Over the past two days, I completed the setup of my new CNC Plasma cutting machine (also see PlasmaCAM Part 1), and man is it awesome!
After physically constructing the cutting table, I needed to do a little wiring in my Hypertherm PowerMax 1000 plasma torch so that it would interface with the control box of the PlasmaCAM in order to allow the machine to turn the torch on and off. The instruction video had me really worried because it kept talking about needing to have a professional electrician install the wiring and then perform a huge batch of tests in order to ensure everything was OK.
But when it finally came to the portion of the video that deals with my plasma cutter, the instruction was all of about 10 seconds in length. This is not because the topic was not covered well, but rather because the simplicity of the install did not require more. In about 5 minutes the plasma cutter was wired up, and I summarily mounted it into the holder on the PlasmaCAM to prepare it for test cutting.
My final task, after wiring and mounting the plasma torch, was to provision a dedicated PC to handle all of the computer control functions of the system. I purchased a brand new PC to dedicate to the PCAM.
I systematically deleted all the pre-installed crap (AOL, MS Office trial, MS Works, etc.) using the Add/Remove Programs that came pre-loaded on the machine. I then installed a firewall, anti-virus software and a Linksys wireless NIC. Finally I installed the PlasmaCAM software.
Now, all of this went very smoothly with the exception of one little thing. Although the PlasmaCAM software instructed me to log into my computer’s BIOS and set the parallel port to EPP 1.9, that particular setting did not work for me. A quick call to the tech support line, however, and George had me switch the setting to SPP and everything began working immediately.
After spending a little time setting up and tweaking the machine’s settings, I was able to make a very nice cutout after only the 3rd try. I consider this quite a testament to the simplicity of the use of this machine. I had anticipated a much longer learning curve, but it seems that I’m already able to use the machine, so my loyal art fans out there will start seeing photos of new art designs I have in the works very soon!
Edit: I also added a review of the PlasmaCAM sales video which many people have found useful for separating fact from fiction.
Hello John… I met you & Cali in person at the San Francisco meetup at Mel’s Diner a couple of years ago. I’m the guy that gave you & Cali a couple of our Pipe Sizer tools to try out and possibly put on one of your Internet shows. Anyway… My Dad and I are now up in Montana, and we’re looking to manufacture our own Pipe Sizers vs. outsourcing in China. I have several questions regarding the PlasmaCAM, and I was hoping that I could send you an e-mail with some questions about the machine. We’ve picked up the DVD and info pack from PlasmaCAM, and everything looks great on DVD, but I’m starting to get “spooked” by some of the negative reviews and comments made about the equipment. Our main focus for buying the PlasmaCAM is so that we can cleanly and effectively cut out our own Pipe Sizer leaves in 304 stainless steel sheets (either 4′ x 8′ or 4′ x 4′ sheets) using either 18 or 20 gauge stainless steel. Do you know if we would get nice, clean cuts with the PlasmaCAM, and if so, would the edges be clean and burr or slag free? Would be need to clean up the stainless after each cut? We wanted to get the Samson brand of cutter with the 5′ x 10′ table so that we could cut out numerous pieces in one sitting. Currently, our Pipe Sizer tool is being “stamped” out in China. We “eagerly” await your response. Thanks John…
Dave
P.S. – You can view our Pipe Sizer tool at the following link:
http://globalspanproducts.com/products/pipesizer.html
Hi, I´m interested to buy a plasmacam, but i dont know the price of it, would you tell me the price??. And if you need to buy an extra stuff( besides plasma torch) like an air compressor??
My husband and I have debated on investing in a Plasma Cam for a couple of years now. It will be another 18 months before we will be able to make another investment, while we are waiting and pondering is there anyone in Mississippi / Alabama area that would let us come see the machine in action? We live in East central MS.
im having problems starting plasma cam i turn it on and it says torch disconected
I need to puchase a plasm cam but i do not know where to buy it, This Website is so remote without contact informstion
address is PO box 19818
5112 graneros rd.
