Kjellberg Hi Focus HotWire Grate Cutting
“Custom built plasma tables designed to meet the needs of the technology shop trades programs”
The patented HotWire method makes it possible to cut interrupted structures, such as gratings, with precision and ease. This process is based on the principle of indirect plasma cutting, where the plasma arc forms between the cathode and a continuously fed wire, rather than between the cathode and the workpiece. Switching from conventional plasma cutting to the HotWire method is quick, straightforward, and seamless.
HotWire – Plasma Cutting of Interrupted Structures
The patented HotWire method offers a versatile solution for cutting complex and challenging materials. It can be used not only for interrupted structures and non-conductive materials—such as gratings and reinforced concrete—but also for ceramics and glass.
This innovative process is based on the principle of indirect plasma cutting. Unlike conventional plasma cutting, where the plasma arc forms between the cathode and the workpiece, the HotWire method generates the plasma between the cathode and a continuously fed wire, enabling precise and efficient cutting across a wide range of materials.
Benefits of HotWire Grate Cutting
- Cutting of interrupted structures such as gratings
- No interruption of the arc at the end of the workpiece
- No preheating of material
- Simple retooling to conventional HiFocus plasma cutting
Unlike oxy-fuel cutting, the HotWire method allows for flexible contour cutting without the need for preheating, a rotating head, or directional restrictions. It also enables safe and reliable cutting of challenging materials such as CrNi steel and aluminum gratings—something not possible with conventional oxy-fuel processes.
Depending on the selected plasma power source, cutting currents of 280 A or 360 A can be used. Based on factors such as material type, cutting current, root face size, and desired geometry, cutting speeds of up to 1.1 m/min can be achieved with excellent quality. The continuous arc ensures minimal wear on consumables and high process reliability.
In addition to the production of industrial grating, the HotWire plasma cutting method is also used in the dismantling of nuclear facilities.
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HotWire – Plasma Cutting of Interrupted Structures
HiFocus 360i neo | HotWire Plasma Cutting of Expanding Metal
HotWire – grate cutting
Innovative Plasma Cutting of Steel or Aluminum Grating at High Speeds
The Kjellberg Finsterwalde Plasma und Maschinen GmbH focusses on the manufacture and further development of plasma cutting technology. With the patent for FineFocus plasma cutting which had been developed in close cooperation with Manfred von Ardenne’s research institute since 1959 and which was filed in 1962 the company is the oldest manufacturer in the market.
“You are invited to visit us at our premises in Finsterwalde in the East German state of Brandenburg and experience first-hand the world of plasma cutting in our new customer and application centre. We offer you diverse demonstrations and training courses with a large number of different 2D and 3D guiding systems. A tour of our modern production plant completes the experience and you can find out all about Kjellberg Finsterwalde – the pioneers in plasma cutting.”