Hypertherm Unveils Precise Hole Cutting Technology and More at 2009 FABTECH Show


HANOVER, N.H.-Hypertherm, the world leader in plasma arc metal cutting technology, is combining its newest HyPerformance technology with two new motion control systems and the latest MTC software to take plasma cutting to a whole new level.

Hypertherm will unveil patent-pending hole cutting technology that vastly improves the capability of HyDefinition plasma at this year's FABTECH International & AWS Welding Show. The technology, called True Hole(TM), uses a specific combination of cutting parameters optimized for mild steel applications. The end result, demonstrated in both internal and customer testing, shows an up to 50 percent 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 significant improvement of holes cut with HyPerformance Plasma has narrowed the gap with laser," said Dave LaPrade, leader of Hyperterm's mechanized systems team. "We think people will be impressed with the technology advancements made by Hypertherm. Customer feedback so far indicates that many people who currently cut with laser will be able to achieve their target quality performance and save a lot of money by switching to plasma."

The marked improvement in plasma's capabilities, including hole performance, will be demonstrated using the latest HPR400XD technology with MTCs ProNest 2010 software and the new EDGE Pro CNC. In addition to improved holes, Hypertherm engineers report an up to 100 percent increase in productivity and an up to 40 percent increase in consumable life using a new torch height control available by year end. This means businesses can increase the number of parts produced per hour while reducing operating costs. These advancements will extend to Hypertherm's HyPerformance HPR130 and HPR260 products, both of which will receive Hypertherm's XD (eXtreme Defintion) technology this Fall.

People attending this year's show will also get an opportunity to cut with Hypertherm's newest single gas air plasma system: the Powermax45. In addition, they can watch a side-by-side comparison of oxyfuel and plasma cutting, and learn about Hypertherm's new developments for using HyDefinition Plasma in robotic and bevel cutting applications.

This year's show takes place from November 15-18 at Chicago's McCormick Place Convention Center. Attendees can find Hypertherm in booth 36021 in the center's North Hall.

Hypertherm designs and manufactures the world's most advanced plasma cutting systems for use in a variety of industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and automotive repair. Its product line includes handheld and mechanized plasma systems and consumables, as well as CNC motion and height controls. Hypertherm systems are trusted for performance and reliability that results in increased productivity and profitability for tens of thousands of businesses. The New Hampshire based company's reputation for plasma innovation dates back 40 years, to 1968, with Hypertherm's invention of water injection plasma cutting. The company, consistently named one of the best places to work in America, has more than 1,000 associates along with operations and partner representation worldwide.

Contact:
Michelle Avila at 603-643-3441 or pr@hypertherm.com

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