A reliable dual voltage plasma cutter is a common need for every hobbyist home welder, DIY enthusiast, or professional welder. Plasma cutters make clean and precise cuts with less heat and a plasma torch. They are also available with dual-voltage technology, allowing you to cut several materials in different situations without requiring extra accessories.
The best dual voltage plasma cutter for home use offers precise cut and is ideal for cutting aluminum, copper, stainless steel, alloy steel, carbon steel, mild steel, and many other metals. These types help you improve cutting efficiency and speed.
While browsing for the best plasma cutter online, you might be overwhelmed with the variety of designs, models, prices, and brands. We are here to help you find the best-suited one for your next welding project.
What is the Best Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter?
Table of Contents
Best Overall: LOTOS LTP5000D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Best Versatile: Hypertherm 088079 PowerMax30 XP Plasma Cutter
Best for Home Use: PrimeWeld 50A Air Inverter Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Best for Professionals: LONGEVITY 40D Forcecut ARC Plasma Cutter
Best Budget-friendly: SUPER DEAL Dual Voltage DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
Best for Clean Cut: S7 Store Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Best for Reliability: TOOLIOM 110V/220V Plasma Cutter
Best Economical: Flaring 110/120V IGBT Plasma Cutter
Best for Beginners: Warfox 120/240V Plasma Cutter
Best for Portability: Cuwiny 110/220V Pilot ARC Plasma Cutter
Comparison Chart of the Best Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter for Home Use
| Image | Product Name | It’s Best for | Key Features | Price |
 | LOTOS LTP5000D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter | Overall | i) Max Severance Thickness: 3/4″ ii) Pilot arc technology iii) IGBT inverter technology | |
 | Hypertherm 088079 PowerMax30 XP Plasma Cutter | Versatile | i) Duramax LT torch design ii) Comfortable grip iii) Impact-resistant material | |
 | PrimeWeld 50A Air Inverter Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter | Home Use | i) Truly portable ii) Precision and clean cuts iii) State-of-the-art MOSFET transistors optimized design | |
 | LONGEVITY 40D Forcecut ARC Plasma Cutter | Professionals | i) Oxy-fuel torch ii) Digital display iii) Air adjustment | |
 | SUPER DEAL Dual Voltage DC Inverter Plasma Cutter | Budget-friendly | i) Heavy duty iron construction ii) Reliable, lightweight and portable iii) Built-in overheat, overload, overcurrent protection | |
 | S7 Store Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter | Clean Cut | i) Gas delay adjustment ii) Current adjustment iii) HD digital display | |
 | TOOLIOM 110V/220V Plasma Cutter | Reliability | i) 60% duty cycle ii) Powerful cutting effect iii) Built for multi applications | |
 | Flaring 110/120V IGBT Plasma Cutter | Economical | i) Rubber constructed plasma cutting torch ii) Longer consumables life iii) Clean cuts | |
 | Warfox 120/240V Plasma Cutter | Beginners | i) OGBT inverter technology ii) Air regulator iii) Quality cutting thickness: 10mm at 120v 60PSI. Max Cutting thickness: 14mm at 240V 65PSI | |
 | Cuwiny 110/220V Pilot ARC Plasma Cutter | Portability | i) Non-touch pilot arc ii) Fan cooled for better performance and durability iii) Easy to replace consumables | |
Why Should You Use a Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter?
Dual voltage plasma cutters are beneficial for different uses in the home, auto body repair shop, or industrial cutting.
Home Repair
A dual voltage plasma cutter is valuable equipment for home repairs. It can cut thin and thick materials up to 3/8” without a problem. For this reason, it would be a perfect tool for the job.
Automotive Repairing
Most plasma cutter’s maximum cutting capability is ½,” and maximum severance cutting capability is 3/8”. This capacity is perfect for automotive fabrication. However, if you need to cut thicker materials, more powerful plasma cutters are necessary.
10 Best Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter for Home Use Reviews 2022
This section’s reviewed dual voltage plasma cutters are the best in class. These devices can handle different user requirements and workloads quite efficiently. Read the section carefully and buy the best-suited one according to your price and requirement.
