8 3/8" Cut Capacity Plasma Cutters Starting at $999.00

3/8” Plasma Cutters

Welders Supply Company offers a wide selection of competitively priced, brand name plasma cutters for precision cutting of 3/8 inch material. Our plasma cutter selection offers lightweight, shoulder strap portability, multi-voltage plugs, and more, making cutting in any environment extremely easy. The 3/8 inch Miller plasma cutters offer big cutting power in a small package with lightweight portability, a protective storage case, and flexible voltage capacities for improved cutting precision on numerous materials. Contact Welders Supply Company at 1.800.236.8825 and we’ll gladly assist you with your plasma cutter and plasma cutting equipment needs. View our Hypertherm Powermax 30xp Plasma Cutter. The Powermax 30xp cuts all soft metals - even aluminum!

• Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs 30xp
• Hypertherm Powermax 30xp vs Miller Spectrum 375
• Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster
• Hypertherm Powermax 30xp vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster
• Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME
• Miller Spectrum 375 vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs 30xp

Hypertherm takes great pride in offering products that are designed and built in New Hampshire, USA. With over 40 years of metal cutting experience, their products are among the best in the world.

Both the Powermax 30 XP and the 30 AIR are excellent plasma cutters. Which is better suited to the type of work you do?

That depends.

• Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air: You favor the freedom of a lightweight unit that doesn’t make you dependent on an external compressor
• Hypertherm Powermax 30xp: You prefer the flexibility of operating on both 110 and 240 power supplies, and need a cutter with a little more power

For an informative comparison of these two cutters, check out Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs 30xp comparison video from John Colt, an associate at Hypertherm.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR Overview

This Hypertherm plasma cutter has a built-in air compressor, so there’s no need to lug along a separate compressor. Just plug it in and start cutting. Hypertherm bills this as the lightest and smallest system in its class, and the specs bear this out. If you need a powerful, reliable and cost-effective plasma cutter you can easily take with you, the Hypertherm 30 AIR is an excellent choice.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP Plasma Cutter Overview

In 2014, Hypertherm updated their Powermax 30XP Plasma Cutter, increasing cutting power 50% over the previous model for even faster cut speeds. Its easy-to-use 2-in-1 design offers high-power cutting for thick metals and, with the use of Hypertherm’s FineCut® consumables, can perform detailed cutting on thin metal.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs 30xp
Powermax 30 XP H: 12” W: 6.6” D: 14” Weight with torch: 21.4 lb.	Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR H: 13.1” W: 7.7” L: 16.5” Weight: 29.8 lbs.

Power

Although both units are rated at 30 amps, because the 30 XP doesn’t have to power an air compressor it produces almost 50% more wattage than the 30 AIR.

Both units offer the flexibility of using 110 or 240 volt input.

Torch Design

The 30 XP comes with a Duramax LT torch. This is a shielded torch, so you can drag it on the plate. It has a better consumables life than the 30 AIR’s AT30 torch, while providing a similar ergonomic design and resistance to impact and heat.

The 30 AIR comes with the AT30 torch. Designed to conserve air, this is an ergonomically designed torch built to withstand heat and impact. It is a non-shielded design with a lower arc voltage than the Duramax LT torch.

Warranty

Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch

Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch

Bottom line: If you value never having to worry about whether there is air at the site where you’ll be working, go for the 30 AIR. If you are more interested in cutting power in a slightly smaller and lighter package, go with the 30 XP. Also, while both can cut 5/8” steel, the 30 XP will cut it noticeably faster.

Included with the Hypertherm 30 AIR

• Complete set of consumables preinstalled on the AIR T30 torch, including an electrode, swirl ring, nozzle, retaining cap and deflector
• Extra nozzle, extra electrode, carrying strap, quick setup card and operator’s manual
• Work clamp included with 15-foot lead, 10-foot power cord with adaptors for 120 V and 240V outlets

Included with the Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP

• Power supply
• 15’ Duramax LT hand torch with standard consumables
• 15’ Work clamp
• Consumable kit with 1 standard nozzle, 1 electrode, 1 FineCut nozzle and 1 FineCut deflector
• Carrying case with strap
• Cutting glasses
• Welding gloves

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Hypertherm Powermax 30XP vs Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME

Both Hypertherm and Miller build highly regarded plasma cutters in the USA—Hypertherm out of New Hampshire, Miller out of Wisconsin. Hypertherm has been in the business over 40 years, Miller for more than 80 years. Miller lays claim to being the world’s largest manufacturer of arc welding equipment, but both firms have a long history of innovative, well-made products.

