430-020335 - Hypertherm 020335 MAX100 Plasma Shield Cup

High-Performance Shielding for MAX100 Systems

The Hypertherm 020335 Castle Cup is a critical consumable component engineered specifically for the MAX100 plasma cutting system, typically utilizing the PAC130 torch platform. In the high-energy environment of plasma cutting, the shield cup serves as the first line of defense for the internal consumables, such as the nozzle and electrode. By effectively channeling the secondary gas flow and providing a physical barrier against molten metal blowback, this castle cup ensures the longevity of the entire torch front-end assembly. Its robust construction is designed to withstand the intense heat and ultraviolet radiation generated during cutting operations ranging up to 100 amps.

This specific component features a "castle" or crenellated tip design. This geometry is not merely aesthetic; it serves a vital functional purpose in industrial environments. The castellations allow for proper gas venting even when the torch is placed in direct contact with the workpiece or when using a drag-cutting technique. This ensures that the plasma arc maintains stability and that the cooling gas flow is not stifled, which could otherwise lead to overheating or catastrophic failure of the nozzle. For MRO professionals and fabrication managers, ensuring that operators have access to fresh, undamaged shield cups like the 020335 is essential for maintaining production uptime and cut quality.

Manufactured to Hypertherm's exacting tolerances, the 020335 Castle Cup guarantees a precise fit with the retaining cap and swirl ring assembly. A loose or poorly fitting shield can disrupt gas dynamics, leading to an off-center arc and beveled cuts. By using this genuine-spec replacement, users ensure that the dielectric distances within the torch head are maintained, preventing internal arcing. Whether used in automated tables or manual hand-cutting scenarios, this shield cup is a fundamental part of the MAX100's consumable stack, directly influencing the efficiency and cleanliness of the cut edge.