The XPR series represents Hypertherm’s current generation of mechanised plasma technology, X-Definition® cutting across mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminium. As an authorised Hypertherm OEM Channel Partner, Plazmax integrates XPR power sources into our CNC plasma cutting machines and supports XPR-equipped systems throughout New Zealand.
The XPR range uses Hypertherm’s X-Definition® technology, an evolution of HyDefinition® that delivers tighter arc constriction, improved arc stability, and finer edge quality across all three materials. On mild steel, the difference shows in edge squareness and angularity. On stainless steel and aluminium, it opens up cut quality that was previously only achievable with laser on thinner materials.
Every XPR system includes Arc Response Technology®, which automatically monitors torch performance and intervenes to protect consumables and prevent catastrophic torch failure. Built-in Wi-Fi and IIoT connectivity via Ethernet allow remote system monitoring and data access without a technician on site.
XPR power sources are available with four gas console configurations. Plazmax machines are supplied standard with the VWI console.
Entry-level console options suited to mild steel and basic non-ferrous cutting. The CorePlus adds additional process capability over the Core, including argon-assist for extended pierce capacity. Both are compatible with all three XPR power source models.
VWI is the console specified as standard on all Plazmax CNC machines configured with an XPR power source. It adds water injection to the shield gas circuit, which significantly improves cut quality on stainless steel. This reduces the heat-affected zone and improves edge colour and angularity on thicker material. VWI also enables argon-assist piercing for maximum pierce capacity on mild steel. For NZ fabricators processing structural stainless or food-grade stainless components, VWI is the correct specification.
The top-specification console option. OptiMix enables mixed-fuel gas processes on stainless steel and aluminium, achieving the finest edge quality the XPR platform is capable of. Recommended for operations where cut quality on non-ferrous materials is the primary driver.
Plazmax has a technical team based in New Zealand. All XPR-equipped Plazmax machines are delivered with turnkey installation and operator training. Ongoing support is available for both Plazmax machines and any existing XPR-equipped system already operating in NZ, regardless of the machine manufacturer.
For consumables and replacement parts for XPR systems, see our Consumables & Parts section.
The three models differ in output amperage: 170A, 300A, and 460A respectively. Higher amperage enables greater pierce capacity, faster cut speeds on heavier plate, and the ability to cut thicker material. The XPR170 pierces mild steel to 40mm, the XPR300 to 50mm, and the XPR460 to 64mm. The right model depends on the thickness range you regularly process and the duty cycle your operation requires.
Plazmax CNC machines are configured with the VWI (Vented Water Injection) console as standard. VWI significantly improves cut quality on stainless steel and enables argon-assist piercing for maximum pierce capacity. It is appropriate for the majority of NZ fabrication applications. OptiMix is available on request for operations requiring maximum non-ferrous cut quality.
Yes. As an authorised Hypertherm OEM Channel Partner, we supply genuine Hypertherm XPR consumables and replacement parts. These are available through our Consumables & Parts section or by contacting us directly.
Yes. Our NZ technical team supports XPR-equipped systems regardless of the machine manufacturer. If you are running an XPR power source on a non-Plazmax machine and need service or support in NZ, contact us.
X-Definition® is Hypertherm's current-generation plasma process, introduced with the XPR series. It improves on HyDefinition® through tighter arc constriction, a modified shield gas impingement design, and advanced arc stability management. The practical result is improved edge squareness on mild steel, dross-free cutting on stainless steel at viable speeds, and cleaner edges on aluminium compared to previous-generation systems.
Argon-assist uses argon gas during the pierce cycle to reduce the energy shock on the electrode and nozzle when initiating an arc into thick material. It extends the maximum pierce thickness beyond what is achievable with standard oxygen or air processes, and significantly extends consumable life when piercing at or near the system's capacity. On VWI and OptiMix consoles, argon-assist is available as standard.
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