There has been a lot of speculation on online bulletin boards about the Hypertherm Powermax 30 power supply being built by Miller (same as their 375 X-TREME). Hypertherm refuted this claim, although acknowledged the two companies have cooperated in the past on torch and power supply designs.

Hypertherm Powermax 30XP Overview

Hypertherm updated their Powermax 30XP Plasma Cutter in 2014, increasing cutting power 50% over the previous model (Powermax 30) for faster cut speeds and twice the consumable life. Its easy-to-use 2-in-1 design offers high-power cutting for thick metals and, with the use of Hypertherm’s FineCut® consumables, can perform detailed cutting on thin metal. Hypertherm’s auto-volt technology lets you plug into any 120 or 240 V power.

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME Overview

Miller boasts their 375 X-TREME is the most powerful and portable 30-amp plasma cutter in the industry. With its 3/8” mild steel cutting capability, it definitely packs big cutting power in a small package. Additionally, Miller’s Auto-Line circuitry will automatically connect to 115 or 230 V receptacles without tools—just choose the multi-voltage plug (MVP) that fits the receptacle and connect it with the power cord.

Hypertherm Powermax 30XP vs Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME
Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME H: 9” W: 5.5” D: 13.25” Weight with torch: 19 lb.	Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP H: 12” W: 6.6” D: 14” Weight with torch: 21.4 lb.

Power

Both the Miller and the Hypertherm are rated at 30 amps and can be used to cut mild steel, stainless steel or aluminum. Both units are rated for 3/8” mild steel cutting capacity (at 18 IPM for the Miller and at 20 IPM for the Hypertherm) and a maximum sever cut of 5/8.” Hypertherm reps have commented they rate their machines conservatively and although the 30XP is more than capable of cutting ½” steel, they don’t recommend doing it all day with this machine.

Torch Design

Both the Miller and the Hypertherm units come with torches of similar design and quality. Miller points out their XT30 has an ergonomically designed handle to prevent operator fatigue and a flexible cable for better maneuverability, as well as their Quick Connect work lead with a smaller (compared to previous version) heavy-duty clamp. Hypertherm’s Duramax LT appears to have a similar ergonomic design and claims to offer twice the consumables life and 70% more efficiency than the model which preceded it.

Warranty

Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch

Miller 375 X-TREME: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch (parts only)

Bottom line: Both units offer powerful, compact and affordable cutting for anyone from the hobbyist to the tradesman. If portability is a priority for you, the smaller and lighter Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME is the hands down winner.

Included with the Hypertherm 30 XP:

• Power supply
• 15’ Duramax LT hand torch with standard consumables
• 15’ Work clamp
• Consumable kit with 1 standard nozzle, 1 electrode, 1 FineCut nozzle and 1 FineCut deflector
• Carrying case with strap
• Cutting glasses
• Welding gloves

Included with the Miller Spectrum 375:

• XT30C hand-held torch with 20 ft. cable
• Heavy-duty work clamp with 20 ft. cable
• 10 ft. power cord with 115 VAC, 20 A plug
• Built-in gas/air filter and regulator
• Extra consumables: 2 electrodes, 2 tips and 1 air fitting

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Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42

Both Thermal Dynamics and Hypertherm have been in business about the same length of time (over 50 years for Thermal Dynamics, over 40 for Hypertherm), both hail from New Hampshire, and both produce high quality cutting tools.

Although there are differences between the Powermax 30 AIR and the Cutmaster 42, perhaps the biggest difference many customers take notice of is the country of origin. While the Hypertherm is made in New Hampshire, the Cutmaster is made in China. We realize that for some, this is a dealbreaker. For others, though, it’s a non-issue.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air Overview

Introduced in 2015, the Hypertherm 30 AIR is unique for its built-in air compressor. There’s no need to lug along a portable compressor with this unit and you’ll never be at the mercy of whatever air source is at the jobsite.  It is the lightest, smallest and most powerful cutter with a built-in compressor. If you need a plasma cutter you can easily take with you to any jobsite, the Hypertherm 30 AIR is an excellent choice.

Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 Overview

A great cutter for DIY’ers, hobbyists and tradesmen, the Cutmaster 42 is portable, lightweight and easily cuts up to 5/8” when needed. One of the most affordable plasma cutters available, it’s also one of a handful with the ability to increase power when going from 120V to 230V—from 27 amps of output power at 120V to 40 Amps at 230V. As they say in their marketing, it’s like having the power of two machines in one.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42
Cutmaster 42 H: 9” W: 7” L: 18.5” Weight: 26 lbs.	Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR H: 13.1” W: 7.7” L: 16.5” Weight: 29.8 lbs.

Power

The Powermax 30 AIR has more power than the Cutmaster when both are operating off 120 volt input power, and slightly less when both are operated on 240 volt power. The Cutmaster 42 will flat out do a nicer job on thicker metal. This is really noticeable when running on 240 volts. (It increases output power from 27 Amps at 120 V to 40 Amps at 230 V for an extra punch when you need it.) Both will sever 1/2" (and thicker with a steady hand), but it’s really slow going on anything over 1/4" thick. For cutting 1/4" or less, though, you don’t notice any power difference between the two...even on 240 volts.

Torch Design

The general consensus is that Hypertherm’s AIR T30 torch just feels better than Cutmaster’s SL40 torch, largely because the trigger safety switch works smoother. The Cutmaster does have quick disconnect torch and lead extension, while the Hypertherm doesn’t. The Hypertherm has the definitive edge in consumables life. Even though the Hypertherm system costs more, when the cost of consumables is factored in over the long run it will likely prove to cost less than the Cutmaster.

Warranty

Cutmaster 42 warranty: 4 year

Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1 year on torch

Bottom line: Both machines have a following. Besides having a built-in compressor, the Hypertherm will provide dramatically longer consumable parts life and is backed by the same company that builds it.

Included with the Hypertherm 30 AIR

• Complete set of consumables preinstalled on the AIR T30 torch, including an electrode, swirl ring, nozzle, retaining cap and deflector
• Extra nozzle, extra electrode, carrying strap, quick setup card and operator’s manual
• Work clamp included with 15-foot lead, 10-foot power cord with adaptors for 120 V and 240V outlets

Included with Cutmaster 42:

• Newly redesigned SL40 torch with 15' leads
• Safety gloves & glasses
• Instructional DVD on plasma cutting
• Extra spare parts
• Heavy-duty carrying case
• Power plug adapters

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Hypertherm Powermax 30xp vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42

Both Thermal Dynamics and Hypertherm have been in business about the same length of time (over 50 years for Thermal Dynamics, over 40 for Hypertherm), both hail from New Hampshire, and both produce high quality cutting tools.

Both the Powermax 30 XP and the Cutmaster 42 provide all the power needed for DIY’ers and tradesmen in a compact package, the the biggest differences are in their pricing and country of origin. While the Hypertherm is made in New Hampshire and costs a little more, the Cutmaster is made in China and goes for a few hundred dollars less.

Hypertherm Powermax 30XP Overview

Hypertherm updated their Powermax 30XP Plasma Cutter in 2014, increasing cutting power 50% over the previous model (Powermax 30) for faster cut speeds and twice the consumable life. Its easy-to-use 2-in-1 design offers high-power cutting for thick metals and, with the use of Hypertherm’s FineCut® consumables, can perform detailed cutting on thin metal. Hypertherm’s auto-volt technology lets you plug into any 120 or 240 V power.

Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 Overview

A great cutter for DIY’ers, hobbyists and tradesmen, the Cutmaster 42 is portable, lightweight and easily cuts up to 5/8” when needed. One of the most affordable plasma cutters available, it’s also one of a handful with the ability to increase power when going from 120V to 230V—from 27 amps of output power at 120V to 40 Amps at 230V. As they say in their marketing, it’s like having the power of two machines in one.

Hypertherm Powermax 30xp vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42
Powermax 30 XP H: 12” W: 6.6” D: 14” Weight with torch: 21.4 lb.	Cutmaster 42 H: 9” W: 7” L: 18.5” Weight: 26 lbs.

Power

Both units pack a pretty big punch for their size and are pretty evenly matched. The Cutmaster 42 increases output power from 27 Amps at 120 V to 40 Amps at 230 V for an extra punch when you need it.) If you are cutting 3/8” or less, either unit will perform satisfactorily for you. While neither unit has the oomph to cut 5/8” all day long, for occasional thicker cuts like this you may find the Cutmaster gets the job done a little faster. Bear in mind, though, Hypermax tends to rate their cutters conservatively.

Torch Design

Hypertherm’s unit comes with their Duramax LT hand torch. It’s a shielded torch, so you can drag it on the plate. Consumables life is very good.

