There is more to having the best plasma cutter than being able to cut metal. Before the introduction of the plasma cutter, cutting metal was hell of a work. This is due to the intense human effort that goes into the process of cutting metal, you struggle, physically exhaust yourself, sweat, and waste a lot of time all in a bid to cut out sheets of metal.

The introduction of the Plasma cutter came as a savior to the welding industry. It is not only the best tool to cut metal, it also has several other varieties of advantages to a welder.

In simple terms, a plasma cutter is a piece of tool that employs a high-speed inert gas to cut through metals or alloys of various thickness with ease. A plasma cutter makes use of an inert gas with an electrical current, the result is a torch that does the cutting process.

On this note, I welcome you to this plasma cutting review where I will pick out the top 30 plasma cutter available in the market today and give my honest opinion on each of them, I will also discuss on what you can do with a plasma cutter, the essential safety gear mandatory for use while cutting with a plasma cutter, the safety hazards involved and the essential tools needed to run a plasma cutter.

Join me as I introduce the best plasma cutters available in the industry.

Top 30 Best Plasma Cutter Reviews

1. Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma Cutter

Seeking a compact plasma cutter with the capacity to divide through various metal thickness and size, the Lotos LTP5000D 50Amp Non-Touch Pilot Arc Plasma is the best choice. It has the capacity to seamlessly divide aluminum, copper, mild steel, stainless steel and all sort of metal.

The plasma cutter works with a Pilot arc torch that can pierce through any surface – painted, rough, hard or rust surface to produce a fine and smooth cut. It also features an advanced German cooling system

Pros

• checkAutomatic dual frequency and voltage system (110/229v and 50/60Hz)
• checkPilot torch allows plasma to cut effectively without having contact with the metal. This gives a longer consumable life
• checkAbility to cut up to a thickness of 0.75 inches
• checkUses a non-toxic air for cutting
• checkIt is very portable

Cons

• It is best suited for light jobs and small DIY projects
• Exclamation TriangleThe cut produced is too large

2. Lotos LT5000D Plasma Cutter 50Amps Dual Voltage Compact Metal Cutter

LOTOS, one of the largest manufacturer of plasma cutters is a highly trusted brand. The Lotos LT5000D Plasma Cutter was designed for rugged and extensive use in all forms of working condition. It is suitable for light home jobs as well as industrial fabrication.

Like most plasma cutters, it comes with an automatic dual voltage as well as PAPST Advanced German Cooling System. When used at a High-frequency DC, the plasma cutter can cut thicker materials than the standard frequency DC.

Pros

• checkIt is suitable for all sort of metals – mild steel, Aluminum, copper, etc.
• checkIt requires less maintenance and less cleaning
• checkSuitable to operate at two different frequency and voltages
• checkIt is cheaper than the oxyacetylene cut
• checkThe torch trigger is able to give a custom fit
• checkOne can get faster cut with a high-frequency plasma cut

Cons

• The consumables are expensive to replace

3. PRIMEWELD Premium & Rugged 50A Air Inverter Plasma Cutter Automatic Dual Voltage

The PRIMEWELD premium & Rugged Plasma cutter is the best choice for welders that value precision work. It is a 50 Amp Digital Air Inverter Plasma cutter that can cut metal with thickness as much as 0.34 inch seamlessly.

This is a plasma cutter suitable for both industrial and home use. It can cut several varieties of metal including mild steel, alloy steel, copper aluminum and many more with ease. It can work between 110v and 220volts power supply.

PRIMEWELD is a highly trusted brand when it comes to manufacturing welding accessories. Hence, they can boast of the manufacture of various high-quality plasma cutters that can handle metal of all sizes and shapes.

Pros

• checkCan cut through several varieties of metal, steel and stainless steel
• checkIt is very portable
• checkQuite a lot of customers have derived satisfaction from the PRIMEWELD premium & Rugged Plasma cutter
• checkIt comes with a warranty worth three years
• checkMade with high-quality materials
• checkIt is very durable

Cons

• Some customers experienced leak with the machine

4. SUPER DEAL DC Inverter Plasma Cutter Welding Machine With Screen Display

Seeking a classy plasma cutter that can deliver a smooth cut at excellent speed? The SUPER DEAL DC Inverter Plasma Cutter is the best choice available! It gives a clean cut without slag or dross. It is a 240Volts plasma cutter that comes with digital display, it makes cutting so easy!

The SUPER DEAL DC Inverter Plasma Cutter features a current regulator which allows you to work comfortably and efficiently. It consumes low amount of energy which makes it very fair to the environment.

Pros

• checkIt is very affordable
• checkIt lasts very long with good heat dissipation
• checkIt is made of heavy duty material, which makes it last very long
• checkThe Digital LCD Display gives an easy read Front panel
• checkIt has high cutting speed with less noise
• checkBuilt-in safety feature – wire and mask to prevent you from hurting yourself
• checkSuitable for light and industrial use 
• checkIt uses cheap and easily accessible consumables

Cons

• Some user prefers having an O-ring on the panel for efficient use!

5. PrimeWeld Ct520d 50 Amps Plasma Cutter

The PrimeWeld Ct520d 50 is the best multipurpose plasma cutter available. It features a 3 in 1 multipurpose plasma cutter with the ability to handle multiple cutting and welding functions. It can also alternate between DC STICK and DC TIG welding easily.

It is suitable for professional and DIY jobs. This plasma cutter is very portable, also, it operates on 50A power source. It can perform TIG/Stick welding, plasma cutting, and the arc welding function in a single unit!

Pros

• checkIt comes with a 3-year warranty
• checkIt has a 3-in-one function
• checkIt is very easy to move around
• checkIt has a power efficiency of 85%

Cons

• Long leads are needed for the plasma cutting

6. Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D Lotos LTPDC2000D Plasma Cutter Tig Stick Welder 3 in 1 Combo Welding Machine

The Lotos Technology 04-ZVGR-0O8D is a 50 Amp Non-touch plasma cutter that gives an efficient cut for various surfaces – painted, rusty, rough etc. It is compact and very portable. This plasma cutter is able to handle various types of metal without using a hazardous gas

It gives a 3 in one function – a 200 Amp stick welder, a 50 Amp Pilot Arc Plasma cutter and 200 DC TIG Welder, all with the flip of a switch. It is appropriate for industrial and DIY uses. It has the HF hand start control and also support the dual voltage system. The Pilot arc technology allows for cutting without contact with the metal tip.

Pros

• checkAble to cut varieties of metal without using any hazardous air
• checkIt can weld with various acids and basic electrodes
• checkIt comes with one year warranty
• checkIt has a multipurpose (3 in 1) unit
• checkCreates precise cut with less slag
• checkConsumable last longer
• checkAutomatic dual voltage and frequency enabled

Cons

• The consumables are specific to the machine!

7. Plasma Cutter, Inverter, Spectrum 375 by Miller Electric

Seeking for a plasma cutter for your day to day job requirement and industrial use? The Plasma Cutter Spectrum 375 is the answer you’ve been searching for. With a rated output of 30 A, it gives a fine precision cut for all sort of metal, alloys, carbon, steel etc.

It is very light in weight, compact and performs it’s duties seamlessly. It’s Manufactured by Miller, one of the giants in the welding accessory industry, the Plasma Cutter Spectrum 375 is a reliable tool to take your welding experience to the next level.

Pros

• checkit’s very compact and light in weight
• checkQuite of a lot of customers expressed satisfaction with the product
• checkit has the ability to deliver a seamless cutting experience 
• checkit’s equipped with all the necessary accessories 
• checkIt comes with extra consumables

Cons

• No warranty information

8. Hobart 500566 Airforce 40i Plasma Cutter 240V

Seeking for an efficient plasma cutter that can cut just like a hot knife going through butter? The Hobart 500566 Airforce 40i is the answer you’ve been searching for. Using about 40 Amps of power, the Hobart 500566 Airforce 40i is able to slice through 5/8 in. and sever cut 7/8 in. steel.

It is a heavy duty plasma cutter weighing just 31 pounds hence it’s very light in weight. The wind tunnel technology guards against particles and abrasive dust from damaging the internal parts of the machine.

Pros

• checkIt is excellent for both DIY jobs and heavy-duty assignments
• checkErgonomic design that makes usage safe!
• checkIt is very portable
• checkAuto-Refire technology giving the device the ability to slice through perforated or expanded metals
• checkSetting up the machine is very easy

Cons

• It is quite pricey!

9. SUNCOO Cut-50 Plasma Cutter Electric DC Inverter Machine with Digital Display

Seeking for a cheap and effective plasma cutter? This is your answer. The SUNCOO Cut-50 Plasma Cutter Electric DC Inverter is a 50 Amp Plasma cutter, it is suitable for copper, iron, stainless steel and all sort of metal. It performs excellently, and can be applied in many areas like site work, ducting work, repair and maintenance service etc.

The SUNCOO is pretty easy to assemble, with a comprehensive manual to guide the user through the installation process. The voltage ranges from 110 to 220V, and the machine has the capacity to adapt.

Pros

• checkCan cut varieties of metals, including very thick metal plate
• checkFinds application in home and industrial use
• checkIt releases less toxic gases
• checkIt has protection pilot lamp for the welder’s safety
• checkIt is pretty light in weight
• checkIt is pretty cheap

Cons

• The strap handle is not preferred

10. Goplus Plasma Cutter Cut-50 50A 220V Electric DC Inverter Air IGBT Cutting Machine

The Goplus Plasma Cutter Cut-50 is a new plasma cutting machine that features a new technology with an advanced inverter. It comes with a high-quality plasma torch engineered to give users a new cutting experience.

The Goplus Plasma Cutter Cut-50 is applicable for individual DIY projects and industrial use. It was designed with your maximum comfort in mind, hence it’s very easy to operate. It’s also equipped with the necessary accessories to make using it very safe. It can be applied in ducting work, repair work, automotive work, maintenance service.

Pros

• checkThe unit is made from materials of high quality hence, will last long
• checkComes with safety features to prevent you from hurting yourself while working
• checkIt has the ability to work effectively and efficiently with it’s smooth and high cutting speed, and continuous current regulation.
• checkVery easy to assemble with clear and straight to the point instructions
• checkIt saves energy and makes no noise
• checkIt is safe, reliable and very cheap

Cons

• No information on warranty

11. Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter with Built-In Air Compressor

Seeking for a light, portable, and compact plasma cutter? The Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter is the best choice. It comes with very capable size breaker and requires a 30 amps source.

It has a built-in compressor with the ability to cut through all types of metal. When performing flame tuning, there is no gas pressure required. The Hobart 500564 Airforce 12ci Plasma Cutter gives a very accurate cut with a thin kerf and less sla

Pros

• checkRequires no gas pressure setting
• checkIt gives very precise cut
• checkIt is portable and light in weight
• checkEquipped with a size breaker

Cons

• You have to be patient while cutting through very heavy metals

12. Lotos LT3500 35Amp Air Plasma Cutter, 2/5 Inch Clean Cut

Seeking a plasma cutter to comfortably handle light cutting projects? The Lotos LT3500 35Amp Air Plasma Cutter is the best choice. It is the most compact plasma cutter available on the market but, it is only powerful enough to handle a metal with 15 mm thickness.

It comes with an air filter and air gauge that works perfectly with your air compressor. It is an excellent choice for light projects and DIY jobs. Assembling it is very easy as the whole machine can be set up in just a minute.

Pros

• checkIt is light in weight
• checkIt is very compact
• checkIt can be easily set up
• checkSuitable for cutting all sort of metal
• checkCuts safely at low cost
• checkComes with consumables, ground clamp, cutting torch etc.

Cons

• The ground lead cable is pretty short

13. ZENY DC Inverter Plasma Cutter 50AMP CUT-50 Dual Voltage 110-220V Cutting Machine

The ZENY DC Plasma cutter features the latest cutting technology. It is recommendable for all metal cutting work, it’s suitable for both industrial and DIY jobs. The high-quality plasma torch which it has, gives it an enhanced and improved cut quality.

It features a double voltage adapter with a current range of 20 to 50 Amps. It is equipped with essential accessories like AIR regulator and earth clamp as well as many safety accessories needed to ensure a seamless cutting operation.

Pros

• checkSuitable for both professional and personal use 
• checkComes with the necessary safety accessories to ensure a seamless operation
• checkThe consumables are very cheap
• checkThe price is very reasonable
• checkIt doesn’t get too hot
• checkCuts very fast
• checkSetting up the unit is pretty easy

Cons

• It comes with ground and cable wires that are very short
• Exclamation TriangleUser manual not explanatory enough

14. Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP Building America Edition Hand Plasma System

The Hypertherm 088079 Powermax30 XP plasma cutting machine is a 2 in 1 plasma cutting machine. It works with high vigor to cut through metal with ease. It delivers a very high-performance cutting experience with the ability to handle thick metal of all sorts – up to 16mm. It comes with Fine Cut consumables that give detailed cutting.

It comes with various accessories that ensures you work safely. The automatic voltage setting allows it to adapts to either 120V or 240V circuit. The Kit comes with nozzles, electrodes, shields, retaining cap etc.

Pros

• checkIt is equipped with necessary safety accessories to enable you work without suffering an injury
• checkit features an LT Torch which is resistant to heat and very compact giving it a comfortable grip
• checkThe company has a very responsive customer support service
• checkIt is very portable and light in weight
• checkDual voltage application

Cons

• Requires an external air compressor

15. Hobart 500565 Airforce 27i Plasma Cutter 120/240V

The Hobart 500565 Airforce 27i Plasma Cutter is a strong heavy duty plasma cutter. It comes with an inverter based design and reliable technology. It’s very portable and easy to use.

The Hobart 500565 Airforce 27i Plasma Cutter features multi-voltage plug that allows it to work effectively with either a 120V or 240V power supply. Setting it up is pretty easy as all you have to do is connect and start cutting!

