Hypertherm has announced its most significant advance in mechanised plasma cutting ever with the introduction of an entirely new class of plasma called X-Definition, which is designed for use on mild steel, stainless steel and aluminium. The plasma is available for the first time in a 300 Amp plasma system called the XPR300.
Laboratory testing shows ISO-9013 Range 2 cut quality on thin mild steel and extended ISO Range 3 cuts on thicker metals. To reach this point Hypertherm engineers had to develop a number of new patent-pending processes like Vented Water Injection (VWI) and plasma dampening, and new vent-to-shield technologies. The end result is squarer cut edges, markedly less angularity, and high surface finish on non-ferrous metals, says the company.
The XPR300 cuts faster and uses power more efficiently than earlier Hypertherm systems such as the HyPerformance HPR260XD. Piercing capability is also improved thanks to increased power and an exclusive argon-assist process which enables 30% thicker piercing on mild steel and a 20% increase on stainless steel. Additionally, consumable life and cut quality over the life of the consumables get a boost from advances such as ‘Cool Nozzle’ and ‘Arc Response’ technology. The latter protects consumables from the negative impact of ramp-down errors, a regular occurrence in real-life cutting. By reducing the impact of ramp-down errors, XPR consumables can last up to last three times longer than on competitive, older-generation systems.
Also worthy of note, sensors in the power supply deliver refined diagnostic codes and enhanced system-monitoring information. This is said to reduce troubleshooting time and provide proactive data to improve overall system optimisation and uptime.
For further information
www.hypertherm.com