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Hypertherm expands patented True Hole technology

The patented True Hole technology can cut eight millimetre mild steel at 80 amps, in addition to the existing 130 amp power level. (Image source: Hypertherm)

Plasma and waterjet cutting systems manufacturer Hypertherm has announced the expansion of its patented True Hole technology to include more thickness, amperage and consumable options

The True Hole process can be used to cut eight millimetre mild steel at 80 amps, in addition to the existing 130 amp power level. Though cutting at 80 amps is slower, this slower speed could benefit customers who have tables with lower acceleration capabilities, as it provides more options based on application needs, said Hypertherm in a statement.

In addition, customers can now use the 200 amp bevel process to cut 10 mm, 12 mm and 16 mm mild steel. Previously, 200 amp True Hole cutting required the use of standard HyPerformance? HPRXD? consumables rather than bevel consumables.

With customers preference rising for bevel cutting on the plasma system, adding True Hole to the 200 amp bevel process fills an important market need, said the company.

Hypertherm?s patented True Hole technology greatly improves the capability of HyDefinition? plasma to cut high quality and bolt-ready holes. The technology uses a specific combination of cutting parameters optimised for mild steel applications. The end result, demonstrated in both internal and customer testing, shows up to 50 per cent improvement in the shape of the hole. At the same time, taper and dings are virtually eliminated on holes with an equal diametre to thickness ratio.

Hypertherm mechanised plasma product manager Phillip Parker said, ?The introduction of True Hole technology more than five years ago, along with True Bevel technology, significantly simplified production for many of our customers by allowing them to create bolt-ready holes and beveled edges in one step. Though other plasma manufacturers claim to offer True Hole technology, the technology remains a patented process in which Hypertherm continues to invest.?

Hypertherm?s cutting products are used in a variety of industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing and automotive repair.

The Dutch company invented water injection plasma cutting in 1968. Today, its product line includes plasma, laser and waterjet cutting systems, in addition to CNC motion and height controls, CAM nesting software, and consumables.