Pros

• checkThe Wind Tunnel technology guards against particles and abrasive dust from settling inside the machine
• checkAble to work with either the 120Vor 240V power supply.
• checkGives a very accurate cut with reduced slag
• checkIt is portable

Cons

• The plasma cutter tends to overheat at times

16. JEGS 81545 Plasma Cutter 20-40 Amp 110/220VAC

Seeking a reliable plasma cutter able to handle all form of metal and aluminum? The JEGS 81545 Plasma Cutter is your answer. It comes with all necessary and useful accessories that makes it deliver a seamless working and cutting experience!

Pros

• checkIt comes with a year warranty
• checkIt has a dual voltage function – 110VAC/220VAC
• checkAbility to slice through steel and iron with ease
• checkIt is suitable for small business and DIY processes
• checkComes with all necessary accessories

Cons

• Warranty period too limited (1 year)

17. SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Air Plasma Cutter Inverter DC Digital Display IGBT Portable

The SUNGOLDPOWER 50A Air Plasma Cutter comes with a superior IGBT tech, giving it the ability to slice through as much as 15mm thick metal. Like most plasma cutter, it uses a dual voltage technology. It’s less power consumption from the high duty cycle makes it more efficient.

It has a Digital LCD display and a front pane air pressure gauge making it more appealing and effective. It can cut smoothly without any polish demand. It comes with amazing protective features to make the machine safe for use. It can cut through copper, steel, carbon and several other types of metal.

Pros

• checkit’s very efficient and economical
• checkit has a very high cutting speed
• checkit saves energy and works without much noise
• checkit has a overheat and overvoltage protection feature
• checkit has the ability to cut a 15mm thick metal
• checkit’s waterproof and protected from electric shock

Cons

• A couple of customers complained of the leaking air hose

18. CUT-50, 50 Amp Pro. Plasma Cutter, DC Inverter 110/230V Dual Voltage Cutting Machine

The CUT-50, 50 Amp Pro Plasma Cutter was designed for small businesses and DIY jobs. This is a new and improved model that uses 15 – 50 Amps with an advanced inverter tech. It comes with plug adapter that makes the voltage adapt automatically to the supplied voltage – 100 to 240 Volts.

It has a comfortable grip and a torch design that allows it to slice through various metal forms seamlessly.

Pros

• checkIt is capable of handling cuts up to an inch in thickness
• checkIt can cut various types of metal – stainless steel, alloy steel etc.
• checkLittle maintenance required
• checkRisk of fire hazard is low
• checkIt gives a firm, clean and reliable cut

Cons

• No warranty information

19. VIVOHOME DC Inverter Plasma Cutter Cutting Machine Dual Voltage 110V/220V CUT-50

The VIVOHOME DC Inverter Plasma Cutter boasts of the most advanced inverter technology in its construction. It has a high cutting ability with a fast cutting speed way better than that of oxy-acetylene cutting.

It features MOSFET technology that steps up the 50 Hz frequency to over 100KHz. It is fast and economical, able to cut through thickness of up to 12 mm. It’s Suitable for wide application – DIY and industrial use.

Pros

• checkDual voltage operation
• checkComes with essential safety materials – safety mask and welding goggle
• checkIt has the ability to slice through metal of thickness between 1 to 12 mm.
• checkMOSFET technology helps step up the frequency to any desired range
• checkIt is very fast in operation

Cons

• Some customers complain that it doesn’t come with a user manual
• Exclamation TriangleThe regulator doesn’t come with a hose

20. HYL CUT30C PLASMA CUTTER

The HYL CUT30C plasma is one of the best heavy duty plasma cutter suitable for both home hobby and personal welding. It features a 110/115/120 current type.

It comes with various accessories such as ceramic cups, nozzle, electrodes, ceramic diffusers, replacement torch assembles etc. It can cut a maximum thickness of 0.25 inches.

Pros

• checkIt comes with 2 years warranty
• checkIt has professional Grade welding accessoriess
• checkReadily available spare parts

Cons

• The plasma cutter tends to overheat at times

21. Hypertherm 088096 Powermax 30 AIR Hand System

The Hypertherm 088096 Powermax 30 AIR Hand is a small and lightweight plasma cutter designed with an internal air compressor. It’s small and compact in size, it can handle cutting metal of various forms. Unlike most compressors, it doesn’t need an external air supply due to the in-built compressor system.

The Hypertherm 088096 Powermax uses the latest technology with reliable torch and consumables to keep the system running at its peak. It features a New AIR T30 torch which makes it rugged enough to withstand unconducive environments

Pros

• checkInner compressor cancels the need for an external compressor support
• checkIt has a fast and very reliable cutting speed
• checkIt has the ability to work with both 120 V or 240 V power supply
• checkIt is very portable, small and light

Cons

• No tangible information on warranty

22. Biltek 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter Inverter Dual Voltage

Seeking for a classic plasma cutter that uses advanced technology to slice through metal? The Biltek 50Amp Air Plasma Cutter is what you need. It delivers high cutting performance with a non – pilot arc torch that is able to deliver high cutting performance with longer life for consumables.

It comes with a cutting torch, air hose, air filter and other accessories. It uses clean oil – free and dry air from a compressor to deliver very clean cutting experience.

Pros

• checkIt can cut several varieties of metal
• checkThe consumables last long
• checkIt uses advanced inverter technology that delivers a high cutting performance
• checkIt is portable and very easy to set up

Cons

• You need to connect an external air supply from the compressor!

23. VEVOR Plasma Cutter 50A 110V/220V Dual Voltage Welding Cutting Machine CUT50 Inverter Digital Welding Machine

The VEVOR Plasma Cutter is a 50 Amp machine. It is very light in structure and compact in design. It saves energy with extra-axial flow fan for forced convention needed to cool the machine. It can cut up to 12 mm with a digital display on the front panel of the machine. It is able to cut various forms of metal like mild steel, stainless steel, alloy steel etc.

The unit comes with various accessories such as gas pipe, cutting torch etc.

Pros

• checkIt is light and very compact
• checkIt doesn’t generate much noise and saves energy
• checkComes with a digital display
• checkIt cuts at a very high speed
• checkGives smooth cutting with no polish demand
• checkComes with an inbuilt fan to cool down the machine

Cons

• No information on product warranty

24. Miller Spectrum 625 X-treme Plasma Cutter

The Miller Spectrum 625 X-treme Plasma Cutter is one of the most portable plasma cutter available in the market. It works with a dual voltage setting. It comes with the Auto-Line technology and MVP adapters. It has extra protective features which makes the unit safe during transport and storage.

It comes with essential protection gears to ensure that safety isn’t compromised while working. There is an Ultra-Quick Connect XT 40 torch designed with ergonomic handle that reduces unnecessary fatigue while working. With the Auto – refire technology, it directs the pilot arc when cutting expanded metal

Pros

• checkComes with an inbuilt fan to limit overheating
• checkWind tunnel technology prevents damage from abrasive dust from damaging the system
• checkReduced fatigue while cutting metals
• checkSteady and cleaner cuts
• checkEasy connection, it’s compatible with either 120V or 240V power supply

Cons

• No warranty information available for the unit.

25. Plasma Cutter 40A 220V Electric DC Inverter Air Plasma Cutting Machine CUT40 Metal Cutter HITBOX

Weighing about 16 pounds, the Plasma Cutter by HITBOX can slice through thick Carbon of up to 12 mm thickness. Asides carbon, it cuts steel, copper, and aluminum effectively. It features a digital display and comes equipped with plasma cutting torch consumables.

The Plasma Cutter by HITBOX gives an outstanding cutting performance that is able to work effectively, irrespective of the air pressure. The unit prioritizes safety with various features meant to keep you safe while using the plasma cutter.

Pros

• checkIt is light and very compact
• checkIt is pretty cheap
• checkit can slice through metal as thick as 12 mm
• checkIt features a digital display
• checkit has an impressive customer care service

Cons

• The Unit does not come with an external compressor

26. Everlast SuperCut51P 110v/220v Dual Voltage 50 Amp Pilot Arc Inverter plasma cutter

Seeking for a plasma cutter for your DIY product? The 2017 Everlast SuperCut51P is a perfect fit for you. The SuperCut 51P comes with a high-frequency arc that offers continuous engaging pilot arc. This unit is perfect if you are seeking to make low dross cut, it’s very efficient and easy to use.

Pros

• checkIt is quick and very reliable
• checkWorks with low current
• checkIt comes with 3 years warranty
• checkIt has a dual voltage capacity
• checkIt’s equipped with essential accessories

Cons

• It is quite expensive

27. Air Inverter Plasma Cutting Machine – Tosense CUT50 Dual Voltage 50A Plasma Cutter

The Air Inverter Plasma cutting machine uses the MOSFET inverter technology to give stable, mature and improved cutting experience to its users. It is made with very high-quality components that make the plasma cutter economical with the consumables.

Weighing just 22 pounds, it is compact and portable. Asides, it is applicable for both industrial and personal work. The plasma cutter is able to adjust itself even with a very high air pressure giving a direct and precise cutting experience.

Pros

• checkIt can cut the metal plate in various routes
• checkReduced risk of fire hazards 
• checkIt requires less maintenance
• checkIt is very cheap
• checkIt doesn’t produce toxic gases
• checkIt is portable and suitable for industrial use
• checkPresence of features to protect against power fluctuations

Cons

• No warranty information

28. Forney 317 250 P+ Plasma Cutter with Air Compressor

The Forney P+ Plasma Cutter is very easy to use and comes with a 15-inch ground cable. It utilizes compressed air and electrical arc to slice through metal like it’s a piece of meat. It is capable of giving a precise cut due to the drag technology that allows users to move the torch on the metal surface.

It comes with many cutting accessories like electrodes, diffuser ring, compressor shield cup etc. There are features to ensure that using the plasma cutter is completely safe. It features a lightweight inverter power supply and a built-in compressor.

Pros

• checkParts like the ground cable, torch and dryer are easily removed for repairs and assemble
• checkComes with an internal compressor
• checkIt is portable
• checkLots of additional accessories for optimum function
• checkAbility to make precise cut

Cons

• It is pretty expensive

29. Hypertherm Powermax45 XP Hand System w/o CPC – 20’ Leads

Seeking for a heavy duty plasma cutter with the ability to cut up to 16mm of metal? The Powermax45 XP plasma cutter is the best choice. It comes with varieties of features that give it an optimum and improved performance over other brands.

There is the automatic gas adjustment for simple setup operation as well as the new Duramax Lock torch to give it an improved performance. It is able to cut a wide range of metal with various thickness, and it’s also capable of handling precision gouging and part marking.

Pros

• checkIt is small in size and very light in weight
• checkit has amazing features that makes using the Powermax45 XP plasma cutter seamless for first-time operators
• checkThe presence of a smart sensor technology helps make sure that air pressure is always correct
• checkCuts really fast with a superior cut quality

Cons

• No warranty information

30. LOVSHARE 3 In 1 Plasma Cut/TIG/ Welding Machine 110V Multifunction Inverter DC

The LOVSHARE comes in a compact 3 in 1 structure capable of handling TIG, CUT and ARC/MMA function. It has a compact design. It’s portable, reliable and very easy to use.

It is suitable for DIY jobs and industrial application hence, capable of handling shipbuilding, aerospace, automobile and quite a lot of other functions. This plasma cutter has a 110V Welding Machine Portable CT312Welder with Air Regulator.

Pros

• checkIt is reliable and lasts longer
• checkit has a 3 in one multiple function system
• checkPollution from this plasma cutter is reduced, it’s environmental friendly 
• checkComes with an advanced MOSFET inverter technology

Cons

• No information on warranty

Having analyzed the review of the best plasma cutter available in the market, I will proceed to discuss what you can do with a plasma cutter, as a welder.

WHAT CAN I DO WITH MY PLASMA CUTTER?

Plasma Cutter is recommended for cutting metal, copper, steel, and other non – ferrous materials. When using oxyacetylene for cutting, you have to carefully control the cutting speed in order to keep the oxidizing process going. Plasma cutter stands out in this aspect.

The plasma cutter is very handy and effective if you will cut expanded metal which can’t be done with oxyfuel. Also, plasma cutting is very fast, it produces a clean cut and also good at making a nonlinear cut!

1. Fabricating Metals on the Go

Plasma technology is extremely invaluable in cutting pieces of metal together. This is especially useful to contractors and welders on site. Many times, metals come in lengths that are too big. At times as well, the job specification requires an exact length of metal that can only be gotten with the use of a plasma cutter.

2. Metal recycling

One of the places where the applications of the plasma cutter is irreplaceable is the junkyard. There are scrap metals that might not be useful to a welder again. A plasma is extremely useful as it helps cut pieces of metal down into bits or size that makes storage easy. With this, you increase storage space and improve productivity!

3. Cutting Pipes

There are times you might need to cut a huge length of pipe. You won’t be able to cut this with a standard cutter due to the time it takes. With a plasma cutter you can do this with ease, you also minimize resources wastage. There are pipe cutting jobs that needs to fit perfectly, and with the smooth neat and quick cut a plasma cutter creates; it is the best for the job!

WHAT PROTECTIVE GEAR DO I NEED WITH MY PLASMA CUTTER?

Thanks to the improvement in technology, plasma cutter has been widely accepted in homes, shop, industrial use, fabrication yards, and many cutting industries. Yes, the plasma cutter is a very useful piece of equipment but a risky one as well.

Hence, the necessary safety precautions are very essential to ensure a seamless operation with the plasma cutter. Irrespective of what you desire to do with the plasma cutter, you need to learn about the necessary level of safety required to get the job done with ease.

From my experience, hazards from using a plasma cutter mostly comes from being exposed to metal fumes, ultraviolet radiation, and hot metals. This could lead to cuts, loss of body parts, crushed toes or fingers, eye damage, electric shock, burns etc.

The good news is that you can limit these type of health hazards with the proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and right safety attitude. It is when you use the recommended personal protective equipment that you can be protected from all the hazards associated with the plasma cutting machine.

