AirForce 12ci machine
Machine stock number 500564 for the 120 V AirForce 12ci with built-in air compressor.
Hobart portable plasma cutter
Hobart AirForce 12ci Plasma Cutter Support
The AirForce 12ci is a 120-volt portable air plasma cutter with a built-in compressor. Use this page for machine specs, XT12R torch consumables, accessory links, and Hobart plasma support paths.
Start Here
The shortest paths for owners looking up this Hobart plasma cutter.
XT12R torch and consumables
Use the XT12R section for the replacement torch and consumable kits shown on the Hobart sheet.
Hobart plasma path
Start from Hobart plasma support when comparing this cutter to older Hobart plasma torch paths.
Cut quality checks
If the cutter starts but cut quality is poor, check electrode wear, tip condition, work clamp, and material thickness first.
AirForce 12ci Specs
Core machine data from Hobart literature 272163, September 2022.
What Comes With the AirForce 12ci
Package contents listed on the Hobart spec sheet.
- 12 ft. XT12R hand-held torch
- 12 ft. work cable with clamp
- 7 ft. power cord with plug
- Extra consumables: two tips, standoff guide, and electrode
Machine Features
Customer-facing notes from the Hobart AirForce 12ci sheet.
- Built-in piston-driven air compressor keeps the machine portable and ready to cut without a separate air compressor.
- Preset pressure helps keep setup simple: plug in, connect work clamp, pull the trigger, and cut.
- Inverter design provides compact cutting power in a package under 27 lb.
- Pilot arc start supports consistent starts and helps reduce tip burnout.
- Fan-On-Demand cooling runs only when needed to reduce dust and contaminants drawn into the machine.
- Diagnostic lights show power, temperature, and torch readiness.
- Postflow cooling helps extend torch and consumable life after the trigger is released.
- Applications listed by Hobart include sheet metal, auto body repair, HVAC duct work, hobby projects, plumbing, and artwork.
Cutting Capacity Notes
Mild steel cutting notes from the Hobart chart.
- Rated mild steel cut: 1/8 in. at 10 ipm.
- Maximum mild steel cut: 1/4 in. at 3 ipm under ideal conditions.
- The sheet notes stainless, aluminum, and other high-conductivity metals may derate cutting capability by as much as 30%.
- The cutting capacity rating is based on 10 ipm because that is the minimum speed Hobart lists for a smooth, steady hand-held cut.
Machine Package and Accessories
Machine, torch, and accessory rows from Hobart AirForce 12ci literature 272163.
| Part # | Item | Use / note | Buy / lookup |
|---|---|---|---|
| 500564 | AirForce 12ci plasma cutter Machine |
120 V portable air plasma cutter with built-in air compressor and XT12R hand-held torch. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 268919 | XT12R replacement torch Torch |
12 ft. replacement torch listed on the AirForce 12ci sheet. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 770771 | Protective cover Accessory |
Weather-resistant nylon cover for the plasma cutter. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 770726 | Shade 5.0 safety glasses Safety |
Mirrored lens with black frame. Hobart lists ANSI Z87.1 compliance. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 770727 | Shade 5.0 safety glasses Safety |
Black lens with orange frame. Hobart lists ANSI Z87.1 compliance. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
XT12R Torch Consumables
Consumables shown in the XT12R torch diagram from the Hobart sheet.
| Part # | Item | Use / note | Buy / lookup |
|---|---|---|---|
| 770840 | Standoff guide with tips kit Consumable kit |
Hobart source registry names this as the standoff guide with tips kit for the XT12R torch. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 770791 | Electrodes Electrode |
Pack of 2 electrodes for Hobart XTR / XT12R torches. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
| 770794 | Cup, swirl ring, and O-ring kit Consumable kit |
Retaining cup, swirl ring, and O-ring kit for the XT12R torch. | Search Amazon Site lookup |
Source: Hobart AirForce 12ci spec sheet, literature 272163, September 2022. Amazon search links are a buying aid; direct View on Amazon buttons only appear when a Hobart registry match is already approved.