3/16 vs fine cut

[Pat4rd]

I cut a lot of detailed 3/16 CR plate. On the hypertherm website it says it will cut up to 3/16 with fine cut consumables.. has anyone done this? From what I've read on here it seems like I would have to set my torch height a lot higher. I'm also cutting 14ga tonight, so I will be experimenting on both! If anyone disagrees with cutting 3/16 with fine cut please let me know ! This is on a 45xp machine torch.

[motoguy]

I've never seen Jim Colt recommend fine cuts over 10ga (1/8"). I have seen other people cut thicker on occasion. It's probably not that it can't be done, as much as there's a significant tradeoff in consumable lifespan, or something like that.

[Pat4rd]

That's what I was thinking.. I really don't think it will work as good but maybe he will chime in with a response.

[rdj357]

I have only tried 3/16 once with FC and I was not happy with the cut so I switched to regular consumables. Maybe the 45XP would do a better job than my PM65 set at 45 amps?

[see&see]

I tried it both ways on 3/16" .188 HR & CR , ended up going back to the 45 amp process, bit faster and less (almost zero) dross. Although I'm using AHC so the height stays right at specs.

[Pat4rd]

Good to know guys, thanks for the input. I will just stick with the regular tips. im happy with my results in most cases!

[Pat4rd]

Good to know guys, thanks for the input. I will just stick with the regular tips. im happy with my results in most cases!

[jimcolt]

The Hypertherm website does not (to the best of my knowledge) say that the Powermax45 Xp can cut 3/16" with Finecut consumables. The Finecuts are recommended for a maximum of 10 gauge...or roughly 1/8" maximum thickness. You can cut thicker, however there are no specs for cut speed, pierce height, pierce delay etc., and you should expect shorter consumable life (as compared to 10 gauge and thinner.

The 45 amp shielded consumables do an excellent job on 3/16", I see no reason to use the Finecuts....except you may get a .006" narrower kerf.

If you can point out where on the website you saw the Finecuts mentioned for thicker than 3/16" (with a 45 XP), please point it out and I will get it corrected! Best regards, Jim Colt

[Pat4rd]

Jimcolt thanks for the info, I'm really happy with how it's cutting 3/16 with the shielded consumables . I'm not sure if I'm at the right place on the hypertherm website but this is where I read about the "3/16 and lower" ..thanks for clearing that up I'll try to attach a link https://www.hypertherm.com/en-US/learn/ ... e-cutting/

[SeanP]

Cut a job today with finecuts on the 45XP out of 5mm, very happy with how they cut.

Holes were marked and drilled.

settings1.jpg (30.04 KiB) Viewed 1937 times

settings1.jpg (30.04 KiB) Viewed 1937 times

[urbnsr]

Very nice Sean. I have to try that. Is your pierce height setting normal or a 5mm-only setting?

[SeanP]

Normal for now, just went off 4mm settings and slowed down, pierced no problem, I'll no doubt try 6mm at some stage for intricate parts

[Brand X]

Sean,
good job!! Probably more dross then standard 45 amp shielded cutting.. There are areas where you can improve cuts by thinking out of the box..You might give up in one area, and gain in another. Like sometimes using less amps then what Hypertherm has recommended.. That goes for Esab, and Thermal Dynamics too..

I see you went with the new machine over a standard 45, and XP torch.. I think the 45XP is one of the finest power supplies built.. I like it way better overall then my 65 I had. Excellent on Power input too..

Keep up the good work, and thanks for posting the Parameters (Even if it's in Metric)

[Pat4rd]

Nice!!! I normally cut 5mm I'm going to test it out this weekend.