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Which Powermax Do I Choose?

Which Powermax Do I Choose?

Oct 7th 2019

If you are new to plasma cutting or are looking for a cutting system more efficient than oxyfuel, Hypertherm has several options that offer safer, faster cutting across a wide range of applications. From hobby to industrial uses, Hypertherm has the portable Powermax system that’s just right for your needs.

Weldfabulous offers five Powermax models: Powermax30 AIR, Powermax30 XP, Powermax45 XP, Powermax65 and Powermax85. Customers may choose to purchase the power source only or packages that also have hand-held torches, or machine torches. Weldfabulous also offers a wide variety of Hypertherm consumables and accessories.

Hypertherm, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, recommends answering the following five questions when selecting the right Powermax model for the job.

What thickness of metal will you be cutting?

The Powermax models available at Weldfabulous can cut thicknesses from sheet metal to 1-1/2" severance. Choose the Powermax system with the recommended capacity for the thickness of metal you expect to cut 80% of the time or more.

Will the cutting or gouging be done by a handheld torch or with an automated machine?

For automated cutting, select a machine-torch compatible Powermax system with interface options for automation equipment like a CNC table, robot and track cutters.

What electrical service is available?

Knowing the incoming line voltage, phase and breaker size where the system will be used ensures your electrical service can support the Powermax system you choose.

Will the plasma system be powered by an engine drive generator?

Each Powermax system requires a minimum kilowatt output to deliver full performance.

What is your compressed gas source?

Powermax systems require compressed air or nitrogen for operation (the Powermax30AIR has its own internal air compressor). The gas must be dry and free of contaminants. An optional filter is available to ensure clean and dry gas.

So what can you do with a Powermax? Powermax systems are used in a variety of industries such as agriculture, automotive, construction, HVAC, metal fabrication, mining, pipeline, shipbuilding and transportation. See the chart below for the cutting and gouging capabilities of each model.

Finally, let’s take a closer look at some of the features of each model (full spec sheets and warranty information are available by following the links). 

Powermax30 AIR

The small size and light weight of the new Powermax30 AIR, with an internal compressor, make it a highly portable system enabling metal cutting just about anywhere there is single phase power. Simply plug it in, attach the work clamp and you are ready to cut. The internal compressor eliminates the need for an external air compressor and filter to operate the plasma system. The fast cutting speeds and superior cut quality of Powermax plasma enable you to finish jobs more quickly.

Powermax30 XP

The Powermax30 XP delivers high performance in a small, portable package. With its two-in-one design, the system provides high-power capability for thick metal cutting, plus FineCut® consumables for detailed, thin metal cutting. Combined with a custom carry case, shaded glasses, cutting gloves and adapter plugs for 120 V or 240 V circuits, this system is designed to get you cutting quickly and easily.

Powermax45 XP

The best-selling plasma system ever made is now even better. The Powermax45 XP offers improved performance over the Powermax45 with increased cut capacity, faster cut speeds, and automatic gas adjustment for simple setup and operation. New Duramax® Lock torches and consumables support handheld and mechanized cutting of a wider range of metal thicknesses, precision gouging and maximum metal removal gouging, and marking for part identification or scoring for weld preparation.

Powermax65

Offering the latest technological innovations, like Smart Sense™ technology to automatically adjust the gas pressure, the Powermax65 helps you do more than ever before. A variety of Duramax® torch styles provide exceptional versatility for hand cutting or gouging, portable automation, X-Y table and robotic cutting or gouging.

Powermax85

The premier system for cutting 1", the Powermax85 has the same features and options as the Powermax65, but with more power from a max output current of 85 amps. A variety of Duramax® torch styles provide exceptional versatility for hand cutting or gouging, portable automation, X-Y table and robotic cutting or gouging.