50 foot torch lead on PM45

[bl8tant]

Well I've finally decided to upgrade to a PM45 from a Northern 375 (which has actually been a good machine). I've found quite a few good deals, but one option has me stalled. I can get a PM45 with standard 25' lead or upgrade to a 50' torch lead for an extra $175.

Does anyone have the 50' lead ? Is the extra length more hassle than help ? I can see where trying to roll up 50 feet of that "stiff" cable could get old. Also, does the extra length create any air pressure loss problems ?

Thanks.

[gordon stephenson]

Don't know if the 50foot cable is different material to the standard PM45 set-up, my standard cable is very flexible and coils very nicely.

[bl8tant]

I went with the 50 foot torch. A PM45 w/ 50' torch lead and a consumable kit (19 pieces) was $1900 shipped to the door. A little sticker shock for a tightwad like me, but the first cut put a smile on my face. Cut a piece of 3/4" scrap like a hot knife thru butter. NO comparison to the Northern Plasma 375. I'm not putting down the Northern (it cost 1/3 the price of the PM45 for pete's sake), but I just can't get over how "crisp" and "forceful" the arc is on the PM45.

Now I need to find lots of stuff to cut.............

[Drf255]

It is one impressive little unit. It blows away the Miller 375 I had.

I still can't get over the cut quality. Cutting 1/4 and 1/2" plate with a straight edge guide produces cuts that are cleaner than a band saw. The cuts almost look machined.

[bl8tant]

Ive put in several hours of cutting, so I thought I'd report back. I don't regret the 50' cable choice. It's great for keeping the machine out of harms way. Works great for mobile demolition (old oil derrick and tons of pipe). The cable is much more pliable than I expected and it coils easily. Overall.....worth the $180 upgrade charge. I just hope it never gets damaged.....I bet it's expensive to replace.

[jimcolt]

Thanks for choosing the Hypertherm...you won't regret it. If you have big items to work on...and you want to leave the Powermax plasma in a fixed location...then the 50' lead is a good choice. For many, because the power supply is so small and lightweight....it is just as easy to move the whole system around.....power corde length and air hose length is a low cost alternative to longer torch leads.

Best regards, Jim colt

Originally Posted by bl8tant

Ive put in several hours of cutting, so I thought I'd report back. I don't regret the 50' cable choice. It's great for keeping the machine out of harms way. Works great for mobile demolition (old oil derrick and tons of pipe). The cable is much more pliable than I expected and it coils easily. Overall.....worth the $180 upgrade charge. I just hope it never gets damaged.....I bet it's expensive to replace.