Thermal vs. Hypertherm

[lostn50s]

I've been told that the Hypertherm XP series has fine cut consumables and that the Hypertherm creates higher quality cuts than Thermal Dynamics...any input from users out there either way?

[Scratch]

I have had two TD machines, (never had a HT, so I can't give you any input on them) but I know that when comparing the same size units, TD is usually less expensive and is rated to cut thicker material than the HT. My brother lives next door and has a HT on his table. I think the cuts on his, can get a little bit finer than mine though.

I needed to cut thicker material so I went with TD and have no complaints. I feel that the difference in fine cuts between TD and HT is barely noticeable. I know there's ever been a time that he has made something with his machine that I couldn't. That being said, it's hard to find someone who buys a TD instead of a HT for their CNC table. I think I'm definitely in the minority, although it's been fine for the past 15 years that I've had my table.

If I ever have to replace a machine, I'll get another TD just because I already have a hand torch and machine torch for it, along with my TD consumables and it would save me money. But if my shop ever burnt up and I had to replace everything, I'd probably get a HT just to be able to try them both out.

[weldguy]

I have had both and both cut great when used properly. I find Hypertherm can get you slightly finer cuts however a TD with 30 or 40 amp nozzle an get pretty fine as well they just don't call them "Finecut" like HT does. HT are better built and the TD's can be a little more finicky and have a noisy fan that runs more often but once you get onto using either they are both great machines.

[SegoMan DeSigns]

I have never tried a TD but like the 3 Hypertherms that I own. The fine cuts do some amazing work however they may lead to the formation of cobwebs in your work.(1/8" in this case)

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[cutnweld]

Hypertherm hands down. TD may make a fine machine, I think hypertherm under rates cut capacity while TD may somewhat over rate their machines. I recall a post by Jim colt I cant remember where, He was talking about different machines and capacities. One thing I remember is that the PMX85 had more output volts than the TD100. Volts X amps= watts, so by taking the actual wattage output the 85 HT put out more KW than the TD100. Then again I have no experience with TD, maybe I will regret that one day. But for now I am satisfied with my PMX 85, having cut piles of 3/4 and one inch, and today for the first time a 6-1/2 foot long cut in 1-3/4" thick QT100. Cut beautiful

[HypHyDef]

Hypertherm hands down. TD may make a fine machine, I think hypertherm under rates cut capacity while TD may somewhat over rate their machines. I recall a post by Jim colt I cant remember where, He was talking about different machines and capacities. One thing I remember is that the PMX85 had more output volts than the TD100. Volts X amps= watts, so by taking the actual wattage output the 85 HT put out more KW than the TD100. Then again I have no experience with TD, maybe I will regret that one day. But for now I am satisfied with my PMX 85, having cut piles of 3/4 and one inch, and today for the first time a 6-1/2 foot long cut in 1-3/4" thick QT100. Cut beautiful

You are exactly right. Jim has had a great write up on this topic. Here is a link to our website where it's discussed in a blog.

https://www.hypertherm.com/en-US/learn/ ... ing-power/