Hence, in order to work safely, you have got to protect yourself and those around you with the essential safety gears:

1. Plasma Helmet: this is essential to keep you safe from debris, hot slags, intense length and most especially radiation. The helmet protects not only your face but the eyes and your respiratory system. It limits the inhale of toxic gases and also protects your eyes from the intensely bright light that comes from the cutting process.
2. Welding Gloves: There are chances you mistakenly handle a hot metal. This is where a good and reliable welding glove comes in. Also, the intense heat produced by the cutting process could be dangerous for your hand. A good welding glove is needed to serve as insulation between your hands and the heat source. Asides this, a good welding glove also protects you from burns, electric shocks, fire etc.
3. Welding Jacket: There is the possibility of slag and molten metal flying around during the cutting process. This is why you need to keep your whole body protected. They are essential to keep you safe from fires, intense heat, fire etc. A good welding jacket should be heat resistant and nonflammable. The main idea is to protect your skin. Thus, if any hot spark, debris or slag flies around while cutting and comes in contact with you, you are well protected!
4. Welding beanie: Basically, a welding beanie is essential for keeping your hair, head, neck, and ear protected from the flying debris, spark or slag during the welding process. It essentially serves as an insulation to guard you against heat stroke and burns.
5. Laced and Tied Boots: A properly laced and tied boots will keep you safe from flying debris, electric shock. There is the possibility of stepping on a wire that could trigger an electric shock but with your boot on, you’re protected. Also, you need a well-tied boot to prevent your feet from getting burned from hot flying sparks.
6. Set of Jeans: In addition to your welding jacket, you need a good pair of jeans to keep your legs safe from various hazards that could arise as a result of the plasma cutting process, the hot splash could pour on your leg. With a pair of strong jeans, you not only protect your leg from this splashes, but you also guard against heat stroke due to the excessive temperature of the workshop.
7. Respirator Mask: During plasma cutting, the possibility of hazardous fumes being released is very high. This calls for adequate protection of your nose, and the best way to do this is with the help of a respiratory mask. This will keep you safe from fumes, oxides etc. You need a quality respiratory mask that is able to filter fumes and particles from the air you breathe. This is essential for your comfort and safety while cutting!
8. Fire Extinguisher: Last but not the least on my set of important protective gears needed during plasma cutting is a fire extinguisher. The essence of a fire extinguisher is very obvious. Welding is a hot job, plasma cutting makes use of excessively hot gas at extreme temperatures. With this excess temperature, there is the risk of fire occurrence. This is why you need a fire extinguisher handy, so you can guard against any incidence of fire outbreak!

While working with a plasma cutter, it is very good to prioritize safety. Hence, on no account should you compromise on this personal protective equipment while working in the workshop. Remember working safely is critical to your health and wellbeing!

Having discussed the essential safety gears needed for plasma cutting, I will also address the safety hazards that are common while using a plasma cutter.

Safety Hazards of The Best Plasma Cutting

Welding is a hot job. And, plasma welding involves cutting iron or other metals at extremely high temperatures. This presents a lot of health risk to you. Asides physical hazards, there are chemical hazards that you can be exposed to.

In order to guard against the injuries and hazards associated with plasma cutting, you need to be aware of the risks involved. When you know the risk, you will be able to protect yourself adequately against the inherent dangers present during plasma cutting.

Here as some safety hazards involved in plasma cutting:

1. Eye Damage

Plasma cutting often releases vapors, sparks, slag etc. that are physical threats to you. There is a huge risk that this flying debris could get into an unprotected eye. This is why it is essential to be fully kitted before using a plasma cutter. Putting on a welding helmet, as well as a safety goggle, is very important. Not only the eyes need protection, but the entire face as well.

2. Flammable Liquid Around Your Cutting Area

As indicated above, plasma cutting produces splash and sparks that are usually very hot. Thus, the tendency of any flammable liquid around you catching fire is very high. A fire could erupt  if sparks comes in contact with any liquid that is highly flammable around the workshop, clothing materials covered in grease or oil also has a great tendency of catching fire. This is why the workshop or working space should be free of flammable liquids, clutters and chemicals.

The presence of a fire extinguisher is very important in the workshop!

3. Dropping Pieces of Hot Metal

Careless handling of hot metal also poses a great risk to you. When this drops, there is the tendency of injuring an exposed leg. This is why a safety boot is always recommended while using a plasma cutter. You can never be overdressed for safety. A hot piece of heavy metal dropping won’t only burn the toe but has the tendency to crush the toes! So dropping pieces of hot metal should be dreadfully avoided.

4. Dangerous Fumes

It is very important to be aware of the dangers involves in dangerous fumes that might come around during plasma cutting. The process of burning might cause toxic gases like Carbon monoxide, argon, and hydrogen fluoride to be released. Inhaling this can lead to serious health complications like eye, throat and lung irritation. When you’re exposed to these fumes for a very long time, there can be severe damage to the internal organs like the kidney, lungs, and liver.

As a result of this, it is important a welder takes a conscious step to get rid of these fumes. The choice of the plasma cutting machine matters. Also, having an engineering control, like a local exhaust ventilation, in place is very important. It helps you get rid of harmful fumes while on the job.

5. Electric Shock

The plasma cutter can also expose you to the risk of electric shock. As a result, you  need to take precautions to make sure that the plasma cutting machine and the associated wires are in top conditions, the earth wire should be properly grounded and no naked wire should be in sight.

You should use the necessary and recommended pair of gloves to avoid handling a conductor. Also, the protective clothing, jacket, and gloves should be free from moisture to avoid conducting electricity when working with your plasma cutter. The ground wire should also be in a very good condition to limit the risk of electric shock!

6. Handling metal Just After Cutting

This is a common mistake with many first-timers. Some welders might even be distracted and not realize that a metal just cut is usually extremely hot. Hence, even If you are with a glove, the metal can pierce the glove and burn the naked hand. This applies mostly to small pieces of metal.

I recommend that you give these pieces of metal enough time to cool down before picking them up. But, if it is necessary to pick up a metal while hot, a pair of vice – grips are better!

As evident from the risks listed above, plasma cutting is a dangerous exercise and taking the right precautions can help limit the dangers associated with it.

Having discussed the dangers and hazards associated with plasma cutting, I’ll proceed to discuss the necessary accessories that are very important and needed when using a plasma cutter!

What Equipment is Needed in the Shop to Run a Plasma Cutter?

1. The Right Power Hookup for the Plasma Cutter

“During the best plasma cuter review section of this guide” I pointed out that some machines operate either on the 110V or 220V or both power supply.

The power supply of the plasma cutter is able to convert a single or three phases AC voltage to a constant DC voltage from between 200 to 400VDC. This Direct Current voltage maintains the plasma arc while cutting.

This voltage also stabilizes the current given out due to the requirement of the nature and thickness of the material being handled.

2. Air Compressor

Also, in the section where I reviewed the top plasma cutter available, you will realize that some machines come with a built-in air compressor. But, if it didn’t come with one, for it to function appropriately a constant supply of air is required to get the desired pressure to make the cut.

3. Moisture Filter

A  moisture filter ensures that only clean and dry air, coming from the compressor, gets transferred to the plasma. This is a good practice that will keep your plasma cutter functioning at optimum capacity. Most air filters go for averagely $60.

4. Wire Wheel or Grinder

In a case where you have to cut metals or materials with paints on them, you will have to grind down the surface or path around the cut. This is to ensure that the naked metal is exposed to the plasma. The reason is that paint, being highly flammable, can catch fire during the cutting process.

This isn’t very compulsory, but it’s advantage is that you get an improved visibility line.

5. Plasma Torch

A plasma torch is essential to give the necessary alignment as well as cooling down of the consumables. To form an arc generation, the major consumable parts are the swirl, the electrode, nozzle, and ring.

There is the need for an extra shielding cap which can help improve the cut quality.

There are many brands of plasma cutter in the market. Hence, choosing the most appropriate one can be very confusing, especially for someone that has no prior knowledge. In this regards, in the next section I’ll discuss how to choose the best and most appropriate plasma cutter.

How to Choose the best Plasma Cutter?

Plasma cutter is a very important welding tool for every form of welding operation. It makes the cutting of metal and other hard substances very easy, accurate and fast. This is due to the new designs and technology that backs up the plasma cutting machine.

Quite a lot of plasma cutting machines exist in the market. This alone can get anyone who wants to buy a plasma cutter confused on the most suitable one to use. In view of this, I’ll explain how to go about selecting the best plasma cutter and what you should consider before making the final choice.

Discussed below are the necessary considerations you should look at before selecting a plasma cutter.

1. Cutting Speed

One of the most important factors to consider in selecting a plasma cutter is the cutting speed. The basic thickness of the metal you will be handling and the desired cutting speed are things you have to know before selecting a plasma cutter. Basically, a plasma cutter provides cutting in three different quality which are the rated cut, quality cut, and severe cut.

• The rated cut is the best cut one can expect from a plasma cutting machine. This is the plasma that is able to handle mild and fairly thick steel at the highest cutting speed. Since it isn’t handling a very thick metal, the cut is clean and smooth
• A plasma cutter rated quality cut, on the other hand, is able to handle thick materials. Only that it takes more time to finish the cutting.
• A plasma rated severe cut is able to handle very thick materials really slow. The disadvantage of severe cut rated plasma cutter is that they don’t produce a quality cut. Also, the cut requires to be cleaned up. Even though it cuts slowly, the speed picks up as the thickness of the metal decreases

Examining the average thickness of the metal that will be cut as well as the desired cutting speed is one of the guiding factor in selecting the best and most desired plasma cutter!

2. Duty Cycle

One of the very important factors you need to consider in selecting a plasma cutter is the duty cycle of the plasma cutter. Should you desire to use a plasma cutter frequently but not over and over for a very long period of time, the maximum amperage output should be the guiding factor in selecting the plasma cutter. The more the amperage output of the plasma cutter, the more the duty cycle.

On the other hand, if you will be using them over and over for a very long time, then you should select a plasma cutter based on the average size of the material you will be cutting. In this case, considering the maximum thickness that the plasma cutter can deal with is the way to go.

3. Pilot to Cut and Cut to Pilot Transfers

When the pilot arc is brought near the work piece, then one will have a transfer from the pilot arc to the cutting arc. As a result, a plasma cutting machine that gives a fast and reasonable transfer from pilot to cut at a huge transfer height.

These type of plasma cutters make much sense and will be useful for gouging, ideal for proper fitting when welding heavy plate. How do you test advanced characteristics? You can do this by cutting expanded gratings or metal. This will require the machine to switch from pilot to cut and back to the pilot as fast as possible.

4. Portability

Although the portability is not one of the most important factors, it is still essential for some users. A portable plasma cutter can come in handy for some folks which will be very important to their job.

If you will have a plasma cutter that will be stationary for as long as possible, and the materials to be sliced will always be brought to your shop, then the size and weight of the plasma cutting machine might not matter. But, if you’ll be moving the plasma cutter a lot, especially to various job sites, then portability is an important factor.

Most of the plasma cutter that I mentioned in “ the best plasma cutter review section” are very compact and light in weight. Technology has made them abundant these days!

5. Safety of the Device

Plasma cutting is a hot job which presents a lot of hazard to you, the work environment and the neighbors around. Also, the voltage needed to establish an arc for a plasma cutter is usually as high as 300VDC. One of the safety factors to keep you safe is the nozzle.

Having the machine on without the nozzle can result in a serious accident. Thanks to the improvement in technology, there are sensors that detect the nozzle. These sensors prevent the machine from coming up when the nozzle is disconnected.

The pre-flow sequence is another safety factor that comes with the plasma cutting machine. This feature warns you before the arc is triggered. Another safety factor essential in a plasma cutting machine is the three-second pre-flow safety, this is important to warn and alert you in case of any obstruction on the part of the nozzle before the arc comes on!

6. Ease and Comfortable to Use

A plasma cutter with procedures clearly imprinted on the machine is best. This will help in setting up the machine and all diagnostic functions. Also, take note of the feeling of the torch in your hands. It should be comfortable with good ergonomics!

7. How Does the Plasma Cutter Start?

Air is a very good insulator. In establishing a plasma, the air has to ionize to get the necessary current flow needed. Ideally, plasma cutters should have a pilot arc that makes use of high frequency to turn the air into a conductor. With this, getting the machine to start will be easy. It does come with some cons anyway. The excessive frequency generated can interfere with equipment like PC and co.

Thus, if there are sensitive PCs or OC powered accessories around, it is recommended that one go with an alternate method in getting the plasma cutter to start working!

The lift arc method can get rid of this issue. It employs a DC positive nozzle alongside a DC negative electrode in it. At first, the electrode and the nozzle will be in touch. On pulling the trigger, there will be a current flow between the nozzle and the electrode which draws the nozzle away. This forms the pilot. The switch from pilot to a cutting arc happens when the pilot arc is moved near the work piece. This movement is triggered by the electric potential that goes from the nozzle to the work piece.

8. Primary Power

There are two main elements involves in plasma cutting – air and electricity. Thus in selecting a plasma cutter, it is important to know the type of input power source is available. For a 115 primary service, there is no cause for alarm. There are many 12- and 25-amp plasma cutters that operate on the 115 or 230V power supply. Thus, with an input circuit of 30 – amp, there will be an equal cutting capacity at the two voltages.

Miller Electric comes with a unique power technology known as Auto – Line. Basically, a machine with auto – line can accept input voltage in the rage of 190 to 630 V, which can be single or three phase. The interpretation of this is that the plasma cutter can be used with any source of power. Also, if the main source of power rises or falls (within the 190 to bucks630V range), the machine will work seamlessly.

Source of input power is one of the most important factors that you mustn’t overlook when buying a plasma cutter. The reason is simple – all plasma cutters require an excessive amount of electricity for effective operation. Generally, a plasma cutter will either use a 110 volts power supply or a 220 volts power supply. All plasma cutter do come with amperage ratings. The best way to select your plasma cutter is to choose something with a minimum amperage rating that works with the electrical outlet of your workshop.

