The Hobart 40i plasma cutter is a great tool for metalworkers. The Hobart AirForce™40i Plasma Cutter performs well with mild steel and stainless steel, and the clean-cut it provides allows you to make precise cuts in sheet metals up to 5/8 inches thick. It also has a severe cut of 7/8 inch which can be used on thicker materials. This Hobart 40i plasma cutter review will provide you with more information about the benefits that this product offers.
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Hobart 40i Plasma Cutter Specification
In-depth Review of the Hobart 40i plasma cutter
I have been using the Hobart 40i Plasma Cutter for about a month now and I must say that I love this product!
It stands out in the market because it is important to know that this unit is so smaller than other units and still has the same capability. Weighing in at 31.4 pounds.
It's also considered to be portable and durable, with dimensions of 11.25 inches high 8.25 inches wide, and 14.2 inches long making it easy to get around with no problem.
Hobart plasma cutters are highly economical and work on all conductive metals which makes them one of the best in the industry, not only that but they come with an XT40R torch that is 12 feet long and requires 208 to 240 volts ac at 50 amps.
These specifications are very similar to the Miller 375 welder and you can't go wrong with either choice, but if I had to personally pick one it would be the Hobart 40i based on my personal experience with this product.
If you do a lot of heavy-duty welding where durability is an issue then this is definitely something that you need to consider because the Hobart plasma cutter does not disappoint!
It is clear that Hobart made sure that both they and their customers would be satisfied upon receiving their plasma cutters by making them small yet powerful and highly durable, but also ensuring they come equipped with all the necessary components such as their own XT 4 TR torch which why these machines run for such a low price and we know that we can't beat it.
Moreover, the Hobart 40i Plasma Cutter is the best plasma cutter out there at its price range and is highly affordable for any individual or business on a tight budget.
A common issue you may come across with other products is the lack of efficiency but Hobart has taken care of that by making sure this unit will give you just as much power as larger units that cost more than twice as much!
How? Well, they minimize their space by using inverter technology which is both reliable and efficient, overall saving you time, money, and energy.
It's capable of cutting 7/8-inch steel sheets straight out of the box! This is a great deal at a very low price for this small yet powerful machine that will quickly become your best friend.
I guarantee you won't regret buying the Hobart 40i Plasma Cutter!
What are the features of the Hobart 40i plasma cutter?
You're a welder and you've been looking for a plasma cutter that is easy to use, affordable, and has the best performance. Hobart's 40i plasma cutter has all the features you need. Here I have listed some of the features below so you can see what you get with this plasma cutter. You can also check out the specifications.
- Dual-voltage capability with MVP (multi-voltage plug)- allows you to connect to common 120 or 240 V power receptacles without the use of any tools - simply choose the plug that fits the receptacle.
- XT40R torch- Designed for increased comfort with an ergonomic trigger safety, more efficient cooling and economical replacement cutting tips
- Fan-on-demand- cooling system operates only when needed reducing power consumption and contaminants drawn into the machine.
- Power factor correction (PFC) circuitry - Draws up to 30% less amperage for the same cutting range as compared to the competition. PFC expands operators work area via extension cord, while minimizing nuisance circuit breaker trips caused by voltage drops.
01. Duty Cycle
The higher duty cycle, the better for you because it will continuously work without overheating.
If there is a lower duty cycle then it might shut off after few seconds because of overheating.
It means that you have to wait again before continuing with your work. So a good duty cycle or maximum value ensures continuous working capability.
This Hobart 40i has a very good duty cycle of 120 V (15A) 20A at 88 VDC, 60% duty cycle, & 120 V (20A) 27A at 91 VDC, 35% duty cycle and 240V 40 A at 140 VDC, 60%. It has an excellent duty cycle.
Other plasma cutters may have different duty cycles which are lower than these figures, so it is wise to check this before buying.
02. Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter
Hobart 40i Non-touch arc plasma cutter is the best for cutting metal. It does not need to touch the metal with its tip. The pilot arc needs air, which is not hard to get and not expensive either. It will cut through rough or rusty surfaces without touching anything at all. This plasma cutter does not need a touch to start the arc. It runs with very low amperage of ten amps.