Colorado city, Colorado 81019-0818
hope this helps
I realize this blog is old if not obsolete, but I have to ask,
Have you ever written a how to use the table, settings etc?
I had a dhc table then the samson510 which I do like.
I have the hypertherm 1000 an power Max 85
I have found the settings in the 85 are better than the 1000, but still have issues cutting.
I to believe the DVD is very good sales video and gets people to buy but not an easy machine to operate.
I can not understand with all the questions asked on the forums out there that plasmacam hasn’t taken and created a cheat sheet manual.
Everyday a new owner asks the same question on the forums…how do you operate the table, and are there any owners living nearby to show me what to do?
If they offered a return, it would be used quite often.
If I bought mine new, which I bought both used from frustrated owners and my Samson had no marks on the grates even!
But if I was one that was considering buying a plasmaCam I would use my credit card then if it didn’t do as claimed in video I would return it and let the credit card company fight it out.
I know you would get your money returned as the video is all sales hype.
I can now operate mine but wouldn’t do it again if I knew now what I didn’t know when I bought.
Sorry Ronald, I haven’t ever made any sort of instructional video or anything. I suppose I could, but it would take a lot of work and I’d probably charge a few hundred bucks for it because not many people would be buying it! ;-0
Recently bought a plasmacam and it won’t initialize. Replaced the controller and cables to the motor,till same problem. Can’t initialize the gantry or carriage. motors move a couple of inches and shut back down. Can anyone help me….
Hi John,
Is the Plasma cam made in the USA>
Thanks Big Ted
Hello, I just bought an used plasmacam, with a plasma cutter. Currenty it is on the way to Romania… I have no experience with CNC. What tips shoul I use to cut thin metal? and what amperage?
Thank You1
i wish to purchase PlasmaCAM for India.
Hi Ive owened my plasmacam for a few years I was using autocad Lt for drawing designs to cut but I have purchased anouther drawing program and was woundering if I can use this program to draw and save under diffrent then a DFX file is it still able to be used for my plasmacam to cut
Hope you can help me
Ed
I have been trying to scan pictures and inport them after tracing and they all come in with a dubble line I am also having problems linking segments. Need help
Mark
i would like to know what the full price is for the plasmacam with power unit and head?
whats the thinest and thickest it wil cut?
and table size?
Hello, I think the cheepest price you are going to get on artwork are one’s you desighn your self. You take a picture that has the right style for metal art. You scan it then trace with the right ink and scan that. With a little practice you can get your art.
I have being using pcam for a couple of years I use signtorch and ezart graphics and have good luck with the art redpup is another one I like. Shana
I WAS JUST WONDERING ON HOW I CAN GET SOME ART WORK FOR THE PLASMACAM WE HAVE AT OUR SCHOOL. IM TRYING TO FIND SOME OLD WESTERN TYPE OF ART AND SOME DEER AS WELL. DOES ANY ONE HAVE OR KNOW HOW I COULD GET A COUPLE FOR A CHEAP CHEAP PRICE?
We have a plasma cam with a hyper therm 1000 need info of cutting of steel. We cut with 11gage fine but would like to cut using thinner material. The tip we use is a 40 amp and when we try to cut thin material it warps and snags the gantry. Got any ideas??
do you know if there is any problem if i build a larger table for cutting? i mean the software is designed to be able to cut the designs you do in many parts, because the area on where the servomotors’s chassis run, that are a very small area if you dou larger designs,so the thing that you do is to move the plate, but i have space in my location and a crane to move larger plates and also the plasma cam, my question is if i want to do only one large cut, would be any trouble?
also, i need to attach an optical lector to cut pieces that can’t be scanned and i dont know anything about autocad, it’s there any chance to connect that lector?
ToddW, we’re waiting for that write-up.