Also, it is recommended that you have a separate and dedicated power outlet source for the plasma cutter. Using a single source with a plasma cutter and other electrical appliances can reduce power supply to the plasma cutter which can affect the performance.

9. Consumable Cost and Consumable Life

There are some consumable items that go along with plasma cutting torches that will have to be replaced regularly.  Take the handheld torch, for instance, the shield, the nozzle, the retaining cap, swirl ring, and the electrode should be easily replaced. Asides, once the plasma cutter’s performance goes down, these parts should be replaced. This is part of the hidden cost.

As a result of this, I advise going for a plasma cutting machine with limited number of consumable parts. The smaller the consumable, the less the parts to replace which translates to less extra cost in the long run. Asides, in getting the plasma cutter, there should be information on the manufacturer’s user guide on the long the consumables will last.

A couple of manufacturers prefer to classify their consumables by the number of cuts, while others prefer the number of starts as their basics. For instance, production equipment that operates all the time will have a wear profile different from a similar one that works at an interval.

10. Brand

The brand manufacturing the plasma cutter should also be considered in selecting the most suitable plasma cutter for your use. You have to do a thorough research about the best brands. I’ll advice you to choose one of the brands mentioned earlier in the article, they are brands that have established themselves as an authority in the welding accessories field.

The review of other users and their experience with a particular product is another way to judge and decide the most effective plasma cutter user can select.

11. Cut Quality

The quality of the cut you will be getting from your plasma cutting machine is also critical. This is because it has a direct effect on your finished products and it also makes your work fast. When you have a tidy and smooth edge, you will waste no extra time on a secondary job.

The importance of a tidy and smooth cut can’t be overemphasized. This is why a good plasma cutter will give very narrow kerfs (the cut width). This translates to less wasted materials and very accurate cuts!

12. Pilot Arc

As evident from the above, it takes planning and research to select the best plasma cutter. Mind you, it doesn’t end at selecting the best plasma cutter. You have to service it properly as this can affect its durability. In fact, I have discovered that when a plasma cutter develops a fault, it is usually due to the faults in the other system components like consumables, air and not the plasma cutter itself.

Having discussed the main factors to consider before selecting a plasma cutting machine, I’ll proceed to discuss the step by step guide on how to cut with the plasma cutting machine.

How Do I Cut With a Plasma Cutter?

Without any doubt, a plasma cutter is a great machine meant to make work easier.  But, if not handled properly, using it won’t be very easy.

The following are a step by step guide on how to use the plasma cutting machine, it’ll make using the machine very easy if followed diligently.

Step 1 – Be Safety Conscious

Plasma cutting is a dangerous exercise which requires being safety conscious. Thus, before commencing anything at all, you want to make sure you have taken all necessary safety precautions. Be sure to be fully kitted from head to toe – welding jacket, eye protection, gloves, your pair of boot, your beanie etc. Also, make sure all flammable materials are out of the working area.

Step 2 – Be Aware of the Effects

For first time users, I advise that you are fully aware of the potential effect of the cutting process before starting the cutting operation at all. In other words, be prepared for excessive noise, very high temperatures, fumes, UV radiations etc. There are times you will have to deal with molten metal!

Step 3 – Prepare the Workshop/Work Area

Asides getting rid of flammable materials, there are other things you need to do to prepare for the cutting process. For instance, you need a well-ventilated workspace for the cutting process due to the intense heat produced. Also, you have to get the air compressor started on time in order to build the needed air pressure needed for cutting.

Step 4 – Select the Right Cutter

If you will be using a plasma cutter for the first time, I will advise you go with a version that is pretty easy to use. New designs are recommended as you don’t have to adjust the pressure!

Step 5 – Be Aware of the Thickness of Your Work Piece

Before commencing the cutting process at all, you have to measure the thickness of the metal you need to cut. This is because the thickness of the metal decides the size of your cutter. A 375 spectrum, for instance, is able to cut 3/8 inch of steel.

Step 6 – Connect to the Power Source

One of the main things to be careful about in using your plasma cutter is the power source. The good news here is that plasma cutters can work with varieties of input power such as 1 phase, 3 phase, 50 Hz and 60 Hz. You must make sure you use the right and recommended power source for the machine!

Step 7 – Placing and Preparing Your Work Piece

The metal that needs to be cut should be positioned on the vice, sawhorses or clamped to the work table – a flat surface. I recommend using any wooden table. You should be careful and certain that when the metal is cut and it falls, it will hit neither you nor the chord of the plasma.

After setting your work piece, clean the path of cut with a grinder or wire piece, especially if it is a painted material. Also, mark your cut line with a metal chalk or any marking tool you have.

Step 8 – Working With the Torch

This is the point where you proceed to work with the torch. Grab the torch of the plasma cutter and point close to the metal surface. On pulling the trigger, the pilot arch will start

Step 9 – Move the Torch

On pulling the trigger, move the touch to commence the cutting arc. Be certain that it is piercing the metal to its bottom. In a perpendicular position, hold the torch and maneuver it around the work piece

Step 10 – Judge the Speed

On moving the torch, you should be able to decide if you are making meaningful progress. An easy way to do this is to look for spark beneath the metal. It there is no spark, the plasma cutter’s speed is wrong. It’s also pointing to the fact that the work piece hasn’t been penetrated through

Step 11 – Adjust the Speed

Some minor adjustments will allow you to fix any issue with the speed. You also need to have adequate output amperage, in this regard, the speed with which you move should be minimal in order to make it effective!

Step 12 – Be careful With the Finishing Cut

You need to be very careful with the finishing cut. You should have your torch angled on getting to the finishing point. Also, you could hold on for a while when getting to the final bit, hold on and then proceed.

Step 13 – Allow Work Piece to Cool

When done with the cutting, put the cutter away in a safe place then allow to cool off and keep on a noncombustible surface. A good plasma cutter should be equipped with a cooling system which should cool the unit after use.

Now that you are aware of how to use a plasma cutter, I’ll take you through a list of the frequently asked questions and the appropriate solutions for them.

FAQs on Plasma Cutter For Beginners.

I present some questions that might answer your concern on the use of plasma cutter below:

1.    Do I need a Plasma With an Inbuilt Compressor?

“In the section on the top plasma cutter review above” I mentioned that some plasma cutter that comes with compressors. These plasma cutters do give a constant supply of air while the machine is cutting. These types of plasma cutter are recommended for users that will be working in places without access to air compressor.

The cons with these types of machine is that they are usually expensive and underpowered. A plasma cutter with an air compressor is recommended if you will be moving the plasma cutter a lot.

2.    What is the Pilot Arc? Do I need it?

If you have a quality plasma cutter, it should come with a pilot arc. The meaning of this is the ability to make a cut with the plasma cutter’s torch without making contact with the metal/work piece. On using a pilot arc, you are required to hold the tip of the torch near the metal.

The advantage of this is that you are able to make a smooth cut as well as prolong the life of your consumables. You will also have a smooth and neat cut, especially if you are cutting expanded steel.

On the other hand, a non-Pilot Arc plasma cutting machine is pretty cheap. In using it, the torch tip of your metal has to touch the metal for you to cut. The disadvantage of this is obvious – you waste consumables. Hence, the few extra bucks that is required for a pilot arc enabled plasma cutting machine is so worth it!

3.    What are Consumables and How Often Do I Need to replace them?

The part of the torch of your plasma cutter that wears out after several cuts are called the consumables. Consumables come in various types like the deflectors, shield, nozzles, retaining caps, swirl rings, and electrodes, all on the torch. How long these components will last differs, depending on how often you use the machine.

The good news is that you can get these consumables from manufacturers. Thus, when you have a worn out part, you can easily order for it, replace and continue working. It’s also very easy to dismantle. There are consumable kits from manufacturers with all the essential parts that you can buy.

4. How Does Plasma Cutting Compare to Oxyfuel Cutting?

Plasma cutter works perfectly with any type of metal as long as it is conducive such as aluminum, carbon, mild steel and stainless steel. Mild steel gives operators faster and thicker cuts compared to alloys.

The principle of cutting with oxyfuel is oxidation or burning of the base metal. The cons with oxyfuel are that it is limited to steel and other ferrous metals which supports the process of oxidation. Aluminum, stainless steel and other forms of metal disrupt further oxidation process. This prevents oxyfuel from being a good cutting tool. On the other hand, plasma cutting doesn’t work with oxidation hence, it is able to cut stainless, aluminum and many other conductive materials.

Although the various type of gases are applicable to plasma cutting, compressed air from an air compressor is often used. Some plasma cutting machine comes equipped with a compressor, and , compressed air is readily available. This removes the need for using fuel gas and compressed oxygen in the cutting operation.

It is pretty easy to cut with a plasma cutter, and it is much easier to use a plasma cutter on thinner materials compared to oxyfuel cutting.

5. Is there any Limitation to Plasma Cutting?

There are some applications where oxyfuel and other cutting method are preferred. Oxyfuel, for instance, is able to cut very thick sections of steel – more than one inch – and cuts way faster than a plasma cutter.

Plasma cutting machine is also expensive compared to oxyacetylene. Some users also prefer torch cutting compared to plasma cutting due to the fact that they operate independently of compressed air and electric power. This makes it a more preferred method for some welders.

Users do benefit from the plasma cutting technology due to pre-existing shop services. This will translate to little cost. Also, the cost of consumables like fuel and oxygen is reduced.

6. Why Do I Prefer Plasma Cutter but not Laser or Water Jet?

The reason is the cost of cut per inch of thickness. It is relatively high in terms of cost to cut per inch of thickness with laser and water jet when compared to a plasma cutter. Thus, plasma cutter saves time, and cost when cutting both ferrous and non-ferrous work piece.

7. Can Plasma Cutter be used for Cutting Aluminum and Stainless?

Yes, Plasma cutter can handle anything metal. IF you have a standard plasma cutting machine with you, it will handle the job seamlessly.

8. Why Should You prefer a Quality Plasma Cutter?

Getting a quality plasma cutter is preferred for many reasons. First of all, I would like you to see the plasma cutter as an investment rather than an ordinary tool. And with all investments, it will pay for itself over the years to come. Thus, over the years that you will be using it, it will serve you better, compared to going for a cheap tool that might not last you for long. With a quality plasma cutter, you save money!

Conclusion: The best Plasma Cutter Review

Plasma cutters are interesting tools that give a superb performance. This plasma cutter review has been compiled based on my personal experience as well as surveys from close friends and relatives. So, you can be rest assured that all descriptions, analysis, advantages and disadvantages of each machine given are honest!

As indicated in the previous section, getting a plasma cutting machine is a very good investment as a welder. Thus, on making an investment this expensive, you have got to be serious, fully equipped with the best information and analysis before heading to the market.

My plasma cutter is one of my most useful and loved equipment because it makes my work so fast and elegant, I owe most of my success in welding to using the best and most efficient equipment. This is why I wrote a review on the best plasma cutters available. Be assured that choosing any of the top plasma cutting machine mentioned will be a very wise decision and like I always say “you can never go wrong with the right plasma cutter!“

Getting a plasma cutter is one of the best investments I ever made, get yours so you can know how it feels to work seamlessly. With the right plasma cutter, the future is now!

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Best Plasma Cutter Reviews

#1 — REVCO BX9C-2XL WELDING JACKET REVIEW

The Good

First up, we have the Revco DSX Welding Jacket. One of the better and thicker welding coats on the market, Revco is excellent at protecting your arms from getting singed and your clothes from getting burned.

The thick coating makes it also very warm, which is excellent if you’re planning to work in colder weather. The coat also has an adjustable cuff and wrist straps for a better fit.

VIEW ON AMAZON

The Bad

The coat is thick — but it is too thick on occasion. The added layers that offer such excellent protection make the coat very hot, and you won’t be able to wear it long in warm weather without it stretching.

Not only that, but the jacket, being made of cotton, suffers from what all cotton welding coats suffer — they can burn through at a quicker rate than most.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is a good welding jacket. It might not last as long if you’re an ardent welder, but for light welding during winter months, it might be just what you need.

Read more: https://www.behance.net/gallery/71997345/10-best-welding-jacket-and-buying-guide

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from Stories by David Brain on Medium https://ift.tt/2yGKaCI

The Good

First
up, we have the Revco DSX Welding Jacket. One of the better and thicker
welding coats on the market, Revco is excellent at protecting your arms
from getting singed and your clothes from getting burned.

The
thick coating makes it also very warm, which is excellent if you’re
planning to work in colder weather. The coat also has an adjustable cuff
and wrist straps for a better fit.

VIEW ON AMAZON

The Bad

The
coat is thick – but it is too thick on occasion. The added layers that
offer such excellent protection make the coat very hot, and you won’t be
able to wear it long in warm weather without it stretching.

Not
only that, but the jacket, being made of cotton, suffers from what all
cotton welding coats suffer – they can burn through at a quicker rate
than most.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is a good welding
jacket. It might not last as long if you’re an ardent welder, but for
light welding during winter months, it might be just what you need.

Check out best welding jacket: https://www.behance.net/gallery/71997345/10-best-welding-jacket-and-buying-guide

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10 Best Welding Jacket and Buying Guide

Say what you may but there is no denying the fact that being a welder exposes you to an array of dangers, the onus is on you to select the best welding jacket to protect you against the work-related hazard.

Prevention they say is better than cure, is there any better way to protect your body from wielding related hazards than by wearing safety apparels that is both affordable and effective in playing the much desired “protection role.”

To effectively protect against hazards, welders must insist on welding jackets made from suitable materials which would make the jacket at least fireproof.

Sit back and fasten your seat belt while I take you on a short trip to discover to great extent things or features to look out for while selecting the best welding jacket. For this purpose, ten welding jackets shall be reviewed.

