What is a CNC plasma cutting table?

A CNC plasma cutting table is a computer-controlled machine that uses a high-temperature plasma arc to cut through metal with precision. These tables are ideal for industrial applications, metal fabrication, and custom manufacturing, providing accurate and efficient cuts on various materials.

What are the benefits of using a CNC plasma table?

CNC plasma tables offer several advantages, including: High precision and accuracy for detailed metal cutting Fast cutting speeds to improve productivity Cost-effective operation compared to laser or waterjet cutting Versatile material compatibility for various industrial applications Automated operation for consistent and repeatable results

How do I choose the right CNC plasma cutting table for my needs?

When selecting a CNC plasma cutting table, consider factors such as: Material type and thickness you will be cutting Cutting bed size to accommodate your projects Power source and amperage for optimal performance Software compatibility for seamless design and cutting integration Additional features like automated torch height control and fume extraction

What size of plasma cutting table do I need?

Material Size The size of the materials you plan to cut is the most important factor. If you work with large sheets, like 4x8-foot (1.2m x 2.4m) steel plates, a 4x8-foot table is a good starting point, as it’s one of the most common sizes for general cutting. However, if you need to cut larger sheets, consider a 5x10-foot or even larger table. For smaller projects or intricate parts, a smaller table like 2x2 feet or 2x4 feet might be sufficient. Cutting Area vs. Table Size The cutting area refers to the available space in which the plasma torch can move. It’s essential to choose a table with enough cutting area for the size of materials you plan to work with, but also for any additional space required to set up or maneuver materials during the cutting process. Workspace Make sure the physical space available in your shop or workspace can accommodate the plasma table. It's essential to have enough clearance around the table for loading/unloading materials and for safe operation. Material Handling and Cutting Efficiency Larger tables can often handle larger materials and improve cutting efficiency. But if you’re working with smaller or more intricate parts, a large table might be overkill and take up unnecessary space. For high-volume cutting, a larger table could allow for more efficient nesting and multi-part cutting, which can save time. Future Growth Consider your future needs. If you anticipate expanding your business or starting to cut larger sheets of metal in the future, it might be wise to opt for a larger table than what you currently need. Cutting Head and Motion Range Make sure the table’s motion system (rails, gantry, etc.) can support the necessary range of movement for the plasma torch over the size of the table you choose. A larger table requires a more robust motion system. Common Sizes of CNC Plasma Cutting Tables: 4x4 feet (1219mm x 1219mm): Good for small to medium-sized projects. 4x8 feet (1219mm x 2438mm): A popular size for general cutting of standard sheet sizes. 5x10 feet (1524mm x 3048mm): Suitable for larger sheets and high-volume cutting. 6x12 feet (1828mm x 3658mm) or larger: For industrial or heavy-duty operations.

What is the maximum cutting thickness?

The maximum cutting thickness of a CNC plasma cutting table depends on several factors, including the power of the plasma cutter, the quality of the equipment, and the type of plasma torch used. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements that influence cutting thickness: Plasma Cutter Power Plasma cutters are rated by their power, typically measured in amps (amperage). Higher amperage allows for cutting through thicker materials. Low-power plasma cutters (30-60 amps) can typically cut up to 1/2 inch (12 mm) thick materials. Medium-power plasma cutters (60-120 amps) can handle materials up to 1 inch (25 mm) thick. High-power plasma cutters (up to 400 amps or more) are capable of cutting 1 inch (25 mm) or more, with some industrial systems reaching 2 inches (50 mm) or even thicker. Plasma Torch & Consumables The type and quality of the plasma torch used in the system, as well as the consumables (nozzles, electrodes), also affect the maximum cutting thickness. Consumables must be properly maintained to ensure optimal performance. Material Type Mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum all have different cutting capabilities when using plasma. For example, cutting mild steel typically allows for thicker cuts than aluminum. High-definition plasma systems may offer better edge quality and can cut thicker materials with more precision, especially when cutting mild steel. Cut Quality While a machine may be rated to cut through a certain thickness of material, the quality of the cut will degrade as the material gets thicker. For thicker cuts, especially beyond 1 inch (25 mm), it’s common to experience rougher edges and more slag. Cutting Speed As the thickness of the material increases, cutting speed typically decreases. In order to achieve the best quality and cut through thicker materials, slower cutting speeds are often necessary. Typical Maximum Cutting Thicknesses: 1/4 inch (6 mm): Great for general cutting on lower-power plasma cutters. 1/2 inch (12 mm): Common for many CNC plasma cutters with mid-range power (50-80 amps). 1 inch (25 mm): Possible with higher-end plasma cutters (100+ amps). 1-1/2 inches (38 mm): Some high-powered systems can cut up to 1-1/2 inches. 2 inches (50 mm) or more: Specialized, industrial-level plasma cutters (often high-definition systems) can handle these thicknesses. Conclusion: The maximum cutting thickness of your CNC plasma cutting table will depend heavily on the plasma cutter you choose and the materials you work with. For general use, a cutting thickness of 1/2 inch (12 mm) is common, but with a higher-powered system, you can reach 1-2 inches (25-50 mm) or even thicker. If cutting very thick materials is a priority for your work, look for a high-definition plasma cutter that’s specifically designed to handle thicker cuts with precision.

