0558102540 - ESAB Crossbow CNC Plasma Cutter Kit with A40i Power Source

Technical Overview of the ESAB Crossbow Plasma Kit A40i

The ESAB Crossbow Plasma Kit (SKU: 0558102540) represents a significant advancement in portable, mechanized cutting solutions. This system integrates the robust electromechanical platform of the Crossbow gantry with the precision and reliability of the Cutmaster A40i air plasma power source. Designed for versatility in industrial environments, the system operates on a wide input voltage range of 208-480V single-phase, making it adaptable to various facility power configurations without the need for complex transformer setups.

At the core of the system is the Crossbow's integrated CNC controller. Unlike simple track burners, this is a fully digitized system featuring a user-friendly interface with a built-in library of common geometric shapes. Operators can input dimensions directly at the console or upload complex nesting programs via the standard USB port. The drive system utilizes precision rack-and-pinion mechanics on the longitudinal axis and a stable cross-beam design, ensuring high repeatability and positional accuracy essential for component fabrication.

Crucial to the plasma cutting process is the height control mechanism. This kit includes a motorized lifter equipped with Arc Voltage Control (AVC). The AVC system continuously monitors the arc voltage—which correlates directly to arc length—and dynamically adjusts the torch height in real-time to maintain a constant gap over warped or uneven plates. Additionally, the system employs Ohmic Contact sensing for Initial Height Sensing (IHS), ensuring the torch finds the plate surface accurately before every pierce, thereby extending consumable life and preventing torch crashes.

The included Cutmaster A40i power source is specifically optimized for mechanized applications. It delivers a high duty cycle and superior cut quality on mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. The interface between the CNC and the plasma unit is seamless, with start/stop signals and arc transfer feedback fully integrated. This kit is supplied with the necessary rails to establish a standard 5-foot by 10-foot cutting envelope, providing ample capacity for standard plate sizes while maintaining a compact footprint that can be disassembled and stored when not in use.