Best Air Compressor For Plasma Cutters – Reviews & Buying Guide 2022

If you are a welder or cutter looking to make your work done efficiently and quickly, you need a plasma cutter. As the name shows, plasma cutters are based on the fourth state of matter which is plasma. This plasma is first created and then blasted into the metal for the cutting process. Some of the plasma cutters come with a built-in air compressor;otherwise, we need the best air compressor for plasma cutters.

A good air compressor has a high-capacity tank with a fully oil-lubricated motor, so it can work for long hours. You can choose the hp of the motor according to your needs and how much pressure it will deliver for your plasma cutters. A cooling system that keeps the thermal level of the motor to a minimum while you work is the top-class feature of the best air compressor.

However, depending upon the scope of your work, you may need an air compressor for your plasma cutters. There are many air compressors available, but to find one compatible with your plasma cutter is a hard task, and there are many unknowns to it. For instance, the pressure condition, the fudge rate of the air compressor should be able to connect with the plasma cutter to work efficiently.

All this makes choosing the air compressor that will work efficiently and perfectly with your plasma cutter is difficult. We have put together the five best air compressors for plasma cutters that are compatible with most of the plasma cutters for your convenience. Depending upon your demands and budget, you can choose from them as the one you like the best.

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You can also check: Best Air Dryer For A Plasma Cutter

Best Air Compressor For Plasma Cutters 2022

1.Quincy QT-54 Splash Air Compressor

Quincy QT-54 is an expensive yet sturdy air compressor with 60 gallons and a five-horsepower motor, making it a machine for all uses. With this compressor, you can work reliably, efficiently, and at a low operating cost.

The Splash motor has a built-in cooling system that ensures that the motor works efficiently and gives out maximum benefit of non-stop air supply all the time. It is compatible with most of the plasma cutters as it is capable of delivering up to 170 PSI pressure while running on a slower RPM that saves energy and operating costs.

With an industrial motor comes a fully oil-lubricated machine that ensures continuous duty is performed without inconvenience.

Features:

• Industrial Motor

Quincy QT-54 is considered an industrial machine with a five-horsepower motor that you can use and 60 gallons of the tank to carry this machine to work, and it will not fail you while working.

• Durable And Sturdy

This motor has a one-year working warranty, while the pump has a 2-year warranty showing how durable parts are. Furthermore, the pump and motor are made up of cast iron and give out maximum performance all the time due to the thermal overload feature that keeps the motor and the pump cooled.

• Energy Saving

This air compressor may be expensive and can be used for industrial purposes, but it runs at a slower RPM to save energy. Meaning you will get a low operating cost while using this machine as it takes less electrical energy than other industrial air compressors.

2. Ingersoll Rand 2475N7.5-V

This air compressor is for all professionals and DIYers if you want to work non-stop.

This Ingersoll Rand is designed to work long hours and has trouble-free use as it has a two-stage air compressor with up to 7.5 hp and 175 Psi pressure. Furthermore, it has an 80-gallon capacity tank, so now you can carry and work at any site.

The motor is fully immersed in synthetic lubricants that increase the motor efficiency, and it also increases the machine’s durability. With 24 CFM, it can be equipped with any plasma cutter, and it will efficiently cut the materials with high precision.

It is basically designed for heavy and industrial use as it can continuously work for hours and still not get too hot not to work. If you have the money, it is a top-notch compressor for you as it is compatible with any plasma cutter.

Features:

• Continuous Duty

This air compressor has 24 CFG, 7.5 horsepower, and delivers 175 psi continuously without disturbing you performance-wise as it has a cooling system that keeps the motor from thermal problems.

• Reliable Operations

The synthetic lubricants it uses can work for 2000 hours before you need to service it again and keep the motor durable. With 80 gallon tank, you can now work without worrying about refilling the tank after small works.

• Efficient Deliverance

Ingersoll Rand compressor can deliver 24 CFM at 90 psi and 23 CFM at 175 psi and has a warranty of 2 years and an 80-gallon tank making it the best air compressor for plasma cutters if you have enough budget.

3. Ingersoll-Rand Garage Mate

Ingersoll-Rand Air compressor is a small but reliable heavy-duty air compressor that is designed for professionals. With its portability, it is the ideal machine for home use, and if you need a machine that you can move frequently, this is for you. It is easy to move and provides convenient support as it has a 20-gallon tank and handles, large wheels for ease of mobility.

The garage Mate is made up of iron, and the pump is oil-lubricated and provides a solid performance due to the 3 HP engine while delivering maximum air pressure. Despite its size, it can power impact things like guns, drills, nailers, etc.

This Air compressor is equipped with a pressure switch, gauge, regulator, six feet cord, and some safety kits. Since it is versatile, you can use it to equip it with a plasma cutter or impact hard materials. Furthermore, it is durable and lasts longer than other petroleum-based compressors as it uses synthetic lubricants to increase its efficiency.

Features:

• Portable Design With Efficiency

It is designed in such a way that it remains portable while providing efficient results. With a heavy-duty handle and durable tires, it makes handling it very easy and straightforward. While giving continuous duty and maximum air pressure, it comes with a 20-gallon tank for portability and efficiency.

• Environment-Friendly Machine

As heavy-duty as this machine may be, it has only an 80 dBA noise level, so you won’t hear unnecessary noises while working. Furthermore, aside drain valve that is easily accessible and an automatic start/stop button for pressure handling and controls gives the best working experience.