What is the cutting speed on a CNC plasma cutting machine?

The cutting speed of a CNC plasma cutting table depends on several factors, including the material type, thickness, plasma power, and torch technology. Cutting speed is generally measured in inches per minute (IPM) or millimeters per minute (mm/min). Here’s a breakdown of factors that affect the cutting speed and typical values for various materials: Material Type Mild Steel: Generally the fastest cutting material because plasma cutting works efficiently on it. Stainless Steel: Cuts more slowly than mild steel due to its higher thermal conductivity. Aluminum: Tends to cut faster than stainless steel but slower than mild steel, as it can cause more material distortion. Other Metals: Non-ferrous metals like copper or brass may cut at different speeds due to material properties. Material Thickness As material thickness increases, cutting speed typically decreases. Thicker materials require slower cutting speeds to maintain precision and reduce issues like excessive slag. Thin Materials (1/8 inch or 3 mm): Faster cutting speeds are possible. Medium Thickness (1/4 inch to 1/2 inch or 6 mm to 12 mm): Cutting speeds are moderate. Thicker Materials (1 inch or 25 mm and above): Slower cutting speeds are required. Plasma Cutter Power (Amperage) Higher amperage plasma cutters allow for faster cutting speeds, especially on thicker materials. For example, a 40-60 amp plasma cutter might have a cutting speed of around 100-200 IPM on 1/4 inch (6 mm) mild steel, while a 100-200 amp plasma cutter can cut through 1-inch (25 mm) steel at a rate of about 30-60 IPM. Cutting Mode and Quality Standard Cutting: Typically faster but may have more slag or rough edges. High-Definition Cutting: Uses advanced systems and slower speeds but provides better quality cuts with minimal slag. Typical Cutting Speeds for Common Materials: Material Thickness Cutting Speed Range (IPM) Mild Steel 1/8 inch (3 mm) 200-400 IPM 1/4 inch (6 mm) 100-250 IPM 1/2 inch (12 mm) 60-150 IPM 1 inch (25 mm) 30-60 IPM Stainless Steel 1/8 inch (3 mm) 150-300 IPM 1/4 inch (6 mm) 80-180 IPM 1/2 inch (12 mm) 40-100 IPM Aluminum 1/8 inch (3 mm) 250-400 IPM 1/4 inch (6 mm) 150-250 IPM 1/2 inch (12 mm) 80-150 IPM Other Metals Varies Varies depending on material Key Considerations: Faster speeds are typically possible on thin materials, but the cut quality can be reduced if the speed is too high. For thicker materials, the cutter may need to move more slowly to maintain a clean cut, reduce the risk of slag, and ensure precision. Cut quality often influences the cutting speed. Faster speeds may work for rough cuts, but slower speeds will be necessary for high-precision work with minimal slag. High-definition plasma cutters (HD) cut slower than standard plasma systems but offer better quality with finer edges and less distortion. Conclusion: The cutting speed of a CNC plasma cutting table is variable and highly dependent on the specific parameters of the system and the material being cut. As a general guideline: 1/8 inch (3 mm) mild steel: 200-400 IPM 1/2 inch (12 mm) mild steel: 60-150 IPM 1 inch (25 mm) mild steel: 30-60 IPM Faster cutting speeds are possible on thinner materials, while thicker materials require slower speeds to ensure a clean and precise cut.

CNC Plasma Tables, CNC Plasma Machines, Plasma Cutters

Plasma is one of the world’s most popular metal cutting methods for good reason: it strikes the perfect balance between cut quality, cut speed, and cost. Hypertherm thermal arc plasma systems are trusted and used by more businesses and people than any other brand. Options range from our Powermax® air plasma cutters to our industry-first X-Definition® class plasma systems. All are industrial plasma cutters considered the best plasma cutting tools available today.

X-Definition Plasma
Hypertherm’s exclusive X-Definition® plasma is the highest form of plasma technology. It builds on high definition plasma and sets new standards for cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

High-definition Plasma
Sometimes called high-precision plasma, this plasma type offers exceptional cut quality with fast cut speeds and low operating costs in high volume, heavy production environments.

Conventional Plasma
Bridging the gap between air and high-definition plasma, conventional plasma is a workhorse for companies demanding good cut quality, high productivity, and low operating costs.

Air Plasma Cutters

Portable, powerful and incredibly versatile, air plasma is made for cutting, gouging, and marking metal in light metal applications, using a hand or mechanized torch such as on a CNC plasma cutting machine.

X-Definition Plasma

Hypertherm’s exclusive X-Definition® plasma is the highest form of plasma technology. It builds on high definition plasma and sets new standards for cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum.

X-Definition Plasma

High-Definition Plasma

Sometimes called high-precision plasma, this plasma type offers exceptional cut quality with fast cut speeds and low operating costs in high volume, heavy production environments.

High Definition Plasma

Conventional Plasma

Bridging the gap between air and high-definition plasma, conventional plasma is a workhorse for companies demanding good cut quality, high productivity, and low operating costs.

