Bevel cutting is the process of cutting a part with an edge that is not perpendicular to the top of the piece, typically in preparation for welding of plates or pipes. Bevels can be cut at many different angles and configurations, depending on the purpose, resulting in different edge profiles.
Beveled edges are normally cut using a specialized bevel torch or cutting head mounted on a CNC cutting table, pipe and tube cutter, or beam processing machine.
Historically, bevel cutting required considerable trial and error because of the difficulty in maintaining consistent results. However, embedded process technology such as Hypertherm’s True Bevel™ significantly improves the speed, repeatability, and accuracy of bevel cutting. Plasma’s high cut quality results in consistent, perfect geometries and dross-free cuts, resulting in weld-ready bevels with little or no need for secondary grinding.
Hypertherm’s ProNest® software allows you to create beveled parts or automatically import from CAD. And it is the only software with full support for True Bevel technology. Adopting automated bevel cutting supports increased productivity demands and addresses increasing labor costs and a shortage of experienced operators. It also improves accuracy and repeatability for increased throughput.
About True Bevel
As part of Hypertherm's SureCut™ technology, True Bevel technology for HPRXD® and XPR® plasma systems is a performance application for mild steel. Factory tested and easily implemented, it takes the guesswork out of the plasma bevel-cutting process. With True Bevel, setups for new jobs are quick and results are accurate and consistent.
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Applying bevel with a robot, is the most flexible method. It enables the possibility to consolidate multiple operations, such as handling, cutting, marking, grinding, welding, and complete the part in one cell. When combined with off-line programming that has embedded technology expertise, this enables high mix/low volume capability and with minimal labor requirements.
When compared to robotic oxyfuel beveling, robotic plasma beveling is over 3 times more efficient, with a comprehensive cost 3 to 4 times lower. Robotic plasma beveling alleviates common beveling problems that make automated welding impossible—parts are distorted out of tolerances by heat, slow operations, and potentially hazardous conditions.
If you want beveling results with superior quality and faster lead times —critical in today’s competitive market—talk to us!
Many industrial operations cut parts on mechanized CNC tables followed by a separate beveling operation for weld preparation using an oxyfuel torch on a carriage that follows along the edge of the plate. These edges typically require additional grinding to clean up rough spots and prepare the edges for welding – a time-consuming, labor-intensive process.
Hypertherm’s Powermax® plasma technology with an optimized track/carriage solution can deliver cutting speeds of up to 30 ipm, which is 4 times faster than oxyfuel on 12 mm (1/2″) mild steel. In addition, plasma is faster and easier to set-up, has a smaller overall footprint, and results in a smoother cut edge so significantly less grinding is required prior to welding.
Combining Plazmax’s proprietary bevel head and Hypertherm True Bevel technology, the machine allows the production team to skip the time-consuming task of dialing in bevel cutting parameters, and creates accurate and consistent beveled edges in a single step.
GH Engineering Ltd
Metal fabricator
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…the new machine combines many processes, like marking, drilling and bevel cutting.”
Konecranes
Construction and heavy equipment
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Construction machinery manufacturer
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Construction machinery manufacturer
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ProNest® CAD/CAM part nesting software for advanced mechanized cutting is designed to supercharge your cutting operation, helping you achieve greater automation, efficiency, and profitability.
Professional-grade 32 mm (1-1/4″) plasma cutter provides automated process set-up and a revolutionary cartridge consumable platform for ease of use and optimized performance.
Cut faster and use fewer consumables with the XPR300® mechanized plasma cutting system. With unmatched X-Definition® cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum, the XPR300 increases cut speed, dramatically improves productivity and slashes operating costs.
Bevel cuts for V-weld joints with ample torch tilt angle range up to 66.5°.
Ideal for pipe bevel applications where cut bevel requirements are greater than 45°
Higher productivity, less rework and less heat affected zone compared to oxyfuel.
Improved operator’s visibility and access to tight spots.
Greater accessibility to beam flange – reducing secondary operations.
