X-Definition-class plasma is designed for mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. According to Hypertherm, laboratory testing shows ISO-9013 Range 2 cut quality on thin mild steel and extended ISO Range 3 cuts on thicker metals.
In developing X-Definition, Hypertherm’s engineers created new patent-pending processes like Vented Water Injection (VWI), plasma dampening and vent-to-shield technologies. The end goals were squarer cut edges, markedly less angularity and excellent surface finish on non-ferrous metals like aluminum and stainless steel.
According to the company, the XPR300 cuts faster and uses power more efficiently than earlier Hypertherm systems like the HyPerformance HPR260XD. Piercing capability is also improved as a result of increased power and an argon-assist process which enables 30 percent thicker piercing on mild steel and a 20 percent increase on stainless steel.
Additionally, consumable life and cut quality over the life of the consumables get a boost from Hypertherm’s Cool nozzle and Arc response technology. The latter of which protects consumables from the negative impact of ramp down errors, a regular occurrence in real-life cutting.
“The arrival of X-Definition Plasma and our new XPR300 is a huge step forward in the capabilities of plasma technology,” said Phil Parker, product marketing manager for Hypertherm XPR Plasma. “The combination of faster cut speeds, unparalleled cut quality, intuitive features, and automatic system monitoring make it our most advanced and productive plasma yet. It really opens up a wide range of opportunities for companies by providing cut quality and consistency that may make it suitable for applications which have previously been associated with laser, but with the much lower initial investment costs associated with plasma.”
For more information, visit the Hypertherm website.