For anyone interested I just did a HUGE write-up on the actual cost to buy and operate a plasmacam or any CNC plasma cutter. I will be adding to the resources too.
I’m also using a hypotherm powermax 1000…
I have the same thing in my shop. We just bought one and a brand new computer. But we don’t have our height sensor working. How did that workout for you? What did you make it as? A picture would be great!
I was reading the blods on Pcams
and seen something about a dust collection system. Can you please tell me about it & where I can purchase one & the cost.
Thanks George
I have the newest PCAM with the auto z axis but I’m having trouble with it. The probe I made keeps catching on the work and moving it. Can you help me or do you know any one in my area to help me. My email is ahfab1@aol.com
Hello i have had a PlasmaCam for 3 years i have had very good luck with this. I once had to send my control box in and had it back in 3 days. So they have good customer service Tech’s have always been great. PlasmaCam has another bigger machine 5 X 10 i think under the name http://www.samsoncnc.com I draw all of my stuff in CAD programs i haven’t really tried to import pictures.
I can tell you one thing about creating art pieces after over a year of using PlasmaCAM.. …if you’re going to SCAN images.. scan them @ 600DPI MINIMUM. I bring in bitmaps @ 1200DPI. the higher the resolution, the sharper the vector translation.. people need to realize that bitmaps are PIXEL based images.. vectors are images based on coordinates.
there’s a small switch on the side to go from 110V to 220V ..flip it to 220V..
Hi John I am Cambodian and live in CAmbodia country. I often like to read your comments & suggestions. I just bought PlasmaCAM DHC2 and the control box does not work when i turned it on. Maybe my country use 220v current. any advice from you what to do with it.
right on bro i just order one myself but unlike you i am computer stupid but i am getting it after 1 year i can type with 2 fingers not bad eh.iI am going to put the plasma cam in a 40 foot shipping container. it will be behind my small shop 30 -22 with a glass patio door entry from inside the shop for a couple of reasons like some one mentioned in one of your replies metal dust ( computer will be in the shop just inside the door) thanks who ever mentioned that. Ventilation will be a furnace fan the container wont be heated but pulling filtered air from inside the shop. When I’m not working i think 3 or4 heat lights like the ones for chicken barns etc would suffice. also keep the metal plate from rusting the plate will be on roller at end of the table for easy access.and free up valuable space in my small shop cant wait but i might need a computer freek with that end of it . thats the plan and i hope it doesn’t create any unforeseen problems . plus its out of site from so called friends who only show up when they need something i get a lot of that well anyway great for you ihope you make some cool shit and make some good money (too bad it couldn’t just make the money)
$10k is actually not too bad if it comes with a decent Hypertherm and a nice dust collector, but it’s hard to say without seeing it.
Just keep in mind that a brand new PCam with warranty can be shipped to you for about $9,500. It will have some updates features, such as the ability to change torch tips without removing the torch and a few other little things. This will also come with a warranty and all the support you might need.
A used PCam could possibly have some hidden issues, so I would not purchase one without seeing it in operation. However, if it will cut something moderately complex then you can assume it’s going to be OK.
The PCam comes with basic software, but some people fork out the extra money for art discs or HVAC creating software. If it doesn’t come with those “extras” then it’s just the plain free software.
Depending on the dust collection system, it could be very expensive, so, if it’s at leas a $2-3k unit then you’d be getting a good deal with a decent Hypertherm, plus that, plus the machine at $10k. Hope that helps!
John
Hey, if you guys (and gals) want a good laugh, go to the 10 worst drivers videos (if you haven’t already). LOL LMAO!! Very funny, and scary to think these people drive the same roads we do. Some people are definatly not meant to drive, except maybe on a closed track. Oh by the way, I found a 2yr old PCam w/30hrs for sale 5 miles away from my house. How cool is that!! I found it on http://www.craigslist.com, which is a God send of a website if your looking to buy or sell something… and its FREE!!! He’s asking $10,000 for the PCam, dust collector, Hypertherm (size unknown), and “all” the software(which I thought came with a new one anyway). Does this price seem reasonable? I think it’s abit high. How much is the dust collector? I know a plenty powerful torch is about $2500. I need to be able to cut 1 1/2″, maybe. I don’t have 3 phase power, so i’m sure i’ll be limited with that. I need to at least cut 1″- 1 1/4″. Man, I can’t wait to start cutting!!
