Hypertherm began building a modified OptiMix console, starting with Serial Number XPRO-000377 and keeping the same Part Number 078633, that addressed several issues which have negatively impacted customers using the H2-Ar-N2 mixed gas capabilities enabled by this console.
In addition, we are planning to implement a program to field upgrade all installed current revision consoles to the new version. We expect details of these plans to be finalized soon.
The Modified OptiMix console addresses several problems that have been negatively impacting customers using the H2-Ar-N2 mixed gas capabilities enabled by the OptiMix console. Most notably among these are a brief, inconsistent gas mixture after the beginning of the cut which results in a bluish colored mark and possibly a spike in arc voltage, impacting the surface of the cut. Another major issue is sensitivity to gas input pressure settings, causing the unit to fail the leak test and revert to VWI and Pout>Pin (720 errors), which in extreme cases makes it difficult to enable the system to operate.
Major elements of the modification involve hardware:
1) adding a new dilution chamber/outlet manifold in the console; and,
2) adding internal preset regulators to the Argon and N2 supplies to the Torch Connect Console.
Beyond these hardware changes, we made changes in firmware and increased pressure settings for air inlet and mixer inlets (H2-Ar-N2). The new version of the console includes labels indicating the new maximum pressure settings.
XPR firmware starting with revision J contains the code that enables proper functionality of the revised OptiMix console. All XPR systems shipped from Hanover, U.S.A. after October 26, 2018 are loaded with appropriate firmware.
When installing the XPR system it is important to verify that all components (Main Control PCB, Choppers, Gas Connect Console and Torch Connect Console) have the latest revision firmware (effective on November 30, this will be revision J for the consoles and chopper and revision K for the power supply control board and the Wi-Fi tool) to ensure all new features enabled by the firmware are operational.
Field upgrade plan: Details of our plan to perform a field upgrade on existing OptiMix consoles are being finalized now. The first step in the execution of this upgrade plan is to identify and prioritize OptiMix field locations. Our Sales manager will be reaching out to you for this information.