New generation of plasma sources: ready for digitized production

Leading the way in plasma cutting technology. That has been Kjellberg's trademark for sixty years, and the company is resolutely pulling that card into the future as well. A good example of this is the progressive Q series, the latest generation of plasma sources with which metalworkers are completely ready for digitized production.

The new flagship in the Kjellberg range are the Q plasma sources. With this innovation, the company is fully committed to the highly topical themes of 'smart factory' and 'e-services'.The process communication of these revolutionary plasma sources is accomplished via EtherCAT and thus establishes flawless communication with the guide system, cutting table, robot and all other components of the production process. This, of course, with the best possible cutting results. Because with the Q series, the renowned Kjellberg Contour Cut and Silent Cut technology is further optimized for higher cutting speeds, quieter operation and shorter cycles between cuts. The source uses digitally controlled inverter modules, providing Kjellberg with optimally controlled cutting and marking flow. Gas control and cooling are also fully incorporated into this digital process communication. The result is the best cutting and marking quality and increased life of the wear parts in the torch. Compared to the HiFocus, the Q plasma source 42% weighs less. Compared to its competitors, it is even 50%. With a new source also comes a new torch. The Q plasma cutting source can automatically identify the Q plasma torches, with their quick-change heads. They also feature efficient cooling.

All the new functionalities of the Q series aim to integrate and automate the production process, as well as improve device availability.

Available in three different capacities

The modular design provides that up to three power modules of 150 A each can be placed in the same housing. Thus, a 150 A, 300 A or 450 A source can be assembled, allowing cutting performance to be extended according to the user's needs. The Q plasma cutting sources can handle thicknesses from 0.5 to as much as 120 mm! Currently, versions in 150 A and 300 A are already available to the market, with the 450 A to follow during 2020. There is also a unit integrated for automatic control of the plasma gas for high-precision cutting or marking. Q-gas is suitable for cutting steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, titanium ... It uses all possible process gases: Air, O₂ oxygen, N₂ nitrogen, Argon, H₂ hydrogen, forging gas. And there is a budget-friendly gas console if one wishes to cut steel only. With as process gases Air, O₂ oxygen, and N₂ nitrogen. The Q plasma sources are also characterized by their low emissions.

With an eye toward automation and connectivity

All the new functionalities of the Q series aim to integrate and automate the production process, as well as improve device availability. Updates and diagnostics can be performed by the constructor via a simple and secure remote VPN connection.  Through the browser-based user interface Q-desk, the operator, but also, for example, the work planner and calculator, receives comprehensive information about machine, process, and consumption. In addition, tools are made available to the operator for assistance, troubleshooting, and improved visualization with instructional videos and FAQs. Information for the purpose of preventive maintenance is also offered in the database. In short, everything needed for intelligent diagnosis and monitoring of the process and components. Attention has also been paid to simplicity of assembly and installation. All hoses can be easily connected by flange mounting, all cables are equipped with industrial plug connectors.