retrofitting plasma torches?..

marty79

marty79

Well-Known Member
Joined
Nov 24, 2013
Location
Newton, NC
hey has anyone ever retrofitted one brand of torch on plasma cutter with a different brand?
I'm about ready to order new consumables for mine and I've noticed I can buy a local brand torch lead which would allow me to buy my consumables on the go locally and not always have to deal with waiting on deliveries or wrong parts (which has happened).
My Plasma cutter is a Lotos Brand 220v (yeah yeah don't knock me for it, it works well for years now for what I do) and would like to change the torch without a huge headache if possible. If too much involved then forget it but didn't know if maybe some of yall have done this and isn't that bad. Thanks for input!!
 
Plasma torches like the consumables are pretty machine specific.....it's one type of equipment where the tech and approaches are different enough to be less universal.....same reason not to many folks make knock off consumables for them. Only the very popular models and names offer cheaper consumables by others, often at a great quality sacrifice.

My guess is it would be better to buy a little more standard model to your current parts supplier......or when you find the right stuff buy in bulk for the long haul. Only downside is if that unit is unique enough for getting tips to be a pain, it craps out and you got a years supply of consumables lying around that nobody else needs either....
 
That's about what I was thinking for now. I get a pack of 40 for $28 lasts 2 builds or one big project lol so I'll stick with that till it gives. Lotos isn't huge but they've got descent amount of stuff out there. This unit was a gift from Dad years ago and it has served me well for a unknown brand. It's only done 2 builds so hopefully will make it for several more.
 
marty79 said:
That's about what I was thinking for now. I get a pack of 40 for $28 lasts 2 builds or one big project lol so I'll stick with that till it gives. Lotos isn't huge but they've got descent amount of stuff out there. This unit was a gift from Dad years ago and it has served me well for a unknown brand. It's only done 2 builds so hopefully will make it for several more.
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Run nothing but the cleanest filtered air through it. Anything going into the machine will cause arc contamination and cost you tip life.

The easiest and maybe best way is a refillable desicant filter for auto body paint. Not some cheapo air water separator.

Cut quality and machine performance will be better. Also run them at the right output for the given material. Full power. When not needed just causes wear and tear.
 
WARRIORWELDING said:
The easiest and maybe best way is a refillable desicant filter for auto body paint. Not some cheapo air water separator.
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I finally did buy really nice water oil separator all that fancy stuff paid good bit for it but I figured it was worth the investment and ever since I hooked up a plasma cutter in this new place that actually does cut way better so I'm guessing that's why?? Thanks for advice
 
marty79 said:
that actually does cut way better so I'm guessing that's why??
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the arc is still a DC current controlled and stabilized for a purpose.........stick some heavy vapor in your outlet. See how well that goes!

That's my best analogy for that one.
 
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