Plasma cutters are handy tools when it comes to cutting through metals. These tools use an electric arc created amongst two electrodes to form plasma that can cut through the material. The process adopted is thermal cutting. Basically, the pilot arc plasma cutter prolongs the life of torch consumables. This is because they don’t strike the metal while starting the arc.
When using pilot arc plasma cutters, you are ensured with less interference with electronics. The implementation of pilot arc technology allows the cutter to cut through any painted and rusted metals. Compared to other cutting methods, pilot arc plasma cutters make the expensive and monotonous manufacturing tasks much more efficient. Typically, these tools are extensively used to cut stainless steel, steel, aluminum, copper, brass, and many other metals. Through the assistance of the below selection of tools and the buying guide section, you can get the best pilot arc plasma cutter in 2023.
List of The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Check out the thorough reviews of the best pilot arc plasma cutter in 2023 below.
1. LOTOS 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Benefit from efficient cuts on a wide range of metals with this Lotus plasma cutter. Its reasonable price and high cutting efficiency give it one of the best pilot arc plasma cutter on the list. This LOTOS 50Amp pilot arc plasma cutter is designed with a handle for portability. It can be used by hobbyists and professionals.
With the assistance of compressed air, it can cut aluminum alloy, copper, stainless steel, steel, mild steel, brass, and other non-hazardous metals. Moreover, it can efficiently cut through painted, rough, and rusty surfaces.
The implemented pilot arc technology enables you to cut without having to touch the metal’s tip. So, this tool assures a longer consumable life and enhanced cutting quality. No need to use a hose or regulator. The package of the tool contains a plasma torch, air hose, air regulator, floor clamp, and cable connections.
Key Features
- The Pilot Arc efficient flashlight can precisely cut on painted, rough, and rusty surfaces. Minimal slag is produced.
- MOSFET Transistor generates consistent output for thick and fine metal cutting.
- The optimized design based on modern MOSFET/IGBT transistors conveys high output power for dense metal cuts. Also, it provides consistent output for fine metal cuts.
- With the dual voltage capacity, this cutter can directly operate at 220V 50/60Hz power or 110V 50/60Hz power.
Pros And Cons
2. PRIMEWELD CUT60 60Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Are you looking for an efficient and easy-to-use tool to cut through different metals? If yes then this PRIMEWELD CUT60 pilot arc plasma cutter can be a decent solution. Even beginners can easily use it. It is uniquely designed for longevity and is found perfect for first-class outages. Owing to its versatility, it is perfect for construction, industrial, and hobby projects.
Blow start technology is implemented. The continuous pilot arc enables you to cut painted, rusted, and expanded metals. Being portable, you can conveniently carry it to workshops, workplaces, etc. The pack contains an extra electrode, a nozzle, and a long-reach high-quality torch.
Key Features
- The included PT60 blow cutting flashlight comes with a Euro Central connection that offers the best control on your projects.
- This plasma cutter is exceptionally designed to generate high-quality cuts in steel alloy, stainless steel, mild steel, aluminum, copper, and several other materials.
- The duty cycle is 60% at 60A.
- Recoil start technology is implemented.
Pros And Cons
3. Hynade HYC50DVP 115/230V 50A Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
This Hynade pilot arc plasma cutter is alternatively recognized as an inverter metal plasma cutting machine. It can cut through metals with a maximum thickness of 14 mm. Superior quality electronic components ensure longevity and efficiency which makes it one of the best pilot arc plasma cutter. AG60P quality pilot arc cutting torch and accessories are included.
You can use this plasma cutter to cut an extensive range of metals including mild steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, iron, copper, aluminum, etc. Both for indoor and outdoor construction sites, this tool is worth using. Simply press the flashlight to begin the operation, no need to touch the workpiece. Accessories in the pack are a 110V to 220V power plug cable adapter, a 13.1 feet conversion cable, an air regulator, a 3.3 x 6.6 feet ground clamp, a 3.3 x 6.6 feet air hose, 2 electrodes, 2 pilot arc cutting torch, and tips.
Key Features
- The soft IGBT inverter switch technology is implemented.
- It can work on the 110/220V (120/240V) input power supply.
- It automatically depicts the input power of 90V-260V (115V/230V).
- The fixed air pressure gauge at the front shows you accurate readings.
