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Genuine Hypertherm Shield.
Straight answers to the questions people ask when choosing and fitting replacement consumables and spare parts for a plasma torch.
The usual first sign is poorer cut quality: a wider cut, more dross on the underside, rough edges or hard starting. Then look at the parts. Maker guidance says to replace a nozzle that shows erosion, missing material, blocked gas holes or an off-round or enlarged centre hole, and a worn orifice is one of the first things to check when dross appears.When the electrode itself is worn, the maker advises replacing the electrode and nozzle together. Your manual gives the wear limits for your torch.
Consumables are made for particular current ranges. The nozzle orifice is sized for the current, and running a set well outside its range can burn it out quickly or spoil the cut. Gouging and fine-cutting nozzles also have different orifice sizes from standard cutting nozzles.If you cut across a wide range of currents you may need more than one set of consumables. Check the consumables chart in the maker's manual for the setting you use, and change sets when you change to a very different current.
Plasma consumables are specific to the torch and power source they were designed for, so match them to the torch model and cutting current shown in your manual. Check the markings on the torch and the data plate, and compare the part numbers on your existing nozzle, electrode and shield with the parts list.Parts that look alike can differ in orifice size, length or sealing faces, so do not rely on appearance alone. If you are unsure, our team can help you check.
Consumables are only one cause. The makers' troubleshooting guides point first to travel speed: too slow leaves thick dross along the bottom edge, while too fast leaves a small hard bead. Torch standoff height that is too high or too low and a cutting current that is wrong for the nozzle also cause dross.Adjust one setting at a time in small steps, using the cut chart in your manual. Also check that the parts are the right set for the current and are fitted correctly, and that your air supply is clean and dry.