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Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing a professional hand-held air plasma cutting system.
Start with the thickest metal you cut regularly and choose a system whose recommended or quality cut rating comfortably exceeds it. The severance rating is the maximum it can part the metal, with a rougher edge, so do not size by that figure.Also think about your electrical supply, how portable the machine needs to be, and whether you will also gouge. A system with some capacity in hand cuts faster, runs cooler and wears consumables more slowly than one working at its limit.
Smaller professional units are often dual-voltage, meaning they can run from a standard single-phase workshop or site supply at either of two common voltages, which makes them very portable. Larger systems are usually three-phase, which supports higher power for thicker, faster cutting.Check your supply before choosing. Using a unit at its lowest supply setting can reduce the maximum current you get, so confirm the cutting capacity at the voltage you will really use.
A longer torch gives you reach without moving the machine, which helps around large fabrications. A shorter torch is lighter to handle and suits workshop benches. Choose the shortest lead that does the job comfortably.Head angle matters too. A steeper, angled head gives a natural working posture for cutting flat plate, while a straighter head suits cutting into tight spots and working with a guide. Some buyers choose a system with two torches so they have both.
Most professional hand systems can gouge, using special gouging consumables that blow metal away to remove welds, cracks or unwanted material. It is useful for weld repairs and preparing joints.Gouging produces much more spatter, sparks and fume than cutting, so you need a proper heat shield, full eye and face protection and good ventilation, and you must keep flammable materials well clear. Check the maker's gouging guidance for the system you buy.