Patent Publication Number: US-8541711-B2

Title: Internal part feature cutting method and apparatus

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/154,259 filed on Feb. 20, 2009, which is owned by the assignee of the instant application and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention relates generally to plasma arc cutting torch systems. More specifically, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for cutting internal features and contours in a workpiece using a plasma torch tip configuration. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Plasma cutting uses a constricted electric arc to heat a gas flow to the plasma state. The energy from the high temperature plasma flow locally melts the workpiece.  FIG. 1  is a diagram of a known automated plasma torch system. Automated torch system  10  can include a cutting table  22  and torch  24 . An example of a torch that can be used in an automated system is the HPR260 auto gas system, manufactured by Hypertherm, Inc., of Hanover, N.H. The torch height controller  18  can be mounted to a gantry  26 . The automated system  10  can also include a drive system  20 . The torch is powered by a power supply  14 . The plasma arc torch system can also include a gas console  16  that can be used to regulate/configure the gas composition (e.g., gas types for the shield gas and plasma gas) and the gas flow rates for the plasma arc torch. An automated torch system  10  can also include a computer numeric controller  12  (CNC), for example, a Hypertherm Automation Voyager, manufactured by Hypertherm, Inc., Hanover, N.H. The CNC  12  can include a display screen  13  which is used by the torch operator to input or read information that the CNC  12  uses to determine operating parameters. In some embodiments, operating parameters can include cut speed, torch height, and plasma and shield gas composition. The display screen  13  can also be used by the operator to manually input operating parameters. A torch  24  can also include a torch body (not shown) and torch consumables that are mounted to the front end of a torch body. Further discussion of CNC  12  configuration can be found in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0108333, assigned to Hypertherm, Inc., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
       FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a known plasma arc torch tip configuration, including consumable parts and gas flows. The electrode  27 , nozzle  28 , and shield  29  are nested together such that the plasma gas  30  flows between the exterior of the electrode and the interior surface of the nozzle. A plasma chamber  32  is defined between the electrode  27  and nozzle  28 . A plasma arc  31  is formed in the plasma chamber  32 . The plasma arc  31  exits the torch tip through a plasma nozzle orifice  33  in the front end of the nozzle to cut the workpiece  37 . The shield gas  34  flows between the exterior surface of the nozzle and the interior surface of the shield. The shield gas  34  exits the torch tip through the shield exit orifice  35  in the front end of the shield, and can be configured to surround the plasma arc. In some instances, the shield gas also exits the torch tip through bleed holes  36  disposed within the shield  29 . An example of plasma torch consumables are the consumable parts manufactured by Hypertherm, Inc., of Hanover, N.H. for HPR 130 systems, for cutting mild steel with a current of 80 amps. The nozzle  28  can be a vented nozzle, (e.g., comprising an inner and outer nozzle piece and a bypass channel formed between the inner and outer nozzle pieces directs the bypass flow to atmosphere), as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,317,126 entitled “Nozzle And Method Of Operation For A Plasma Arc Torch” issued to Couch et al., which is owned by the assignee of the instant application and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     Internal features (e.g., hole features, substantially circular holes, slots, etc.) cut with plasma arc torches using known methods can result in defects, such as, for example, protrusions, divots, “bevel” or “taper.” Bevel or taper is where a feature size at a bottom side of the workpiece is smaller than the feature size at the top side of the plate. For example, the diameter of an internal feature such as a hole feature, at the top of the workpiece should be cut to match the size of a bolt to pass through the hole feature. If the hole feature has defects, such as, protrusions, divots, bevel or taper, the defects in the hole feature can cause the hole feature diameter to vary from the top of a workpiece to the bottom of the workpiece. Such defects can prevent the bolt from passing through the bottom of the workpiece. Secondary processes, such are reaming or drilling are required to enlarge the diameter of the bolt hole feature at the bottom of the workpiece. This prior method of ensuring hole cut quality can be time consuming, suggesting that a more efficient method of cutting holes and contours in a single workpiece is needed. 