Cutmaster includes their recently redesigned SL40 torch with the Cutmaster 42. It benefits from a quick disconnect feature and, like the Hypertherm Duramax, is a solid, if not particularly exceptional, tool for most DIY, trade and light industrial applications.

Warranty

Hypertherm Powermax 30 XP warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch

Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 warranty: 4 years

Bottom Line:  Both units have ample power for most DIY and tradesman jobs and are fairly evenly matched in terms of features. The Hypertherm might benefit from a slightly longer consumables life. Those who want to support US-made products should choose the Hypertherm, those looking for the lowest price should choose the Cutmaster.

Included with the Hypertherm 30 XP:

• Power supply
• 15’ Duramax LT hand torch with standard consumables
• 15’ Work clamp
• Consumable kit with 1 standard nozzle, 1 electrode, 1 FineCut nozzle and 1 FineCut deflector
• Carrying case with strap
• Cutting glasses
• Welding gloves

Included with Cutmaster 42:

• Newly redesigned SL40 torch with 15' leads
• Safety gloves & glasses
• Instructional DVD on plasma cutting
• Extra spare parts
• Heavy-duty carrying case
• Power plug adapters

 

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Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME

Both Hypertherm and Miller are based in the USA--Hypertherm based out of New Hampshire, Miller out of Wisconsin. Hypertherm has been in the business over 40 years, Miller for more than 80 years. Miller claims to be the world’s largest manufacturer of arc welding equipment, but both firms have a long history of innovative, well-made plasma cutters and other products.

There has been a bit of speculation online that the Hypertherm Powermax 30 power supply is actually built by Miller (same as their 375 X-TREME). Hypertherm denies this, but has said that the two companies have cooperated in the past on both torch and power supply designs.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air Overview

Introduced in 2015, the Hypertherm 30 AIR is unique for its built-in air compressor. There’s no need to lug along a portable compressor with this unit and you’ll never be at the mercy of whatever air source is at the jobsite.  It is the lightest, smallest and most powerful cutter with a built-in compressor. If you need a plasma cutter you can easily take with you to any jobsite, the Hypertherm 30 AIR is an excellent choice.

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME Overview

Miller boasts their 375 X-TREME is the most powerful and portable 30-amp plasma cutter in the industry. With its 3/8” mild steel cutting capability, it definitely packs big cutting power in a small package. Additionally, Miller’s Auto-Line circuitry will automatically connect to 115 or 230 V receptacles without tools—just choose the multi-voltage plug (MVP) that fits the receptacle and connect it with the power cord.

Hypertherm Powermax 30 Air vs Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME
Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR H: 13.1” W: 7.7” L: 16.5” Weight with torch: 29.8 lb.	Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME H: 9” W:5.5” D: 13.25” Weight with torch: 19 lb.

Power

The Hypertherm 30AIR is rated at 30 amps and offers the flexibility of using 110 or 240 volt input. It has ample power for most chores around the farm and for hobby use. Because it powers a built-in air compressor, its wattage is a little less than similar rated units.

The Spectrum 375 X-TREME is rated at 30 amps and has ample power for cutting up to 3/8” thick mild steel. At just 19 lbs. it’s easy to sling over your shoulder and take to any job site. Miller’s Auto-Line circuitry and multi-voltage plug (MVP) lets you connect to 115 or230 V receptacles without tools or relinking the power source.

Torch Design

Both the Hypertherm and Miller torches are fairly evenly matched. Hypertherm’s  AT30 torch is an ergonomically designed torch built to withstand heat and impact. It is designed to conserve air, and is a non-shielded design. Miller’s XT30 has an ergonomically designed handle and a flexible cable for better maneuverability, as well as their Quick Connect work lead with a smaller (compared to previous version) heavy-duty clamp.

Both torches are fine for hobbyists and light industrial use, but you wouldn’t want to spend all day working with either.

Warranty

Hypertherm Powermax 30 AIR warranty: 3-years on power supply, 1 year on torch

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch (parts only)

Bottom line: Both units offer powerful, compact and affordable cutting for anyone from the hobbyist to the tradesman. If portability is a concern for you, the smaller and lighter Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME is the hands down winner.

