Automated plasma power sources for high precision plasma cutting=

Dirk Ott, VP – Global Plasma Automation, says: “The iSeries is the most advanced power supply available today. This next generation series not only provides exceptional cost-performance benefits, but allows you to upgrade the unit as you grow.”

Featuring HeavyCut technology to improve cut quality and precision performance, the iSeries cut quality enables parts to go directly from the cutting table to welding, painting or assembly without expensive secondary operations. It also provides piercing capacity up to 50mm at 400A on all materials including stainless steel and aluminum. The iSeries delivers ISO Class 3 or better cuts on any material from gauge to 50mm thick, reducing bevel and the need for post-cut finishing.

The Water Mist Secondary (WMSä) process, which incorporates nitrogen as the plasma gas and ordinary tap water for shielding, produces superior cut quality and a lower cost per cut on non-ferrous materials. On stainless steel, the WMS is said to process cuts up to 300% faster and to lower cost-per cut by 20% or more compared to systems that use Argon-Hydrogen for the plasma gas.

The iSeries also lowers the cost per cut by using XTremeLife Wear Parts for cutting at 300 and 400A. These consumables use a multiple hafnium insert as opposed to a single insert and feature a two-piece tip that runs cooler. Better cooling extends parts life and cut accuracy across the life of the tip, especially when piercing at higher amperages. These combined features can lower operating cost up to 30% on mild steel, which in turn reduces cut cost per meter.

The iSeries is available in 100 to 400A configurations for cutting plate up to 50mm thick. All models feature a common cabinet and components as well as StepUp modular technology, allowing users to increase the output from 100A all the way up to 400A by adding inverter blocks. Its modular design minimises parts inventory and repair time. An LED error display indicates machine status to accelerate troubleshooting, and should an inverter block malfunction, cutting can continue with the remaining blocks.

“The iSeries automated plasma cutters work the way our customers work — intelligently,” says Ott. “The ability to add inverter blocks means fabricators never have to worry about purchasing a system that does not have enough capacity to meet future needs.”