1# Best Overall: LOTOS LTP500#0D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Weight: 19.40 lbs.
Pattern: Cutter
Power Source Type: AC/DC
Style: 50 AMP
Voltage: 110 V / 220 V
Duty Cycle: 60% @ 50 A, 110 V and 220V
The LOTOS LTP5000D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter is a compact package, efficient enough in delivering strong cutting performance. The pilot arc feature lets the user cut dirty metals or rough surfaces. Due to the dual voltage capability, it can be operated directly either on 220 V 50/60 Hz or 110 V 50/60 Hz power using a pigtail.
Features & Benefits
Non-touch Pilot ARC
Whether you need to cut rough, rusty or painted surfaces, Pilot ARC technology makes the cutting process easy and precise. With the help of this mechanism, while cutting, touching the tip to the metal becomes unnecessary. At the same time, consumables’ lifespan increases.
Pulse-Width-Modulation Technology
Efficient voltage regulation is a primary requirement of modern electrical works. PMW technology switches the voltage to the electrical load following the correct duty cycle. Thus, you will always get the required output voltage without interruption. Moreover, voltage fluctuation happens barely, which increases the durability of the plasma cutter.
Dual-frequency Capability
With the help of the dual-frequency capability, the plasma cutter toggles between 110 V and 220 V automatically. As a result, you can use it for small-grade industrial and home welding projects.
PAPST Upgraded Cooling System
A cooling system is a necessary feature for every plasma cutter. The electrode and nozzle may melt because of the plasma arc’s high temperature. Keeping this point, the manufacturer uses a PAPST upgraded cooling system. This system ensures the stable performance of the plasma cutter. Also, it prevents the melting of the nozzle and electrode.
Ergonomic Design and Ease of Use
Build quality of the unit is robust and can be used straight out of the box. It comes with a lightweight feature and compact size for easy carrying. Moreover, the torch hose is long enough, providing convenient transport. Before operating the plasma cutter, assembling is unnecessary. Simply plug it into an available power source and start cutting.
Good:
- Excellent cutting capability
- Portable and compact
- Delivers precise and clean cuts
- Switch power inverter technology
- Built-in carry handle
Bad:
- Loud operation creates 100 dB sound
2# Best Versatile: Hypertherm 088079 PowerMax30 XP Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Weight: 2.2 lbs.
Input Voltage: 120-240 V, 1-PH, 50/60 Hz
Power Supply Type: Inverter
Process: Plasma Cutting
Duty Cycle: 20% @ 120 V, 35% @ 240 V
The Hypertherm 088079 PowerMax30 XP is a versatile plasma cutter, ideal for home use. Also, it serves well for different industrial purposes. Moreover, professionals prefer it for its exceptional features and functionalities. It can cut thick and thin materials and can even use fine-cut consumables. More importantly, the unit runs on both 110 V and 240V.
Features & Benefits
2-in-1 Design and 30-Amp System
This plasma cutter can be used for a wide range of applications. Along with the metal cutting capabilities, it is also capable of gauging, extended reach cutting, narrow cutting and drag cutting. The cutting capability of this machine lets you save valuable money since you don’t need to buy a separate cutter.
Useful and Reliable
This plasma cutter is extremely easy to carry with a compact design, lightweight feature, and built-in carrying handle. Moreover, it comes with shoulder straps and a carrying case so that you don’t sweat while transporting it. The unit features auto-voltage technology, permitting you to work on 110 V / 220 V input power without hassle. Besides, the easy-to-use 1 knob design makes it suitable for beginners.
Duramax LT Torch
The unit is equipped with a Duramax LT Torch. Impact-resistant, heat-resistant and quality material is used to manufacture the torch. You can cut materials a maximum of 3/8” using the torch. A user will get deeper and faster cuts every time. At the same time, the torch increases the cutting efficiency and speed regardless of the weather.
