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- #What is softpierce percentage in sheetcam software#
- #What is softpierce percentage in sheetcam series#
Some machines and CAM software do this automatically on all holes less than a certain diameter, such as 1.25 in., while other software may need to have the G-code manipulated to achieve this. While doing so will create some low-speed dross on the bottom portion of the hole, it will minimize taper in the hole. 4 Adjust Your Cut Speed Accordingly.Ĭut speed on holes should hover around 60 percent of the speed you use to cut the outside contour of the part. This allows for a smoother end-of-cut transition and a minimal divot at arc-off. Some software can actually shut off the plasma arc at the lead-in kerf crossing while keeping the motion active. An overburn is an extension of the hole radius past the 360-degree lead-in kerf for about 0.150 in. 3 Shut off the Arc at the 360-degree Position on the Hole Contour.Įven better (if your CAM software allows for it) is to add an overburn on holes.
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Machines that are more sluggish will benefit from radial or curved lead-ins.
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Some cutting machines have better motion control in terms of acceleration and mechanical backlash than others, but most will produce excellent holes when lead-in shapes are straight and perpendicular to the hole. It also allows the height control to index down to cut height before it arrives to the contour of the hole. Second, a longer lead-in gives the plasma arc time to stabilize because pressure and energy take a while to ramp up. If this puddle stays on the radius (contour) of the hole, it will cause the plasma arc to waver and create a divot or ding in the hole. First, there usually is a slag puddle on the top of the plate. 2 Use a Lead-in That Comes Close to the Center of the Hole. Then it will index quickly to the cut height, allowing the X and Y machine motion to start its way through the lead-in cut path.Ī hole that is cut properly using an air plasma system will be round (top and bottom)Īnd will include some natural taper because of the lagging arc angle from the plasmaĬutting jet. Piercing too close or moving the torch before the pierce is complete will cause orifice damage that will alter cut quality.Ī good height control will accurately find the surface of the material, and then it will retract to pierce height, fire the torch, and remain at the pierce height until the pierce delay timer times out. These two parameters are critical in decreasing the amount of molten metal blowback on the torch shield and nozzle orifice. 1 Pierce the Plate at the Recommended Cut Height.Īlso, make sure to abide by the manufacturer’s recommendations for pierce delay time. Let’s look at seven ways you can improve hole cut quality. A hole that is cut properly using an air plasma system will be round (top and bottom) and will include some natural taper because of the lagging arc angle from the plasma cutting jet. If you attempt to cut a hole with a diameter that is smaller than that of the plate thickness, you’ll end up with distortion and excess taper. The rule of thumb for the best hole quality when performing the cut with either an air plasma or oxygen-based high-definition system is that the hole diameter should be no smaller than the plate thickness. Usually holes are used to bolt finished assemblies together. In addition, you should carefully consider the table’s acceleration capabilities and ensure the maximum cut speed is high enough for your needs.Ī variety of different requirements exist for hole quality on steel parts. Any table you consider should include a fully functional height control and good CAM (postprocessing) software.
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This variation is especially pronounced with light industrial or entry-level tables. The process capability varies considerably between manufacturers. Keep in mind that not all plasma machines are the same. If you are having trouble achieving the desired quality when cutting holes, there are tips and techniques that might help. Holes that are out-of-round or that have taper (the top of the hole is larger than the bottom) are common problems in many shops. Hole quality in particular is one of the most frequently discussed topics in regards to CNC plasma cutting. With a little troubleshooting, you can almost always find a resolution to your cut quality problems by selecting the right plasma torch consumables, adjusting your power levels (amperage), and tweaking cut speeds and cut heights. When it comes to CNC plasma cutting, the same basic questions regarding cut quality always seem to surface. Part II will address dross, edge angularity, warpage, and edge metallurgy. Part I addresses achieving quality when cutting holes.
#What is softpierce percentage in sheetcam series#
Editor’s Note: This is the first article in a two-part series about cut quality in CNC plasma cutting machines.