Deflector?

[slagmatic]

I just moved my shop and was going through a lot of stuff when I noticed a part in my Hypertherm Powermax 30 extra parts bin that I have never used before (honestly don't even remember seeing it before).

I checked the manual and while its in there, it doesn't describe what it is used for.

In case there is any question, it is labeled the 'diffuser' and is a little black plastic piece that snaps over the torch head.

So, what is it used for?

[specter]

There is an Optional "Deflector" listed in the PowerMax 30 manual!!?? I read the manual and could not find a description explaining the function of the deflector. I am guessing by its name it deflects the plasma gasses back into the plasma steam to maintain the kerf of the cut. That or its a spark arrestor.

[slagmatic]

DOH! I can't even ask a proper question if I'm calling it by the wrong name.

Yes specter, it is the deflector that I'm asking about. This piece here.

http://www.harrisweldingsupplies.com/ProductImages/hyperthermimages/220569.JPG

It is plastic and snaps over the torch head. Just by looking at its design it appears it might be for gouging or something like that???

[Frank Chloupek]

Title changed to help improve search, readability, and all that other good stuff including cute fluffy bunnies.

[500HpSilverado]

I just called Hypertherm because I was wondering the same thing. Jason in Tech support told me it is for when your piercing, to keep the nozzle from grounding to the plate and welding itself to the material. He said it is basically for people who are having problems piercing (bad technique instead of rocking the torch into the piece) I guess some people have issues when they try to start the arc it welds the nozzle to the plate and the deflector eliminates this problem. He said not many people use it once they figure out what they are doing but it is included for situations where you are having a problem. Hope this helps!

[slagmatic]

Thanks Silverado.

I've got to say, anyone thinking of getting the powermax 30 and are wondering if they should get just the cutter or the deluxe package, I'd say just get the regular cutter. The deluxe package comes with a few accessories, they are basically a plastic carrying case, a circle cutter attachment, and this deflector. The carrying case is hardly big enough, requiring you to coil the leads in tight circles to fit. The circle cutter is nice, but you can make something simple yourself. And this deflector is apparently useless once you know how to operate the machine.

Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy with the PM30, just don't think you need to spend the extra on the deluxe package. If anything, I wish I would have spent the extra money (plus some) and got the PM45.

[jimcolt]

I guess some like the additional case as it protects the power supply...especially if you are hauling it around in the back of a truck. I have a tone of plastic cases that came with various power tools.....skilsaw case, hammer drill case, saber saw case, sawzall case......the cases are all stored in the storage space above my shop! Occasionally if I am going to do a field job that requires that I throw dozens of different tools in the back of the truck....I'll fetch the proper cases.

Regardless....the Powermax30 cuts steel just as well without the case!

Jim

[slagmatic]

I guess some like the additional case as it protects the power supply...especially if you are hauling it around in the back of a truck. I have a tone of plastic cases that came with various power tools.....skilsaw case, hammer drill case, saber saw case, sawzall case......the cases are all stored in the storage space above my shop! Occasionally if I am going to do a field job that requires that I throw dozens of different tools in the back of the truck....I'll fetch the proper cases.

Regardless....the Powermax30 cuts steel just as well without the case!

Jim

Jim, I do the same thing. Leave my cases stored up on the rafters until I need some tools in the field, then pull down whatever I need to carry the tools. My complaint is simply that the case for the PM30 is too small. Specifically you have to coil the leads in tight circles and often end up with a sharp bend at the machine and torch handle to get it to all fit. Then when you get to the job all of your leads look like slinkys and are a general PITA to work with.

For the price difference between regular and deluxe, in my humble opinion of course, you are better of buying the regular one and getting a small sized Action Packer or similar container if you really need to travel with it. Of course like I said before what I really wish I would have done is just gone for the PM45. The PM30 is a great little tool but I've already been in a few situations where I want more capacity or quicker cuts. Thats not unlike any other metal working tool I've ever bought though, you always end up needing something a little bigger eventually.

[jimcolt]

I have the same problem...trying to stuff a few bits and the power cord in the plastic case with my Hammer Drill......the damn cord never wants to stay in its little pocket....and seems to jump out when I try to slam the cover closed!

Jim

Jim, I do the same thing. Leave my cases stored up on the rafters until I need some tools in the field, then pull down whatever I need to carry the tools. My complaint is simply that the case for the PM30 is too small. Specifically you have to coil the leads in tight circles and often end up with a sharp bend at the machine and torch handle to get it to all fit. Then when you get to the job all of your leads look like slinkys and are a general PITA to work with.

For the price difference between regular and deluxe, in my humble opinion of course, you are better of buying the regular one and getting a small sized Action Packer or similar container if you really need to travel with it. Of course like I said before what I really wish I would have done is just gone for the PM45. The PM30 is a great little tool but I've already been in a few situations where I want more capacity or quicker cuts. Thats not unlike any other metal working tool I've ever bought though, you always end up needing something a little bigger eventually.

[John T]

I really wish I would have done is just gone for the PM45. The PM30 is a great little tool but I've already been in a few situations where I want more capacity or quicker cuts. Thats not unlike any other metal working tool I've ever bought though, you always end up needing something a little bigger eventually.



I am ready to buy right now. over the past day, I have been reading every post on the PM30 and PM45 ... for what I would use it for, basic homeowner/garage use/hobbyist, the PM30 would probably be fine. But you never know when the extra cutting power or speed would come in handy... (friends bring over all kinds of projects for you to fix once they know you have a welder..:laugh:)

question:
will the PM45 do everything the 30 will do? as far as thin steel,sheet metal etc?
I don't mind spending the extra money on the 45, just want to be able to drag cut? the small stuff ... like the 30 will do. ( I do have a few smaller projects in mind.. bird feeder hangers and such.. for the wife.
sorry for the novice question.. I have zero experience with plasma cutters.

[specter]

Hi Ya John just caught your message to jim! You said you fave zero experience with plasma cutters but then said "(friends bring over all kinds of projects for you to fix once they know you have a welder..)" Do you understand the plasma cutter is not a welder!!??
My question was design only to clarify that a plasma cutter is not used for welding.

Are you also looking for a welder in addition to a plasma cutter? If so there a a few manufacturers that sell combo welder and plasma machines.In alphabetical order there is Everlast, GiantTech and Longevity.

[John T]

:blush2:
thanks spector... should have explained better...

I own a Lincoln AC buzzbox and a Miller 211 mig.
I am looking into buying a Plasma to add to my arsenal.... :D

I wish I had one a few years ago when I built my mailbox... http://weldingweb.com/showthread.php?t=2547

[jimcolt]

John,

Yes...the Powermax45 will do everything the the Powermax30 will do....in fact, you can use the Powermax30 consumables on the 45 torch. I have never tried them....as I'm 100% happy with the standard Powermax45 parts for thin gauge. On the thicker side.....I have actuallt severed 1-1/2" with the 45...it of course is pretty slow.....but does a decent job on 3/4" and 1". I have pierced up to 5/8" with the 45 on my PlasmaCam machine....although Hypertherm rates it as a 3/8" piercing capability.

Jim

[John T]

Thanks Jim.
I'll be buying the 45 then. :blob2:
looking around at prices now.

torchking on ebay seems pretty decent. with good feedback... anyone ever do business with them?

[specter]

Hi again John try looking at weldersource and cyber weld they both have the best prices and great service.

[specter]

http://store.weldersource.com/088016.html $1, 519