High-grade Consumables
It comes with all the required consumables, allowing a welder to start welding right out of the box. 1 standard nozzle, 1 fine cut nozzle, 15” work clamp, FineCut deflector, etc. are available with the package, saving your time and money in the long run.
Good:
- Sturdy design serves efficiently under demanded weather
- Auto-voltage functionality for safe and consistent performance
- IGBT inverter for efficient plasma operations
- Delivers clean cuts in both thick and thin materials
- Reliable and effective
Bad:
- Extreme safety precaution is mandatory when cutting thin materials
3# Best for Home Use: PrimeWeld 50A Air Inverter Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Material: Steel
Item Weight: 22.5 lbs.
Cutting Thickness: Up to ½”
Maximum Severance: Up to ¾”
Voltage: 110 V / 220 V
If you need a plasma cutter that can cut metal of all sizes and shapes, the PrimeWeld 50A Air Inverter Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter would be best. This dual voltage power tool offers significant results when cutting thin metals. It handles a cut maximum of ½” without trouble. In addition, the unit is designed for home, hobby, industrial and construction use.
Features & Benefits
Integrated Robust 50 Amp Digital Inverter
It consists of a digital inverter that sends DC electricity to an integrated high-frequency MOSFET transistor unit. The device optimizes the speed of the cuts with half-inch-thick material and maximizes severance cuts on metals with ¾” thickness.
Precise and Clean Cuts
The unit can be switched between 110 V and 220 V with ease. Thus, an operator can make clean and precise cuts. Using this plasma cutter, you can cut aluminum, mild steel, copper, alloy steel, stainless steel, etc., without sweating. Also, buying a separate welder for a particular voltage requirement is entirely unnecessary for its dual voltage feature.
Significant Duty Cycle
Fine-tuning the device is extremely easy with the selector knob to 50 Amp. It cuts faster than oxy-fueled machines @ 50 A and can cut a maximum of ½” thick steel plate. The device cuts out edges nicely and gives a smooth cutting result every time.
Lightweight, Portable & Compact Design
Transporting this plasma cutter in different places is a breeze for its lightweight feature. It weighs only 22.5 lbs. making it suitable for home and industrial uses. Also, a convenient carrying handle facilitates portability. Moreover, its compact design makes storing in a tight corner hassle-free.
Dual Voltage
This 50 A plasma cutter can be operated in both 110 V and 220 V. As a result, buying a separate plasma cutter for working with different voltage options becomes unnecessary. Wherever you go, you can remain worry-free about the voltage option for its dual voltage capability.
Good:
- High-frequency air inverter plasma cutter
- Air-pressure gauge
- Current display
- Conveniently positioned carrying handle
- Cuts up to ½” thick sheet steel
Bad:
- Short power cord
4# Best for Professionals: LONGEVITY 40D Forcecut ARC Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 15”X6”X9”
Item Weight: 25 lbs.
Amp Cutting Range: 14 – 40 Amps
Cutting Performance: Up to ½”
Input Voltage: 115 V / 220 V
The LONGEVITY 40D Forcecut ARC Plasma Cutter efficiently delivers professional-grade results for your workshop and home. It is equipped with exclusive features such as pilot arc technology, post flow cooling circuit, etc. This unit’s smooth, clean and excellent cutting ability makes it stand out from other plasma cutters.
Features & Benefits
Oxy-Acetylene Torch
Learning oxy-acetylene torch is extremely easy to learn. Using this plasma cutter, you will be impressed how easy it is to cut a piece of 1/2″ steel on 220v and 1/4″ steel on 110v. Cutting different metals, including aluminum, will never be a difficult one with this LONGEVITY plasma cutter. In addition, it cuts up to ¾” mild steel without trouble.
Pilot ARC Technology
Intuitive pilot ARC technology is one of the amazing features of this plasma cutter. When the voltage is low, the unit senses it automatically. This feature offers a break-free service when cutting materials of different thicknesses. Moreover, you can cut expanded or rusted metal easily.
