Engineering advances set Hypertherm Torch Height Control apart from others
1 min read
Metal formers and fabricators have a new way to improve cut quality and lower operating costs in the form of the new ArcGlide Torch Height Control (THC) from Hypertherm. Several engineering advances make it unlike any other THC available today. Benefits include improved cut quality, optimised consumable life, an up to one hundred percent increase in parts cut per hour, and rugged construction so there is no unexpected downtime.
The ArcGlide THC can achieve its performance benefits without operator input. Arc voltage is automatically adjusted as consumables wear (something operators are supposed to do on their own, but often don't) so that consumables reach their intended life expectancy. In laboratory testing, Hypertherm engineers found consumables lasted three times longer when the arc voltage was properly adjusted. In addition, they found overall cut quality was better and more consistent, helping businesses become more profitable.
Productivity advances are achieved through a reduction in cut-to-cut cycle time. The prepared part program and ArcGlide THC work together to minimise unnecessary motion between cuts, while proprietary Rapid Ignition technology, allows the torch to fire as soon as it is in position, further reducing cut-to-cut cycle time. In testing, the total time between cuts was reduced by up to 80 per cent; while parts cut per hour increased by up to 100 per cent.
The ArcGlide is easy to install and easy to use. Color coded and keyed cables connect the THC to the lifter, plasma power supply and CNC, while a simple user interface and large controls ensure there is no operator confusion or frustration.
Hypertherm designs and manufactures advanced plasma cutting systems for use in a variety of industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and automotive repair. The company's reputation for plasma innovation dates back 42 years, to 1968, with Hypertherm's invention of water injection plasma cutting.
