As i'm becoming more involved with projects including steel (both for cars and art/furrniture) It would definitely be nice to get a quality plasma torch. My requirements are as follows:

1. Runs off of single phase 115/230V circuit.
2. Can cut metal up to 1/2" (don't currently have a need for anything thicker).
3. Possibly CNC capable for future projects.
4. Under $1000, preferably somewhere around 600-700.
5. Something that will last a long time assuming proper maintenance.

Looking for specific models rather than just brands. I currently own a Miller 175, and have never had a problem. I understand plasma brands such as Miller, Esab, Thermal Dynamics, and Hypertherm are all decent brands.

 

we have a miller spectrum 375 and we havent had a problem with it other than being DOA but we sent it back to miller and had it fixed free of charge. worked great since.

I've only cut 1/2" stuff once, but it did it fine, just very slowly.

 

i have a hypertherm powermax 30. it runs off 110 and is rated to cut up to 3/8" but i've cut 1/2" with it but very slow, and the finish wasn't spectacular.

i think you are going to have trouble finding a plasma cutter that you will be able to cleanly cut 1/2" and is powered by 110... especially for under $1k.

 

Thanks for the advice.

I am able to use 230V models, just no 430 or 3 phase.

 

Old topic but maybe you're still searching.

Ive got an ESAB 550, it doesn't fit all of your requirements because its a little spensive but thought Id just give you my feedback on it in case you run across it.

Ive never cut anything over 1/4" but its rated to 1/2" drag, and 5/8" pierce and I love the thing. Its worked flawlessly for me for about 4 years now and when its life is over Ill probably buy another ESAB.

Good luck with your purchase.

oh yeah its 220

 

I have a thremaldynamics cutmaster 38 it runs on 110 or 220 has the internal switch is 2 years old mail me if your interested autosport7@gmail.com

 

Doesn't matter what is recommended your $ amount will not let you purchase a machine with that capacity. You need to be in the 1800-2200 dollar range for 1/2 machine . 1200 will get you a 25-30 amp machine that will do a decent job of cutting 1/4 slowly. I have yet to see a machine that is good at cutting its rated capacity. I like the thermal dynamic machines the best. Thier torch tip works really well for templates and the consumables are less problematic and costly.