[aidask11]

Hello! im looking for a machine like this with 5 plasma torches for cutting metal stripes.One torch has to be fully cnc on XY axes and rest of them could be "loose" and manually adjusted on Y axis.THC needed on all of them.
Any recommendations? Would it be difficult to upgrade this machine with extra torches including THC? Or any other ideas how to attack this with least amount of money? Currently have 20meter long oxyfuel cutting table,would like to add plasma gantry on it aswell.
Mechanical side like rails that grantry is traveling on would figure my self,so it doesnt have to use same tracks as current machine.
Thanks!!

[jillediesel]

Microstep has up to 50m ithink and you can have up to 8 heads im pretty sure on the top model.

[elephantcnc]

Adding a plasma gantry with multiple torches to your existing setup can be a cost-effective and versatile solution. Here's how you could approach it:

1. Machine Recommendations
A 5-torch plasma gantry isn't common off-the-shelf, but the following strategies can help:

Retrofit Existing CNC Gantry: If you have access to an existing CNC gantry (like your K2), you could retrofit it with additional torch mounts and THC for plasma cutting.

Custom CNC Plasma Machine: Consider building a custom CNC plasma gantry using:

A modular CNC gantry kit (e.g., OpenBuilds or similar) for the primary torch.
Additional torch holders for manually adjustable Y-axis positions.
THCs like the Proma Compact THC or others for all torches.
Commercial Options: Look into manufacturers like Hypertherm, Esab, or Thermal Dynamics. Some smaller companies offer custom plasma solutions that could integrate with your table.

2. Challenges of Upgrading
Upgrading an existing machine like the K2 or integrating with your oxyfuel table has specific challenges:

THC Implementation: Each torch requires its own THC. While this increases cost, you could minimize expenses by:

Using a single shared controller for all THCs.
Selecting budget-friendly THCs like Proma or standalone models compatible with LinuxCNC or Mach4.
Motion Control:

One torch fully controlled by CNC (X-Y) will require stepper/servo motors, drivers, and a motion controller.
Other torches only need manual Y-axis adjustments with height-sensitive brackets.
Power Source: Ensure your plasma cutter can handle multiple torches simultaneously. Alternatively, use separate plasma power sources for each.

Cable Management: A multi-torch setup increases wiring complexity. Use drag chains and clearly labeled connections to avoid cross-talk or interference.

3. Budget-Friendly Ideas
To minimize costs:

DIY Framework and Rail System: Use aluminum extrusion or steel for the gantry frame and V-rails or linear guides for smooth travel.

Motion Controller: Consider a budget-friendly motion controller like GRBL, LinuxCNC, or Mach3/4-compatible controllers. The Mesa 7i76 board is a strong option for multiple axes and THCs.

THC Selection: Use economical THCs for additional torches while prioritizing precision for the main CNC torch.

Used Components: Search for used plasma cutters, motors, and electronics to retrofit your setup.

4. Integration Plan
Design Gantry:

Primary CNC-controlled torch on one side.
Manual torch mounts on the remaining gantry area with sliding Y-axis holders.
Plasma Source:

Choose a reliable plasma power source capable of maintaining stable arcs across multiple torches.
Rails:

If the new gantry won’t share tracks with the oxyfuel table, install separate rails parallel to the existing table to maximize space.
Software:

Use CNC software that supports THC and multi-head cutting.
Options include LinuxCNC with HAL configurations or SheetCAM with a multi-tool setup.

[allencncrouter]

New plasma ,
Suggest think about how many cutting head in the beginning , if you add another head in future ,it will face reduce working area ,cable conection etc .

Add plasma gantry on old Flame cutting machine , do you want to to save workshop space ? or save cost ?
one solution is that new plasma gantry share same rail with old flame cutting ,

How about send me old rail size to my email ,whatsapp +8618560201508 or allen@omni-cnc.com