I have a hypertherm 30 xp and a 45 xp in my garage that a local distributor has let me try out for the past week. I spent quite a bit of time with them and have been trying to decide which to purchase. I am leaning toward the 45xp. I will just be using it as a hobbyist at this time, but may get more serious in the future. One of my main questions is what air compressor to get. I am currently using a dewalt 15 gallon, 1.6hp that produces 5 CFM at 90 psi. That seems to run the 45xp fine, but I have run into times when I need to wait for it to build up pressure. The 45xp manual recommends 6cfm at 90 psi minimum. I do have a couple of questions on the 45xp and the air compressor if anyone can comment. The questions I have are:
1. Will running too low of air pressure damage the machine? Or will it just stop running until sufficient air is provided. I cut until the torch quits (I get the yellow low air light and the other yellow air cylinder light). Will running it until it quits and getting those two yellow lights too many times damage the machine?
2. Can you recommend any particular air compressors that will work well with the 45xp. Preferrably a portable, 110, with around a 30 gallon tank.
3. Is $1,860 a good price for a new 45xp with 20' torch leads?
4. What is a good air filter to run with the 45xp?
Thank you for any suggestions/comments.
Doug J