SHOW PRICES INCLUDING VAT
Trustpilot
Click to visit the Rapid Blog - Supporting welders every step of the way
0Your Basket : £ 0.00
WE HAVE SOME GREAT LIMITED-TIME OFFERS - CLICK HERE TO VIEW THEM WE SHIP WORLDWIDE    /    All UK ORDERS GREATER THAN £75 EX VAT DELIVERED FREE    /    WE SHIP WORLDWIDE    /    ALL EUROPEAN ORDERS GREATER THAN £500.00 ex VAT DELIVERED FREE    /    WE SHIP WORLDWIDE

Powermax 30/33XP Accessories
Genuine Hypertherm parts and accessories for Powermax 30/33XP systems

Powermax 125 Machine Systems FAQs

Straight answers to the questions people ask most when choosing a top-end plasma system for mechanised cutting.

What is a high-power machine plasma system used for?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

It is used on cutting tables, gantries, bevel heads, pipe cutters and robotic cells that need to cut thick plate quickly and repeatably. The mechanised torch holds a steady height and speed, giving more consistent edges than hand cutting.

It suits steel fabricators, heavy engineering and contract cutters. If you only cut a few parts by eye, a hand system may be simpler.

What do the connections on a machine plasma system do?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

A machine plasma system usually has a control connection for the table or robot controller. It lets the controller start and stop the arc and receive signals such as arc transfer. Many systems can also supply a reduced arc voltage signal for a height controller, and some have a serial or network connection for digital control and status information. Some provide remote on/off.

The connections and signals provided differ between makers and models, so check the manual for your machine and confirm that your controller expects the same signals and cables before you buy.

How does torch height control work?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

A height controller reads the arc voltage and raises or lowers the torch to keep a constant gap between torch and plate. This keeps cut quality and bevel angle consistent as plate warps, and extends consumable life.

It needs a stable voltage signal from the plasma system, so check that your system and controller support each other, and test on scrap plate first.

How long should the torch lead be?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

It should reach the whole travel of the gantry or carriage without being stretched or snagged. A lead that is too short limits movement and wears quickly; a lead that is too long adds clutter.

Use a drag chain or support on larger tables, and avoid coils, tight bends and pinch points.

What supply and air do I need?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

The data plate and manual give the input voltage, number of phases and current drawn. Higher-power machine systems commonly need a three-phase supply, but this varies, so do not assume. The supply, protective device and cabling must suit the figures on the plate and should be installed or checked by a qualified electrician.

The system also needs a good flow of clean, dry compressed air at the pressure and flow rate stated in the manual. Use a properly sized compressor, filter and moisture separator, with a dryer for heavy use, and check pressure with air flowing.

How do I get a clean, square edge?icon-minus-redicon-plus-red

Edge quality depends on current, travel speed, stand-off height, consumable condition and air quality. Use the maker's cut chart as a starting point, then adjust on scrap plate. Slow speeds leave dross and fast speeds leave it trailing behind.

Remember that plasma edges have a natural slight angle, and worn consumables make it worse. Replace them early.