Actually if you had read enough of my posts on dozens of forums you will see that I recommend low cost imports for those that need plasma cutting in a small shop and on a budget. I normally recommend that they are purchased from a reputable supplier such as Eastwood, Harbor Freight, Northern Tool and others as opposed to importers or Ebay ads....as these suppliers generally back up their warranty claims.
"Bashing" other brand products is not something I do nor does anyone that works for Hypertherm.....I do however compare the performance and capabilities of many brands of plasma. There are differences in power, cut speed, cut quality, duty cycle, consumable life, long term factory support and price, etc, etc. A busy shop that relies on its tools to make money will tend to spend a bit more for lower operating cost and long term reliability and support. A hobbyist or small shop has to go with what they can afford.....and consumable life is not as much of an issue.
I have tested many brands and models of plasma cutters in both hand held and machine cutting situations over the last 36 years. There is a place for every one on the market. The Hypertherm units are very nice, but clearly not for everybody!
By the way....I have been a weekend garage warrior for over 30 years....building stock cars, hot rods, and almost everthing else on the planet. I have had many brands (including imports) of welding and cutting equipment over the years. I understand the need for low cost as well as anyone.
Jim Colt Hypertherm
"Bashing" other brand products is not something I do nor does anyone that works for Hypertherm.....I do however compare the performance and capabilities of many brands of plasma. There are differences in power, cut speed, cut quality, duty cycle, consumable life, long term factory support and price, etc, etc. A busy shop that relies on its tools to make money will tend to spend a bit more for lower operating cost and long term reliability and support. A hobbyist or small shop has to go with what they can afford.....and consumable life is not as much of an issue.
I have tested many brands and models of plasma cutters in both hand held and machine cutting situations over the last 36 years. There is a place for every one on the market. The Hypertherm units are very nice, but clearly not for everybody!
By the way....I have been a weekend garage warrior for over 30 years....building stock cars, hot rods, and almost everthing else on the planet. I have had many brands (including imports) of welding and cutting equipment over the years. I understand the need for low cost as well as anyone.
Jim Colt Hypertherm
Thanks, I was tired of the Hypertherm bashers picking on equipment that us weekend garage warriors can afford. I plan on trying to sever some 3/4" this weekend and will try to post another video, this time maybe not in Tommy Mac character although it does lend for a good laugh!