Precise height control is the nerve centre of plasma cutting. It is therefore the special focus of companies that provide mechanical engineers with mechatronic solutions consisting of a Z-axis mechanism with associated electronics. Although this task could easily be performed by a modern CNC controller, the distance control in these solutions operates completely outside the CNC.

The strength of Eckelmann’s CNC solution becomes particularly obvious in bevel cutting with turning aggregates, where 5 axes need to be coordinated. The software for the ENC66 already includes all the conventional distance control functions.

Our product portfolio also contains the suitable Z-axis mechanism. Although especially designed for plasma cutting, the mechanism can also be used in other cutting technologies such as oxy-fuel, laser and water jet cutting.

Bevel cutting is used in three-dimensional applications. It is here that solutions with a separate height control system outside the CNC come up against their limits.

Placed under uniform CNC management, all axes involved can be optimally coordinated. The Z-module has therefore been designed so as to facilitate the mounting of bevel aggregates with additional A- and B-axis for the bevel angle adjustment. Depending on the prevailing kinematical properties, moving the A- and B-axis also changes the flame distance that needs to be adjusted by a Z-axis movement. Moreover, a compensating movement of the X- and Y-machine axes is necessary. The CNC must be capable of interpolating and controlling at least 5 axes simultaneously.

For accurate height control, it is necessary to determine the height of the workpiece first. By performing a sophisticated motor current evaluation during the tactile scanning of the burner nozzle, Eckelmann’s solution is capable of measuring even thin sheets with high precision. Optionally, the CNC supports sensors which scan the surface prior to the cutting process.