• Durable And Reliable

A durable iron cylinder and belt guard for protection make this the best air compressor for plasma cutters. Overload protection setting for motor for ensuring that motor doesn’t get too hot while giving continuous duty. Ingersoll-Rand air compressor uses synthetic lubricants that are more than normal petroleum-based lubricants in both durability and efficiency.

4. Powermate Vx PLA4708065

The Powermate compressor is one of the most steady air compressors as it delivers 155 PSI with 14 CFM and 80-gallon tank. You can work on different sites without going into too much trouble as you can move this air compressor with ease.

Since it is a versatile machine, you can use it for personal, commercial, and industrial use, and it won’t disappoint you at any level of work. With an oil-lubricated pump and a full-cast iron body, the air compressor won’t disturb you in performance.

It is a fully electric air compressor that works on 230 volts, so you have to ensure that. It is a very durable machine with 14 cubic feet per minute of airflow capacity, making it the best for plasma cutters.

Features:

• High Air Flow

With 14 CFM of airflow capacity now, you can adjust it with any plasma cutter, and it will work efficiently at 90 Psi pressure; you will be able to cut precisely and easily with your equipment.

• Heavy-Duty Motor

With 155 Psi pressure worth deliverance and 240 volts induction motor can provide trouble-free operation and high performance.

• Durability

Belt guard assists in keeping the moving parts from falling and protects them by covering them. Furthermore, it is made up of iron cast, making it a durable and sturdy air compressor.

5. Puma Industries TE-3040V

Puma TE-3040V air compressor is portable and can be used for larger projects as it has a 40-gallon tank with a 3 HP engine that gives the best output at 115V. You won’t have to wait for the machine to cool down after some use, as it has a built-in cooling system that prevents thermal overload.

The air pump is powered by an induction motor meaning your motor will start even in cold weather without any trouble due to the low amp rate. It is a fully oil-lubricated machine that can deliver up to 170 Psi pressure for your high-end cutting.

It can be used for both home and professional work, so it is a bit expensive but delivers the best services that an air compressor can. You can work continuously for long hours, and this air compressor will stay by your side until you are done.

Features:

• Heavy-Duty Motor And Equipment

3 HP engine to deliver maximum air pressure and keep delivering it the same throughout the work period. Forty gallons tank and high-end air pump will help you work in the worst conditions and can deliver up to 170 psi pressure without any trouble.

• Versatile Machine

This is a commercial machine that is easy to use and control. This heavy-duty motor comes with a cooling system and is fully oil-lubricated, so it won’t stop or make trouble while making it a machine for personal and commercial use.

• Durable Yet Efficient

This machine can work for hours and with the same efficiency as it started and won’t get damaged for use. Three horsepower motor and is made of iron cast material that is durable and runs smoothly throughout your work period.

Selecting An Air Compressor

The Pressure Condition:

When looking for an air compressor for a plasma cutter, you need to make sure to invest in one that is fully compatible. For instance, an air compressor with a five SCMF will not work efficiently with a plasma cutter of 5 CMF, so you need to choose an air compressor of a little greater SCMF.

Essentially plasma cutter is measured in SCFM, which stands for standard cubic feet meter. The standards of gauging level required for efficient working are 68ºF, 0% humidity, and at sea level. So, area and atmosphere matter when it comes to air compressors to meet the required number of CMF. Adding the fudge factor can reduce the risk of compatibility between the air compressor and the plasma cutter.

Fudge Factor:

A fudge factor is a mathematical term to comprise an unspecified case that is somewhat significant. It is used to meet calculative expectations.

Adding a fudge factor to your air compressor equation will reduce CFM alteration due to any risk factor that will strain the cutter, such as atmospheric pressure and humidity, and air pressure.

So, by adding a fudge factor, you would be able to keep your air compressor secure regardless of any environmental factors. So be sure to get an air compressor after adding a 50% fudge factor.

If your plasma cutter specifies that you need to give 4 CMF at 100 PSI, the additional 50% fudge factor of 2CMF, at this point, you will have an air compressor of 6 CMF at least as it increases its durability.

The Purpose:

Considering the type of air compressors is the next important part. Choosing it is based on how you will use your plasma cutter and what will you use it for? Some people would like to use it for cutting daily. A less heavy-duty air compressor is recommended. In contrast, others would use it to invent or make something by cutting thin or thick steel sheets. For them, it is recommended to use a heavy-duty air compressor.

A heavy-duty compressor should be used if you want your cuts to last longer. If you use a small compressor for this purpose, your compressor’s air pressure will drop, and it will take time to build up adequate pressure again. Therefore, it is recommended for your work not to be interrupted to use the heavy-duty compressor for inventing or fabrication process.

A commonly used plasma cutter or the one used for cutting thick metals requires a 1.5  to 2 times more compressor than the plasma system requirements. This will ensure the reliability of the compressor motor and produce desired results.

Frequently Asked Question

Do You Need an Air Compressor to Run a Plasma Cutter?

Yes, you need an air compressor to run a plasma cutter, while some plasma cutters may come with a built-in air compressor, but to run efficiently and the scope of your work, you will need an air compressor that is fully compatible with the plasma cutter.

How big an air compressor do I need?

The size of the compressor depends upon the requirement of the plasma cutter, the volume of work, and the required duty cycle. An air compressor can easily deliver up to 60 PSI for a general rule of thumb, which is enough for plasma cutters.

Conclusion

All the above-reviewed air compressors are best for plasma cutters according to their cost value. It is up to you to decide which one fits your budget and demands perfectly and what features you are looking for. We hope that we could help you in choosing the best air compressor for your plasma cutter.