Shield 420172 drag cutting for Hypertherm Powermax125 Plasma Cutting Torch Consumables fit 220971

Product Identification & Overview

• Hypertherm Part Number: 420172

• Common Name: Drag Shield, Drag Cutting Shield, Hand-Guide Shield.

• Compatible Torch: Powermax125 / Powermax125® (Mechanized Torch)

• Replaces Older Part Number: 028373 (Common on older Powermax125 systems).

• Fits Consumable Set: 220971 (Shield 420172 is a key component ofthis set).

Primary Function: This shield is specifically designed to enable drag (contact) cutting. It allows the operator to rest the shield directly on the metal workpiece and drag the torch along the cut line, making freehand cutting much easier, more stable, and producing better results than using the torch without it.

Key Features & Design Benefits

• Drag Cutting Capability: The defining feature. The extended nozzle with a ceramic tip protects the retaining cap and swirl ring from physical damage and electrical contact with the workpiece. You can slide it directly on the metal.

• Improved Cut Quality: By maintaining a consistent tip-to-work distance (standoff), it significantly improves cut squareness and reduces bevel on straight lines and circles compared to freehand cutting without a guide.

• Easier Operation: Greatly simplifies cutting for operators of all skill levels. It provides a stable pivot point for making circles and helps keep the torch perpendicular to the workpiece.

• Component Protection: The shield absorbs the physical abrasion and sparks, protecting the more expensive components inside (especially the retaining cap / shield cup 220776).

• Bevel Reduction: Consistent standoff helps the plasma arc cut more vertically through the metal, minimizing angular bevel on the cut edge.

Full List of Compatible Consumables (When used as part of 220971)

The Shield 420172 is one part of the complete drag cutting consumable set, 220971. The full set includes:

1. Electrode: 220779 (Copper + Hafnium emitter)

2. Nozzle: 220778 (Also called the tip)

3. Swirl Ring: 220777

4. Retaining Cap: 220776 (The part the shield screws onto)

5. Shield (Drag Shield): 420172 (This Part)

Important: The shield 420172 is designed to be used only with the other components in the 220971 set. Using it with other, non-drag consumables (like those from set 220990) will not work correctly and may cause torch damage.

Compatible Hypertherm Systems

The Shield 420172 is compatible with the hand-held torch and the mechanized torch of the following systems:

• Powermax125®

• Powermax125® G3 series

Note: It is not compatible with the Powermax105, Powermax85, or older Powermax1000/1250 systems. Those systems have their own specific drag shields.

Usage Instructions & Best Practices

1. Assembly: Ensure all consumables (Electrode, Nozzle, Swirl Ring) are correctly seated in the retaining cap (220776). Then, screw the Shield 420172 onto the front of the retaining cap. Hand-tighten only; do not overtighten.

2. Technique: Place the ceramic edge of the shield firmly on the workpiece. The torch should be held at a 90-degree (perpendicular) angle to the plate for the best results.

3. Cutting Motion: Drag (slide) the torch steadily along the cut line. The shield will glide on the ceramic surface. A smooth, consistent speed is key to quality cuts.

4. Piercing: For piercing, you can start with the torch tilted slightly so the shield is on its edge, then rock it to a vertical position once the arc has penetrated through the metal. Alternatively, use the recommended pierce height from the manual if your system has mechanized height control, then lower to drag.

5. Maintenance: Inspect the shield regularly. The ceramic insulating ring can crack or wear out over time. Replace the shield if the ceramic is chipped, cracked, or worn down to the point where the metal retaining cap could contact the workpiece.

Product Description

Ref.  FM.420172 Shield for Plasma Cutting Consumables

We have own factory and can supply plasma cutting parts (Shield, Retaining cap, Nozzle, Swirl ring, Electrode)