favourite Home brands, and free delivery on eligible orders.

www.amazon.co.uk

or

25/45/90Pcs P80 Plasma Cutting Electrode Nozzle Plasma Consumable Fit P80 Plasma Cutting Torch LGK100/CUT80 80A-100A - AliExpress 1420

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

The bits (just remember to buy the correct tip sizes required:-

20Pcs P80 Plasma Cutting Torch 60A 80A 100A P80 CNC Plasma Torch Tip Electrode Nozzle For Plasma Cutting Accessories - AliExpress 1420

Smarter Shopping, Better Living! Aliexpress.com

www.aliexpress.com

 

[Erie Fred]

I found the "standard Quality" consumables don't work on the CNC.
You need the most expensive ones to get the concentricity between nozzle & electrode.
anything less, and your chasing your tail to find cut quality errors.

BTDT

 

[zzr1200]

I found the "standard Quality" consumables don't work on the CNC.
You need the most expensive ones to get the concentricity between nozzle & electrode.
anything less, and your chasing your tail to find cut quality errors.

BTDT

I've not found a problem as yet, but I'm happy if it's a cleanish cut.....

 

[Erie Fred]

I've not found a problem as yet, but I'm happy if it's a cleanish cut.....

Are you hand or machine cutting ?

 

[Turbo]

Definitely not the PT31 torch, not that easy to get a clean square cut and eats consumables quickly on higher amps. Limited to around 50 amps.
The next step up seems to be the P80 torch but I think it is still a non pro torch with similar cheap consumables.
Maybe contact one of the forum sponsors and see what they would suggest and they might give you a good deal on a package.

 

[Erie Fred]

I was getting good cuts with the a141, but as it was a chinese knockoff,
it broke down under 10kv of starting HF one day, catastrophically.....

Chinaman doesn't Hi-pot each torch assembly apparently.....

 

[zzr1200]

Are you hand or machine cutting ?

Hand atm.

Cnc table build coming soon....

 

[Erie Fred]

Hand atm.

Cnc table build coming soon....

There is a big difference when you switch to a CNC cutting machine.

 

[zzr1200]

There is a big difference when you switch to a CNC cutting machine.

Noted, I'll find out soon hopefully.