Included with the Hypertherm 30 AIR

• Complete set of consumables preinstalled on the AIR T30 torch, including an electrode, swirl ring, nozzle, retaining cap and deflector
• Extra nozzle, extra electrode, carrying strap, quick setup card and operator’s manual
• Work clamp included with 15-foot lead, 10-foot power cord with adaptors for 120 V and 240V outlets

Included with the Miller Spectrum 375:

• XT30C hand-held torch with 20 ft. cable
• Heavy-duty work clamp with 20 ft. cable
• 10 ft. power cord with 115 VAC, 20 A plug
• Built-in gas/air filter and regulator
• Extra consumables: 2 electrodes, 2 tips and 1 air fitting

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Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42

Both the Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME and the Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 provide plenty of cutting power for most hobbyist and light industrial uses. Both are 30 amp units and easily capable of cutting up 3/8” (and even ½” thick) mild steel, although you’ll probably want a more powerful cutter if you’re working with that thickness all day.

Aside from some users commenting that they go through consumables quite quickly with the Cutmaster 42, the biggest differences between these two cutters are weight (the Miller is 7 lbs. lighter) and country of origin. The Miller is made in the USA while the Cutmaster is made in China. If country of origin is not a big issue for you, the Cutmaster will save you some money on your initial purchase.

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME Overview

Miller boasts their 375 X-TREME is the most powerful and portable 30-amp plasma cutter in the industry. With its 3/8” mild steel cutting capability, it definitely packs big cutting power in a small package. Additionally, Miller’s Auto-Line circuitry will automatically connect to 115 or 230 V receptacles without tools—just choose the multi-voltage plug (MVP) that fits the receptacle and connect it with the power cord.

Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 Overview

A great cutter for DIY’ers, hobbyists and tradesmen, the Cutmaster 42 is portable, lightweight and easily cuts up to 5/8” when needed. One of the most affordable plasma cutters available, it’s also one of a handful with the ability to increase power when going from 120V to 230V—from 27 amps of output power at 120V to 40 Amps at 230V. As they say in their marketing, it’s like having the power of two machines in one.

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME vs Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42
Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME H: 9” W: 5.5” D: 13.25” Weight with torch: 19 lb.	Cutmaster 42 H: 9” W: 7” L: 18.5” Weight: 26 lbs.

Power

The Spectrum 375 X-TREME is rated at 30 amps and has ample power for cutting mild steel up to 3/8” thick. and at just 19 lbs. it’s easy to sling over your shoulder and take to any job site. Once there, Miller’s Auto-Line circuitry and multi-voltage plug (MVP) lets you connect to 115 or230 V receptacles without tools or relinking the power source.

The Cutmaster 42, rated at 40 amps, is one of a handful of small cutters with the ability to actually increase power when going from 120V to 230V—from 27 amps of output power at 120V to 40 Amps at 230V. It’s also the only 40 amp unit with a quick disconnect torch. 

Torch Design

Both torches supplied with these units fall toward the lower end of the spectrum—perfectly suitable for hobbyists and light industrial use, but probably not anything you’d want to spend all day working with.

Miller’s XT30C torch boasts an ergonomically designed handle to prevent operator fatigue and a flexible cable for better maneuverability, as well as their Quick Connect work lead with a smaller (compared to previous version) heavy-duty clamp.

The Cutmaster comes with their SL40 torch, which looks quite similar to Miller’s torch. Like the Miller torch, it also has a quick disconnect feature. When sold individually, the SL40 typically goes for $30 to $40 less than Miller’s XT30C.

Warranty

Miller Spectrum 375 X-TREME: 3-years on power supply, 1-year on torch (parts only)

Thermal Dynamics Cutmaster 42 warranty: 4-year

Bottom line: For sheer cutting power, the edge goes to the Cutmaster 42. If you’re not concerned about country of origin, the Chinese-made Cutmaster 42 will save you a few hundred dollars. However, many owners say consumables life is short. If portability matters, the edge goes to the Spectrum. Weighing in at just 19 lbs., it’s a full 7 lbs. lighter than the Cutmaster.

Included with the Miller Spectrum 375:

• XT30C hand-held torch with 20 ft. cable
• Heavy-duty work clamp with 20 ft. cable
• 10 ft. power cord with 115 VAC, 20 A plug
• Built-in gas/air filter and regulator
• Extra consumables: 2 electrodes, 2 tips and 1 air fitting

Included with Cutmaster 42:

• Newly redesigned SL40 torch with 15' leads
• Safety gloves & glasses
• Instructional DVD on plasma cutting
• Extra spare parts
• Heavy-duty carrying case
• Power plug adapters

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