Tag: plasma cutter

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CUTTING EX-TRAFIRE® PLASMA

UNLOCKING THE POWER OF GOUGING MODE ON YOUR PLASMA CUTTER

Gouge mode

Are you getting the most out of your EX-TRAFIRE® HD plasma cutting unit? The gouging mode is one feature that can take your cutting game to the next level. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of gouging, exploring its benefits, applications, and tips for mastering this powerful technique.

What is Gouging Mode?

So, you’re probably wondering what gouging mode is. It is a specialized setting on your plasma cutter that allows for the removal of material, rather than just cutting through it. By adjusting the plasma arc to a wider, more forceful beam, gouging mode enables you to:

  • ● Remove old welds, rust, or corrosion. An example of this is the removal of Hardbanding material on oil field piping.
  • ● Create bevels or chanfers on the edges
  • ● Enlarge holes or cutoutsRemove old welds, rust, or corrosion. An example of this is the removal of Hardbanding material on oil field piping.
  • ● Scrape off coatings or paint

Hardbanding is a weld overlay coating applied to drill pipe tool joints, designed to protect the pipe from wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Benefits of Gouging Mode

  • Increased versatility:
    • Gouging mode expands the capabilities of your plasma cutter, making it a more valuable asset in your workshop.
  • Time saving:
    • Increases productivity and reduces labor costs by delivering high-speed removal rates, making it a game-changer for large-scale projects and high-volume tasks.
  • Improved surface preparation:
    • By removing rust, corrosion, or old welds, gouging mode helps ensure a clean surface for welding or other applications.

Tips for Mastering Gouging Mode

  • Adjust your technique:
    • Gouging requires a slower, more deliberate motion than cutting. Experiment with different speeds and angles to find what works best.
  • Choose the right consumables:
    • Use gouging-specific consumables, like a gouging shield and nozzle, to optimize performance.
  • Experiment with settings:
    • Fine-tune your plasma cutter’s settings, such as amperage and air pressure, to achieve the desired effect.
  • Practice makes perfect:
    • Gouging takes practice, so start with scrap material to develop your skills.

Common Applications for Gouging Mode

  • Weld preparation:
    • Remove rust, corrosion, or old welds to ensure a clean surface for welding.
  • Surface cleaning:
    • Scrape off coatings, paint, or grime to prepare surfaces for painting or other finishes.
  • Edge beveling:
    • Create smooth bevels or chamfers on edges for improved weld quality or aesthetics.

Conclusion

Gouging mode is a powerful feature on your EX-TRAFIRE® HD plasma cutting unit, offering a range of benefits and applications. By understanding how to harness this capability, you can expand your workshop’s versatility, save time, and achieve better results. Remember to experiment with settings, practice your technique, and choose the right consumables to get the most out of gouging mode.

Watch a video: FHT-EX® torches used for gouging.


We hope this blog has inspired you to explore the possibilities of gouging mode on your plasma cutter. Happy cutting!

Related article: Plasma gouging for protective coatings

Text: Thermacut, k.s.
Photos: archive of Thermacut, k. s.

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CUTTING EX-TRAFIRE® PLASMA

SIMPLIFY TINSMITHING WITH A COMPACT PLASMA CUTTER

easier work with Thermacut®

The potential uses of plasma cutters are vast. The cutting technology is well-known and widely used in industrial plants processing flat metallic materials, such as sheet steel of various thicknesses. However, plasma cutters will also find use in smaller companies that focus on cutting, bending or otherwise shaping thin metal sheets. A typical example of such use is tinsmithing. Here the small yet powerful plasma cutter becomes an invaluable assistant.

A small but powerful EX-TRAFIRE® 30H.

Tinsmithing has become a traditional craft that is indispensable to construction of new buildings or renovation of older houses, apartments and other buildings. It is the last step of the construction process, ensuring that the structure is leak-proof and that the roof fulfills its protective function. Tinsmithing does not involve just the construction of eaves as many might imagine, but also includes metal plating the chimney, valley, and windowsills, and installing drainpipes, gable trim etc.

It is often necessary to make cut outs in metal or saw a hole into it, sometimes repeatedly — for example, when connecting or anchoring eaves. Thermacut’s EX-TRAFIRE®30H plasma cutter is ideal for these purposes due to its favorable price-to-power ratio.

Let’s take a look at what to do step by step. Keep safety in mind.

Cutting Small Holes Step By Step

1. Step

First, we prepare the table for cutting (the table differs from the classic workshop table). Place the template and draw the openings onto the metal sheet. You can also use a pair of compasses to achieve perfectly round circles. Secure the template with clamps.

Place the template and draw the openings onto the metal sheet.
Secure the template with clamps.

2. Step

To cut the holes, we will use handheld plasma cutter EX-TRAFIRE®30H. Set the power supply to the appropriate cutting parameters according to the instruction manual. In our example, we cut a 1 mm thick sheet using consumables from the 30 A series.

