A CNC plasma cutter uses a plasma torch guided by a computer numerical control (CNC) system to cut through electrically-conductive materials (steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, etc.). Plasma is formed by ionizing gas (air, oxygen, etc.), creating a hot jet that melts the workpiece and blows molten material away. The CNC system controls torch path, speed, and height. For more information please visit 5 axis cnc software
Key Features & Selection Criteria
Here’s what to consider when buying a CNC plasma cutter:
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Cutting capacity (thickness & width) | Determines what thickness/materials you can cut cleanly. For very thick metals, you’ll need high amperage and possibly dual-gas or water-cooled systems. |
| Duty cycle | How long the machine can run at rated output before needing downtime. A 60% duty cycle at 50A is good; heavy/industrial machines sometimes have 100% rated in lower temps. |
| Torch height control (THC) | Keeps the torch at optimal distance from the metal surface automatically; improves cut quality and reduces wear. |
| Controller & Software Compatibility | CNC controller should support standard G-code or compatible software. Ease of programming, nesting software, etc. |
| Power Supply / Voltage | Make sure the electrical supply in your facility meets what the machine requires (e.g. single phase vs three phase, 110V/220V/380-400V, etc.). |
| Consumables & Spare Parts Availability | Good brands have easy access to nozzles, electrodes, tips. Cheaper units may have less reliable parts or harder sourcing. |
| Portability vs Table Size | Smaller jobs / occasional use might need portable power-supply style; large fabrication needs large bed / table, stable gantry, heavy rails. |
| Safety, Cooling, Gas Requirements | Air filtration, gas supply (if secondary gas), water cooling (if required), safety features. Plasma cutting produces smoke, sparks, high heat. |
Top Brands (Globally Respected)
Here are some top brands and what they are known for:
| Brand | Strengths / Notes |
|---|---|
| Hypertherm | Very strong reputation for reliable power supplies, high cut quality, long consumable life, strong support network. |
| ESAB (Thermal Dynamics, Cutmaster, etc.) | Wide range of machines from manual / hand-held to large mechanised systems; good CNC integration; strong after-sales support. |
| Miller Electric | Known for solid build, good features, good choice for heavy or industrial shops. |
| Torchmate | Good for small to medium shops; also hobbyist-friendly; known for software / table kits. |
| Lotos Technology | Often more affordable; entry / mid-level machines; pilot arc and non-touch features on many units. |
Examples & What’s Available (Including Pakistan / Import-able)
Here are a few specific machines / model examples. Some are locally available in Pakistan, others are international imports.
- Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC – 45A plasma cutter with “SYNC” tech, long consumable life. Ubuy lists it for ~ PKR 1,270,400 (excluding shipping/customs) with a 50 ft torch.
- ESAB Cutmaster 50+ – Portable cutter, good for hand-held or smaller mechanised work. 50 A @ 60% duty cycle; recommended pierce/cut ~ 16 mm.
- ESAB m2-200i – Heavy duty mechanised cutter, up to 200 Amps, full 100% duty cycle, designed for industrial production cutting (mild steel, aluminum, stainless steel).
- Hyper Thermal CNC Plasma Cutting Machine (Multitech, Pakistan) – Locally built examples; 2 m to ~4.3 m widths; servo drives, heavy gantry, used by fabricators and shipyards.
- Local smaller-scale CNC Plasma Cutter 1530 (iToolings, Pakistan) – Working size X-1500, Y-3000 mm, Z 200mm; uses Chinese LGK 120A power source; control system “STARFIRE 2100C”. Price ~ ₨1,600,000.
Pricing & What to Expect Cost-wise
- Small / portable non-CNC or small CNC tables: several hundred to a few thousand dollars (converted to PKR, depending on brand, power).
- Medium-size CNC tables (bed size in meters, good power supply, servo drives, full electronics, torch height control, etc.): likely in the range of PKR 1–3 million or more depending on specifications and import costs. Examples above fit that.
- Large industrial gantry tables, multi-torch machines, high amperage (100-200A+), heavy duty duty cycles, full automation, etc. will cost significantly more (import duties, shipping, setup) and need good infrastructure (power, gas, etc.).
Pros & Cons of Buying Locally vs Importing
| Local Purchase | Importing |
|---|---|
| + Easier service, local support, faster parts & consumables availability + Potential cost savings on shipping / customs if local assembly + Easier to inspect / test before purchase | − Might have fewer options / high-end models − Possibly higher markup for import brands − If importing, consider duty, shipping, power compatibility, support & parts supply |