     The assignor of this patent (Hypertherm, Inc.) conducted extensive customer research into the areas of plasma cutting that require improvement. During the research, 22 end users out of a total 45 end users provided the unsolicited request that improving the quality of hole features is an area of plasma cutting that they would most like to see improved. Improving the cut quality of hole features was mentioned over 3 times more than the next response. This feedback from the end users demonstrates that quality plasma hole cutting is perceived by the end users continues to be a long-felt unmet need. 
     Traditionally, to correct defects in the hole feature, such as, for example, a “protrusion” where the lead-in of a cut transitions into a perimeter of the cut, the arc is left on after cutting the perimeter to “clean up” the defect left by the lead-in by cutting the unwanted excess material. This process is called “over burn.” Over burning, however, can result in removing too much material, leaving an even larger defect (e.g., leaving a divot in place of the protrusion). 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention substantially improves the cut quality for small internal part features (e.g., hole features) cut from a workpiece using a plasma arc torch. Hole features cut using plasma arc torches using known methods can result in features with defects, such as protrusions (e.g., where not enough material was cut), divots (e.g., where too much material was cut), bevel or taper, which can prevent, for example, a bolt from passing through the bottom of a workpiece. Cutting parameters (e.g., gas composition, cutting speed, cutting current, etc.) can be manipulated to improve the cut quality of a small internal part feature. For example, the cutting speed of the “lead-in” of the cut can affect the cut quality for the hole feature. Using the same speed for the lead-in of the cut as the rest of the cut can result in defects such as protrusions, where the lead of the cut transitions into the perimeter. As noted above, traditionally, an “over burn” process can be used to remove the excess material, however, an over burn process can remove too much material, leaving behind a defect such as a divot. Using a low N 2  gas composition (e.g., a gas composition of O 2  plasma gas and O 2  shield gas) can also be used to cut small internal features to help minimize the bevel and/or taper of the feature. Such a method of cutting is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/341,731, entitled “High Quality Hole Cutting Using Variable Shield Gas Compositions” filed on Dec. 22, 2008, which is owned by the assignee of the instant application and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Cutting a workpiece using, for example air, is not as sensitive to defects as cutting with O 2  gas. Using O 2  plasma and O 2  shield gas can further amplify defects such as protrusions and/or divots in the hole feature, suggesting that a method of reducing defects is needed. While laser cutting systems can yield high quality cuts, plasma arc torch systems provide a low cost alternative to cutting internal features (e.g., hole features). Therefore, there is a need for high quality internal features cut from plasma arc torch systems. 
     The bevel can be measured by the cylindricity of the completed hole cut. Cylindricity is defined as a tolerance zone that is established by two concentric cylinders between which the surface of a cylindrical hole must lie as illustrated in  FIG. 3A . In  FIG. 3A  the tolerance zone can be defined as the space between the two arrows  81 . The smaller the tolerance zone, the more the surface represents a “perfect” cylinder. A large taper or bevel in a hole feature, on the other hand, will result in a large tolerance zone. Cylindricity of a hole feature can also be measured using a coordinate-measuring machine (“CMM”). For example, the hole feature surface (e.g., encompassing taper, protrusions, or divots) of the hole feature can be measured near of the top  71 , middle  72 , and bottom  73  of the edge  74  of the hole feature. This measurement data is used to form concentric cylinders defining the cylindricity of the hole feature. The radial difference between the concentric cylinders is illustrated by the space between the arrows  81 . The large difference between the radiuses of the two datum cylinders in  FIG. 3B  indicates a poor quality hole feature. Such holes can require significant post cutting treatment. 
     A hole feature can be defined as a shape having a diameter (or dimension) to workpiece (plate) thickness ratio of approximately 2.5 or smaller. By way of example, a 1 in diameter hole in a 0.5 inch thick plate of steel would have a ratio of 2. A hole feature, as used herein, can be categorized as a small internal part feature that is not necessarily round, but where a majority of the features have dimension that are about 2.5 times or less than the thickness of the materials (e.g., a 1 in square in the ½ inch plate steel). 