Post Flow Cooling Circuit
The post-flow cooling circuit is responsible for keeping it at a stable temperature to avoid damage. This plasma cutter remains cool when used for an extended period and delivers efficient results every time. In fact, it ensures the longevity of the unit.
Rugged Construction
Metal is used in the housing of the plasma cutter, giving it a rugged look. Moreover, the interior parts are protected from exterior bumps and collisions. Overall construction confirms that; this plasma cutter is built to last.
Mobility & Safety
The unit consists of a long cord and ground cable, supporting the usability of the device’s portability on the job site. More importantly, the machine stays away from the plasma cutter sparks because of the extra-long cord.
Good:
- Digital display and air adjustment for fine-tuning
- Withstands long term plasma cutting
- Cuts exotic metal efficiently, quickly and accurately
- Clean cut with the oxy-acetylene torch
- Operating cost is low
Bad:
- Setting up the unit is a little bit troublesome
5# Best Budget-friendly: SUPER DEAL Dual Voltage DC Inverter Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 15.1”X11.8”X5.9”
Item Weight: 22.5 lbs.
Voltage: 110 V / 220 V
Duty Cycle: 60%
Cutting Performance: Up to ½” thick Metal
Finding a plasma cutter is difficult, a combo of long lifespan and affordable cost. The SUPER DEAL Dual Voltage DC Inverter Plasma Cutter has several safety features and comes at an affordable price range. This unit needs only a common household power source for best-quality performance using 110 V or 220 V. It is perfect for hobbyist and commercial use.
Features & Benefits
Superior Performance
The plasma cutter uses PRO technology, enabling the unit to provide stable performance. Its duty cycle is also high, ensuring low consumption of power. Also, it cuts material with high speed, making it economical and efficient compared to other plasma cutters of its range. This plasma cutter performs perfectly in high temperatures too.
Solid Material Construction
It is made of heavy-duty cast iron, allowing it to deliver reliable service. Also, it can be used for a long time without hassle. Due to its solid construction, the unit can meet the demands of both professional and DIY enthusiasts.
Versatile
You can use it for a wide range of applications. It enables a user in fabricating sheet metal, ducting work, maintaining and repairing services, automotive sectors, industrial use, etc. Interestingly, it delivers efficient, consistent and no-polish demand performance in all projects. In fact, you will get 1.8X times faster performance than flame cutters.
Enhanced Safety
This unit is full of several safety features to ensure safe operation. Over-voltage protection, overheat protection, under-voltage protection, and low compressed air protection are the features that guarantee the unit’s durability. More importantly, it includes a cooling fan, dissipating excessive heat efficiently for improved unit performance.
Digital Display
Learning about essential data like input current, output current, etc., is easy through its included digital display. As a result, controlling the unit becomes a breeze. It is designed for ease of use and performance.
Good:
- Steady, reliable and lightweight
- Energy-efficient, low noise operation
- Enhanced cutting speed
- Clean and smooth cutting
- Energy consumption is low
Bad:
- Horrible instruction manual
6# Best for Clean Cut: S7 Store Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 15.35”X6.29”X12.99”
Item Weight: 18.96 lbs.
Duty Cycle: 85% – 100%
Maximum Ideal Cut Thickness: ½”
Maximum Severance Thickness: ¾”
Whether you are a professional or DIYer, cleaning cuts is the requirement of every welder. But all plasma cutters don’t give a clean and smooth cut. Luckily, the S7 Store Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter delivers clean cuts, and you don’t have to spend extra buck or time cleaning the edge. This cutter can be used for auto bodywork, factory maintenance, farm work, etc.
Features & Benefits
State-of-the-art MOSFET/IGBT Transistor
Based on the State-of-the-art MOSFET/IGBT Transistors, the optimized design delivers high power output, enabling it to cut thick materials without a problem. At the same time, you will get steady output for cutting thin materials. The maximum clean-cut thickness is ½,” and the maximum severance thickness cut is ¾.” It is compatible with cutting stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, alloy steel, copper, etc.
