Esab Group (UK) Ltd (www.esab.com) has launched its new Cutmaster Black series of enhanced-performance plasma cutting consumables, which extend operating life by 60% compared with standard-life electrodes.

They are featured on the SL60QD 1Torch, which comes with the Cutmaster 60i hand-held air plasma cutting system.

Coupled with internal enhancements on the Cutmaster 60i, the new electrode design increases the unit’s rated cut and piercing capacity to 20mm (a 16.6% improvement).

The Cutmaster 60i can sever metal up to 38mm thick.

Esab director Kris Scherm said: “At 16.8kg, the Cutmaster 60i already offered the best power-to-weight ratio on the market.

"With these consumables, this 60A unit is even more of a ‘cutting beast’.

"With Cutmaster Black series consumables, users will enjoy lower overall operating costs through extended electrode life and obtain more quality cuts per electrode.”

For users who want the flexibility to connect a Cutmaster 60i to a cutting table for semi-automated air plasma cutting, Esab now offers the MechPak mechanised package.

This comes with everything that users need to get started, including an SL100 mechanised 1Torch with a 7.6m or 15.2m cable, a remote pendant, a lead with ATC Torch Connection and consumables.

Mr Scherm said: “The MechPak features a power connector for a start/stop trigger integrated with the ATC Torch Connection.

"Typically, applications would include pairing the Cutmaster 60i and MechPak with an Esab Miggytrac or Railtrac tractor for semi-automatic cutting, bevelling or plasma gouging.”