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

For the first time, customers can use the True Hole process to cut 8 mm 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. It provides more options based on application needs.

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 more customers performing bevel cutting on the plasma system, adding True Hole to the 200 amp bevel process fills an important market need.

Hypertherm’s patented True Hole technology greatly improves the capability of HyDefinition plasma to cut high quality, 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 an 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 diameter to thickness ratio.

“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,” explained Phillip Parker, product manager for Hypertherm’s mechanised plasma team. “Though other plasma manufacturers claim to offer True Hole technology, in fact the technology remains a patented process in which Hypertherm continues to invest.”

Hypertherm designs and manufactures advanced cutting products for use in a variety of industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and automotive repair. Its product line includes plasma, laser and waterjet cutting systems, in addition to CNC motion and height controls, CAM nesting software, and consumables.