16V82 - ESAB Ultra-Line CM-79 6ft Extension Track

Technical Overview of the ESAB 16V82 6' Track

The ESAB 16V82 is a specialized 6-foot track section engineered specifically for the Ultra-Line series and CM-79 portable cutting machines. In the realm of mechanized oxy-fuel cutting, the precision of the cut is directly correlated to the stability and linearity of the travel mechanism. This track section serves as the foundational guide rail, ensuring that the tractor unit travels at a consistent velocity and a perfectly straight vector across the workpiece. Manufactured to tight tolerances, the rail minimizes vibration and lateral movement, which are critical factors in maintaining the integrity of the cutting stream and achieving high-quality edge preparation.

Designed for industrial durability, the track is constructed to withstand the harsh conditions typical of steel fabrication environments, including exposure to heat, spatter, and heavy mechanical loads. The 16V82 is not merely a passive accessory but an integral component of the cutting system. By providing a secure path for the CM-79 unit, it allows operators to perform long, continuous cuts on large plates without the need for frequent repositioning. This continuity is vital for metallurgical quality, as stopping and restarting a cut can introduce irregularities, gouges, or heat-affected zone (HAZ) inconsistencies that may require costly secondary grinding or machining.

The modular nature of the ESAB Ultra-Line track system allows for significant operational flexibility. While a single 6-foot section is sufficient for many standard plate widths, the design typically supports the alignment of multiple track sections. This capability enables fabricators to configure a cutting path of virtually any length, tailored to the specific dimensions of the raw material. Whether processing standard 4x8 sheets or extended structural plates for shipbuilding and bridge construction, the 16V82 provides the necessary guidance infrastructure. The track's profile is engineered to mate perfectly with the drive wheels of the CM-79, ensuring positive traction and preventing slippage that could disrupt the travel speed—a critical variable in maintaining the correct preheat and oxidation reaction during the cutting process.

For maintenance and reliability and operations (MRO) specialists, stocking the 16V82 ensures that production downtime is minimized. As a direct OEM replacement or extension part, it guarantees 100% compatibility with existing ESAB Ultra-Line setups, eliminating the fitment issues often associated with generic aftermarket rails. Its robust design ensures a long service life, providing a reliable return on investment for fabrication shops focused on precision and efficiency.