​Note: ​You also need to wear welding helmet, welding boots and welding gloves before working. Read more:​​​

• ​20 Best auto darkening welding helmet and review
• ​10 best welding boots and review
• ​15 best welding gloves and review

​Table of Contents

10 Best Welding Jacket

The Benefit of wearing welding jackets

Leather Vs. Cotton Welder Jacket

How to Choose Right Welding Jacket For Your Job

Washing your jacket

Question and answer

10 Best Welding Jacket

#1. Miller Electric 2241909 Welding Jacket, Navy, Cotton/Nylon, XL

Made from a blend of cotton and nylon this pocket-friendly welding jacket by Miller Electric is the first to be reviewed. The Navy Blue jacket comes with a chest size of 50 inches and a closure type of Snap Button, this might appear to be bigger than the average but who cares so far it can protect against heat while on the job.

The job of a welder is to weld metals and not to show fashion sense while at work.

Pros

• This jacket combines elegance with comfort and affordability, its neck collar protects the back and the neck region against molten metal especially when working under a surface.

Cons

• The jacket is designed for lightweight metal or aluminum work. As I said earlier on it is made wholly from cotton and nylon this makes its heat resistance ability to be limited.

Verdict.

Having used this jacket personally, I can confidently say it offers a great value for the purchase price it is comfy and protective. But it must be noted it is not suitable for heavy metal or aluminum work.

#2. BXRB9C-L BSX STRYKER FR WELDING JACKET — REVCO

This lightweight jacket comes with a very eye catchy design. Contributing to its elegance apart from its beautiful color is its blue flame pattern which is visible on its sides and contoured body. The elegant jacket fits perfectly on the welder as he performs his welding tasks.

The jacket was designed with adjustable waist straps, it is also designed with cuff snaps. There are also inside pockets to compensate for its lack of open packet, one of the inside pockets even has a zipper.

Pros

• The jacket is sturdy and flame resistant apart from that having no open pocket makes it even safer as sparks cannot land and ignite there. The welding collar is also effective in blocking off flying sparks, it does this in absolute precision.

Cons

• The jacket doesn’t cover the whole body well it exposes the belly and back area of the body. It is only suitable for light welding work

Verdict.

This jacket is very comfortable, moving up and down while on it was really easy. As beautiful and elegant it looks its use should be restricted to light MIG and FIG application.

#3. QEES Genuine Leather Welding Jacket 103CM Long Heavy Duty Welding Clothes Velcro Coat

Made from heavy duty genuine cow leather, this brown welding jacket offers protection to the welder up to his knee level. It was designed with a high collar, adjustable straps and double stitched seams.

The jacket also has a large pocket to fit in some small tools which you might need as you perform your welding task. Protecting the arms and torso from welding spatter and heat.

Pros

• It offers great protection at a very affordable price. The arms and the torso are well protected against welding spatter and heat. The high collar protects the neck region and to cap it all it was not made exclusively for welders. It can also be used by mechanics and blacksmiths. It is also highly durable.

Cons

• In addition to its somehow foul smell, it is not suitable for heavyweight welding work. Moving about in the jacket can also be hard.

Verdict.

​The designers of this leather jacket hold safety in high esteem, it is safe to say that this is a perfect blend of affordability and protection. The foul smell could be neutralized by spraying deodorants on the jacket.

In a bid to clean it you shouldn’t make the same mistake I made by putting it inside the water as this kind of deformed the jacket. A little brushing will do wonders in cleaning it.

#4. BLACK STALLION BSX® FR Welding Jacket — Black w/Red Flames — MEDIUM

This low budget heat and flame resistant jacket come with a stand-up collar, a dual scribe and inside pockets. Its waist straps and cuffs are adjustable to fit. It works for a chest measurement of approximately 56–58. Its design is so stylish that it could pass for a high-end shirt.

Pros

• If you are on a low budget, this is an ideal welding jacket for you. Unlike most other welding jackets it is cool and doesn’t really generate heat. Its coating makes it more heat and burns resistant. It is highly suitable for stick welding.

Cons

• The jacket cannot withstand high UV light, it is only suitable for light metal and aluminum work. It is also not durable

Verdict.

​This jacket is a further proof that you don’t have to break the bank before getting a welding jacket. Right from its first use, I realized that using it for heavyweight welding work will be disastrous.

#5. Caiman Black Boarhide — 30"Jacket, Welding-Apparel Large

This extra-large jacket was brilliantly made from boar hide and premium high-quality pigskin leather. Boar hides have been known to offer greater heat resistance to cowhide it is also cooler and affords you easier mobility while at work when compared to the cowhide.

The leather jacket features a vented back and underarms for maximum comfort, it also features an inside pocket.

Pros

• Its protective capacity is top-notch. Since it was made from boar hide leather you would naturally think it would be on the heavy side but surprisingly is of lightweight. It is a true industry fit welder jacket.

Cons

• It is not pocket-friendly.

Verdict.

​Perhaps this is the best jacket I have ever used in a while, after buying to test run it, I tried exposing myself to hot slag and sparks, guess what? It got me well covered. Colleagues have constantly been telling me they want this exact kind if you can afford it kindly go for it. This is surely a product that offers value for money.

#6. Steiner 1260-L 30-Inch Jacket, Weldlite Plus Navy Cotton, Rust Cowhide Sleeves, Large

This brilliantly designed two colored jackets was made from cotton with the sleeves made from cowhide leather which provides for more protection around the arm area. The jacket has a relaxed non-reflective snap front and wrist closure, relaxed full cut fit, Large inside pocket and a Leather reinforced snaps.

Pros

• The jacket is lightweight, abrasion resistance, flame resistant, anti-static and durable. You need not bat an eyelid while using it against sparks and splatter for it would protect you. Being lightweight also affords easy movement while working with it.

Cons

• Based on the materials used, it seems the designers dwelled more on protecting the arm as against a complete protection. There is no lining on the sleeves which makes it quite hard to get on.

Verdict.

​This is no doubt an excellent product for a great price, this jacket is best suited for stick welding or flux core MIG. It is too heavy for most standard MIG and undesirable for TIG. This is absolutely a premium jacket at a modest price. Kudos to the designers.

#7. West Chester IRONCAT IRONTEX 7050 Flame Resistant Cotton Welding Jacket, Large

This flame-resistant Jacket is made of 100 percent sateen cotton fabric. *Snap up jacket includes adjustable snaps at wrist for custom fit; hook and loop collar can lay flat or be worn around the neck for added protection. The jacket features a small inside pocket useful for keeping small items.

Pros

• As to be expected from a jacket made from cotton it is lightweight, comfortable and easy to carry about. It is highly affordable and fits perfectly on the body.

Cons

• The jacket was made wholly from cotton, cotton jackets offer minimum protection against slag and UV radiation. To be on the safer side its use should be limited to light welding work like core MIG welding. It can get a little warm on hot days.

Verdict.

​Here is another cheap jacket in a class of its own. I’d rather prefer it to be more elegant, the design looks just too basic to me, I feel the designers should add a little aesthetics at least color wise, the color seems a little boring to me. Apart from that considering its price I can say without mincing words that I got value for money.

#8. Hobart 770486 Leather Welding Jacket — XL

This extra-large brown jacket was made from real cowhide split leather, it features heavy-duty stitching which joined the seams together, reinforced snaps and it is unlined. It weighs around 11 pounds and measures 15.9 inches in height, 12.6 inches in length and 3.4 inches in width.

Pros

• It is suitable for almost all kinds of welding work whether light construction, metal fabrication at the industrial level or light domestic work and construction. While on it you need not worry yourself about molten metal, spatter and sparks.

Cons

• It is a little heavy mobility while on it may be a bit difficult. It can also get hot while on it.

Verdict.

​Unlike the previously reviewed jackets made mostly from cotton that eventually gets burned when exposed to heat over a long period, this jacket stood the test of time I have no regret buying it whatsoever but the buttons cannot be removed swiftly.

#9. Hobart 770568 Flame Retardant Cotton Welding Jacket — XXL

This Dark Gray lightweight jacket with long sleeves was made using flame retardant cotton, it features no lining, and heavy-duty snaps providing excellent coverage. It weighs 1 pound and a size of 9.9 x 1.3 x 1.3. It also features a pocket on the inside of the jacket.

Pros

• The jacket is light-weight which affords for easy mobility, highly suitable for light and medium construction work, it is most suitable for tack welding, grinding and MIG. The price is also pocket-friendly.

Cons

• It is most ideal in warmer temperatures and not colder temperatures. You cannot count on this jacket if your work will get you exposed to hot sparks as it is ineffective in deflecting them.

Verdict.

​Hobart has delivered yet another cotton jacket that provides reasonable protection at a pocket-friendly price, although I have used this jacket for all kinds of welding from light scale domestic welding to commercial welder work and I have been protected. I will not recommend it for heavy welding work because of its cotton material.

#10. Antra WCJ-121–2XL Flame Resistant Cotton Jacket Size 2XL

There is relatively little to say about this beautifully tailored flame resistant jacket by Antra since it is relatively a newcomer to the welding jacket market. The blue colored jacket was made wholly from cotton. With a size of 1.72 pounds, it is very easy to carry about and has no pocket.

Pros

• It is stylishly designed and affords for easy mobility while at work, it is suitable for lightweight welding tasks like stick welding and simple metal fabrication. It is also easily affordable.

Cons

• It is not suitable for high-end construction work, overexposure to heat will burn through, it also offers limited protection against UV lights.

Verdict.

​This beautiful jacket is better used by amateur welders or welders still undergoing training this should not come as a surprise considering its price and the materials it was made from. If you a welder in training or not into serious welding work and you want a flame resistant jacket at a pocket-friendly price then this is for you.

The Benefit of wearing welding jackets

The job of a welder is a dangerous one, a welder is at constant risk of electric shock which can be so serious as to take his life, they are also exposed to heat, sparks, metal, fumes and ultraviolet light which has been linked to cancer and other health implications.

A good welding jacket should be sturdy and made from fire-proofed materials. Below we present some of the benefits of wearing a good welding jacket.

Burn Protection

There is no denying the fact that being a welder exposes you to a lot of heat which can cause burn, a welding jacket should be able to handle sparks, and spills with ease. It is not just the molten metal itself, but also the heated welding equipment, workpiece, and the hot air around a work area.

Radiation Protection

At its least harmful, this radiation can cause ‘flash’ burns on the skin — an injury that looks like a burn, causing the skin to redden and blister. The exposure to radiation at high scale has a very tremendous negative effect on the body, radiation occurs more frequently on exposed parts of the skin.

An effective welding jacket should leave no opportunity for the radiation to pass through the body thereby protecting the wearer completely.

Fire protection

In case of a fire outbreak or disaster, a welding jacket being flame retardant makes it difficult for the wearer to get burnt. Any jacket that cannot protect at least reasonably against fire is not worthy to be called a welder jacket.

Leather Vs. Cotton Welder Jacket

Both jackets have their strengths and weaknesses and shall be discussed below.

Pros of wearing a leather jacket

• It is much more durable than cotton
• Leather jacket, when compared with cotton offers the most protection against fire and heat.

Cons of wearing a leather jacket

• It is heavy which makes mobility while wearing it a bit hard.
• Not suitable in warm climates.

Pros of wearing a cotton jacket

• It is relatively more affordable than a leather jacket
• It is lighter than a leather jacket. This affords for easy mobility while at work

Cons of wearing a cotton jacket

• It is not suitable for heavy metal work
• They offer the least fire resistant

How to Choose Right Welding Jacket For Your Job

From the above, it can be safely deduced that a leather jacket is much more favorable than a cotton jacket when performing high end and heavy-duty metal work. Cotton jackets should be used when performing medium or light welder work.

Based on over one-decade experience on handling all kinds of welding task ranging from the lightweight simple metal fabrication work to a high end heavy industrial welding task I can confidently say that these are key and salient features to be considered before choosing the welding jacket that suits your taste and meets up your job demand. They shall be discussed below.

Material

The stuff your welding jacket is made of should be the first thing you consider before selecting your jacket, as you might have realized during reading this blog, jackets are majorly made using flame resistant cotton and leather although there are a lot of jackets in the market that combines the two materials.

If you engage in heavy-weight welding work like working on a ship, high-end mig and tig welding etc. then your surest bet is to go for a jacket made majorly from leather as it is safer although it can be a little hard for you to move about. If you also work in a very cool climate a leather jacket is also better.

If you work on lightweight welding like stick welding and what have you, you might need nothing more than a jacket made majorly from cotton, the material is strong enough to protect you against heat, ultraviolet light etc. that you might get exposed to on your work.

Comfortability

Like in all kind of job if you are not comfortable there is no way you can give your best, believe me, you as a welder your comfortability on your apparel is very important, in choosing your jacket it is advised that you choose the one that offers maximum protection and maximum comfortability combined.

The work of a welder is hard enough the last thing you want to worry yourself about is your discomfort. From experience cotton jackets being lighter are more comfortable than a leather jacket.

Weather

As a welder, I have always taken into cognizance the weather condition before I adorn myself with a welder jacket, during winter I prefer the leather jacket for it protects in no small measure against the blistering cold and in summer I go for jackets made from cotton.

If you work in warmer countries or when the weather is quite warm then I recommend you chose a jacket made from cotton but if you work in extremely cold places like Antarctica then you need not be told that the leather jacket is your friend.

Colour

The color of a jacket is important in selecting the best jacket for you, apart from showing the elegance in your jacket, it is advisable for you to wear a bright colored jacket in the dark and a dark colored jacket in the light.

Personal bias or preference for or against some colors also determine the choice of color, I find it difficult adorning myself on red colored jackets, another color I cannot go for is color pink, you shouldn’t blame me I find the color girlish (no offense).

Durability

Just like selecting any item for buying, the durability or otherwise of the item is a great determinant to the decision to buy or otherwise not buy the item. You need not be told that to maximize the benefits you enjoy from using your jacket select a more durable jacket.

Another determinant to the durability of the jacket apart from the materials it was made from is its weight and size, I can remember selecting an oversize jacket I couldn’t use it for long because it robs me of my comfortability. I cannot sacrifice my comfortability especially with my welding job.

Cost

You don’t have to break the bank before you can select your jacket, cut your cloth according to your size. It is advisable that you chose what you can afford, from my years of experience I have noticed that leather jackets are costlier than their cotton counterparts this should not be a surprise cotton is way cheaper than leather.

