The wait is over for Powermax1000 and Powermax1250 owners interested in upgrading to the latest Hypertherm torch technology. Those customers can enjoy all the benefits of Hypertherm's Duramax torch series, including more durability and longer consumable life, while using their existing Powermax systems. Similar to the new Duramax torches introduced last fall with Hypertherm's new Powermax65 and Powermax85 systems, the torches were designed with durability in mind, according to the company.
They can withstand impacts five times greater than the previous generation of torches and are more heat resistant so they can easily conquer the most demanding job. The Duramax torches use a new Conical Flow nozzle and spring electrode for longer consumable life. Hypertherm testing shows an up to 55 percent increase in the life of the Duramax consumables, which translates into a 30 percent savings on consumable costs.
"We were using five sets of tips per week. Now with the new retrofit torch, we use the system more and are using only one set per week," said Travis Bering, a manufacturing foreman at JMH Trailers in Pennsylvania. Bering estimates the money his company is saving on consumables will help JMH buy another plasma system for their shop.
The Duramax retrofit torches also offer convenience. They are designed with the same Easy Torch Removal (ETR) connection as the standard Powermax1000 and Powermax1250 torches, enabling switching from the older torch to the new in just seconds. These retrofit torches use the same consumables as Hypertherm's Powermax65 and Powermax85, allowing customers with a mix of systems to simplify their consumables stock. In addition, Spring Start technology, a new patent-pending design eliminates moving parts within the torch for greater reliability.
The Duramax retrofit torches are available in either an ergonomic, 75-degree hand torch (HRT) or a 15-inch full-length machine torch (MRT). Similar to the standard Duramax machine torches, customers have the ability to convert the MRT into a 6-inch, short-barreled machine torch perfect for robotic and pipe-cutting applications.