Swirl mark on consumables Hypertherm 45XP

[DannyD]

Hi, I've got a Crossfire Pro mated to a Hypertherm 45XP with machine torch.
I've been struggling with cut quality, beveled edges, holes out of round etc.
An odd thing I noticed is that there's a sort of swirl mark on the electrode as well as shield.
This must be a clue to the reason for the bad cuts right?

Anyone seen this before and what could be the cause?
I've attached a couple of pics for reference.

I've got an air drier hooked up to the air system and the air passes through three filters on the way to the machine so I'm inclined to think that it shouldn't be dirt or moisture.
But maybe I'm wrong...

Any thoughts appreciated.

/D

[rdj357]

It is normal. The blow back start makes a little swirl mark. The only trouble is if it is oily or excessive.

[DannyD]

Wow, that's a surprise to me!
Couldn't find anything on swirl marks when looking at examples of consumables wear.
Live and learn!

[weldguy]

It does look like your burning really clean, that is not bad at all so I don't suspect air quality is your issue.

Out of round holes, beveled edges, etc can happen for a variety of reasons. Cutting height would be the first thing I would check.

Many folks set it in the software and forget it but that does not always translate into the correct cutting height at the torch, it needs to be measured.

Draw a 24" straight line and cut a couple inches then pause the machine and use feel;er gauges to measure the tip to material distance, should be 0.060".

Too high or too low can both cause the issues your seeing and this topic covers that well https://www.plasmaspider.com/viewtopic. ... 02&t=30283

Also posting some pics of your cuts may help to determine your issue.

[acourtjester]

Examine the bevel on your cuts, when cutting a square if its on all sides you height may be off as weldguy said as the plasma stream is like a candle flame inverted. If you see it on only 2 sides the torch is tilted. If it wobbles you may have an air flow issue.
For out of round you may check for loose drive components, a circle will have a shift located in 2 areas of its shape where the axis direction changes.
Use the search function in the upper right for other post about out of round cuts for images as to what to look for.
Remember to report back what you find for helping other with similar problems.