10 Things to Consider Before Buying a Plasma Cutting Table

1.) Type of Use
With dozens of CNC plasma cutting tables on the market, it can be difficult to determine which table is right for your needs, but this is a critical part of the decision process. A CNC table built to the wrong specifications for your business might not peform as it should. The wide range in products offers everyone from the home workshop to the industrial fabrication company the ability to select a table based on use. Are you working in a smaller workspace? Look for a 4'x4' table. Are you producing metal art? Find a table that comes with machine ready graphics and an integrated computer. Or are you a high-production fabricator? Seek out a table is fully welded steel and built with high output in mind. The answers to these questions will help to determine the size and level of table you will need.

2.) Setup and Installation:
A CNC plasma cutting table is an important investment and a large piece of machinery. When selecting a table, investigate the setup and installation required. Some tables are offered in pieces, while others come pre-assembled and require just an hour of installation to get it up and running.

3.) Computer Compatibility:
How does the table connect to a computer? Does it have an integrated system? An integrated computer system is the fastest and most efficient way to get your system up and running. Other systems may require a parallel port or USB connectivity and are dependent on the computer's compabtibility to the system. If it's an integrated system, be sure to look for an operating system (i.e. Windows) that is familiar.

4.) Software:
There are many different software programs made available with cutting tables today, but the level of knowledge required to use the program should be a big consideration. Look for easy-to-use, intuitive programs that take you through the cutting process, and a drawing software that lets you easily create vector designs.

5.) Table Construction:
A plasma table by its very definition is made to hold sheets of metal for cutting. It must be sturdy to handle the weight and strong to maintain precise cutting. A welded frame offers the strength and stability to handle continuous industrial use. A gantry parking area at the end of the table gives you room to load your material from the top or the side. A fully skirted table can help with downdraft ventilation, and hardened bearings and rails offer long-lasting durability.

6.) Torch Height Control:
The ability to maintain consistent plasma torch height is extremely important to maintain maximum cut quality and tight tolerances on your plasma cut parts. With automatic torch height control, the perfect distance from the material is maintained at all times, accounting for material warpage and irregular surfaces. Live adjustments allow you to tweak your torch's operation for maximum cutting efficiency and finished part quality. While some plasma tables offer one or the other, a torch height control system with both automation and live adjustments offers the most accuracy, reliability and responsiveness.

7.) Drive System:
Does the drive system include belts or pulleys? Some systems use a single motor to power the y-axis using a jack shaft, belts, and/or other components leaving the other side to "trail" behind. Consider how many times the gantry changes direction during a full workday. Belts can often fail, forcing you to obtain parts and repair your system, and a single motor wears quickly. As an alternative, direct drive rack and pinion gear sets eliminate the need for pulleys, rubber belts, gearboxes and jack shafts and are far more reliable.

8.) Warranty:
Look for a multi-year warranty that offers you the flexibility and security to replace or repair your table if something goes wrong.

9.) Customer Service:
This type machinery requires some knowledge and background. If you aren't able to troubleshoot it, it's important that you can reach out to a team of experts to guide you through the process. Look for a friendly, knowledgeable customer service team that will be there when you need them.

10.) Deliverability:
Machine availability varies, some taking up to months to send, so be sure to inquire about the delivery time.