Compact Plasma Cutter
The unit’s dimension is 15.35”6.29”12.99”, much more compact to store in a tight corner comfortably. It comes with a good-looking design and weighs only 18.96 lbs., offering convenient transport. Moreover, a convenient carrying handle facilitates the transportation of this unit.
No Hazardous Operation
Generally, fire hazards are pretty common with a plasma cutter. But you will love to know that, with this unit, there is no chance of fire hazards. For less noxious gasses, fire incidents are prevented when you work with the device. It requires less maintenance and delivers efficient work for many days without compromising quality. More importantly, the plasma cutter uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut different materials.
Anti-collision Fashion Design
You will find rubber in every corner of the plasma cutter, protecting it from bumps and collisions. This construction ensures its ruggedness and makes it suitable for severe working conditions. However, you must not use it in rain or wet conditions.
Good:
- Gas delay adjustment and current adjustment
- HD digital display
- It produces minimum slag
- An optimized design for steady output
- Faster and cleaner outcome
Bad:
- The threaded holes on the regulator/filter are pretty loose
7# Best for Reliability: TOOLIOM 110V/220V Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 16.14″X6.3″X11.8″
Item Weight: 13.42 lbs.
Duty Cycle: 60% @ 50A
Input Voltage: 110V/220V
Output Voltage: 96V
The TOOLIOM 110V/220V Plasma Cutter is engineered with superior technology, delivering reliable performance. It performs in a high duty cycle, high temperature, extreme speed and maximum energy. Don’t think that it consumes high electricity for its excellent performance. The truth is, electric consumption is of utmost minimal without compromising the quality.
Features & Benefits
Non-touch Pilot ARC
One of the most significant advantages of this plasma cutter is the Non-Touch Pilot Arc. With the help of technology, you don’t need to touch the tip of the metal. As a result, cutting through rusty, painted, rough surfaces becomes a breeze. A pilot arc plasma cutter increases the consumables lifespan because striking the metal to start the arc in unnecessary.
110 V or 220 V Dual Voltage
The unit is compatible with both the 110 V and 220 V options. For this reason, you won’t need to think about an available power source. It can be used wherever you go because of its dual voltage capability.
Safe to Use
Say “bye-bye” to your worries regarding safety when working with this plasma cutter. It comes with connection wires and a mask. The unit is designed with overvoltage, overheating, and under-voltage, ideal for critical conditions. There is no risk of explosions or accidents when you use it.
Multi-purpose Plasma Cutter
You can use it for multi-functional purposes. Whether you need to finish a project on a construction site, industrial area or repairing services, the unit delivers efficient, reliable results. Sturdy construction lets a user run it for long hours.
Digital Display
It has an integrated digital display, enabling you to read the current data without trouble. That is why controlling the device safely gets effortless. Moreover, a user can easily set the weld modes.
Good:
- Better cutting quality
- Longer consumable life
- Exceeds and meets ETL certificates
- Easy to read digital display
- Compact and portable design
Bad:
- The included airline for the pressure regulator is not great
8# Best Economical: Flaring 110/120V IGBT Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension:
Item Weight: 21.20 lbs.
Item Material: Metal
Pattern: Touch ARC
Input Voltage: 110/220 V
The Flaring 110/220 V is a highly economical plasma cutter suitable for a wide range of metals. It is manufactured based on IGBT inverter technology for efficient and reliable performance. The outcome is extremely clean and smooth, and it is relatively portable with 21.20 lbs. of weight. Also, its dual voltage capacity allows it to work in any corner of the USA.
Features & Benefits
Impressive Cutting Ability
Whatever project you give it, it is capable of cutting nearly everything. On 110V, the ideal clean cut is 1/3,” and the maximum severance cut is 2/5”. While, on 220 V, the ideal clean cut is 1/2” and maximum severance cut is 3/5”. As long as it gets the necessary power, the unit will go for an extended period.
All-round Performance
It uses non-hazardous compressed air to cut mild steel, stainless steel, chrome, cast iron, copper and alloy steel. This is an accurate commercial-grade plasma cutter that efficiently handles heavy workloads. With its convenient handle, it is easy to carry. Also, its inverter design allows it to space when stored.