While I recommend cutting your cloth according to your size I feel low price should not push you to buy jackets that are unsuitable for your kind of work, you can’t go for instance. Say because of its cheapness you select a full cotton jacket over a leather one in performing heavyweight welder work, that would be tantamount to playing Russian roulette with one’s life.

I have personally saved for a high-cost leather jacket before and I haven’t for once regretted it. Safety, comfort, durability should not be sacrificed for cheapness.

Brand

Some brands are popular for producing good quality jackets you can try them out but that is not to say that you should only go for popular brands, there are tons of reviews on the internet to help you select the best irrespective of the popularity or otherwise of the brand.

Washing your jacket

While it has been argued that cleaning of a jacket is not necessary since it is used for work and would always accumulate grime I strongly believe that to maintain its durability it is really important for the jackets to not only be cleaned but to also be cleaned properly.

The dirtier the jacket gets the stiffer it becomes and the stiffer it becomes the more it loses its comfort, dirty jackets also produce a rather repugnant smell.

To remove grime from your leather jacket, saddle soap can be effectively used, but to maintain the sturdiness of the jacket, it is better you apply some leather conditioner after the cleaning. You should not soak a leather jacket inside water it can have a negative effect on the leather, simply using little water to wipe the surface should suffice.

Cotton jackets, on the other hand, can be effectively washed just as we wash our regular clothes just that it is advisable that you add 3 to 4 spoon of fabric softener before drying, as should be expected drying takes more time.

You should not wash your welding jacket in a washing machine, and if your jacket is old and maybe you are not ready to get a new jacket, you can rub alcohol before beginning the washing process.

Question and answer

Flame resistant jackets or Leather for Welding?

It depends on the welding task you intend carrying on, for a lightweight welding task flame-resistant jacket is okay, but for heavyweight and industrial welding task then leather welding jacket is okay, other factors that determine the choice of jacket includes, comfortability, durability, and cost

How is the best way to soften a leather welding jacket?

By simply applying a leather conditioner on the jacket before wiping it off with a handkerchief or a small towel

Is there any good way to clean a leather welding jacket?

It can be cleaned effectively by applying wiping off the with washing soap and water.

Source: https://www.weldingrodeo.com/best-welding-jacket/

from Stories by David Brain on Medium https://ift.tt/2qhkPum

Using the best welding boots can make a big difference during any welding operation. Many people might not give preference to welding boots when thinking about the welding accessories to buy.

But, using the best welding boot is as important as your welding helmet, this is one factor that distinguishes qualified welder from others. You just can’t do without welding boots as they do an excellent work of giving your feet and toe protection from flying objects and to resist fire should something go wrong.

I understand that it could be a big task searching for the best welding boot. The fact that there are many welding boots out there that claim to be of good quality does not make things easy, so I have taken my time to share my experience with various welding boot and also review the 10 best welding boots available in the market today.

I hope you take your time to explore the various welding boots I have reviewed and select the most appropriate one for yourself.

Top 10 Welding Boots

Join me as I take you through the 10 best welding boots I found in the market

1. Dr. Martens Men’s Ironbridge MG ST Steel-Toe Met Guard Boot

Dr. Martens Guard boot is flexible, made of non-processed leather and very rugged. It comes with padded foot beds to give your feet the needed comfort while working. There is moisture wicking in the inner lining to reduce moisture from sweat that might occur while working.

The welt construction of the boot guards against moisture from seeping in. The boot is also oil-resistant hence, the boot can resist wear from chemical corrosion.It weighs just 38 ounces and sizes are available up to 14D

Pros

<li “=”“ class=” “The boot is resistant to water/lili ”=“” class=“ ”>It is very tough and easy to clean. <li “=”“ class=” “It has features meant to give the feet a very comfortable feel/lili ”=“” class=“ ”>The boot is very durable hence, will last long <li “=”“ class=” “The soles are slip resistance hence, gives a sturdy support/lili ”=“” class=“ ”>It can’t be corroded by chemicals <li “=”“ class=” “There is electrical hazard protection a well./li/ul/div/div/divdiv class="tcb-flex-col"div class="tcb-col"div class="thrv_wrapper thrv_text_element” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a0636a"p data-css="tve-u-165d6a06369” style=“text-align: center;"strongCons/strong/p/divdiv class="thrv_wrapper thrv_text_element"ul class=”“liIn extremely high temperatures, the sole might melt./li/ul/div/div/div/div/div/div/divdiv class="thrv_wrapper thrv_contentbox_shortcode thrv-content-box” style=“” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432ec” data-ct=“stylebox-8934"div class="tve-content-box-background” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432eb”/divdiv class=“tve-cb tve_empty_dropzone” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432e9"div class="thrv_wrapper thrv_contentbox_shortcode thrv-content-box” style=“” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432e5"div class="tve-content-box-background” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432e7”/divdiv class=“tve-cb tve_empty_dropzone"div class="thrv_wrapper thrv_heading” style=“” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432ed” data-tag=“h3"h3 data-css="tve-u-165d6a432ef” style=“text-align: center;” id=“tab-con-2"2. Iron Age Men’s Ground Breaker IA5016 Work Boot/h3/div/div/divdiv class="thrv_wrapper tve_image_caption img_style_framed” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432ee"span class="tve_image_frame” style=“width: 100%;"img class="tve_image” alt=“” width=“500” height=“413” title=“81gufae5U%2BL._UX500_.jpg” src=“//images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81gufae5U%2BL._UX500_.jpg” style=“width: 100%;”/span/divdiv class=“thrv_wrapper thrv_text_element” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432ea"pThis is a very good welding boot which is made of leather for welders fed up of low-quality welding boot. It comes with a synthetic sole which makes it resistant for any hazard on the floor or from flying fire arcs./pp /ppIt comes at different prices and offers a firm fit for your feet. The design and workmanship put into this welding booth is impressive/p/divdiv class="thrv_wrapper thrv-columns” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432f5"div class="tcb-flex-row tcb–cols–2” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432f6"div class="tcb-flex-col"div class="tcb-col"div class="thrv_wrapper thrv_text_element” data-css=“tve-u-165d6a432f4"p data-css="tve-u-165d6a432f3” style=“text-align: center;"strongPros/strong/p/divdiv class="thrv_wrapper thrv_text_element"ul class=”“li ”=“” =“”=“” class=“ ”>Synthetic weather makes it resistant to damages <li “=”“ =”“=”“ class=” “Protects against electrical hazards/lili ”=“” =“”=“” class=“ ”>The boot was made with Goodyear construction featuring Kevlar sewing thread on welt <li “=”“ =”“=”“ class=” “Provides sturdy support for the feet/lili ”=“” =“”=“” class=“ ”>Full leather construction

Cons

• Boots are heavy
• Feet could hurt after continuous usage

3. Caterpillar Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot

This Caterpillar work boot gets you set for the task ahead with strength and flexibility. It is built with Climasphere inside to keep your sole fresh and cool while working.

There is the ASTM compliant steel toe to keep the toe against injuries. The sole is built with slip-resistant features to give your feet a grip while working.

It is made with pull up leather to give your feet extra comfort and breathability during the task.

Pros

<li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Goodyear welt construction <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Slip-resistant outsole gives a firm grip <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Very durable <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>You will enjoy extra support with the steel shank structure <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>All day support with the removable sock liner <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>CAT metatarsals guard guides the feed from impact and other forms of attacks <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>The boots give a very secure and supportive feeling <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>You will not experience rubbing as the ankles have the support of a padded collar at the top.

Cons

• They could be heavy and cumbersome to wear
• Minor discomfort due to the metguard

4. Timberland PRO Men’s 40000 Met Guard 6’ Steel Toe Boot

The Timberland PRO Men’s Safety boot is designed to help working professional be on top of their game. These high-performance shoes provide comfort, protection, and durability at its peak.

Designed to follow the natural shape of the feet, the Hinged Met Shield makes squatting comfortable. They are made of very light and flexible materials without sacrificing the comfort of the feet. Timberland has been meticulous in the construction of these boots so as to meet and even surpass ASTM safety standards.

It comes with a steel shank and carefully streamlined footbed. This is to give the feet the needed support. It is the perfect fit for your work deals with petrol, oil or other greasy liquid

Pros

<li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Protects against electrical hazards with the slip resistance ridged rubber outsole <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Constructed with flame resistant materials <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>The boot features a Goodyear construction featuring Kevlar sewing thread on welt <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Resistant to oil, heat, and slipping <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>It features a metatarsal shield to protect the toe from heat and other forms of impact

Cons

• Boots are heavy

5. Caterpillar Men’s Revolver Pull-On Steel-Toe Boot

I do fancy the Caterpillar revolver boot because of the simple design. The simplicity did not in any way sacrifice the comfort and protection it is meant to give. It is designed with a full – grain upper leather construction. Hence, the durability is not negotiable.

The rubber sole makes it resistant to slip and corrosion from oil or chemicals, providing excellent traction. Immediately you put on this Caterpillar revolver boot, you can feel a breath of comfort for your feet. It comes with padded collar support at the ankles which helps guard against rubbing.

It weighs just 2 pounds

Pros

<li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Strong metatarsals to protect against any form of impact <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Quality leather material increases their level of comfort and durability <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Rubber sole provides excellent traction <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Protects against electrical hazards <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>Very, very durable <li “”=“” class=“ class=”>You will enjoy a dry foot as a result of the climasphere lining

Cons

• Slight discomfort as a result of the outer metatarsal steel tongue

6. Stanley Men’s Dredge Steel-Toe Work Boot

I would admit, this is one of the most comfortable welding boot I have ever own. I once used it for ten straight hours without any iota of discomfort. This is not surprising as it is made with a complete grain leather.

The Stanley Men’s welding boots are light hence provides a grip firm and maximum support while working. The manufacturer carefully engineered the both for reinforced durability and comfort while working. Asides, there are moisture wicking –lining to absorb sweats and prevent water from sipping in while working.

Pros

• It is very light and comfortable
• Rubber sole for excellent traction
• Steel shank for extra rigidity
• Resistant to slip and oil
• Pretty durable and affordable
• It is very durable
• Extra protection feature from the TPU toe cap
• Excellent cushion from the removable EVA insole

Cons

• Leather could be a little thin

7. 6” Steel Toe Work Boots – Timberland Style – Oil Slip Resistant Safety Shoes

If you seek a very durable good welding boot, I would recommend this 6” Steel Toe Work Boots – Timberland model. I can guarantee it’s durability because I have a friend who has been using it for 20 years.

The manufacturer carefully constructed safety and comfort into this welding boot. As a result, there are various features that ensure maximum safety for the user’s feet during operation. It was made with original Nubuck leather alongside a synthetic Goodyear welt design. Hence, it is not surprising this welding boot last long.

Thus, when you own this welding boot, you need not worry about metal shavings or flying object injuring your feet.

Pros

• Heavy-duty steel to protect the toe
• It last really long
• Features like Goodyear welt construction and the removable cushion gives extra comfort.
• Rubber outsole to guard against slippery surface
• Designed to reduce muscle strain and stress on the leg
• Guards against electrical hazards
• Welding boots are not heavy
• Price is pretty affordable

Cons

• The absence of lateral support might make the boot roll when on the slope

8. GW Men’s 1606ST Steel Toe Work Boots

The GW men’s welding boot sets a unique standard for durability, comfort and protection. Made with genuine nubuck leather, they are carefully crafted to withstand all harsh welding conditions and also survive the test of time.

It features a rubber sole to give it firm traction with a steel toe for protection. You don’t need to worry about the boot being corroded by water or any other chemical as it was made with tested materials proven to guard against just corrosion

Pros

• The boot was made with Goodyear welt construction
• One of the cheapest welding boots available
• Genuine Nubuck leather guaranteed to prolong its life
• Rubber sole hence gives a firm grip on the floor
• Resistant to water and other corrosives

Cons

• If you prefer a welding boot with high heels, this might not be the best for you.

9. EVER BOOTS “Protector Men’s Steel Toe Industrial Work Boots Safety Shoes Electrical Hazard Protection

When it comes to designing comfort into your welding boot, I will give it up for EVER BOOTS "Protector Men’s Steel Toe. Not only for welders, but it is also appropriate for all professionals like Engineers, carpenters, handyman, construction workers, plumber etc.

The outsole is multilayered hence there are enough provisions to keep users comfortable while going about their task in the boot. Asides, there is enough steel shank to support the ball of your foot. Hence, this keeps pressure off while keeping your feet stable while walking.

It is made of pure leather hence durable with a rubber sole which provides a firm grip on the floor.

Pros

• It is very cheap
• Steel toe for toe protection
• Resistant to oil, water, and other corrosive materials
• Ability to withstand up to 12,000 volts of electricity
• Multilayered outsole to enable your feet to withstand pressure without sacrificing comfort
• Good traction even on uneven surfaces
• Very impressive customer care service

Cons

• Eyelets are prone to breaking

10. Stanley Men’s Dredge Soft Toe Industrial and Construction Shoe

One of the features I love about Stanley Men’s Dredge Soft Toe is that they are just so easy to clean. These pair of welding boots are soft and made of ultra-light material. Thus, you will not feel excessive discomfort due to the weight of the boot.

It is recommended for all professionals especially people who will work while standing for a long period of time. As a result, there are features (the removable EVA foot bed for instance) to provide extra support for the feet to guard against all forms of discomfort.

I also love that this boot is very durable as I have got a friend using it for the past 2 years. He credits the design of the shoe as it gives his feet extra air circulation

Pros

• It is very cheap and last long
• Flexible rubber sole gives the needed traction
• It is light in weight
• Slip-resistant
• Can withstand corrosion from acid and other corrosive substance
• Detachable EVA foot bed give extra comfort, cushioning and shock absorption
• It is very easy to clean

Cons

• Boots could be somehow too loose

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT WELDING BOOTS

Welding in itself is a very dangerous activity. Hence, you are more exposed to the risk inherent in welding without the appropriate safety boots. While wearing a welding boot cold feel a little uncomfortable at first, it does a very good job of protecting the leg.