Hey John, you seem to know your s*** when it comes to these different CNCs. I too, have done my research and am going to be purchasing one soon. My problem now is that my constuction business has slowed down (dropped off a cliff!) and i need to find a used PCam. Do you know of one I can get my hands on? I am in west, central Florida but will travel if nessasary. Also, before I lost my a** in constuction I was leaning toward buying a Practical CNC/router. Do you know much about these. They seemed to have an edge over PCam and their 4×4 model w/router was close in price. I mainly wanted the Practical CNC because of the fact of the router option and the 5×10 option. The one I was going to order crept up to near $19,000! No way I can afford that now. So, i’m back to a 4×4 PCam. Like you said, Cheap, practical, does what you want when you want, and you don’t have to wait a month or two to get it. Thanks ahead of time if you or anyone out there knows where to get a preowned!
Hey John,
I have been looking at the plasma cam for a couple of years. I am in DFW area & would like to see the machine work if possible. Please go to my website http://www.dougsautocraft.com & follow links for my number. I would like to hear from you if you don’t mind.
Regards,
Doug
To help answer the question about high frequency (electrical noise) affecting the PC. This system is equipped with a Hypertherm Powermax1000 which uses a “blowback” torch starting system……which does not utilize a high frequency discharge for ignition. Most of the hobby class cnc cutting machines that are available today can use non high frequency start plasmas…..but are not compatible with high end industrial plasmas that do use HF.
Jim Colt
Pat,
It has had no effect on my computer whatsoever. And my computer is permanently located in the garage a few feet from the machine. Never farther than 10 feet because that is the length of the parallel cable I have. :-)
I would not worry about the frequency issue at all. What you should worry about is the plasma cutting dust getting inside the computer and coating things with a metalic powder. That is what will impact the computer’s life span.
Having said all that, I recommend you stick to a cheap machine just for cutting purposes (a $200 PC is more than adequate) and do your design work on another nicer machine somewhere comfortable. You can have both machines on a wireless network, or just carry the designs to cut on a USB key to the cutting machine.
Hope that helps!
John
Can anyone tell me if the high frequency from the plasma cutter has effected your computer. I did not really get an answer to this when speaking to the PlasmaCAM rep.
Thanks
Pat
Rick,
I’m not entirely sure, so are you asking Kenneth if he got his machine up or me?
If you are asking me, I’ve had it up and running since this original post and I love it. The 3rd gen one has some nice improvements such as being able to change torch tips without having to remove the torch and I would highly recommend it.
If you are asking Kenneth because you feel somewhat computer illiterate I would recommend you read my other article on the PlasmaCAM Video Review – Fact vs. Fiction.
John
Wondering if you got your PlasmaCam going yet==I’m thinking about buying the third generation machine==Rick
Everything that is demonstrated by PlasmaCAM is completely do-able, and frankly I don’t consider any of it to be that complex. I’ve personally created things that are far more complex than you’ve seen on any of the promotion materials.
The thing is, all of these machines have basically the exact same capabilities. I also like the DynaCNC and I might have bought one if I had really, really needed an 8″ table or if I could even accomodate one.
If you have the room for an 8′ table, you have a few months to wait while they build you one, and you’ve got a forklift available to move it with then by all means go ahead and get it.
If you would prefer a more compact table that you can build all by yourself in a few hours, that you can later move around by yourself, and that can be shipped to you tomorrow and with a much larger installed user base and more available avenues for help and assistance then choose the PlasmaCAM.
