Lotos LTP5000D Plasma Cutter Review
Lotos LTP5000D
Affordable and Efficient
Cuts up to 3/4 inch
Auto Dual Voltage and Pilot Arc
The Lotos LTP5000D packs a punch. Coming in at a great price point this system is sure to be a favorite for light shop work and the DIY enthusiasts. The performance of this humble unit has given it a spot on our best plasma cutters list.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Operating under the name Uwelding in Sunnyvale, CA. Lotos is quickly establishing them selves in the welding industry. If you have searched for an affordable plasma cutter. You would have come across the brand by now.
Lotos LTP5000D Review
While it doesn't perform at the industrial level of some of the other big brands. It does offer a respectable cutting cycle above its competitors in this price point. That and the fact that you are paying a fraction of the price of a say a Miller or Hypertherm.
Rich in features with the inverter technology IGBT, pilot arc and dual voltage. The Lotos LTP5000D can hold it's own. Let's have a closer look.
This plasma cutter is best suited for DIY jobs such as metal art or auto repair shops. I would even consider buying this as a cheap backup for an industrial workshop.
One of the draw backs of this system is the rate at which it burns through the consumables. However, this is common for cheap plasma cutters. It may not be an issue though if you're only using it for the odd job.
Quick Specs
Lotos LTP5000D
Pros
Cons
LTP5000D Features
We love how Lotos has packed these premium features into this little unit.
Safety and Durability
User-friendly
LTP5000D Product Specifications
Product Dimensions | 15 x 6 x 12 inches |
Product Weight | 26 lbs |
Duty Cycle | 60% @ 50A, 110V 60% @ 50A, 220V |
Cut Performance | Cutting: 1/2" (12.7 mm) Severance: 3/4" (19.05 mm) |
Volts | 110V/220V dual voltage |
Amps | 10 - 50 A |
Input Current | 20A |
Output Current | 10~50A |
Gas Type | Clean, dry, oil-free air |
Flow Rate | 3.6 scfm @65 psi |
Installation Type | Tig-welding |
Power Source Type | AC/ DC |
FAQ’s
Q. Is there any instruction to operate the cutter?
A. You need to be very steady and move the torch very slowly on the sheet.
Q. What are the primary requirements of this plasma cutter?
A. The gas input to the base station must be dry, clean and oil-free.
Q. Is the machine fully controlled?
A. Yes, this tool is fully controlled one having a great care on the plasma created by the device.
Q. Does the machine come with all its accessories?
A. It comes with an air hose, a cable, ground clamp, an air hose connection. You need to buy a pigtail.
Lotos Consumables & Accessories
Lotos has a range of parts and consumables available as well so you will never be left without the tools you need to get the job done.
Lotos LTP5000D Consumables
Lotos CP243 Extended Torch
Lotos LTP5000D vs LT5000D
I've been getting some emails from readers asking what's the difference between the LTP5000D and LT5000D and is it worth the extra money?
The main and only difference we found was in the "P" which means pilot arc. With this feature you can cut without having the torch be in contact with the metal.
Why is this important?
Because it help produce cleaner cuts with less slag even on surfaces that are rusted, rough, dirty or painted over. This single feature alone will save you time and money on consumables in the long run.
Quick Comparison LTP5000D Vs LT5000D
Lotos LTP5000d | | Lotos LT5000d |
---|---|---|
Lotos Technology | Brand Name | Lotos Technology |
15"x6"x12" (381mmx152mmx305mm) | Dimension | 15”x 6”x 12” |
26 lbs | Weight | 22.5 lbs |
60% @ 50A, 110V 60% @ 50A, 220V | Duty cycle | 60% @ 50A, 110V |
110V/220V | Input Voltage | 110 V/220 V |
50 A | Amp | 50 A |
20 A | Input Current | 20 A |
10~50A | Output Current | 10~50A |
Clean, dry, oil-free air | Gas Type | Clean, dry, oil-free air |
Tig-welding | Installation Type | Tig-welding |
3.6 scfm @65 psi | Flow Rate | 3.6 scfm @ 65 psi |
AC/ DC | Power Source Type | AC/ DC |
6”(1.8 m) | Input power cable length | 6”(1.8 m) |
YES | PAPST cooling system from Germany | YES |
YES | Cutting Clean Metal | YES |
1/2"(12mm) | Ideal Cut Thickness | 1/2"(12mm) |
3/4"(19mm) | Severance Cut Thickness | 3/4"(19mm) |
YES | MOSFET transistor | YES |
YES | Non-touch Pilot ARC | NO |
YES | Cutting Rusty / Painted Metal | NO |
Features of the Lotos LTP5000d & LT5000d
- Dimension & Weight?
LTP5000D and LT5000D, both come with the same dimensions: 15-inch height, 6-inch width and 12-inch depth. However, there is a slight difference in weight. LT5000D is slightly heavier than LTP5000D. LTP5000D weighs 26 pounds, whereas LT5000D weighs 22.5 pounds.
So, Are They Portable?
Yes, they are both in the portable class of plasma cutter. The compact size and a handle make both the units similarly portable.
- Duty Cycle?
Both the units have duty cycles of 60% at 50amp 104 degrees F (40-degrees C) which is pretty good for light work.
The 60% duty cycle means the plasma arc can operate for 6 out of 10 mins without causing the unit to overheat.
- Ideal and Severance Cutting Thickness
Is There Any Difference In Cutting Performance?
Both of these units offer ½-inch maximum rated clean cut and ¾-inch severance cut.
They use non-hazardous compressed air to cut aluminum, copper, mild steel, stainless steel, mild steel and alloy steel.
- Dual Voltage
Both the units support automatic dual voltage or dual frequency that means you can operate them directly on 110 volts 50/60Hz or 220volt 50/60Hz using a pigtail.
- Thermal Protection
Each plasma cutter integrates with PAPST cooling system to control the internal temperatures.
Why Is That Important?
You’ll not want to melt down the internal parts of your plasma cutter through overheating. Right?
The active cooling system helps to cool the unit down. You’ll find the same on both the LTP5000D and LT5000D.
About Lotos
Both the plasma cutters are from LOTOS technology, one of the renowned names that achieved solid reputations as a dependable, praiseworthy source of quality welding machines, cutting tools and accessories to Do-It-Yourself (DIY) buyers and small businesses.
Since 2000 Lotos is operated by Zion Global, LLC, who introduced the latest technologies such as high-frequency Inverter Technology in cutting and welding machines. Lotos Plasma cutters are designed primarily for professional as well as non- professional users, to deliver a consistent and professional grade performance on a wide range of metal surfaces and materials.
Conclusion
Does the Lotos LTP5000D stand up against the likes of Hyperterm or Miller?
No, the build quality, overall cut performance and duty cycle will not stand up to industrial applications. However, if you are not looking for that kind of plasma cutter and just want something reliable for that DIY project or auto repair shop then it is definitely worth taking a closer look at.