Below are some dangers to your feet when welding without a safety boot:

• Injuries and burn as a result of flying sparks
• Splatter from welding materials, irritating liquids or molten metals could cause injury
• Risk of stepping on an electric wire or sharp object
• Electric shock
• Risk of the object penetrating the sole of your feet
• Fall and slippage as a result of wet floor etc.

With the above in mind, it is obvious that the main reason for selecting a good safety boot is safety. Thus, you get to protect your leg and toes from injuries that could otherwise be deadly.

Looking at the dangers involved in not using a welding boot, it is a big risk not to use one as a welder. You just don’t go to the market and select a welding boot that appeals to you.

There are many things to be considered when choosing a welding boot. While I don’t trivialize aesthetics and design, comfort, ease of movement, materials etc are the factors that you should consider when selecting the right welding boot for you.

Key features to Consider When Choosing Safety Boots

1. Heat Resistant Material

Welding is a hot job that required continuous exposure to very high temperatures. Asides, irrespective of the type of welding you are operating, heat will always be involved.

In this regards, it is important to consider leather, as it is one of the most common heat resistant material. Hence, a leather made welding boot keeps your feet secured against extreme temperatures and some of the hazards described above like sparks, molten metal, and electric shock.

Also, leather materials are often resistant to water and other corrosive materials.

2. Slip-On or Lace-Up Design

Majorly, there are two basic welding boots design: the slip on and the lace-up design,

The lace-up design: 

The lace-up boots give a more comfortable fit. With the lace, the tightness of the welding boot can be adjusted to give a secure and comfortable fit.

One con about welding boots with lace design is the risk of the lace catching fire from sparks. Asides, the lace makes removing the welding boot quite tedious.

If you prefer a welding boot with a lace design, I recommend that you opt for boots with leather guards to cover the lace. This reduces the risk of catching fire from sparks.

The Slip-on Boot

These slip-on boots do rise up the calves, giving more protection. Due to the absence of slip, it is very easy to put on and remove. Asides, the risk of the lace catching fire is off the table.

The downside is that it is not as comfortable as the lace up design.

3. Shock Resistance

In welding, you have to deal directly with electrical equipment. In other words, there could be wires on the floor with the risk of accidentally stepping on a naked wire. Asides that, there could be static discharges on conductive materials and metals which could lead to an electric shock.

With this in mind, I recommend choosing a welding booth that is resistant to shock. The best welding boot in this category is those with rubber outsoles. Most of them can withstand electric shocks up to a thousand volt.

4. Safety Toes

Welding in itself is a pretty dangerous exercise and so is the welding environment. As a result, having the best welding boots on is not negotiable. When classifying welding boots based on safety toes, there are three major types. These are the steel, composite and aluminum.

Worthy of note is that these varieties all satisfy the ASTM protection. Your choice is a factor of your personal taste and your specific working environment. I discuss the types below:

• Steel toes: of all the three types, these are considered to be the heaviest. Steel toe caps are the basic choice for protection and can conduct temperature better than other options. There are new designs that improve the comfort and fit. I also recommend that you go with a steel toe cap that is light without sacrificing safety.
• Aluminum toes: Aluminum toes can be said to be the most comfortable option. It is thicker than the steel toe type yet meets the ASTM safety requirement. They are recommended for welders who prefer a light welding boot.
• Composite Toes: While complying with ASTM safety standards, the best composite toes shoes are usually made of Kevlar, plastic or carbon fibers. It is the thickest of the three options and of course, lighter than the steel toe. Since it is non-metallic, it doesn’t transmit heat or electricity and also offers electrical safety
• Your choice when considering a safety boot is your personal preference and working condition. Should you be in an environment with the possibility of flying objects around, the steel toes option is recommended. But, if you don’t want to sacrifice comfort, I recommend the composite toe.

5. Guards – Metatarsal Boots

One of the main features to consider before selecting a safety welding boot is the metatarsal guard design. If you work in an environment with a high possibility of a critically heavy object falling, you need a welding boot with this feature. Welders will find this feature beneficial as their feet are protected from sparks, hot embers and flying materials

6. Comfort and Fit

Protection of your leg is essential while welding, it is not a license to sacrifice comfort. An extremely tight welding boot could make you sore with blisters after use. Asides, if the welding boot is not appropriate, you can suffer abrasions, corns and even worse. Hence, the welding boot of your choice should provide minimal discomfort.

While safety is very important while working, it is a bad idea to sacrifice comfort. This is because most times, you might be required to be in the welding boot all day. With time while using leather welding boots, it will stretch to conform to your feet size.

Before you buy a safety boot, make sure you are aware of your shoe size. This is particularly important if you are going to make your purchase online.

7. Sole of Your Welding Boot

The sole is another very important part of welding shoes. The material that makes up the sole should be durable enough to make your boot survive all kind of usage. Welding boots, as you will agree are usually subjected to rugged use. Hence, the sole should be tough enough to handle whatever is thrown at it.

Since work environment differs, it is essential to choose a sole appropriate for the working condition. One common factor all welding boots should have is slipping resistant. Slipping and falling while working could be catastrophic.

I discuss the basic types of sole available below:

• Rubber: Of all the welding boots available, rubber outsole is pretty common. This is a very rugged sole as it is resistant to oil, slip, and abrasion. Since I have been using my welding boot, I have never slipped let alone fall.Before you select your rubber outsole welding boot, I advise that you make sure that it offers maximum traction for all kind of surface (dry and wet).
• TPU (Thermo Polyurethane): If you will be working in an environment prone to oil, chemical, abrasive material, and other corrosives, the TPU sole is highly recommended. Of the three types of a sole, they are the most durable.TPU is tough, light in weight and does not split compared to other options.
• EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate) Midsole: Ideally, you welding boot should give you maximum stability while working. The EVA midsole is like foam, light in weight and flexible. It is very comfortable as it gives the feeling of your feet on a cushion with every step.
• In selecting a welding boot based on the sole, your work environment should be the main determinant. Thus, it is recommended that you understand the hazards in your worksite before selecting your welding boot based on the sole.

8. Durability

It will be bad having to buy a pair of welding boot every year. Hence, your welding boot should be strong and rugged enough to withstand the harshness of the work environment.

9. Slip resistance

A slippery welding boot is a disaster waiting to happen. Hence, your choice of welding boot should have good traction on any surface. Most welding boots are designed with slipping in mind anyway.

10. Height

For maximum safety, the overall height of your welding boot is equally necessary. There are cases you might have to bend or weld in awkward positions. Your welding boot should not give any discomfort and should be able to provide an extra level of support.

As a result, I will recommend getting a pair of safety boots at least 9 inches high which is also comfortable. Thus, while welding in various heights, your boot will be able to adjust with all positions.

11. Cost

The best welding boots are usually around a hundred dollars. Some could be way less and more. It all depends on the features you want in your welding boot. I would recommend that price should not be your determinant in choosing the right welding boot. A welding boot that will give all appropriate features might not be cheap

HOW TO CLEAN YOUR WELDING BOOTS

While I will advise that you clean your welding boot after every heavy use, it is also advisable to clean them regularly. Leaving dirt to build up will end up giving you a tough time when you decide to clean.

I don’t really buy any special cleaning material when I want to clean my welding boot. Although, I will still recommend some cleaning materials you can buy to help clean your welding boot. But if you like to use household items, you will find this list helpful

• Nail Polish Remover: Using a cotton wool, apply a little amount of nail polish and wipe the boots. After cleaning, you can give your boot a fine finish by adding baby powder
• Petroleum Jelly: I only use this when my boots are not very dirty. A little drop of petroleum jelly on a piece of cloth will do. All you have to do is wipe, wash and leave to dry.
• Rubber Eraser: Even the eraser on a pencil will do. This works for light marks
• Cloth and water can also be used to clean your welding booth. Again, this is applicable if the boot is not critically dirty

Steps to Cleaning Your Welding Boots:

1. With a brush, get rid of dirt and mud. At times, I dip the brush in water for easy removal
2. At times, I use a piece of cloth to get rid of dirt. I also recommend using polish or oil to get clean your boot
3. If your boot is made of leather, the leather polish is recommended. You should please follow instructions.
4. Apply spray protection on your boots. This gives optimum protection. You can spray the interior as well after taking out the insole.

Steps to Clean a Smelly leather Boots

Terrible odors from boot could be horrible. But, getting rid of them is not a big deal. Just spraying vinegar or using a baking soda can help get rid of the foul odor. Baking soda, being a deodorizer will absorb the foul odors, neutralizing the smell.

What do you need?

• Spray bottle
• Baking Soda
• White vinegar

To get rid of the bad odor, take the following steps:

1. For pretreatment, you will need to spray about a quarter cup of vinegar into the boots.
2. Leave the boot to dry thoroughly
3. Also, you can have the baking soda in the boot overnight
4. By the next morning, tap the boot to remove the baking soda
5. You should have an odorless boot

Other Step to Clean the Inside of your Welding Boot

If your feet sweat a lot, you need to form the habit of cleaning the inside of your welding boot. You will need the following:

• Dry cloths
• Mild shampoo
• Damp washcloth

<p ”=“” class=“class=” data-empty=“ true"Steps are:/pol class=”“li ”=“” class=“ class=” data-empty=“ true”>Add shampoo to the insides of a boot. <li “=”“ class=” class=“ data-empty=” true"With the damp cloth, scrub thoroughly/lili “=”“ class=” class=“ data-empty=” true">Wash and wipe the inside of your boot with a damp cloth <li “=”“ class=” class=“ data-empty=” true"Allow the boot to dry/li/olh3 “=”“ =”“=”“ class=” “ data-empty=” true" id=“tab-con-16”>Cleaning the Outside of Your Welding Boots

I will like to point out that there are different types of leather. As such, the cleaning method for each type differs. I have four basic process outlines for cleaning your welding boots:

1. With a piece of dry cloth, wipe the dirt off your boot.
2. Once the boot is dry, you can apply conditioning.
3. With a dry cloth, apply the oil evenly to the boot.
4. Leave the boot to dry and wipe off the excess oil
5. With the cloth, you used to get rid of the excess oil, polish the boot using a circular stroke

Some Care tips to preserve Your Welding Boots

1. Form a habit of cleaning regularly.
2. Use the welding boot for the main purpose – welding!
3. Be aware of the break in period of your boots
4. Be careful when water –proofing your boots
5. Form a habit of conditioning your boots regularly
6. When the insoles are worn out, replace them
7. Use leather polish where applicable

Conclusion

There are many types of welding boot out there. As an expert in welding, I have carefully selected the 10 best welding boot of the hundreds of welding boots available in the market.

In choosing your welding boot, I will recommend choosing something that offers maximum protection without sacrificing comfort. Your money will be worthless if you are not comfortable in a shoe which protects your feet.

With the abundance of welding boots available, you should have no issue selecting the one that is most appropriate for your work. Also, I recommend being considerate of your job requirement before selecting your boot.

The right pair of a boot will make you work safely and efficiently!

Read more at : 10 Best Welding Boots 2018 and Buying Guide

10 Best Welding Boots 2018 and Buying Guide

Say what you may but there is no denying the fact that being a welder exposes you to an array of dangers, the onus is on you to select the best welding jacket to protect you against the work-related hazard.

Prevention they say is better than cure, is there any better way to protect your body from wielding related hazards than by wearing safety apparels that is both affordable and effective in playing the much desired “protection role.”

To effectively protect against hazards, welders must insist on welding jackets made from suitable materials which would make the jacket at least fireproof.

Sit back and fasten your seat belt while I take you on a short trip to discover to great extent things or features to look out for while selecting the best welding jacket. For this purpose, ten welding jackets shall be reviewed.

10 Best Welding Jacket

#1. Miller Electric 2241909 Welding Jacket, Navy, Cotton/Nylon, XL

Made from a blend of cotton and nylon this pocket-friendly welding jacket by Miller Electric is the first to be reviewed. The Navy Blue jacket comes with a chest size of 50 inches and a closure type of Snap Button, this might appear to be bigger than the average but who cares so far it can protect against heat while on the job.

The job of a welder is to weld metals and not to show fashion sense while at work.

Pros
This jacket combines elegance with comfort and affordability, its neck collar protects the back and the neck region against molten metal especially when working under a surface.

Cons
The jacket is designed for lightweight metal or aluminum work. As I said earlier on it is made wholly from cotton and nylon this makes its heat resistance ability to be limited.

Verdict.

Having used this jacket personally, I can confidently say it offers a great value for the purchase price it is comfy and protective. But it must be noted it is not suitable for heavy metal or aluminum work.

#2. BXRB9C-L BSX STRYKER FR WELDING JACKET – REVCO

This lightweight jacket comes with a very eye catchy design. Contributing to its elegance apart from its beautiful color is its blue flame pattern which is visible on its sides and contoured body. The elegant jacket fits perfectly on the welder as he performs his welding tasks.

The jacket was designed with adjustable waist straps, it is also designed with cuff snaps. There are also inside pockets to compensate for its lack of open packet, one of the inside pockets even has a zipper.

Pros
The jacket is sturdy and flame resistant apart from that having no open pocket makes it even safer as sparks cannot land and ignite there. The welding collar is also effective in blocking off flying sparks, it does this in absolute precision.

Cons
The jacket doesn’t cover the whole body well it exposes the belly and back area of the body. It is only suitable for light welding work

Verdict.

This jacket is very comfortable, moving up and down while on it was really easy. As beautiful and elegant it looks its use should be restricted to light MIG and FIG application.

#3. QEES Genuine Leather Welding Jacket 103CM Long Heavy Duty Welding Clothes Velcro Coat Wear-resistant Anti-scald Flame Resistant Welding Apron with Sleeves for Most Men WQ23

Made from heavy duty genuine cow leather, this brown welding jacket offers protection to the welder up to his knee level. It was designed with a high collar, adjustable straps and double stitched seams.