John
Hello
I am looking at both the PlasmaCam and the DynaCNC.
The sample images the DynaCNC rep sent me were lack luster. By stark contrast the sample images on the PlasmaCam site are stellar.
I would like to know from the users if the PC machine is actually capable of all you see displayed on the site by the average user OR are they extreme exceptions?
So far I am leaning towards the Dyna. Speaking with the rep I can get a 4×8 setup for the same price as the PC’s 4×4. Lifetime software upgrades included.
James,
I am considering purchasing the Pcam and have seen the promotional video. I like others would like to see one in use. You say that you are in SC. I am as well and would like to contact you. Please let me know if I could meet you and see the product in operation.
Angela
Im in SC you are welcome to come check mine out
Ray,
I’m very sorry. I never received your e-mail. It’s possible that it got inadvertently caught up in a spam filter, or it may just be sitting in my over-crowded inbox. I get about 1,000 messages a week (not including SPAM).
Anyway, I would love to take a look at your comparative analysis and potentially share the results with everyone to give them a jumpstart. I’d add my input and we could even solicit input from other’s as well. Communally we could probably put out a very good reference tool.
Thanks for the offer, and if you would drop me a message to john at pozadzides dot com I’ll be happy to take a look at it.
Again, sorry about missing the first message, but I appreciate your following back up!
John
Hi John I had sent you an email to offer to send you a doc on my findings in hunting for the right plasma cnc for me. I don’t know if you ever got it but if you would like to see please email me and I will send it to you. If you would like to share it with others you would be free to do so. Everyone that decides to buy a machine goes through the same ordeal trying to decide on which one to buy, compitition is fiearce from the companies that make them, they all want your money. The doc is only my unabiased views and findings.
Grumpy,
Yes, I can see where that was a terrible mistake. Having to find a place to store the crate for an extra 3-4 days must have been a horrible burden… :-)
So, please tell us all about the Samson! How much does it weigh, how long did it take to assemble, how much did it cost, etc?
We’re dying to know!
John
I use a plasma cutter at work and looked into several before I settled on the Samson, PC’s new big brother. I went out to Colorado a month ago and while I was there I saw PC in action. My only problem so far is they were supposed to take a week to deliver it but they only took 3 days. Colorado to Alabama in less than 72 hours.
Grrrrr,
Grumpy
George & Sue,
My first recommendation is to give George at PlasmaCAM a call at 719-676-2701. He is a genius and knows the answer to just about every question anyone can come up with.
If for some reason you can’t / don’t want to call George, I’m going to refer you to the PlasmaCAM Yahoo Group. You really need to join that group and I would encourage you to ask questions there.
Before you ask questions, read all of the old archives. You’ll be surprised how much you will learn from reading all the old posts.
Finally, you are going to need to be a LOT more specific about your problem. When you say the torch won’t “stay connected” I’m not sure if you mean that it won’t fire continuously, if the torch is popping off the holder, or what. I realize that you are not that technical, but you’ve got to give as much detail as possible because there are a large number of things that can go wrong.
Explain what type of material you are cutting, thickness, Plasma torch brand, Air Compressor model, and any other details you can come up with. Given all of that information you’ll likely get several responses of various things to check ranging from your air compressor output, to your grounding, to your consumables.
Take care,
John
We purchased a plasma cam about 2 months ago and are having a terrible time. We were hoping to be able to do art work and parts for a local company but we have so far only cut 1 piece of art and the other one is still on the frame half cut. We are having trouble with the cutting torch staying connected and cutting. Any advice would be great. We are not the most computer smart people but really thougth we could do this. Thanks
Ray,
It looks like you’ve discovered what I previously stated about the PCAM being roughly the same price as the competition. And now you’re debating about the steppers vs. servos. I did the same exact thing. And I really stressed about it! But when it comes right down to it neither motor type cuts better detail than the other. And the steel vs. aluminum question is even more irrelevant.