Easy to Use
Setting up and operating the device is so simple. The updated torch is easier on consumables. Also, the cable is more flexible than other plasma cutters. Adjusting the power is quick and convenient with the dial knob on the control panel. Air pressure can easily be adjusted according to the project requirement with its air pressure adjusting knob. The turn on/off switch is waterproof for your convenience.
Upgraded Plasma Cutting Torch
An earlier model of this plasma cutter comes with a cloth cutting torch. But this model has an upgraded cutting torch made of fire and heat-resistant rubber. Also, the gun tip uses high-quality pure copper, increasing the cutting speed and efficiency up to 2X times. Moreover, the torch length is also increased from 9.5 ft. to 16 ft., giving you enough flexibility to work with the plasma cutter.
Good:
- Stable and powerful
- Long cutting torch
- Quality build and construction
- Designed for commercial-grade service
- Easy on consumables
Bad:
- The contact tips erode over working time
9# Best for Beginners: Warfox 120/240V Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 14.2”X6.1”X13”
Item Weight: 21.5 lbs.
Rated duty cycle: 60% at 50A, 100% at 40A
Input voltage: AC 120/240V Dual Voltage
High Frequency: 50/60Hz
Thanks to the smart inverter technology of the Warfox 120/240V Plasma Cutter, it improves the weld appearance and maintains the quality of the weld. Generally, plasma cutters with inverter technology are expensive. The good news is; it comes with a wallet-friendly price tag. It is an excellent option for beginners since the unit delivers stable and clean-cut.
Feature & Benefits
Suitable for a Variety of Metals
On 120 V, 8mm is the maximum cutting ability, 12mm severance cutting thickness, and 60% at 50A, 100% at 40A rated duty cycle; this plasma cutter can cut a variety of materials like aluminum, alloy steel, mild steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, etc. While, n 240V, maximum cutting thickness 14mm ,10mm quality cutting thickness makes it a versatile plasma cutter. It would be an indispensable device in your arsenal for sure.
Smart IGBT Inverter Technology
The IGBT technology offers tremendous power with less voltage. Each part is made of durable materials; you can rest assured of the reliable performance of the unit. Due to the dual voltage mechanism, you can find several outlets around the USA.
Air Post Time Adjustment
A user can adjust the time for post air between 2-20S. This feature effectively provides for the better performance of the plasma cutter when used for an extended period. In fact, it increases consumables’ working life.
Extremely Portable
If you need frequent moving in your job site with the plasma cutter, this model would be an ideal choice, undoubtedly. It is so light at 21.5 lbs. You will never sweat, moving it from one distance to another.
Good:
- Current display function
- High-frequency touch metal arc starting
- Long life and efficient
- Proficient consumable parts
- Easy to use
Bad:
- It draws a lot of amps on a continuous cut of sheet metal
10# Best for Portability: Cuwiny 110/220V Pilot ARC Plasma Cutter
Technical Specifications:
Item Dimension: 14.8”X6.2”X10.2”
Item Weight: 10.05 kgs
Rated Duty Cycle: 220 V > 60% @ 50 Amps, 110 V > 60% @ 40 Amps
No-load Voltage: 260
Efficiency: 60%
For the money, the Cuwiny 110/220V Pilot ARC Plasma Cutter is a worthy choice for both beginners and professionals. This is one of the most portable single-phase IGBT inverter-based cutting machines, offering great performance on various materials. Moreover, it is a high-frequency arc starting plasma cutter, cutting alloy steel, mild steel, copper, aluminum, etc.
Features & Benefits
Advanced IGBT Inverter Plasma Technology
IGBT technology for plasma cutting applications has been proven to handle rigorous demands efficiently. This technology is responsible for delivering continuous break-free adjustable current output for better performance. At the same time, it saves precious power for long-lasting work.
