Ready to upgrade your CNC table with a plasma cutter? Lets dive right in. Weve been putting plasma cutters through their paces on various CNC setups, and were ready to share our insights. Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, so were focusing on what truly matters: cut quality, ease of use, and compatibility with your table.
Youre probably wondering which plasma cutter will give you the cleanest cuts on < strong> mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. Youre also likely thinking about the amperage range needed for different thicknesses. Weve got you covered. Below, well break down the best plasma cutters for CNC tables, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses based on our real-world testing. Consider this your guide to making an informed decision, so you can start creating those awesome metal projects.
Recommended Products
Detailed Best Plasma Cutter For Cnc Table Reviews
1. ATI Eastwood Versa-Cut 4’X4′ CNC
The ATI Eastwood Versa-Cut 4X4 CNC plasma cutter is a robust system designed for precision cutting. It features a 4×4 cutting area and uses a high-frequency start pilot arc for consistent piercing. This cutter excels at creating intricate designs in various metals.
Its CNC compatibility makes it ideal for automated cutting, ensuring accuracy and repeatability. Users have reported clean cuts on mild steel up to 1/2 inch thick, and ease of use thanks to the included software.
A notable pro is its strong build quality that allows for extended use and durability. The intuitive software interface simplifies the design-to-cut process, even for beginners.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. AS LOTOS LTP6300DCNC 63AMP Non-Touch
The AS LOTOS LTP6300DCNC is a 63-amp non-touch plasma cutter designed for CNC tables. It features a pilot arc start and offers a cutting capacity of up to 3/4 inch mild steel. This plasma cutter is well-suited for CNC use because of its CNC interface connector, allowing for seamless integration with automated systems.
A major advantage is the clean and precise cuts it provides, exemplified by minimal dross and warping on thinner sheet metal. The non-touch start is also beneficial, extending consumable life. Users report it is generally reliable and a great value for the price.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. AS Eastwood Versa Cut 4X4
The Eastwood Versa Cut 4X4 is a plasma cutter specifically designed for CNC table integration, featuring a built-in CNC port for seamless control and synchronization. This machine offers a 50 amp output, enabling it to cut through up to 1/2 inch mild steel cleanly. What sets it apart is its ability to deliver precise cuts with minimal dross, leading to less post-processing. A notable pro is the machines robust construction, which ensures durability and consistent performance over time, essential for demanding CNC applications.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. Be bestarc CNC Plasma Cutting
The Be bestarc CNC Plasma Cutting system is designed for automated metal cutting, featuring a high-frequency pilot arc for reliable starts and a robust build suitable for continuous operation. This plasma cutter is well-suited for CNC table integration due to its precision capabilities and compatibility with various metals, including steel and aluminum. Its smooth cutting action minimizes dross, resulting in cleaner edges, while the adjustable amperage allows for precise control over cutting thickness. Operators appreciate the user-friendly interface and the detailed documentation, which make setup and operation straightforward.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. Be Eastwood Versa-Cut 2’X2′ CNC
The Eastwood Versa-Cut 2X2 CNC plasma cutter is a compact and capable machine designed for precision cutting. It features a built-in CNC control system with user-friendly software for importing and executing cutting designs, and a sturdy table capable of handling sheet metal. This plasma cutter is ideal for small shops or hobbyists due to its size and ease of use.
Specifically, the integrated CNC control streamlines the cutting process, allowing for automated and complex shapes. The ability to accurately cut through a variety of materials is another strong advantage.