All of these motor systems are far more precise than the torch connected to the machine anyway. The kerf width is what is going to be your limiting factor. I’m not sure if you saw my other posts, but here is an example of some of the art I cut on the PCAM. It’s not all that intricate, but I have cut things that are very, very detailed and intricate. Remember, all I use my machine for is art.
And the PCAM only takes normal torches, it won’t even accomodate the HD machines. I’m using a Hypertherm 1000 unit.
As far as the software is concerned, I believe there is fairly universal agreement that the PCAM software is by far the easiest. But I’m hoping that you plan on doing your artwork in CorelDraw and then exporting it and just using the PCAM software for cutting purposes. Nothing beats Corel for art design for cutting purposes.
The bottom line is that I’ve learned that the PCAM simply does the job. As I’ve stated in the multiple posts here, it’s not a perfect machine. But once it’s set up and you’re comfortable operating it, it’s just plain reliable. You do your art design, walk out to the machine, cut your parts, and that’s it.
Hope that helps a bit. Good luck with your decision,
John
I am in the same boat as alot of others here tossing between the 4X4 Torchmate and the Plasma Cam. At first it appeared the Torchmate was $2000 less than the Pcam but then discovered that the Pcam comes with auto height adjustment, it is an option on the torchmate $2400 extra which makes it actually a little over $300 more than the Pcam plus you have to supply 3/16 X 3″ flat stock for the table grid for the torchmate. It’s still a tuff call, aluminum frame vs. steel, servo vs stepper. I have spoken on the phone with people at both companies but can’t say either one has swayed or really impressed me one way or the other. I wonder if the stepper motor system can cut as detailed as the servo motor? This is very important to me as the main use of the machine for me will be art. The Pcam video is impressive but I wonder if they are using a regular plasma cutter or one of the expensive HD machines? I wonder who has the better software? I guess at this time I am leaning more toward the Pcam, I will take a few more weeks to think it out. John thanks for this page and good real life artical on the Pcam.
Actually Jeff, Tom has a great reputation so if you are so inclined to build a machine from scratch this is probably a very good way to go. It will certainly cost a lot less than a PlasmaCAM or any of it’s competitors. Especially if, as you say, time is not quite money yet. :-)
Of course, you do need to be fairly comfortable with fabrication and electronics, but if and when you complete the project I would LOVE to hear about it and see some pictures, etc.
Another advantage of building your own machine is that you can probably make it with an interchangable head so that you can use it for routing as well as plasma cutting. This is something I really wish the PCAM had.
John
Ok, I have done more research and have found another web site that will blow your socks off. But first, let me say that I do not have unlimited funds to go out and buy a Plasma Cam 4’x4′ or a Samson 5’x10′, or even a Torchmate table, I can build everything I need except for the electronics and the servo’s, And I have the time because I am not in business yet, my time is not money yet, it is a hobby. The web site I refer to sells eveything you need to run any size table you want to build, I will also say that the electronics has more power than all these other machines, and will do more. The web site is , are you ready, http://www.candcnc.com, I have talked with the person that owns the place [Tom] and he knows what he is talking about. You can buy the most exspensive kit with servo’s and software for less than $4000.00, I don’t think anyone can beat that. Well have fun, this is what I am going to do .
Hi there,
I stumbled onto you site here looking for just this type of info. I’m seriously considering a PlasmaCam and this has been very helpful, but I still have a few questions. If I do buy one, it will be the basis of a small but full time fab shop. I’ve noticed a few people who seem to be doing this, but I’ve also gotten the impression from a few comments that this might not be the right machine if that’s the case and I’m wondering why. Maybe that 5’x10′ capability will change that. Also I’m interested to know from anyone who does operate their machine for business purposes, how do you handle pricing? Material plus hourly, per piece/job, or do you have to alternate methods based on the situation? Really any advice would be greatly appreciated. I’ve got alot of ideas already and I’m excited about this prospect, I just want to make the most educated decision I can. Thanks
JR,
That is awesome news! Thanks for sharing that info! I’m going to give them a call and see if I can get some more info on it.