- The clean cutting thickness is 0.394 inch @ 65 PSI under 230 V and 0.315 inch @ 60 PSI under 110 V.
- The maximum separation cutting thickness is 0.551 inch @70 PSI under 220 V.
- Dimensions are 13.8 inches x 5.9 inches x 13.0 inches and the weight is 22 pounds.
Pros And Cons
4. Cuwiny 50A Dual Voltage Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
This Cuwiny non-touch pilot arc plasma cutter can cut through metals with a maximum thickness of 0.551 inch. The maximum separation cutting thickness is 0.630 inch. Typically, it is suitable for iron, copper, carbon steel, stainless steel, mild steel, steel alloy, and aluminum. It is essentially a high-frequency arc start plasma cutter that utilizes non-hazardous compressed air to precisely cut through metals. Moreover, you can use it to cut through painted, rough, and rusty surfaces. Minimal slag is produced.
Key Features
- Pilot arc technology enables you to cut the metal without touching its tip. It assures the longevity of the tool.
- Advanced IGBT inverter plasma technology automatically shows the voltage; no need to change the voltage input from 110 V to 220 V.
- At 110/120V input, this tool offers 0.4-inch clean-cut, 0.5-inch maximum gravity, and 10-35 A DC output.
- At 220/240V input, this tool offers 0.5-inch clean-cut, 0.625-inch maximum gravity, and 10-50 A DC output.
- The input frequency it can work with is 50/60 Hz.
- The range of air pressure is 0.4-0.7 MPa.
- The duty cycle is 60% @ maximum current of 50 A.
- The included 0.25-inch NPT air connector allows you to very quickly connect this tool to the air compressor.
- A high-quality air regulator with plastic tape is included. It resolves issues related to air pressure.
- Advanced German cooling system PAPST keeps the entire plasma cutter cool.
Pros And Cons
5. PrimeWeld CUT50DP 50A Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Primeweld CUT50DP pilot arc plasma cutter comes with compressed air and generates a non-touch pilot arc. It can work on dual voltage 110/220V AC. Moreover, it produces a clean cut on metals with thickness up to 0.5 inch. It is a perfect and one of the best pilot arc plasma cutter for copper, stainless steel, mild steel, steel alloy, carbon steel, and aluminum.
The arc is generated without touching the workpiece. Not just smooth surfaces but this PrimeWeld CUT50DP plasma cutter can be used on rusted, greasy, painted, and rough surfaces too.
Key Features
- The automatic dual-voltage capability needs no switch. So, this feature lets you operate this plasma cutter directly with 220 V 50/60 Hz of power, or 110 V 50/60 Hz power.
- The maximum separation cutting thickness is 0.75 inch.
- The output current is 50A under 220V and 50/60 Hz frequency.
- The operating air pressure is 75 PSI at 5 CFM.
- Dimensions of this plasma cutter are 18 inches x 14 inches x 11 inches and it weighs 25 pounds.
Pros And Cons
6. Amico CUT-50HF 50A Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Amico CUT-50HF pilot arc plasma cutter is equipped with tactile pilot arc cutting procedures and cutting-edge IGBT inverter technology. These characteristics assure outstanding arc stability. The high cutting efficiency makes sure you can accomplish the job quickly and easily.
It can work on rusty, rough, dirty, greasy, and spray-painted surfaces. You can use it for indoor projects, industrial projects, agricultural sites, construction jobs, and remote areas. With less effort, you obtain excellent results with sharp cuts.
You can use it to cut alloy steel, stainless steel, iron, cast iron, pork iron, copper, low carbon steel, aluminum, aluminum alloy, and other conductive materials. Within minutes, you can make straight cuts, holes, angles, notches, curves, circles, grooves, and V-grooves on different metals. The inclusion of sturdy components makes the CUT-50HF plasma cutter a reliable tool for professionals.
Key Features
- The maximum cutting thickness is up to 0.8 inches.
- The automatic selection function automatically senses the input voltage. Hence, it can be effortlessly used in the voltage range of 90 V to 300 V.
- The 60% duty cycle makes sure this plasma cutter can produce an efficient and long-term cut.
- The 0.25-inch NPT Type D industrial coupler can be quickly and effortlessly connected to the air compressor.
- The maximum length of the power cable is 698.8 feet.
