ESAB Plasmarc Precision CNC Plasma System

$65,000 – $160,000 Updated 2026-03-17

Key Specifications

Table Size

Standard 5x10 ft and 6x12 ft; larger configurations available

cutting area

5 x 10 ft to 8 x 20 ft (configuration-dependent)

plasma power source

ESAB Plasmarc precision HD power source (200–400A, proprietary gas control)

max cutting thickness

Up to 1.5 in (38 mm) quality cut; 2.5 in (64 mm) severance on carbon steel

positioning speed

Up to 600 ipm (15,240 mm/min)

cutting speed

20–500 ipm depending on material and thickness

Overview

The ESAB Plasmarc Precision is ESAB's high-definition plasma cutting system engineered for applications where cut quality, edge angularity, and hole quality approach laser-like results on mild steel, stainless, and aluminum. Where standard plasma cutting produces a noticeable draft angle and moderate dross, the Plasmarc Precision system uses a high-density plasma arc with precisely controlled gas flow and arc constriction to minimize kerf width, reduce heat-affected zone, and produce cut edges that require little or no secondary finishing. It is designed for fabricators who demand tighter tolerances and better surface quality from plasma than conventional systems can deliver.

The system is built around ESAB's precision plasma torch technology and a high-frequency power source that maintains arc stability at the tight parameters required for fine-feature cutting. Swirl gas injection and torch geometry are optimized to produce a more concentrated, stable arc column compared to conventional plasma. The result is a narrower kerf, more perpendicular cut face (typically 1–3 degrees of angularity versus 5–10 degrees for standard plasma), and the ability to cut holes with diameter-to-thickness ratios approaching 1:1 with acceptable quality. Integrated torch height control maintains the critical standoff distance needed to sustain precision plasma performance.

The Plasmarc Precision pairs with ESAB's Vision T5 CNC control, which provides process-specific cutting programs for the precision plasma process. True-Hole technology is fully supported, automating the lead-in, speed change, and lead-out required to cut bolt-quality holes. The control includes material and thickness libraries with pre-qualified cutting parameters so operators don't need to experiment — parameters for common materials and thicknesses are factory-validated and produce consistent, repeatable results from the first cut. DXF import, nesting, and servo-driven axis control complete the platform.

The Plasmarc Precision occupies the space between standard HD plasma tables and fiber laser cutting systems. For shops cutting carbon steel from 10 gauge to 1.5 in that need better than standard plasma quality but cannot justify the capital and operating costs of a fiber laser, the Plasmarc Precision provides a compelling middle path. Cut quality on mild steel up to 3/4 in is competitive with lower-power fiber lasers, and the plasma system's much lower sensitivity to scale, mill finish, and surface imperfections gives it a practical advantage in production environments handling real-world plate rather than pristine sheet.

Full Specifications

Parameter	Value
Cutting Area	5 x 10 ft to 8 x 20 ft (configuration-dependent)
Plasma Power Source	ESAB Plasmarc precision HD power source (200–400A, proprietary gas control)
Max Cutting Thickness	Up to 1.5 in (38 mm) quality cut; 2.5 in (64 mm) severance on carbon steel
Positioning Speed	Up to 600 ipm (15,240 mm/min)
Cutting Speed	20–500 ipm depending on material and thickness
Control System	ESAB Vision T5 CNC with True-Hole, precision plasma process tables
Table Size	Standard 5x10 ft and 6x12 ft; larger configurations available
Machine Weight	Approx. 4,000–7,000 lb (1,815–3,175 kg) depending on bed size
Posts	1.8M
Members	86K
Since	2003
Manufacturer	Imet
Model	CLASS SI 350
Phase Type	Three-phase

Specifications sourced from machinio.com — verified 2026-03-28

Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

High-definition plasma arc produces 1–3 degree cut angularity and minimal dross on carbon steel, significantly reducing secondary grinding and finishing versus standard plasma
True-Hole technology with precision plasma parameters produces bolt-quality round holes with diameter-to-thickness ratios approaching 1:1 without secondary drilling
Competitive cut quality versus low-power fiber lasers on mild steel up to 3/4 in at substantially lower capital and operating cost
Less sensitive to surface scale and mill finish than fiber laser — performs consistently on real production plate without requiring pre-cleaning or pristine material

Limitations

Precision plasma consumables (torch bodies, electrodes, nozzles, shields) cost more and have shorter life than standard plasma consumables, increasing per-cut operating cost
Cut quality advantage over standard plasma diminishes significantly on material above 1 in thickness where the precision arc stabilization is harder to maintain
Does not match fiber laser cut quality on thin gauge (under 1/8 in) sheet metal — laser remains superior for fine-detail, thin-material work

Best For

Fabrication shops cutting structural and pressure vessel components from 3/16 in to 1 in carbon steel where better-than-standard plasma quality is required without laser capital costs Contract fabricators cutting parts for aesthetically demanding applications where visible dross and draft angle are unacceptable without secondary finishing Shops cutting frequent bolt patterns in structural steel who need True-Hole quality to eliminate secondary drilling operations on connection plates and base plates Metal fabricators evaluating fiber laser as a step-up from standard plasma but seeking a lower-cost intermediate solution

Frequently Asked Questions

01 How does high-definition plasma differ from standard plasma cutting?

High-definition (HD) plasma uses a more constricted, higher-energy arc column created by precise control of plasma gas flow, torch geometry, and power source characteristics. The narrower arc column cuts a thinner kerf, produces a more perpendicular cut face (less draft angle), reduces the heat-affected zone, and forms less dross on the bottom of the cut. Standard plasma uses a less constricted arc that is more tolerant of process variation but produces rougher edges and more angularity. HD plasma consumables and power sources are more sophisticated and expensive as a result.

02 Can the Plasmarc Precision replace a fiber laser for most cutting work?

For carbon steel in the 3/16 in to 1 in range, the Plasmarc Precision can handle a large proportion of work that a fiber laser would otherwise do, at significantly lower capital and operating cost. Fiber laser remains superior for thin sheet (under 1/8 in), very fine features and small radii, reflective metals like copper and brass, and applications requiring the absolute minimum heat-affected zone. For production cutting of structural and plate work, HD plasma is a practical and cost-effective alternative.

03 What consumable life can I expect from the precision plasma torch?

Precision plasma torch consumables (electrode, nozzle, retaining cap, shield) typically last 500–1,500 starts per electrode depending on material, current, and process discipline. Stainless steel and aluminum are more demanding on consumables than carbon steel. Proper pierce height, current ramp-down at cycle end, and clean dry gas supply are the most important factors in maximizing consumable life. ESAB's recommended consumable replacement intervals and process parameters should be followed closely to maintain cut quality.