Posted by Mike (Montreal, Quebec) on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 22:25:12 :
In Reply to: Plasma cutters posted by Dana in Lancaster on Tuesday, May 27, 2008 at 09:58:57 :
Dana,
I have a Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 81 (newer model to Paul's) and just love it.
The best price I found in 2006 was 1755$ and I got it from a reputable distributor on the internet and eBay, Indiana Oxygen. I try to buy local but it was 3200$+TX here in Canada at the time! The replacement model 82 now sells for 1985$ incl. S&H on eBay (see link).
The drag tip (up to 60 Amps) makes for easy cutting. Gouging is very efficient though you have to shield yourself otherwise you'll look like a cooked lobster!
Make sure you put a good moisture filter at the plasma's compressed air input. I use a Motorguard M-26 filter.
Helmet wise, I use a Hornell 3M Speedglas Utility (about 150$). It goes to a shade #5 when turned off, just the right thing for gouging, and unlike goggles, it protects the whole face.
Regards,
Mike