- The list of implemented safety features is overheating protection, overload protection, over-current protection, automatic voltage jitter compensation, and plasma gun safety protection.
- The built-in fan comes with automatic temperature control to ensure quiet operation.
Pros And Cons
How To Pick The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter?
Following the factors described below ascertains that you get the best pilot arc plasma cutter for your needs and money.
1. Thickness of metal to be cut
The foremost step is to determine what the thickness of metal is. Pilot arc plasma cutters can cut any conductive metals ranging from stainless steel to copper. Keep in mind that a 25A pilot arc plasma cutter can perfectly work on metals with thickness up to 0.25 inch. On the other hand, for cutting metals with thickness up to 0.5 inch, choose a pilot arc plasma cutter with a minimum current rating of 40A.
For cutting metal sheets with thickness up to 1 inch, pick up a pilot arc plasma cutter with an amperage of 60A or higher.
2. Power source
Two major power sources for the operation of pilot arc plasma cutters are pneumatic (air pressure) and electrical.
Pneumatic
The majority of pneumatic pilot arc plasma cutters require a separate air compressor for feeding the air from the nozzle. It is recommended to have a separate air compressor because even the best and most affordable pilot arc plasma cutters don’t contain air compressors in their systems.
Electrical
When it comes to choosing an electric pilot arc plasma cutter, the electrical input to be feed is vital to consider. Certain heavy-duty electric pilot arc plasma cutters are 240V 3-phase machines. However, the majority of the smaller ones operate on single-phase power points of 110/120 V, 220/240 volts, or both.
In most houses, the standard power outlet is 110/120V. Generally, for all standard pilot arc plasma cutters, this input is desirable. However, for cutting metals with thicknesses more than 0.25 inch, this power supply is inadequate. In that case, you need to use a 220/240V power supply.
3. Types of torches
Although torches are available in varied ranges, they usually fulfill the same purpose i.e. burning a slice through metal. Here are the types.
i. Lead
The lead with which your torch is attached is a vital element of these tools. Choose a torch with a longer lead if you want to travel to various parts of the project to cut and yet want to keep the tool steady. But if you want your plasma cutter to stay at a bench where you would bring all the accessories for cuttings then choose a torch with shorter leads.
ii. High-frequency non-touch torch
This type of torch generates the plasma from a little distance away from the material you are cutting. It effectively cuts through the section without allowing the nozzle to touch your project.
iii. Drag technology
Torches implemented with drag technology can smoothly cut through metal whereas the top of the torch would touch your project.
iv. Touch start
Known as the least popular torch technology, it creates the arc by the nozzle touching the metal.
FAQs When Picking The Best Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
1. What is the power requirement for cutting thick metals?
Before choosing a plasma cutter, you need to determine what type of power is available in your home or workshop. If you want to cut metals with a thickness of 0.5 inch or more then you require a 220V outlet. You can consult with your electrician to make sure that your power infrastructure will be enough to operate a pilot arc plasma cutter.
2. Is it important to determine the finish when choosing a plasma cutter?
Yes, because determining the finish makes sure you don’t buy a plasma cutter that is of extremely low quality.
3. What is the importance of the duty cycle in a pilot arc plasma cutter?
When choosing the best pilot arc plasma cutter, you need to check the duty cycle. This is because it depicts how long a machine can generate dense welding pulses (in form of a percentage) concerning its amperage rating.
4. Can a pilot arc plasma cutter cut aluminum?
Yes, pilot arc plasma cutters can precisely and effectively cut aluminum. This is because these tools don’t depend on oxidation for cutting. Keep in mind that since aluminum is chemically active, it may be difficult to cut. So, you have to adopt an appropriate gas selection and cutting method to achieve precise cuts and best performance.
Final Thoughts
With the help of the best pilot arc plasma cutter, you are promised clean and efficient cuts on a broad range of materials. For industrial professionals or hobbyists or small business owners, these tools are crucial ones. They are so convenient to use that beginners can get to grips very quickly. Once you have set up the cutter and connected it to a power supply and an air compressor, you only have to attach the torch to the cutter. Subsequently, you can choose your cutting amperage and begin cutting the metal. Most of them are designed considering portability and safety features.
Enjoyed this pilot arc plasma cutter review? Then be sure to check out our other guide of the Best 110V MIG Welder.
