Hypertherm Powermax65 Service Manual Rev.1 - Manual (Page 50)

Torch SeTup
3-2
powermax
65/85 Service Manual
Introduction
Duramax™ series handheld and machine torches are available for the Powermax65 and Powermax85 systems. The
FastConnect TM quick-disconnect system makes it easy to remove the torch for transport or to switch from one torch
to the other if your applications require the use of different torches. The torches are cooled by ambient air and do not
require special cooling procedures.
This section explains how to set up your torch and choose the appropriate consumables for the job.
Consumable life
How often you need to change the consumables on your Powermax65 or Powermax85 will depend on a number of
factors:
• The thickness of the metal being cut.
• The average length of the cut.
• Whether you are doing machine or hand cutting.
• The air quality (presence of oil, moisture, or other contaminants).
• Whether you are piercing the metal or starting cuts from the edge.
• Proper torch-to-work distance when gouging or cutting with unshielded consumables.
• Proper pierce height.
• Whether you are cutting in “continuous pilot arc” mode or normal mode. Cutting with a continuous pilot arc
causes more consumable wear.
Under normal conditions, the electrode will wear out first during machine cutting and the nozzle will wear out first when
hand cutting.
A general rule is that a set of consumables lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours of actual “arc on” time for hand cutting,
depending on these factors. For mechanized cutting, consumables should last about 3 to 5 hours.
You will find more information about proper cutting techniques in Section 4, Operation.
CopperPlus™ electrode for Duramax torches
The CopperPlus electrode (part number 220777) delivers at least two times longer consumable life over standard
consumables (Hypertherm consumables designed for the system). This electrode is designed exclusively for use with
Duramax torches when cutting metal 12 mm (1/2 inch) and under, and is compatible with 40 A to 105 A settings.