Pilot ARC Technology
This plasma cutter efficiently cuts with minimal slag, whether the cutting surface is rusty, painted, or rough. More importantly, it features pilot arc technology. Due to this technology, you can cut metal without cutting the metal tip. This ensures extended consumable life and better cutting quality.
Dual Voltage Input
The unit runs at both 110 V and 220 V. Using a dual voltage plasma cutter is one of the most efficient ways to cut through metal. Besides, it includes an NPT 1/4’’ air connector, allowing you to connect the device to an air compressor.
Good:
- Equipped with a better air regulator
- Convenient control board
- Current adjustment
- Suitable for thin and thick materials
- Digital display
Bad:
- Questionable long-term durability
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter for Home Use?
The best dual voltage plasma cutter for home use will surely improve your fabrication ability. While an inferior quality product will not deliver the expected result.
Here are a few primary factors to consider when buying the best-rated plasma cutter.
Cutting Ability
The best plasma cutter can cut a wide range of materials of different thicknesses. You will find many better models than others in cutting certain thicknesses and certain metals.
When choosing a model, learn its compatibility with metals and thickness. Make sure your selected model is capable of handling your job.
Pilot ARC
A good-quality plasma cutter comes with a pilot ARC feature. This feature lets a user cut metals without making contact between the torch tip and metal. If you are wondering what is the benefit of it?
Well, using a pilot ARC, you can cut rusty, painted and rough metals without hassle. While working with a rusty surface, remember to clean the area where the ground clamp is connected. Also, if your project is to cut mesh sheets, you have to start and stop the torch as it stays lit during the continuous arc.
Consumables
Replacing consumables is a must, and it is an ongoing cost after buying a plasma cutter. Now, what are the plasma cutter consumables? Swirl ring, shield cap, nozzle, electrode, and the retaining cap – these 5 parts are the consumables of a plasma cutter.
The life expectancy of these consumables is different and depends on several factors. Moreover, they will damage over time. However, the quality of the consumables should be excellent. Here, the general rule is, the more expensive the plasma cutter is, the consumables will be of better quality.
So, look for a plasma cutter that has long-lasting consumables. At the same time, replacement is easy when necessary.
Duty Cycle
A plasma cutter can’t work continuously for several hours. You will need to shut it down after a specific time to prevent overheating. The time frame of a plasma cutter’s safe and continuous use is known as the duty cycle.
Now, what is the meaning of the 60% duty cycle of a plasma cutter? It means you can continuously operate it for 6 minutes before you leave it to cool down.
When it comes to choosing the best plasma cutter for home use, a 50% duty cycle is good enough to get the job done. However, if your project requires some mechanized cutting, a plasma cutter with a 50% duty cycle would be beneficial.
Weight & Portability
Weight is always an essential factor, especially if you need to carry your plasma cutter to the job site. The good news is that most plasma cutters for home use are built with portability in mind.
Portability boils down to weight, size and shape. However, if you buy a pneumatic plasma cutter, it might add additional weight.
Always look for a lightweight plasma cutter with a carrying handle.
Cut Finish
Cut finishes vary from plasma cutter to plasma cutter. A cheap plasma cutter will never deliver the same cut finish that an expensive plasma cutter delivers.
An excellent cut is necessary to avoid after-process cleaning. Determine what finish you need regardless of thinking of a low-priced or high-priced plasma cutter. This will help you find a good quality plasma cutter.
Safety
Safety is a mandatory factor that you must not overlook. Overload protection and overheating protection are essential features to consider when buying the best dual voltage plasma cutter.
Along with the plasma cutter, buy MIG or TIG gloves to work safely. Avoid wearing synthetic gloves and buy leather.
How to Set Up the Best Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter?
Setting up a dual voltage plasma cutter is not a challenging task. Follow the below step-by-step guide carefully.
Step 01: Wear safety gear as mentioned in the issued handbook. A welding helmet will protect your eyes from radiation. Also, a pair of welding gloves will keep your hands safe.
Step 02: Connect the plasma cutter to an available power source.
Step 03: Connect the cutting torch to the plasma cutter.