Conventional Plasma

Air Plasma Cutters

Air Plasma Cutters

X-Definition Plasma

High-Definition Plasma

Sometimes called high-precision plasma, this plasma type offers exceptional cut quality with fast cut speeds and low operating costs in high volume, heavy production environments.

High Definition Plasma

Conventional Plasma

Bridging the gap between air and high-definition plasma, conventional plasma is a workhorse for companies demanding good cut quality, high productivity, and low operating costs.

Conventional Plasma

Air Plasma Cutters

X-Definition Plasma

The next generation XPR™ plasma cutting systems represent the most significant advance in mechanized plasma cutting technology. Offering unmatched X-Definition® cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum, the XPR increases cut speed, dramatically improves productivity and slashes operating costs.

Hypertherm XPR460

XPR460 Specsheet

Hypertherm XPR300

XPR300 Specsheet

Hypertherm XPR170

XPR170 Specsheet

High-Definition Plasma

HyPerformance® plasma systems deliver high-definition cut quality at half the operating costs. By incorporating Hypertherm’s proven HyDefinition®, LongLife®, and patented PowerPierce® and True Hole® technologies, HyPerformance® Plasma boosts overall performance, productivity and profitability.

Hypertherm HPR400XD

HPR400XD Specsheet

Hypertherm HPR800XD

HPR800XD Specsheet

Conventional Plasma

Dubbed the industry workhorse because of its power and 100% duty cycle, the MAXPRO200® plasma cutter is designed for your heavy-duty, high-capacity automated and handheld cutting and gouging applications.

The powerhouse plasma cutter delivers:

The fastest cutting speeds and most extended consumable life in its class to produce more parts at a lower cost;
Versatile cutting thicknesses to expand work applications;
Multiple plasma processes that enable consistent cut quality with less rework;
And a straightforward system that’s easy to install, easy to operate, and easy to maximize performance.

Hypertherm MAXPRO200

MAXPRO200 Specsheet

Air Plasma Cutters

For metal workers who need to easily and reliably gouge and cut metal up to 38 mm (1-1/2″), Powermax® is a line of seven portable, professional-grade plasma systems that are designed for maximum productivity. Unlike other metal removal methods or competitive plasma brands, industry-leading Powermax® systems allow customers to tackle any job by offering the most extensive manual and automated metal cutting and gouging capabilities.

Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC

Powermax 45 SYNC Specsheet

Hypertherm Powermax 65 SYNC

Powermax 65 Sync Specsheet

Hypertherm Powermax 85 SYNC

Powermax 85 Sync Specsheet

Hypertherm Powermax 105 SYNC

HP105 Sync Specsheet

Hypertherm Powermax125

Powermax 125 Specsheet

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Our professional and courteous sales team is here and ready to assist you with questions about our CNC plasma cutting machines. Contact us today at 1-844-209-5552 or request a quote online.

We work to understand our customers and provide them with the most efficient plasma cutting system possible. Whether you’re building ships or processing steel, our CNC plasma cutters will live up to your high demands.

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Hornet Cutting Systems Outdoor Team Photo

ISO 9001:AS9100D Certified

Hornet Cutting Systems announces another milestone in the history of the company with the achievement of ISO 9001:AS9100D certification. Since 2004, Hornet Cutting Systems has designed and manufactured its OEM line of Hornet cutting machines and is proud to announce this latest accomplishment.

The ISO 9000 family of standards represents an international consensus on good quality management practices. ISO 9001 is used in over 175 countries by businesses and organizations large and small, by manufacturers and service providers in both public and private sectors.

“Quality is a core value of Hornet Cutting Systems. This certification is a great validation of the high standards we build and design to every day. We are proud of our dedicated people and high-level processes that make this possible.” says Hornet Cutting Systems President, Brice Turner.

AS9100 Supplier Flowdown Requirements

Copies of Hornet Cutting Systems’ AS9100D certificate and Quality System Manual are available upon request.

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Our line of industry-leading CNC cutting machines are manufactured in Valley Center, Kansas and distributed all across the world.

Not sure which CNC plasma cutting table is right for you, the industries section will help you find the best plasma cutting machine to meet your needs.

Plasma Power Supplies

X-Definition Plasma

High-Definition Plasma

Conventional Plasma

Air Plasma Cutters

X-Definition Plasma

High-Definition Plasma

Conventional Plasma

Air Plasma Cutters

X-Definition Plasma

Hypertherm XPR460

Hypertherm XPR300

Hypertherm XPR170

High-Definition Plasma

Hypertherm HPR400XD

Hypertherm HPR800XD

Conventional Plasma

Hypertherm MAXPRO200

Air Plasma Cutters

Hypertherm Powermax 45 SYNC

Hypertherm Powermax 65 SYNC

Hypertherm Powermax 85 SYNC

Hypertherm Powermax 105 SYNC

Hypertherm Powermax125

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Contact Us & Start Improving Production

ISO 9001:AS9100D Certified

PROUDLY 100% AMERICAN-OWNED AND AMERICAN-MADE