03. Power factor correction technology
It comes with power factor correction technology and IGBT. It is lighter and more powerful than other models. Some inverter plasma cutters can't be run on light generators, but newer models have internal circuitry that allows them to work.
In addition, this product draws 30% less amperage for the same cutting range as compared to the competition. This is called PFC and it expands your work area by using an extension cord while minimizing trips of the circuit breaker when there is a voltage drop.
04. Cutting Capacity
One thing I like about the Hobart 40i Plasma Cutter is very powerful and allows you to cut 3/8 inch aluminum, 5/8 inch steel, 3/8 inch stainless, 3/8 inch galvanized, 3/16 inch copper, and ¼ inch brass. This cutter can cut through 52 inches of quarter-inch steel per minute - it's really fast.
Another thing I like about the Hobart Plasma Cutter is it includes a 12-foot power cord, which makes it possible to move around. You can even use this cutter outside because of the long cable length.
Also, it has a built-in air compressor so you don't have to purchase an additional one. If you need a plasma cutter for your household or you just want to save some money, then I recommend this plasma cutter because it's not that expensive.
05. Wind Tunnel Technology
You've probably heard of a wind tunnel. It's a machine that has air that moves very quickly.
Air Force 40i Cutters have a special part called the Wind Tunnel Technology, which provides protection from dust and debris to the PC board and other important parts inside the cutter.
Wind Tunnel Technology is important to protect the machine and keep it running at peak performance.
The tunnel catches most stuff before it gets to the PC board, but some dust still does get through.
Don't worry though, because there's a special part that keeps your PC boards clean! It blows out air to the board and blows any dirt or debris off so it won't get stuck.
Keep your cutter clean and in great shape with Wind Tunnel Technology!
06. Fan-on-Demand Technology
Something that might interest you is the Hobart 40i unit. It has a special fan-on-demand technology. This means when you are welding, the air is also blowing away all the dust and dirt so it doesn't get in your machine.
Some machines have fans that are always on. This can be bad because it uses more electricity, and the fan might get the machine dirty. The Hobart Airforce 40i plasma cutter has a fan-on-demand system. When you turn it on, the fan only starts working when there is something to cut. That way, no matter what you are cutting with your plasma cutter, it won't get dirty or use too much energy.
07. Engine-Driven Welders Compatibility
It is important to know that some plasma cutters cannot be powered by an engine. The Hobart 40i has this feature and you can increase its cutting capabilities by plugging it into a 240v generator power outlet that is 8KW or more. This will allow you to cut 3/8" to 5/8" of mild steel, depending on the thickness.
08. Warranty
The Airforce 40i comes with a 5-year warranty on transformers, stabilizers, and rectifiers. It also has a 3-year warranty on generators, PC boards, and drive systems. There is only a 1-year limited manufacturer's warranty for Plasma cutters MIG or TIG torches.
09. Ergonomic Design XT40R Torch
The Hobart 40i also comes with an ergonomically designed torch that is comfortable for the user. It will not tire your arm out because it is ergonomic. This design will allow you to work longer than before because it reduces fatigue.
10. Thermal Overload Protection
A welder can be hurt if their machine gets too hot. The Airforce 40i thermal overload protection feature will keep you from getting hurt. The Hobart Corporation has a new type of welding machine that shuts down if it starts getting too hot. This means that the welder does not have to worry about anything going wrong while they are using it and they can do their job all day long.
11. Post-Flow Cooling System
The post-flow cooling system is a part of the 40i plasma cutter that helps it cool down when it has been turned off. This process can help you save your consumables like your torches and electrodes, so they last longer. It also reduces the need for frequent cleaning of your plasma cutter.
12. Lightweight & Portable
Another good thing about this cutter is that it's lightweight. It's lighter than other cutters on the market and weighs only 21lbs. It also won't hurt your arm because it is not too heavy like other cutters can be. You can move it to work on your project, wherever you want. It doesn't compromise the performance of this machine at all.
Pros and cons of buying a Hobart 40i plasma cutter
You're a welder and you need to buy a plasma cutter.