We cut a 1 mm thick sheet using consumables from the 30 A series.

3. Step

And done! Quick and simple!
 

Sometimes an inspiring video can say more than a thousand words. And we made one for you!  

We can use the same process to cut circular holes to create a drip edge. You can see the end result in the pictures below. 

We can use the same process to cut circular holes to create a drip edge.
We can use the same process to cut circular holes to create a drip edge.

The EX-TRAFIRE®30H single-phase plasma cutter, which we are presenting here, is a handheld cutting system with non-detachable FHT-EX®30H torch with a 4 meter length and a non-detachable work conductor with a 6 meter length. It also features an ergonomic torch handle which reduces fatigue during long-term use. The system is compact and highly flexible for cutting in hard-to-reach places. It is particularly suitable for cutting sheet metal up to a thickness of 10 mm while providing sufficient power reserve.

Ready to take your tinsmithing to the next level? Don’t hesitate to reach out for expert guidance and support. Whether you have questions or need further advice, our team is here to help. Drop us a line at ex-trafire@thermacut.cz and let’s elevate your craft together!

Text: Thermacut®
Photos: Thermacut, k. s. archive 

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CUTTING EX-TRAFIRE® PLASMA

SCHWEISSEN AND SCHNEIDEN EXHIBITION 2023 OVERCOMES ALL EXPECTATIONS

Scheweissen & Schneiden show 2023

Traditionally the biggest event in the world of welding and cutting took place in Essen in the 37th week. The best-known brands in this professional community presented their products, joining and cutting technologies or surface preparation methods. The most qualified experts also discussed and shared their experiences. Thermacut and other members of the IBG Group such as Abicor Binzel, Herr and Cantesco presented the best of their product portfolio.

WHAT EXACTLY WAS DISPLAYED AT THE 150 M2?

The most impressive and eye-catching attraction was the EX-TRACK® CNC cutting system assembled with the big cutting table and filtration unit by HERR company. The visitors could admire live cutting metal plates with the FHT-EX® 45TT plasma cutting torch, powered by the EX-TRAFIRE® 45HD plasma cutting system.

Two presentation pentagon tables carried both SD and HD range of EX-TRAFIRE® plasma power supplies including cutting torches and belonging consumables.

At the opposite corner, the EX-TRABEAM® laser cutting heads were displayed. The four different models offer integrators new scope for creativity in terms of technology and design and impress users with their outstanding cutting results.

At last, but not least we have to mention high-quality replacement parts for original consumables in plasma, oxy-fuel, and laser cutting suitable for major OEMs.

WHY WE PUT AN EMPHASIS ON THE PERSONAL APPROACH

At Thermacut we believe that only a personal approach and immediate customer feedback can build customer confidence in our cutting solutions over time and lead to good results for both parties. That’s why our highly skilled team of product managers, sales representatives, and technicians were always on hand at the stand to answer any questions visitors might have.

We believe that everyone enjoyed this special event, and we hope to meet our current and potential customers again in two years at the Schweissen & Schneiden 2025. Thank you for coming.

Check out the latest video from the show!

Visit the official Thermacut® website and join to the world of thermal cutting.

Text:               Thermacut, k.s.
Photo:            Archive of Thermacut, k.s.

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CUTTING EX-TRAFIRE® PLASMA

7 INDUSTRY SEGMENTS WHERE EX-TRAFIRE®HD CAN BE USED

ex-trafire 45hd

Thermacut® has recently launched a new HD range of the EX-TRAFIRE® plasma cutting systems. What you can expect and where are they applicable? Read on to find out more.

  • ruční hořák
  • řezání plazmou
  • ex-trafire 45hd
  • řezání plazmou

These powerful plasma cutting systems are designed to meet the rigorous demands of continuous industrial use. The EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma cutters have a 100% duty cycle for high-quality long cuts in thick sheet metal up to 50 mm and more. In addition to cutting, grid cutting and gouging, they also have an optional marking function. These reliable and durable machines have found a place in many different segments of the industry due to their versatility.

The heavy industry segment

Thanks to their high output power, these machines can deliver continuous top cutting performance and high-removal-rate gouging, which can be used, for example, in the maintenance and manufacture of excavators, tractors or mining machinery. The EX-TRAFIRE®HD range of plasma cutters offers plenty of power for sheets up to 50 mm thick, a wide range of applications, and interfaces for intelligent networking.

Using plasma cutting in heavy industry segment

General fabrication

The EX-TRAFIRE®HD line of plasma systems can do a lot and withstand even more for your industrial production. They provide clean cuts without the need for subsequent work, helping you to achieve higher productivity.

Plasma systems can do a lot for your industrial production.

Structural segment

On the shop floor there is often a need to manually cut large bridge sections or building components. Operators appreciate a flexible plasma cutter that is easy to use and can cut and gouge (weld edge preparation) all types of steel and aluminum.