     In one aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature, such as a hole feature, in a workpiece using a plasma arc torch. The plasma arc torch can be used to cut along a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone using a plasma cutting system. The method can include cutting in the first zone using at least one cutting parameter from a first cutting parameter set, the first cutting parameter set including a first cutting current and/or a first command speed establishing a first torch speed. The method can also include cutting in the second zone using at least one cutting parameter from a second cutting parameter set. The second cutting parameter set can be different from (e.g., where at least one parameter in the set is different) the first cutting parameter set and can include a second cutting current and/or a second command speed establishing a second torch speed. The method can also include cutting in the third zone using at least one cutting parameter from a third cutting parameter set. The third cutting parameter set can be different from the first cutting parameter set or the second cutting parameter set and can include a third cutting current and/or a third command speed establishing a third torch speed. 
     The command speed can be a set point for a torch/cutting speed. The torch speed can be the command speed offset by an acceleration/deceleration of the torch to reach the command speed setpoint and inefficiencies/limitations inherent in the plasma arc torch system. 
     In some embodiments, the first zone corresponds to a lead-in of a cut, the second zone corresponds to a perimeter of the cut, and the third zone corresponds to a kerf break-in region of the cut. The hole feature can be defined, at least in part, by an outer kerf edge of a cut in the second zone and at least a portion of an outer kerf edge of a cut in the third zone. Cutting in the first zone can include cutting a semi-circle in the workpiece. 
     The second command speed can be greater than the first command speed. In some embodiments, the third cutting current is less than the second cutting current during at least a portion of the third zone. 
     In one aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature, such as a hole feature, in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path including a first zone and a second zone using a plasma cutting system. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting in the first zone using a first command speed establishing a first torch speed and cutting in the second zone using a second command speed establishing a second torch speed. The second command speed can be greater than the first command speed. 
     The internal feature (e.g., hole feature) can be a substantially circular hole or a slot. 
     The path can include a third zone. The first zone can correspond to a lead-in of a cut, the second zone can correspond to a perimeter of the cut, and the third zone can correspond to a kerf break-in region of the cut. The method can also include ramping down a cutting current in the third zone such that the cutting current reaching substantially zero amperes at a location corresponding to a beginning of the second zone where the first zone, second zone and third zone substantially intersect. The cutting current can be ramped down at a rate based, at least in part, upon a length between a beginning of the third zone and the beginning of the second zone. 
     The first command speed can be based at least in part on a diameter of the hole feature. The torch speed can be reduced after the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes. A third command speed can be used, for example, to cut in the third zone. The third command speed can define a third torch speed. A ramp down of the cutting current can be initiated at a location in the third zone determined by the third torch speed and a ramp down time (e.g., the time required for the current to reach substantially zero amperes). 
     The method can include cutting in the first zone or in the second zone using a gas flow composition comprising O2 plasma gas and O2 shield gas. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone using a plasma cutting system. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting in a first zone and a second zone. The command speed of a cut for the second zone can be different than a command speed of a cut in the first zone. The method can also include reducing a cutting current in the third zone such that the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes at a point where an outer kerf edge of a cut in the third zone substantially meets an outer kerf edge of the cut in the first zone. The method can also include decelerating a torch speed of the plasma cutting system after the cutting current has reached substantially zero amperes. 
     In some embodiments, the method can include cutting in the second zone with a command speed greater than the command speed of the cut in the first zone. 
     A distance from a center of the hole feature to an outer kerf edge of the cut in the second zone can be substantially similar to a distance from the center of the hole feature to an outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone at a point where the first and third zone intersect. The hole feature can be substantially defined by an outer kerf edge of the cut in the second zone and at least a portion of the outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone. In some embodiments, the first zone corresponds to a lead-in of the cut, the second zone corresponds to a perimeter of the cut and the third zone corresponds to a kerf break-in region of the cut. 
     The torch speed can be decelerated after a point where the outer kerf edge of the cut in the first zone substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone. The torch speed can be decelerated to reach zero at a predetermined distance after the point where the outer kerf edge of the cut in the first zone substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone. 
     In some embodiments, the cutting current in the third zone can be ramped down such that the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes at a location where an outer kerf edge of the cut in the first zone substantially intersects with an outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone and using a plasma cutting system. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting in the second zone with a command speed different from a command speed of the first zone of the cut. The method can also include ramping down a cutting current in the third zone to remove a diminishing material such that an outer kerf edge of a cut in the third zone substantially aligns with an outer kerf edge of a cut in the second zone. The method can include decelerating a torch speed of the plasma cutting system after the cutting current has reached substantially zero amperes. 