John
I’ve just returned from Colorado for a visit with the PlasmaCam co. and a personal demonstration of their machine. Like the video, it does what they
say it will do. One thing I found out while there is they’ve just come out with a new model that accepts 5′ X 10′ stock.. It’s called “Samson”.
I think I’m going to get one. J. R.
Jeff,
I appreciate your respect for the fact that this is my site. Some people have ripped into me in the past in a way that was not appreciated, so thanks. However, I would encourage you to share more of your reasoning for disagreement with me because others might be thinking the same thing. If my logic is faulty then they should see why. And perhaps if I am able to better explain myself it may help you as well. Either way a healthy debate is always beneficial as long as no one is hurling insults.
I would like to clarify that I have the financial means to purchase any plasma cutting machine on the market (I don’t require ROI – this is a hobby for me). I am generally extremely meticulous when I’m making a decision of this type. And if I decide I want another machine I’ll just throw this one away and replace it.
I did look very, very closely at the Torchmate machines, and others (as I denoted here). I also tried to find one that I could go and take a look at nearby, but there isn’t a customer listed within two states of me. By comparison there are many PlasmaCAM owners within 100 miles. I also called their 800 number and discussed the machine with someone during my decision making process.
You are right that the Torchmate offers more options. If you are needing to cut tubes, do routing, use an oxy-fuel torch, or if you need a table larger than 4’x4′ the PlasmaCAM is right out to start with. But adding any/all of those makes the machine more costly and it would be a serious pain in the butt to be switching heads back and forth for one thing or another. Most people would be better served with a dedicated plasma CNC machine and a seperate machine for the other thing.
Three years of tech support vs. lifetime becomes largely irrelevant. You’ll know everything you need to know within the first few months. After three years if something is wrong it’s probably broken and you’ll be paying them for parts anyway. Plus Torchmate doesn’t have the large user groups online that PlasmaCAM has.
The Torchmate 1 system is a toy. The Torchmate 2 and 3 are the only ones that are comparable and they cost about the same amount as the PlasmaCAM unless you fabricate parts of them yourself. And if you figure that shop time is worth say $100/ hr then the 20 hours it’s going to take to finish a machine is eaten up by lost productivity with the machine. So, it will indeed come down to the features you require. If you just need to do plasma cutting, and you don’t need bigger than a 4×4 table then PlasmaCAM is the Toyota of this business. Plain, cheap and reliable. I think people need to honestly evaluate what they are going to use the machine for and whether they really need the add-ons.
Finally, check and see what the aggregate weight of any machine you’re looking at is as well as the delivery time. The entire PlasmaCAM machine is about 300 lbs which is perfect for a garage or small shop, and they can ship it the next day after you order it. Some of these other machines weigh 700-1,500 pounds, which is fine if you have a forklift and a lot of space, but not for me.
Although your natural skepticism may have initially led you to think I was trying to justify my purchase I would encourage you to consider another alternative. I already went through the purchase process you are considering and did a great deal of research including flying to another state to investigate a machine before I bought it. I was nervous about the decision at first, but it has worked out well and now I’m happy to share that info. Believe me, if you check out my reviews section you’ll see me complaining about things that haven’t gone well, and my regular readers know I don’t pull any punches.
John
Well I will not argue the point with you,but you have not looked at all torchmate options such as lifetime tech support or the many different size machines they offer,not just a 4’x4′ machine. also I disagree with most of your reasoning, because I have not bought a machine yet ,you have ,so you have to justify the purchase in your own mind. But this is your blog, have fun.
Jeff,
I also looked at the Torchmates and they seem to be OK, but I think your comparison data is incorrect.
