Hypertherm - PlasmaCam Compatability

[Jspece]

Looking to upgrade cutters from a cheapo cutter to a Hypertherm 45xp. Browsing online I see there is a CPC chord available for using the 45xp with a CNC table. I'm not exactly sure what a CPC chord is? I would like my new cutter to be compatible with a PlasmaCam table. From what I know about PlasmaCam your hand torch clamps on to the gantry. So I'm wondering if this CPC chord is something I need to invest in for use with the PlasmaCam table or not?

Thanks for educating a greenhorn!

[djreiswig]

The CPC stands for Circular Plastic Connector. It is used to access the divided voltage as well as connections for firing the machine torch. I'm not sure what you would need to connect to a PlasmaCam table.

[jimcolt]

Plasmacam recommends that you use a hand torch with Hypertherm systems and use the interface cord that is supplied with the Plasmacam machine. Mount the hand torch on Plasmacam's hand torch bracket, remove the cover from the 45XP power supply and make the connections internally (4 wires, requires cutting and resplicing 2 connections). So....if you plan to use the hand torch on a Plasmacam you must use their supplied cable and follow the directions that come with the Plasmacam for connections.

Hypertherm (and I) recommend using a machine torch for machine cutting. I have owned plasmacam tables for almost 17 years, and always have used a machine torch. To use a Powermax45 XP with a machine torch on a Plasmacam: 1. Be sure you order the 45 XP with the machine torch, if you do, the power supply will be equipped with the CPC interface port. 2. Order a machine torch mount, 3 Order a plug and play interface cable....one end plugs into the CPC port (no splicing needed) the other end plugs into the Plasmacam control box. These cables are available from pjmetalfab.com . Either way works, the machine torch version costs more but will easily pay for itself over time with easier consumable changeout and inspection, better torch to plate perpendicularity, less chance of torch damage in the event of a collision with the plate being cut. Here is a pic of a Powermax machine torch on a Plasmacam : Jim Colt

[Jspece]

Thanks for the insight! Makes more sense now.

Was hoping you would chime in Jim. I've been watching your videos on Youtube. Very informative for the uninformed like myself!!

[Ssleeper]

Jim,
I have run my Hypertherm Powermax 600 with a Plasmacam for 15 years and just now changed over to the 45 xp. I ordered it with the hand torch and the Plasmacam CPC cable specifically for use with my Plasmacam. Do I also need to change the 4 switches on the inside of the 45xp?

[adbuch]

You will need to change the factory switch setting from 50:1 to 21.1:1, which is the voltage divider setting specifically recommended for PlasmaCAM systems.
David

Hyperthem 5-position voltage divider.jpg

[rdj357]

Also, the hand torch will not work with the trigger circuit of the CPC. You will have to either change the wiring inside the machine or switch to a machine torch.

[adbuch]

Here is some information on configuring the CPC port connector for use with a hand torch, but it may be easier and safer to switch to a machine torch.
David

https://forum.langmuirsystems.com/t/hyp ... wiring/982