     In some embodiments, the cutting current can be ramped down in the third zone so that the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes where the outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone intersects with the outer kerf edge of a cut in the first zone. The diminishing material can be defined at least in part by an outer kerf edge of the cut in the first zone and an outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone. In some embodiments, the third zone can be cut with a command speed greater than the command speed of the second zone of the cut. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece using a plasma cutting system that reduces defects in the hole feature. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece at the beginning of a cut (e.g., to cut an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include establishing a cutting arc and a cut speed with respect to the workpiece and increasing the cut speed to a second cut speed after a first point in a hole cut path. The method can also include ramping down a cutting current after a second point in the hole cut path without reducing the cut speed. The second cut speed can be maintained until the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes. The second cut speed can also be increased to a third cut speed before the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes. 
     The first zone can define a lead-in of a cut and the second zone can define at least a portion of a perimeter of the hole feature. 
     In some embodiments, the step of increasing the cut speed can include cutting in a first zone of the hole cut path with a first command speed and cutting in a second zone of the hole cut path with a second command speed greater than the first command speed. The first command speed can be based on a diameter of the hole feature. 
     The cutting current can be reduced (i.e., ramp down of the cutting current initiated) after the second point in the hole cut path and the cutting arc can be extinguished substantially near the first point in the hole cut path. In some embodiments, the torch can cut from the second point in the hole cut path and return back to the first point in the hole cut path to form the hole feature in the workpiece. The cutting current can be ramped down while cutting from the second point in the hole cut path back to the first point in the hole cut path. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a plasma arc torch system for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone. The plasma arc torch system can include a plasma torch including an electrode and a nozzle, a lead that provides a cutting current to the plasma arc torch, a gantry attached to the plasma torch that moves the plasma torch and a computer numerical controller that controls cutting parameters of the plasma arc torch in the first zone, the second zone, and the third zone. The computer numerical controller can establish a first command speed for the first zone and a second command speed for the second zone. The first command speed can be based, at least part, on a diameter of the hole feature. The second command speed can be greater than the first command speed. The computer numerical controller can also establish a third cutting current for the third zone. The third cutting current can ramp down so that the third cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes where an outer kerf edge of a cut in the first zone substantially intersects with an outer kerf edge of a cut in the third zone. 
     The computer numerical controller can include a look-up table to identify the cutting parameters of the plasma arc torch. 
     The third cutting current can ramp down to remove a diminishing material (e.g., the remaining material of the workpiece to finish cutting the hole feature) so that an outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone substantially aligns with an outer kerf edge of a cut in the second zone. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention features a computer readable product, tangibly embodied on an information carrier, and operable on a computer numeric controller for a plasma arc torch cutting system. The computer readable product can include instructions being operable to cause the computer numeric controller to select cutting parameters for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path comprising a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone. The cutting parameters can include a first command speed for the first zone based, at least part, on a diameter of the hole feature and a second command speed for the second zone of the cut. The second command speed can be greater than the first command speed. The cutting parameters can also include a third cutting current for the third zone, where the third cutting current ramps down such that the third cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes where an outer kerf edge of a cut in the first zone substantially intersects with an outer kerf edge of a cut in the third zone. 
     The third cutting current can ramp down to remove a diminishing material (e.g., the remaining material of the workpiece to finish cutting the hole feature) so that an outer kerf edge of the cut in the third zone substantially aligns with an outer kerf edge of a cut in the second zone. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece using a plasma arc torch to reduce defects in the hole feature. The plasma arc torch can cut along at least a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone and a third zone. The method can include selecting one of a plurality of cutting current ramp down operations for cutting in the third zone, where each of the plurality of cutting current ramp down operations is a function of a diameter of the hole feature. The method can also include extinguishing the plasma cutting current when a torch head passes from the third zone to the second zone at a location where the first zone, second zone and third zone substantially intersect. The method can also include substantially maintaining or increasing a torch speed in the third zone until the torch head passes from the third zone into the second zone. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting an internal feature (e.g., a hole feature) in a workpiece using a plasma arc torch to reduce defects in the hole feature. The plasma arc torch can cut along at least a portion of a path including a first zone, a second zone and a third zone. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting alone the first zone and the second zone of the path. A ramp down of a cutting current can be initiated at a first point in the third zone such that the cutting current is extinguished at a second point where the first zone, the second zone and the third zone substantially intersect. The first point in the third zone can be determined based on a ramp down time of the cutting current. The method can also include the step of decelerating the plasma arc torch so that a torch speed reaches substantially zero at a predetermined distance after the second point. 