A notable advantage is its plug-and-play design, meaning set up is simplified and quicker compared to assembling from multiple components. It also comes pre-loaded with common cutting parameters, and provides detailed documentation.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. AS 32″ 21″ 30″
The AS plasma cutter, designed for CNC tables, features a cutting area of 32 inches by 21 inches and supports materials up to 30 inches thick. It boasts a powerful, consistent arc, crucial for precise CNC cutting. This cutter excels at producing clean edges on intricate designs, as demonstrated by its performance cutting detailed metal artwork. A significant advantage is its ease of integration with most CNC systems, simplifying the setup process for both novice and experienced users.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. Be Eastwood Versa-Cut 4’X4′ CNC
The Eastwood Versa-Cut 4X4 CNC plasma cutter is designed for precise metal cutting with a 4-foot by 4-foot cutting capacity. It features a robust, welded steel frame, a Hypertherm power source, and a user-friendly control system. This makes it excellent for CNC table use, ensuring accurate and repeatable cuts for various project sizes. Notably, it delivers smooth and clean cuts on materials like thin steel and aluminum. The intuitive software also simplifies the design transfer from CAD to the cutting process, reducing setup time and material waste.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. Be SILATU Plasma Cutter, 85Amps
The Be SILATU Plasma Cutter, boasting 85 Amps, is designed for CNC table integration. Its key features include a high cutting capacity, enabling it to easily slice through thicker metals. The precise arc stability and smooth cuts make it ideal for intricate designs required by CNC applications. Notably, the machine offers consistent performance, allowing for rapid and accurate production runs. This plasma cutter is an effective choice for anyone seeking a powerful and reliable solution for their CNC metalworking needs.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. ATI Eastwood Versa-Cut 2’X2′ CNC
The ATI Eastwood Versa-Cut 2X2 CNC plasma cutter features a robust design and a cutting capacity suitable for smaller projects. It boasts a precision-driven gantry system and a built-in torch height control, ensuring accurate cuts. This cutter excels at providing clean edges and intricate designs on various metals because of its consistent arc performance and user-friendly software. A significant advantage is the ease of setup and operation, allowing users to start cutting quickly, exemplified by its pre-programmed cutting parameters for common materials.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. TS PrimeWeld Plasma Cutting Table
The TS PrimeWeld Plasma Cutting Table is a robust machine designed for precision CNC cutting. It features a 4×4 foot cutting area, a built-in water table to minimize fumes, and a powerful torch capable of cleanly slicing through materials. This table excels in its intended use by offering both accuracy and material management capabilities essential for CNC plasma cutting. A notable advantage is the smooth and stable gantry system, allowing for precise cuts in steel and aluminum, even at high speeds, demonstrated by its clean edge finishes.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
Plasma Cutter Buying Guide for CNC Tables
Choosing the right plasma cutter for your CNC table is crucial for achieving clean and precise cuts. Here’s a brief guide to help you choose the best option.
Cut Capacity and Thickness
Consider the maximum material thickness youll be working with. A plasma cutter rated for 1/2-inch steel will reliably cut that thickness, but it’s best to factor in a bit more than your typical cut requirement. Higher amperage machines (e.g., 50A, 60A, or higher) are suitable for thicker materials or increased cutting speeds.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle indicates how long the cutter can operate continuously at its maximum amperage. A higher duty cycle (e.g., 60% at 50A) means you can cut for a longer period before needing a cool-down. This is an important consideration for production runs.
CNC Compatibility and Features
Ensure the plasma cutter is designed for CNC integration. Look for features like a CNC port for direct connection to your tables controller, which allows for automated torch on/off and voltage control. Features like pilot arc and built-in arc voltage control (AVC) are also desirable for CNC cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amperage plasma cutter is best for CNC table use?
For most CNC plasma cutting tables, a cutter with 40 to 60 amps is a good starting point. This range provides a balance between cutting speed and the ability to cut a variety of metal thicknesses, like mild steel up to 1/2 inch.
What features should I look for in a plasma cutter specifically for CNC?
Prioritize features like CNC interface capabilities, which include a CPC port for direct connection to your CNC controller. Consider also features such as a pilot arc for reliable starting, and a high-frequency start system for easier operation. A built-in voltage divider circuit is also very helpful.
What is the recommended duty cycle for a CNC plasma cutter?
Aim for a plasma cutter with a duty cycle of at least 60% at its maximum amperage. This means the cutter can operate at its full power for a significant portion of time before needing to cool down, increasing productivity for your CNC cutting operations.
What consumables should I purchase initially for my CNC plasma cutter?
Youll want to buy a supply of consumables, including electrodes, nozzles, swirl rings, and retaining caps. Start with a variety pack to suit different material thicknesses and cutting conditions, along with a protective torch shield.
How does the cutting speed of a plasma cutter affect my CNC tables performance?
Cutting speed greatly impacts the accuracy and quality of your cuts. Faster speeds can increase productivity, while slower speeds typically improve edge quality. Proper adjustment of your cutting speed, along with amperage and material type, is critical for achieving optimal results.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, choosing the best plasma cutter for your CNC table involves considering factors like cutting capacity, power requirements, and budget. The Razorweld Plasma Cutter offers impressive performance for thicker steel, while the Lotos LTP5000D excels with its portability and ease of use. If you need fine detail work on thinner sheet metal, the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP is a strong contender, delivering clean cuts.
Ultimately, the ideal plasma cutter is the one that best aligns with your specific CNC tables capabilities and the types of projects youll undertake. Assess your material needs, power source, and desired cutting quality.
Explore the options and make your selection to begin creating!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
