Posted to News on 5th Jun 2020, 09:55
The cutting edge for thicker steels
Thermal Dynamics Automation has upgraded its 400-amp cutting system (which features its Ultra-Cut 400 XT high-precision power source, XT torch with QuickPierce consumables and iCNC Performance Controller ) to reduce piercing time by up to 40 per cent on mild steel thicknesses ranging from 30 to 50mm. Faster piercing time reduces cycle time, especially for plates with a complex parts nest. The company also states that it has improved the front-end components on its 400-amp consumables, and made several other arc starting enhancements to increase parts life, cut longer between-consumable changes, and lower the overall total cut cost.
Dirk Ott, VP - Global Mechanized Plasma Systems, Thermal Dynamics Automation explains: "We improved the gas flow routine within the Ultra-Cut 400 XT high-precision power source and the 400-amp QuickPierce consumables feature more shielding gas ports on the shield cap. By increasing gas pressure during arc start, we reduce pierce time. Combined with the additional shielding gas ports, we deflect more molten metal away from the consumables. Thermal Dynamics offers a robust solution for cutting steel up to 50mm thick."
The company says that it has further improved consumables life by adding "pierce-on-the-fly' and "pierce-puddle-avoidance' routines within its iCNC Performance Control. Traditional piercing routines keep the torch positioned over one spot until the plasma jet pierces completely through the plate; once the controller senses the pierce, it then moves the torch along the cut path. This process inherently exposes the consumables to more molten metal. Ott says: "Pierce-on-the-fly starts moving the torch after about one-third of the total pierce time. The groove behind the torch provides an evacuation path for the molten metal, reducing its impact on the consumables. Also, you don't have to cut through slag puddle at the end of the cut, which promotes a cleaner cut."
Pierce-puddle-avoidance is also said to extend consumables life by preventing the front end of the torch from touching the puddle during arc start. During arc start, the torch touches the plate, moves to an arc initiation height (which is relatively low) and starts the arc. After a split second, the controller raises the torch to a higher level, holds it there until the arc penetrates the plate, and then lowers the torch to cutting height. Ott says: "Pierce-puddle-avoidance keeps the torch at a higher level for a second or two longer to minimise the impact of spatter and the chance of touching the puddle."
The company offers a cost savings calculator that enables fabricators to see how much they can save by upgrading to a Thermal Dynamics system. Have a look at www.thermal-dynamics.com to discover more.