Step 04: Ensure that the ground clamp is connected to the plasma cutter. Also, securely attach the clamp to the workpiece. Moreover, ensure the connection point of the clamp and workpiece is not rusty or painted.
Step 05: Double-check to make sure all the connections are attached firmly.
Step 06: Adjust the setting of the plasma cutter according to the material thickness.
Step 07: Now, briefly hold down the trigger on the torch to check if there is any airflow. If you experience an airflow, start cutting material.
What Consumables and Parts Are Necessary to Start Using Plasma Cutter at Home?
Consumables and other parts are extremely valuable for using a plasma cutter to make an accurate cut. But a beginner or homeowner might not be aware of the importance of consumables. This unawareness can lead them to misalign everything and ruin the whole system.
Here are the 5 integral consumables to consider when buying a plasma cutter.
The Shield
Molten metals and sparks fly around when working with a plasma cutter. The shield protects other consumables efficiently from these flying things.
Retaining Cap
It holds the other consumables together and is positioned on top of the stake up.
Nozzle
Primarily, it is used to funnel the gas flow and focus the plasma arc. Simultaneously, it shaped and compressed the arc.
Electrode
The current gets carried from the torch to the plate with the help of an electrode.
Swirl Ring
This consumable helps the gas channel in different directions towards the torch and down the machine.
Plasma Cutter Torch Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your dual voltage plasma cutter will help it to work correctly and efficiently. Generally, the consumables of plasma cutters need replacement because they become defective over time. Maintenance of plasma cutters means on-time replacement of the consumables.
The good news is that; most plasma cutters have a consumable chart or diagram which lets you know when to replace the spare parts. Read the below tips and order consumables on time.
- A swirl ring helps air to direct towards the torch. The rule of thumb is that the swirl ring should last for at least 50 electrode/nozzle changes.
- Electrodes made of tungsten. Replace it when you experience a pit of a minimum of 1 mm
- The nozzle size plays a vital role in the performance of a plasma cutter. Change it if you notice an elliptical hole or burns in the nozzle. Improper nozzle size will ruin the cut quality.
Accurate plasma cutting would be nearly impossible with defective consumables. The torch will stop performing, and you will see an error code in the machine.
FAQ
What metals can I cut using a dual voltage plasma cutter?
Cutting electrically conductive materials such as mild steel, stainless steel, alloy steel, copper, aluminum, etc., will be much easier using a dual voltage plasma cutter. However, cutting speed and requirement will vary depending on the thickness of the metal.
What maximum thickness can I cut with a portable and compact dual voltage plasma cutter?
A 110/220V plasma cutter will deliver maximum clean cut up to ½” thickness and maximum severance cut of up to 3/4ʺ thickness. Few industrial-grade dual voltage plasma cutters can cut more than this.
Why does my dual voltage plasma cutter cut on an angle?
A dual voltage plasma cutter can cut at an odd angle for several reasons: worn torch nozzle, less power to the arc, cutting speed is too quick based on the power rating, low gas flow to the nozzle, or you are cutting too slowly.
However, one thing to remember, most dual voltage plasma cutters deliver slight bevel cuts between 1 – 3 degrees. It happens because of the shape of the gas jet that comes through the nozzle. This bevel cut can be reduced but will never go away entirely. More than a 1 – 3-degree bevel cut means there is some problem.
Wrapping Up and Top Pick
This comprehensive guide shared the best dual voltage plasma cutter for home use in different price ranges. The features and specifications of these devices are also distinctive to meet the requirements of different users.
For verdict, the LOTOS LTP5000D Dual Voltage Plasma Cutter is best in our guide of all plasma cutters for home use. This unit uses PAPST Advanced German Cooling System for durability and optimum performance. Under 220/240V, it provides 1/2” ideal clean cut and 3/4” maximum severance cut. On the other hand, under 110/120V, it offers a 1/3″ ideal clean cut and a 2/5″ maximum severance cut. It is compatible with various metals named stainless steel, aluminum, mild steel, copper, alloy, and many more.