Got your CNC table and ready to start cutting metal like a pro? Not so fast! Before you jump into the world of plasma cutting, you’ve got to pick the right plasma cutter.
Think of it like picking the perfect tool for the job—this one just happens to be all about slicing through metal with precision. But it’s not as simple as grabbing the first one you see. You need a cutter that fits your specific needs and tasks.
Don’t worry, though. As your go-to team for the best CNC plasma tables, we’re here to help you find the perfect plasma cutter to get the job done right! Let’s dive in.
What to Look for in a Plasma Cutter for Your CNC Plasma Table
Choosing the right plasma cutter isn’t about grabbing the most expensive one on the shelf—it’s about finding the perfect tool for your specific projects. Think of it as picking the right tool for the job, not just the flashiest toy in the toolbox.
Power Output: Go Big or Go Home?
Power is a big deal—especially if you’re working with thicker, tougher materials. Plasma cutters are rated by amperage, and the higher the amps, the thicker the metal you can slice through like butter.
Higher Amperage: Need to cut thick steel or aluminum? High amps are your best friend.
Lower Amperage: Perfect for thinner materials and precision cuts where detail matters.
💡 Pro Tip: Always choose a plasma cutter with enough juice to handle the thickest material you work with regularly. But don’t overdo it—there’s no point paying for power you’ll never use.
Cutting Capacity: How Much It Can Handle
This one’s simple: the cutting capacity tells you the maximum thickness your cutter can handle. But here’s where it gets interesting—there are two key terms to know:
Pierce Capacity: The thickness your cutter can plunge through cleanly.
Severance Capacity: The absolute max it can cut... though it might leave you with a rough edge that needs cleanup.
Duty Cycle: Can It Keep Up with You?
The duty cycle tells you how long your plasma cutter can work non-stop before needing a breather. It’s measured as a percentage over a 10-minute window.
Higher Duty Cycle: Built for the pros. If you’re cranking out multiple cuts in a busy shop, this is what you want.
Lower Duty Cycle: Great for weekend warriors or smaller-scale projects.
⚡ FastCut CNC Plasma Tables pair perfectly with cutters boasting a high-duty cycle, so you can keep plowing through big jobs without constantly stopping to cool down. Time is money, after all.
Air Plasma vs. Water Plasma Cutting Systems: Which CNC Plasma Cutter is Right for You?
Plasma cutting isn’t a one-size-fits-all deal, and the system you choose can make or break your workflow.
Air Plasma Cutting Systems
Reliable, Affordable, and Built for Everyday Use
Air plasma systems are the go-to choice for most fabricators. Why? They’re tough, versatile, and easy to use. Plus, these systems use compressed air to generate the plasma arc, making them a reliable workhorse for CNC plasma tables.
Why You’ll Love It:
Affordable: You don’t have to drain your wallet to get started. They are budget-friendly without compromising on power.
Versatile: Whether you’re cutting steel, aluminum, or other metals, this system can handle a variety of materials like a champ.
Portable: Lightweight and mobile—perfect for moving between job sites or tight shop spaces.
The Trade-Offs:
Precision: While air plasma gets the job done, it doesn’t offer the surgical precision of water plasma.
Heat Distortion: Generates more heat, which can warp thinner materials if you’re not careful.
Best For: Small shops, hobbyists, or anyone looking for an affordable cutting solution that’s rugged, reliable, and ready to roll.
Water Plasma Cutting Systems
Premium Performance for Precision Pros
Now if you’re chasing pinpoint accuracy and showroom-quality cuts, water plasma systems are where it’s at. These machines use water to enhance the cutting process, making them the top-shelf option for pros who settle for nothing but the best.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Precision Cuts: Perfectly smooth edges and ultra-accurate performance make it ideal for high-end work.
Less Heat Distortion: The water cools the material as you cut, reducing warping—especially on thinner metals.
Cleaner & Quieter: Less dust, smoke, and noise make for a more pleasant (and safer) workspace.
What to Keep in Mind:
Cost: These systems come with a higher price tag, but you get what you pay for.
Set-Up: More complex to install and maintain, plus you’ll need a water management system.
Best For: Precision-focused pros, large shops, or anyone who demands flawless cuts and doesn’t mind investing in premium performance.
So, Which One Should You Pick?
Here’s the deal: If you’re running a small shop, are new to plasma cutting, or need a solid all-around performer, air plasma cutters are your best bet. They’re affordable, versatile, and built to handle a wide range of projects without complicating your life.
But if you’re all about precision and have the budget to back it up, water plasma systems are worth every penny.
FastCut CNC Plasma Tables: Out-of-the-Box Solutions for Every Need
If you’re still wondering how to tie all these factors together, we’ve got you covered.
Our plasma tables pair seamlessly with high-end plasma cutters to deliver peak performance and efficiency. Whether you're an artist, a job shop owner, or a large-scale manufacturer, there’s a FastCut machine made just for you.
Best For: Light industrial projects, custom cutting, and intricate designs.
Compact, precise, and ready to bring your creative visions to life. Perfect for detailed jobs and smaller-scale projects, this table pairs seamlessly with air plasma cutters to deliver artist-grade craftsmanship.
Key Features:
High-precision cutting for clean, detailed work.
Compatible with air plasma systems for easy, reliable use.
Solid construction that’s built to last, even in busy shops.
Best For: Heavy-duty, high-production environments.
When the job demands serious power and precision, the G8 FABRICATOR delivers. This beast is engineered for water plasma systems to chew through thick materials with speed and accuracy. Tough, reliable, and built to keep up with your toughest jobs.
Key Features:
Handles thick materials with ease and precision.
Built for durability in demanding, high-pressure environments.
Designed for water plasma systems to maximize cutting performance.
Want a table that’s tailored to your exact needs? We’ve also got you! With our customization options, you can pick your plasma cutter, add on features, and build a machine that fits your workflow like a glove. No waste, no compromise—just a table designed to work as hard as you do.
Why Customize?
Choose the perfect cutter and features for your shop.
Get a machine that fits your specific projects and output goals.
Monthly financing starts at just $500/month, so top-tier plasma cutting is easier to afford than you might think.
Ready to Take Your Fabrication to the Next Level?
At FastCut CNC, we make it easy to find the perfect setup for your shop. Whether you’re upgrading an existing setup or starting fresh, our team of experts is here to help
Contact Us Today for the Best CNC Plasma Table.
Built for the Bold, Engineered to Last.
Comments