Manual cutting of large bridge sections or building components.

Shipyards & Offshore

Typical application for the EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma systems. The construction of ships or foundation structures for offshore wind turbines and drilling rigs requires precise cuts for high-quality components without delay. These new plasma systems are not only extremely robust, productive, and powerful, but also deliver extremely clean and accurate cutting results.

The construction of ships or foundation structures for offshore wind turbines and drilling rigs requires precise cuts.

Automotive & Transport

EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma systems are also ideal for the manufacture and repair of vehicles and their components. They are ideal for heavy cutting and gouging in production and are perfect for semi-finishing and repair work.

EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma systems are also ideal for the manufacture and repair of vehicles and their components.

Steel Mills & Steel Service Centers

If you process coils and profiles after fabrication, or if you cut sheet metal for further processing, you need to achieve a high cutting rate and good edge quality at the same time. The powerful EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma systems are ideal for strong, rapid cuts and a wide range of applications in steel mills and steel service centers.

The powerful EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma systems are ideal for strong, rapid cuts and a wide range of applications in steel mills and steel service centers.

The energy segment

The EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma cutting systems are suitable for a wide variety of uses in the energy industry, from pipeline construction to wind power plants and right through to turbines and overhead power lines.

The EX-TRAFIRE®HD plasma cutting systems are suitable for a wide variety of uses in the energy industry, from pipeline construction to wind power plants and right through to turbines and overhead power lines.

The HD range of the EX-TRAFIRE® plasma cutters offers plenty of power for cutting sheet metal up to 50 mm thick and a wide range of applications, including a handy sheet marking function. Make the most of 100% duty cycle for manual cutting up to 50 mm and above, and gouging when removing wear resistant coatings or preparing welds. They are also excellent for mechanized cutting of semi-finished products and are ideal for continuous cutting. All EX-TRAFIRE®HD systems have flexible interfaces that make it easy to implement automated 3D robotic applications.

These plasma cutting systems are machines you can rely on for your daily work, and they improve your productivity. There is nothing more to say, just try it.

Are you interested in plasma cutters? Visit our website www.ex-trafire.com, where you can find the complete range of plasma power supplies by Thermacut®.

Not sure which one to choose? We are here for you! Contact us at extrafire@thermacut.cz.

Text:               Thermacut, k.s.
Photo:            Archive of Thermacut, k.s.

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CUTTING EX-TRAFIRE® PLASMA

INTERVIEW WITH A CUSTOMER

EX-TRAFIRE® plasma cutters have been an important part of the Thermacut® portfolio for several years, and they are offered to our customers worldwide. A few years ago, one of them was purchased by the Czech Assembly Works company from Uhersky Brod. They got the EX-TRAFIRE®75SD plasma cutter.

Customer using EX-TRAFIRE® 75SD

The company operates worldwide in the field of steel construction for production sites for large wooden materials for the furniture industry, flooring products, or kitchen production. The basic equipment requirement is therefore the ability to thermally cut steel and thin plates up to 20 mm thick (mild steel, Hardox®, aluminum, stainless steel, tubes, sheets) and to cut different shapes at different angles for the creation of such structures.

We have asked Mr. Martin Kočica, the founder and supervisor of the company, for a short interview. He briefly introduced his business, told us what demanding tasks the equipment must fulfill, and why he decided to purchase a plasma cutter by Thermacut®.

Mr. Kočica, tell us please, what is your business about?

Locksmith production, installation of air conditioning, and filtration equipment to achieve the lowest possible amount of production waste into the air.

What does your work involve in practice?

Our activities include building equipment, installation of piping, steel construction, etc.

Why did you decide to invest in a plasma cutter?

We decided to invest mainly for practical reasons. We often need to cut materials and to make irregular shapes, where the angle grinder isn´t a suitable tool to use because of difficult manipulation.

What are the main advantages you see in buying a plasma power supply?

The most important advantage we can see is a considerable decrease in consumption of grinder pads / discs for Hardox® and other steel sheets resistant to abrasion. Other benefits we can highlight are high cutting speed and perfect torch flexibility, even in narrow spaces that are difficult to reach.

How often do you use plasma cutting technology for metal cutting?

On a daily basis.

Why Thermacut®?

Because Thermacut® is a Czech company offering cost-effective machines. We also like the fast communication, availability of consumables, and technical service.  

Would you recommend the investment in a plasma cutter?

Yes, I would.

Have you already experienced our after-sale service? What has it been like?

Yes, I have, and we have had no problem with that.  

Thank you for the interview, your time and we wish you good luck in your business.

Are you interested in plasma cutters? Visit our website www.ex-trafire.com, where you can find the complete range of plasma power supplies by Thermacut®.

Not sure which one to choose? We are here for you! Contact us at extrafire@thermacut.cz.

Text:               Thermacut, k.s.
Photo:            Archive of Thermacut, k.s.

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