     In some embodiments, the predetermined distance is about ¼ of an inch. In some embodiments, the predetermined distance is about ¼ of an inch where an upper limit of the hole cutting speed is about 55 ipm and a lower limit for a table acceleration is about 5 mG. 
     In another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting a hole feature in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path using a plasma cutting system. The path can include a first zone and a second zone. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting in the first zone using a first command speed (e.g., establishing a first torch speed), where the first command speed is part of an acceleration curve (e.g., programmed for a plasma arc torch system). The method can include cutting in the second zone using a second command speed (e.g., establishing a second torch speed), where the second command speed is part of the acceleration curve and is also greater than the first command speed. 
     In yet another aspect, the invention features a method for cutting a hole feature in a workpiece along at least a portion of a path using a plasma cutting system. The path can include a first zone and a second zone. The method can include the steps of initiating a plasma gas flow, initiating a current flow to ignite a pilot arc, transferring the arc to the workpiece and piercing the workpiece (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). The method can include cutting where the first zone and the second zone substantially intersect (e.g., where the lead-in of the cut transitions into the perimeter of the cut) at a first torch speed. The method can also include cutting at least a portion of the second zone at a second torch speed, where the second torch speed is greater than the first torch speed. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the invention can become apparent from the following drawings and description, all of which illustrate the principles of the invention, by way of example only. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The advantages of the invention described above, together with further advantages, may be better understood by referring to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a diagram of a known mechanized plasma arc torch system. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross sectional view of a known plasma arc torch tip. 
         FIG. 3A  is an illustration of tolerance measurements used to determine cylindricity of a hole. 
         FIG. 3B  is a cross section of a hole cut with the prior art cutting process. 
         FIG. 4A  is a schematic showing a first zone of a path followed by a plasma arc torch head, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4B  is a schematic showing a second zone of the path followed by a plasma arc torch head, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4C  is a schematic showing a third zone of the path followed by a plasma arc torch head, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4D  is a schematic showing a fourth zone of followed by a plasma arc torch head, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4E  shows a method for cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4F  shows a method for cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to another illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5A  shows a straight lead-in shape for cutting a hole feature, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5B  shows a quarter circle lead-in shape for cutting a hole feature, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5C  shows a semi-circle lead-in shape for cutting a hole feature, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6A  shows a top view of a hole feature where a first zone of a path for cutting a workpiece is straight, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6B  shows a bottom view of the hole feature from  FIG. 6A , according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6C  shows a top view of a hole feature where a first zone of a path for cutting a workpiece is a semi-circle shape, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6D  shows a bottom view of the hole feature from  FIG. 6C , according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a graph showing measured deviations for different lead-in command speeds, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8  is an exemplary look-up chart for lead-in command speeds, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic of a portion of a hole cut path, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a graph showing a cutting current and a command speed as a function of time, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11  is an exemplary look-up chart for cutting parameters, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a graph showing measured deviations for a hole feature, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 13  shows a method for operating a plasma arc torch to cut a hole feature from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a graph showing hole quality results for holes cut from different processes. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       FIGS. 4A-4C  show a path  100  for cutting a hole feature (e.g., a substantially circular hole or rounded slot) from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The path can include at least three zones: a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone. The term “zone(s)” as used herein can be defined to include segments or portions of a cut or travel path of a torch head over a workpiece. In some embodiments, the path includes a fourth zone. The path can define the motion of the plasma arc torch (e.g., the torch shown in  FIG. 1 ), regardless of whether the cutting current is running or extinguished (i.e., regardless of whether the plasma arc torch is cutting the workpiece). For purposes of clarity, the individual zones have been defined in the figures, however, the transitions between zones (e.g., the transition from the first zone to the second zone, transition from the second zone to the third zone, etc.) is not a precise location, but can be a buffer type region. 
