Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP Plasma Cutter Review

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In Brief: Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP Review

From the Hypertherm company comes the Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP. This plasma cutter handles thick metal and fine feature cutting with an extended reach function for both cutting and gouging. Its dual-voltage design provides extra portability to this lightweight machine.

The Hypertherm company stems from the co-founders’ desire to create plasma cutters with enough power to handle accurate, precision jobs.

Today, this company offers products with impressive quality and reliable mechanics built to last.

With the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutting system, the Hypertherm company combines large-scale project capabilities with fine-tuned controls.

The result makes plasma cutting portable, simple, and convenient for home, farm, and shop use.

Key Specifications of the Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP

Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP Building America Edition Hand Plasma System with Case and 15-Feet Lead

The Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter provides both thick metal cutting and fine feature cutting in one convenient package.

This highly portable machine travels easily and plugs into most outlets with the included dual voltage adapter.

Check out the Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP in action here –

 

Read the long list of Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP specs below:

ParametersDetails
Type
Plasma Cutter
Input Voltage
120-240V, 1-PH, 50/60Hz
Input Current @ 3.8 kW
120-240V, 1-PH, 25-18.8A
Output Current
15-30A
Rated Output Voltage
125VDC
Duty Cycle @ 104F
35% 240V
20% 120V
Dimensions
14 in. d x 6.6 in. w x 12 in. h
Weight
21lbs.
WarrantyCheck Manual
FeaturesFine feature cutting
Drag cutting
Extended reach
Accessories15ft. plasma cutting torch
15ft. work cable and clamp
Dual voltage adapter
Consumables kit
Carrying strap and carry case

Unique Features

Enjoy extra visibility and accessibility when cutting from a distance with the extended reach feature built into this machine.

With both thick metal and fine feature elements as well, this powerful little device tackles jobs with ease.

Fine Feature Cutting

Cut thin material easily with the fine feature cutting ability on this welder. This function also allows users to cut out intricate details and work in tight spaces.

Drag Cutting

This plasma cutter includes a drag cutting feature that makes it easy to cut by simply dragging the torch across the metal.

Extended Reach

With an extended reach function for both gouging and cutting, this plasma cutter system provides extra visibility when you need to work in a tight space.

Thick Metal Cutting

This machine tackles thick metal with no trouble and cuts smoothly through mild steel and stainless steel.

Dual Voltage

The convenient dual voltage design of this machine allows users to plug it into 120V sources for household use or 240V sources for more powerful cutting.

 

Performance & Ease of Transportation

Optimum performance and impressive portability combine in the powerful, sturdy little Hypertherm Powermax30 XP.

Performance

Customers make very few complaints about this machine and enjoy its impressive capabilities right out of the box.

The plasma cutter provides durable cutting with reliable inner working components and lasts for years, even with regular use.

This machine offers easy adjustments with the turn of a single knob. It responds well to precise changes in settings and gives advanced users the feedback they want while cutting.

At the same time, it gives beginners a forgiving way to learn plasma cutting quickly.

The included accessories and additional components with this machine remain durable and high-quality. They last nearly as long as the machine itself.

Ease of Transportation

At 21 pounds, this plasma cutter remains extremely portable in comparison to many of its competitors. This product comes with accessories that remain light and prevent it from becoming too weighed down for travel.

The machine includes a carrying case as well as a built-in carrying strap and handle. With all these ways to pick it up and move it, the lightweight machine comes along easily for on-site jobs.

 

Weld Quality and Available Options

Customers enjoy the surprisingly powerful results from the Hypertherm Powermax30XP plasma cutter.

This machine cuts smoothly from start to finish and stays cutting as long as the torch remains in contact with the workpiece.

Some customers report this machine cutting quickly but not as cleanly as some of its competitors. Thick metal jobs may require extra work to create clean results.

The Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutting system comes in just one option. It includes the basics needed to start working right away. However, customers often add the following:

  • Safety gear: Purchase plasma cutting goggles or a helmet to give yourself important safety and protection while you work.
  • Longer torch: Some customers upgrade with a longer torch cable for additional reach while working.
  • Air compressor: You will need an air compressor to operate this machine.

Ease of Maintenance, Repairs & Warranty

The Hypertherm company provides replacement parts available for purchase on the company web site. Most of these parts include consumables and replacement accessories.

The company does not sell replacement internal components. Customer service sometimes provides these parts, but the Hypertherm company recommends contacting a licensed repair technician to handle this type of repair.

Regularly clean and maintain this plasma cutting system. To do this, unplug the power for 30 minutes, then remove the cover to the machine.

Use compressed air to clean the inside of the machine of dust and debris. Repeat on the vents.

Check connections, terminals, cables, and consumables when cleaning. If any parts appear damaged or worn, replace them before operating the machine again.

The Hypertherm company offers a limited warranty on this plasma cutter. The warranty covers three years of parts and labor for the power supply and one year of parts and labor for the torch and accessories.

The warranty does not include consumables or replacement parts. All products must be registered to qualify for warranty coverage.

For more warranty information, contact the Hypertherm company’s customer service at 800-737-2978.

FAQs

Does the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter handle gouging?

This machine works for mild gouging. However, it burns through consumables quickly when used for gouging, so cutting remains its primary application.

Does the pilot arc on the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter remain stable?

Yes. This machine offers a stable, strong pilot arc that runs hot enough to cut like butter.

What size air compressor does the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter require?

This machine needs a compressor that provides at least 6.5cfm @ 90psi.

What kind of ignition does the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter use?

This plasma cutter features an on/off switch on the back of the machine for quick, easy ignition.

Price of the Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP

Coming in at the high end of many budgets, the Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutting system costs more than most of its competitors.

The price of this machine comes from its included peripherals as well as its impressive power supply in a convenient, portable size.

It also includes both thick metal and fine feature cutting in one device, making it an even stronger contender in the world of portable plasma cutters.

Most customers feel this machine’s price reflects its value. However, it may remain at the high end of some beginner budgets.

 

Who Should Buy the Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP?

The Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutting system provides enough power to handle thick metal projects and enough finesse for fine-tuning and intricate detail.

As such, it works beautifully for car restoration and repair jobs for residential and commercial locations.

This machine also provides excellent plasma cutting capabilities for farm applications. Working around the farm becomes easier than ever before with this convenient plasma cutter to help handle most jobs.

Some professional welding and construction shops also utilize this plasma cutter as a portable solution for on-site work.

Our Recommendation

The Hypertherm Powermax30 XP plasma cutter provides professional-grade results powered by strong internal components.

Its portable design and easy-to-use controls make it an all-around excellent choice for many plasma cutting needs. We recommend this cutting system for agricultural purposes as well as auto repair and restoration.

We also recommend it for professional shops requiring a portable cutter option. This plasma cutter may not work as well for beginners.

 

Last update on 2024-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About Stephanie Hall

Stephanie is a DIYer and expert in using power tools. She is an architect and also provides design services. A yoga lover, she meditates to keep herself fit.

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