In my opinion if you need to do Plasma cutting and a 4×4 table will work, there is no better choice of machine than a PlasmaCAM. The only way I’d choose another machine is if I needed a larger table or if I was going to use it for routing as well as Plasma cutting. Currently you can’t get either of those options with the PlasmaCAM.
Finally, the purchase of any of these machines, along with all of the additional parts (compressor, torch, consumables, tips, materials, etc.) is going to mean a large expenditure. There is simply no such thing as a “cheap” route for this. Even if the PlasmaCAM were going to cost $1,000-2,000 more that should be a non-issue if the machine is going to be put to work making money. That is the equivalent of one job. And if you build something yourself or go with another machine and have an issue that leaves you out of commission you’ll quickly find that saving the money up front costs a lot more down the line.
Anyway, that’s just my opinion. If you decide to purchase a different machine I’d love to hear all about your experience with it.
Take care,
John
I have been looking at the Plasma cam a long time, I found them through a google seach. Have gotten there dvd, although impressive, I am not convinced that they are the way to go, because of the price ,the size of the machine and the plasma cutter they force you to use. I am leaning towards a Torchmate machine, because they give you alot more options, such as the choice of the size of machines they offer, use more than one manufacter of plasma cutter. They also offer kits so you can build your own table so you don’t have to pay for shipping on steel you could buy locally. They can talor a machine to your needs so you don’t have to spend alot of money up front, they also take care of you after the sale. You can also upgrade the machine so
Kenneth,
I am very intrested in a Plasma cam, however like Roboteer I can’t find one close to me that I can see in operation. I tried to go to the yahoo groups by clicking on the “here” but was unsuccessful. I would like to find someone close to South Carolina that would allow me to see their machine
Thanks, J.R
Thanks Phil. I bought it direct from PlasmaCAM, which is the only place you can purchase a new one.
The table alone was about $9,500. But the torch was another $2,000, plus a PC to run it. You also need a large air compressor ($1,000), an air dryer ($300) and other miscellaneous stuff. All in all it was around $15,000.
Hello,
It was very interesting to read your article. Could you tell me were you bought yours and how much it cost. I’d like to get one.
thank you,
Phill
If you want to see one of the machines in action just go to the PlasmaCAM Yahoo groups I listed here and post a message.
There are users all over the place that will let you come hang out and see it in operation if you just ask nice… :-)
Kenneth,
If you are interested in selling your unit I may be interested in a secondhand machine, I have been avoiding PlasmaCam for various reasons.
I guess mainly due to the fact that they do not have a return policy and you would have to travel to Colorado to see one work. I have asked if they could provide me with a contact local to me who is successfully using the system, but they have refused.
I also sense an attitude from the technical people their when I ask perfectly legitimate questions.
Through all this I would still risk buying one used, if the price was right.
I just refuse to put money directly in their pockets when even the presale service is so bad.
Good Luck!!!!
Roboteer
Thanks for the blog, John.
I just wanted to have Kenneth Kaufmann contact me at Plasmacam if he needs help. 719-676-2701
I would be glad to give him any help that he needs by phone, or he can stop by our shop.
John, I would be glad to help you also if you have any questions.
George, Plasmacam Tech Support
I’m really sorry to hear you’ve had that experience Kenneth. That was exactly what I was afraid would happen, and in fact it’s the reason I just created another post on the subject called PlasmaCAM Video Review – Fact vs. Fiction.
Currently I’m working on creating some video tutorials about the PlasmaCAM which will begin with the basic setup of the machine and it’s various requirements and then eventually move into how to operate the software and various features.
Perhaps when I get some of those completed it might help you get some good use out of your machine. Otherwise, you might consider selling your machine on eBay. I bet you’d find a buyer very quickly…
John
I am glad you are having luck with the plasma cam, I am not computer literate and I have had mine for 6 months and it sits there because I can not figure out the bool. I call teck support but they talk computer language. I can turn on a button and push buttons. The video looked like even a dummy could operate it. I guess I qualify.