Plasma cutters are not cheap; therefore it's critical that you select the appropriate one for your needs.
You should be aware of the Hobart 40i plasma cutter's advantages and disadvantages.
Here I've listed below are pros and cons of buying a Hobart 40i plasma cutter.
Pros
- High-quality, long-lasting cutting performance
- It's simple to get started.
- It's lightweight and can be carried anywhere.
- It features an improved wind technology design.
- There is no need for flame adjustment or pressure setting.
- Can cut expanded metal, whether coated or painted.
- Cut at a perfect angle and produce less slag.
- Cutting torch that is pleasant to use
- The onboard diagnostic system lets you see at a glance what's going on with your unit, especially because of the LED display.
- The knob is a single component.
- Cuts through materials quickly, simply, and effectively.
Cons
- The clamps on the device's handlebars are poorly made, but they're simple to work around.
- To some, it may be expensive or difficult, especially for newbie.
- The cord is short. It might be hard to move it all the time.
- Build quality is not as good as Miller or Hypertherm, but it is still really good. It is better than other machines that are cheap and made in China.
How Should You Maintain Your Hobart 40i?
Sometimes if you use your welder too much, it may stop working. Things like cables and parts can break or wear down.
That's why the Hobart company has things you can buy to fix your machine so it works well for a really long time.
Hobart sells these things on the Internet so you don't have to search for them in stores.
For any internal repair work, they recommend contacting a licensed repair technician. They provide parts for welders and plasma cutters, but not internal working components.
There are some things you need to do to maintain your welder. You need to make sure that the gas pressure, air pressure, electrode, and torch tip are working properly.
You should also make sure that the shield cup is turned off after 30 minutes of welding; open up your machine every three months and clean it with compressed air, and use compressed air every six months for optimum performance.
Who should get the Hobart Airforce 40i plasma cutter?
That is a great question. If you are someone who doesn't have the time to make all of your cuts on aluminum, stainless steel, mild steel, and more, this is an excellent option for you!
It has the capability of cutting metal up to 5/8" in thickness. A plasma cutter can cut through any type of metal product from thin nickel or brass strips to thick-gauge cold rolled sheets without leaving a burr on them.
This piece of equipment helps if you want to create decorative cutouts or rounded edges that would be difficult or impossible otherwise due to their limitations with other types of equipment.
It's worth considering because it saves a lot of time, money, and effort in general perfecting cuts for customers too. Of course, you can use the Hobart Airforce 40i for personal or professional reasons too!
A plasma cutter is great for many pros and DIY'ers alike. You can make precise cuts on a more consistent basis.
It's also easier to shape-round corners and create more intricate designs. Hobbyists, craftspeople, DIYers, metal workers, boat builders, fabricators, and more of all skill levels will benefit from owning this product as well.
Hobart 40i plasma cutter manual
You're a welder and you need to cut some metal, but your plasma cutter is broken.
What do you do?
Luckily, there's an easy solution to this problem. Hobart has created the Hobart 40i plasma cutter manual that will help you fix your machine in no time at all! It walks you through how to troubleshoot any problems with your machine and get it running smoothly again. The manual also includes instructions on how to replace parts if they are needed. This guide is perfect for anyone who needs a quick reference when fixing their own equipment or someone who works in a shop where they have multiple machines that need maintenance regularly.
Conclusion
A welder is someone who can use a cutting tool such as a plasma cutter to create metal objects. Plasma cutters are used in the manufacturing and construction industries, among others.
If you work with metals on a day-to-day basis then it's important that you have access to one of these tools because they provide for quick and precise cuts without creating heat or sparks as other methods might produce.
It’s pretty simple; if you need an affordable machine capable of producing quality cuts at any angle, this model from Hobart should be your choice!
Consider this plasma cutter because it is a great price and has all of the features that you need.
If you are looking for a bigger one, then I would strongly recommend this machine because it is cheaper than other models with the same specs. This machine will last longer too because Hobart machines are so reliable!
If you want a Miller or Hypertherm machine for this site and you don't want to pay the higher cost, this Hobart could be good.
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