Hypertherm XPR170 User Manual

Operation
6
XPR300 Instruction Manual 809480 217
How to choose the torch positions and process settings you need
Perpendicular-position cutting, marking, and piercing
During perpendicular-position cutting, marking, and piercing, the torch remains perpendicular (at a
90° angle) to the workpiece. Many cutting processes and all piercing and marking processes use a
perpendicular torch position.
Cutting
Cutting processes use a plasma arc that goes through the full thickness of the metal to create a
desired shape. The length and shape of a cut part is based on the path and duration of torch
movement.
Marking
Marking processes use argon (Ar) or nitrogen (N
2
) to make marks on metal, without piercing or
cutting through it. A typical use for marking is to mark a workpiece for secondary operations (such
as bending or drilling) or for alpha-numeric part identification.
When you use argon marking, the type of metal, its thickness, and its surface finish have an effect on
marking quality. Torch speeds and current levels also have an effect:
 Slower torch speeds and higher currents make deeper marks.
 Faster torch speeds and lower currents make shallower marks.
Make sure to mark and cut individual parts when you use the argon-marking processes. Marking the
entire nest prior to cutting can reduce the life of consumables. For better results, alternate cuts and
marks.

Poor quality marking or burn-through can occur with metal that is less
than 1.5 mm (0.06 in. or 16 gauge).
Piercing
Piercing processes penetrate the full thickness of the metal. Piercing is also the first action involved
in cutting a part.

Use edge starts when piercing is not possible.
If the torch moves too soon, the plasma arc cannot penetrate the metal. If the movement delays too
long, the pierce-hole size can increase, which can result in the loss of the transferred arc. If the torch
is too close to the workpiece during piercing, damage can occur to the consumables and the torch.
You can minimize unwanted results, increase the number of pierces, and maximize the life of
consumable parts when you use the piercing settings that Hypertherm recommends.

For information about how to get the best piercing results, refer to
Recommendations for piercing processes on page 232.

Hypertherm XPR170 Specifications

General

Brand	Hypertherm
Model	XPR170
Category	Welding System
Language	English