The jacket also has a large pocket to fit in some small tools which you might need as you perform your welding task. Protecting the arms and torso from welding spatter and heat.

Pros
It offers great protection at a very affordable price. The arms and the torso are well protected against welding spatter and heat. The high collar protects the neck region and to cap it all it was not made exclusively for welders. It can also be used by mechanics and blacksmiths. It is also highly durable.

Cons
In addition to its somehow foul smell, it is not suitable for heavyweight welding work. Moving about in the jacket can also be hard.

Verdict.

​The designers of this leather jacket hold safety in high esteem, it is safe to say that this is a perfect blend of affordability and protection. The foul smell could be neutralized by spraying deodorants on the jacket.

In a bid to clean it you shouldn’t make the same mistake I made by putting it inside the water as this kind of deformed the jacket. A little brushing will do wonders in cleaning it.

#4. BLACK STALLION BSX® FR Welding Jacket – Black w/Red Flames – MEDIUM

This low budget heat and flame resistant jacket come with a stand-up collar, a dual scribe and inside pockets. Its waist straps and cuffs are adjustable to fit. It works for a chest measurement of approximately 56-58. Its design is so stylish that it could pass for a high-end shirt.

Pros
If you are on a low budget, this is an ideal welding jacket for you. Unlike most other welding jackets it is cool and doesn’t really generate heat. Its coating makes it more heat and burns resistant. It is highly suitable for stick welding.

Cons
The jacket cannot withstand high UV light, it is only suitable for light metal and aluminum work. It is also not durable

Verdict.

​This jacket is a further proof that you don’t have to break the bank before getting a welding jacket. Right from its first use, I realized that using it for heavyweight welding work will be disastrous.

#5. Caiman Black Boarhide – 30"Jacket, Welding-Apparel Large

This extra-large jacket was brilliantly made from boar hide and premium high-quality pigskin leather. Boar hides have been known to offer greater heat resistance to cowhide it is also cooler and affords you easier mobility while at work when compared to the cowhide.

The leather jacket features a vented back and underarms for maximum comfort, it also features an inside pocket.

Pros
Its protective capacity is top-notch. Since it was made from boar hide leather you would naturally think it would be on the heavy side but surprisingly is of lightweight. It is a true industry fit welder jacket.

Cons
It is not pocket-friendly.

Verdict.

​Perhaps this is the best jacket I have ever used in a while, after buying to test run it, I tried exposing myself to hot slag and sparks, guess what? It got me well covered. Colleagues have constantly been telling me they want this exact kind if you can afford it kindly go for it. This is surely a product that offers value for money.

#6. Steiner 1260-L 30-Inch Jacket, Weldlite Plus Navy Cotton, Rust Cowhide Sleeves, Large

This brilliantly designed two colored jackets was made from cotton with the sleeves made from cowhide leather which provides for more protection around the arm area. The jacket has a relaxed non-reflective snap front and wrist closure, relaxed full cut fit, Large inside pocket and a Leather reinforced snaps.

Pros
The jacket is lightweight, abrasion resistance, flame resistant, anti-static and durable. You need not bat an eyelid while using it against sparks and splatter for it would protect you. Being lightweight also affords easy movement while working with it.

Cons
Based on the materials used, it seems the designers dwelled more on protecting the arm as against a complete protection. There is no lining on the sleeves which makes it quite hard to get on.

Verdict.

​This is no doubt an excellent product for a great price, this jacket is best suited for stick welding or flux core MIG. It is too heavy for most standard MIG and undesirable for TIG. This is absolutely a premium jacket at a modest price. Kudos to the designers.

#7. West Chester IRONCAT IRONTEX 7050 Flame Resistant Cotton Welding Jacket, Large

This flame-resistant Jacket is made of 100 percent sateen cotton fabric. *Snap up jacket includes adjustable snaps at wrist for custom fit; hook and loop collar can lay flat or be worn around the neck for added protection. The jacket features a small inside pocket useful for keeping small items.

Pros
As to be expected from a jacket made from cotton it is lightweight, comfortable and easy to carry about. It is highly affordable and fits perfectly on the body.

Cons
The jacket was made wholly from cotton, cotton jackets offer minimum protection against slag and UV radiation. To be on the safer side its use should be limited to light welding work like core MIG welding. It can get a little warm on hot days.

Verdict.

​Here is another cheap jacket in a class of its own. I’d rather prefer it to be more elegant, the design looks just too basic to me, I feel the designers should add a little aesthetics at least color wise, the color seems a little boring to me. Apart from that considering its price I can say without mincing words that I got value for money.

#8. Hobart 770486 Leather Welding Jacket – XL

This extra-large brown jacket was made from real cowhide split leather, it features heavy-duty stitching which joined the seams together, reinforced snaps and it is unlined. It weighs around 11 pounds and measures 15.9 inches in height, 12.6 inches in length and 3.4 inches in width.

Pros
It is suitable for almost all kinds of welding work whether light construction, metal fabrication at the industrial level or light domestic work and construction. While on it you need not worry yourself about molten metal, spatter and sparks.

Cons
It is a little heavy mobility while on it may be a bit difficult. It can also get hot while on it.

Verdict.

​Unlike the previously reviewed jackets made mostly from cotton that eventually gets burned when exposed to heat over a long period, this jacket stood the test of time I have no regret buying it whatsoever but the buttons cannot be removed swiftly.

#9. Hobart 770568 Flame Retardant Cotton Welding Jacket – XXL

This Dark Gray lightweight jacket with long sleeves was made using flame retardant cotton, it features no lining, and heavy-duty snaps providing excellent coverage. It weighs 1 pound and a size of 9.9 x 1.3 x 1.3. It also features a pocket on the inside of the jacket.

Pros
The jacket is light-weight which affords for easy mobility, highly suitable for light and medium construction work, it is most suitable for tack welding, grinding and MIG. The price is also pocket-friendly.

Cons
It is most ideal in warmer temperatures and not colder temperatures. You cannot count on this jacket if your work will get you exposed to hot sparks as it is ineffective in deflecting them.

Verdict.

​Hobart has delivered yet another cotton jacket that provides reasonable protection at a pocket-friendly price, although I have used this jacket for all kinds of welding from light scale domestic welding to commercial welder work and I have been protected. I will not recommend it for heavy welding work because of its cotton material.

#10. Antra WCJ-121-2XL Flame Resistant Cotton Jacket Size 2XL

There is relatively little to say about this beautifully tailored flame resistant jacket by Antra since it is relatively a newcomer to the welding jacket market. The blue colored jacket was made wholly from cotton. With a size of 1.72 pounds, it is very easy to carry about and has no pocket.

Pros
It is stylishly designed and affords for easy mobility while at work, it is suitable for lightweight welding tasks like stick welding and simple metal fabrication. It is also easily affordable.

Cons
It is not suitable for high-end construction work, overexposure to heat will burn through, it also offers limited protection against UV lights.

Verdict.

​This beautiful jacket is better used by amateur welders or welders still undergoing training this should not come as a surprise considering its price and the materials it was made from. If you a welder in training or not into serious welding work and you want a flame resistant jacket at a pocket-friendly price then this is for you.

The Benefit of wearing welding jackets

The job of a welder is a dangerous one, a welder is at constant risk of electric shock which can be so serious as to take his life, they are also exposed to heat, sparks, metal, fumes and ultraviolet light which has been linked to cancer and other health implications.

A good welding jacket should be sturdy and made from fire-proofed materials. Below we present some of the benefits of wearing a good welding jacket.

Burn Protection

There is no denying the fact that being a welder exposes you to a lot of heat which can cause burn, a welding jacket should be able to handle sparks, and spills with ease. It is not just the molten metal itself, but also the heated welding equipment, workpiece, and the hot air around a work area.

Radiation Protection

At its least harmful, this radiation can cause ‘flash’ burns on the skin – an injury that looks like a burn, causing the skin to redden and blister. The exposure to radiation at high scale has a very tremendous negative effect on the body, radiation occurs more frequently on exposed parts of the skin.

An effective welding jacket should leave no opportunity for the radiation to pass through the body thereby protecting the wearer completely.

Fire protection

In case of a fire outbreak or disaster, a welding jacket being flame retardant makes it difficult for the wearer to get burnt. Any jacket that cannot protect at least reasonably against fire is not worthy to be called a welder jacket.

Leather Vs. Cotton Welder Jacket

Both jackets have their strengths and weaknesses and shall be discussed below.

Pros of wearing a leather jacket

• It is much more durable than cotton
• Leather jacket, when compared with cotton offers the most protection against fire and heat.

Cons of wearing a leather jacket

• It is heavy which makes mobility while wearing it a bit hard.
• Not suitable in warm climates.

Pros of wearing a cotton jacket

• It is relatively more affordable than a leather jacket
• It is lighter than a leather jacket. This affords for easy mobility while at work

Cons of wearing a cotton jacket

• It is not suitable for heavy metal work
• They offer the least fire resistant

How to Choose Right Welding Jacket For Your Job

From the above, it can be safely deduced that a leather jacket is much more favorable than a cotton jacket when performing high end and heavy-duty metal work. Cotton jackets should be used when performing medium or light welder work.

Based on over one-decade experience on handling all kinds of welding task ranging from the lightweight simple metal fabrication work to a high end heavy industrial welding task I can confidently say that these are key and salient features to be considered before choosing the welding jacket that suits your taste and meets up your job demand. They shall be discussed below.

Material

The stuff your welding jacket is made of should be the first thing you consider before selecting your jacket, as you might have realized during reading this blog, jackets are majorly made using flame resistant cotton and leather although there are a lot of jackets in the market that combines the two materials.

If you engage in heavy-weight welding work like working on a ship, high-end mig and tig welding etc. then your surest bet is to go for a jacket made majorly from leather as it is safer although it can be a little hard for you to move about. If you also work in a very cool climate a leather jacket is also better.

If you work on lightweight welding like stick welding and what have you, you might need nothing more than a jacket made majorly from cotton, the material is strong enough to protect you against heat, ultraviolet light etc. that you might get exposed to on your work.

Comfortability

Like in all kind of job if you are not comfortable there is no way you can give your best, believe me, you as a welder your comfortability on your apparel is very important, in choosing your jacket it is advised that you choose the one that offers maximum protection and maximum comfortability combined.

The work of a welder is hard enough the last thing you want to worry yourself about is your discomfort. From experience cotton jackets being lighter are more comfortable than a leather jacket.

Weather

As a welder, I have always taken into cognizance the weather condition before I adorn myself with a welder jacket, during winter I prefer the leather jacket for it protects in no small measure against the blistering cold and in summer I go for jackets made from cotton.

If you work in warmer countries or when the weather is quite warm then I recommend you chose a jacket made from cotton but if you work in extremely cold places like Antarctica then you need not be told that the leather jacket is your friend.

Colour

The color of a jacket is important in selecting the best jacket for you, apart from showing the elegance in your jacket, it is advisable for you to wear a bright colored jacket in the dark and a dark colored jacket in the light.

Personal bias or preference for or against some colors also determine the choice of color, I find it difficult adorning myself on red colored jackets, another color I cannot go for is color pink, you shouldn’t blame me I find the color girlish (no offense).

Durability

Just like selecting any item for buying, the durability or otherwise of the item is a great determinant to the decision to buy or otherwise not buy the item. You need not be told that to maximize the benefits you enjoy from using your jacket select a more durable jacket.

Another determinant to the durability of the jacket apart from the materials it was made from is its weight and size, I can remember selecting an oversize jacket I couldn’t use it for long because it robs me of my comfortability. I cannot sacrifice my comfortability especially with my welding job.

Cost

You don’t have to break the bank before you can select your jacket, cut your cloth according to your size. It is advisable that you chose what you can afford, from my years of experience I have noticed that leather jackets are costlier than their cotton counterparts this should not be a surprise cotton is way cheaper than leather.

While I recommend cutting your cloth according to your size I feel low price should not push you to buy jackets that are unsuitable for your kind of work, you can’t go for instance. Say because of its cheapness you select a full cotton jacket over a leather one in performing heavyweight welder work, that would be tantamount to playing Russian roulette with one’s life.

I have personally saved for a high-cost leather jacket before and I haven’t for once regretted it. Safety, comfort, durability should not be sacrificed for cheapness.

Brand

Some brands are popular for producing good quality jackets you can try them out but that is not to say that you should only go for popular brands, there are tons of reviews on the internet to help you select the best irrespective of the popularity or otherwise of the brand.

Washing your jacket

While it has been argued that cleaning of a jacket is not necessary since it is used for work and would always accumulate grime I strongly believe that to maintain its durability it is really important for the jackets to not only be cleaned but to also be cleaned properly.

The dirtier the jacket gets the stiffer it becomes and the stiffer it becomes the more it loses its comfort, dirty jackets also produce a rather repugnant smell.

To remove grime from your leather jacket, saddle soap can be effectively used, but to maintain the sturdiness of the jacket, it is better you apply some leather conditioner after the cleaning. You should not soak a leather jacket inside water it can have a negative effect on the leather, simply using little water to wipe the surface should suffice.

Cotton jackets, on the other hand, can be effectively washed just as we wash our regular clothes just that it is advisable that you add 3 to 4 spoon of fabric softener before drying, as should be expected drying takes more time.

You should not wash your welding jacket in a washing machine, and if your jacket is old and maybe you are not ready to get a new jacket, you can rub alcohol before beginning the washing process.

Question and answer

Flame resistant jackets or Leather for Welding?
It depends on the welding task you intend carrying on, for a lightweight welding task flame-resistant jacket is okay, but for heavyweight and industrial welding task then leather welding jacket is okay, other factors that determine the choice of jacket includes, comfortability, durability, and cost

How is the best way to soften a leather welding jacket?
By simply applying a leather conditioner on the jacket before wiping it off with a handkerchief or a small towel

Is there any good way to clean a leather welding jacket?
It can be cleaned effectively by applying wiping off the with washing soap and water.

View original post at : 10 Best Welding Jacket and Buying Guide

10 Best Welding Jacket and Buying Guide