       FIG. 4A  shows the first zone  110  of the path, which can define a “lead-in” of a cut. The plasma arc torch can cut along the first zone  110  from a beginning  120  of the first zone to an end  130  of the first zone. A cut along the first zone of the path  110  can include a corresponding outer kerf edge  140  and a corresponding inner kerf edge  150 . In this embodiment, the first zone  110  defines a “semi-circle” shaped lead-in cut. The shape of the first zone  110  (e.g., the shape of the lead-in) and the command speed are parameters that can affect the quality of the hole feature cut from the workpiece. The command speed can be a set point for a torch/cutting speed. The torch speed can be defined as the command speed offset by an acceleration or deceleration of the torch to reach the command speed setpoint and inefficiencies or limitations inherent in the plasma arc torch system. 
       FIG. 4B  shows a second zone  160  of the path, which can define a perimeter of the cut (e.g., the perimeter of the hole feature). The plasma arc torch can cut along the second zone  160  from a beginning  170  of the second zone  160  to an end  180  of the second zone  160 . As shown, the torch head can move from the end  130  of the first zone  110  into the beginning  170  of the second zone  160 . The cut in the second zone  160  can include a corresponding outer kerf edge  190  and a corresponding inner kerf edge  200 . 
       FIG. 4C  shows the third zone  210  of the path, which can define a kerf break-in region (e.g., “lead-out”) of the cut. The plasma arc torch can cut along the path in the third zone  210  from a beginning  220  of the third zone  210  to an end  230  of the third zone  210  (e.g., where the first zone  110 , second zone  160 , and third zone  210  substantially intersect). As shown, the torch head can move from the end  230  of the third zone  210  into, for example, a location  240  corresponding back to the beginning  170  of the second zone  160 . The cut in the third zone  210  can include a corresponding outer kerf edge  250 . 
     The third zone  210  of the path can begin at or near a point  260  where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  (e.g., the lead-in) substantially intersects with the inner kerf edge  200  of the second zone  160 . The point  260  as shown in the figure is approximated, as the leading edge  261  of the kerf (e.g., the leading edge of the cut in the second zone  160 ) would break into the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  before the inner kerf edge  200 . Therefore, the kerf break-in region would in fact take place where the leading edge  261  of the kerf (e.g., the leading edge of the cut in the second zone  160 ) would break into the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110 . However, for purposes of clarity, the third zone  210  of the path can be defined to begin at or near point  260 . In this embodiment, the third zone  210  of the path ends at or substantially near a “0 degree point”  270  corresponding to the location where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  (e.g. the lead-in) substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge  250  of the third zone  210  and/or the outer kerf edge  190  of the beginning  170  of second zone  160 . The ramp down of the current in the third zone  210  and/or varying the command speed of the torch in the first zone  110 , second zone  160  or third zone  210  are parameters that can affect the quality of the feature cut from the workpiece. 
     In some embodiments, where the hole feature is a circular hole feature with minimal defects, a distance from a center  280  of the hole feature to an outer kerf edge  190  of the cut in the second zone  160  can be substantially similar to a distance from the center of the hole feature to an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210  at a point where the first zone  110  and third zone  210  intersect. 
     To cut a hole feature from a workpiece, a plasma arc torch can move from the first zone  110 , to the second zone  160 , then to the third zone  210 , and then into a fourth zone. The movement of the torch head can follow a path starting from the beginning  120  of the first zone  110 , to the end  130  of the first zone  110 . From the end  130  of the first zone  110 , the torch can move to the beginning  170  of the second zone continuing to the end  180  of the second zone. From the end  180  of the second zone  160 , the torch can move to the beginning  220  of the third zone  210  continuing to the end  230  of the third zone  210 . At the end  230  of the third zone  210 , the torch can continue a path  240  that overlaps with the beginning  170  of the second zone  160  or to another location on the workpiece. The hole feature can be defined, at least in part, by an outer kerf edge  190  of the cut in the second zone  160  and at least a portion of an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210 . 
     To cut a hole feature in a workpiece, a plasma gas flow can be initiated and a current flow can be initiated to ignite a pilot arc. The arc can be transferred to the workpiece. In some embodiments, a plasma arc torch begins cutting a hole feature in a workpiece by piercing the workpiece at a first location (e.g., a beginning  120  of the first zone  110  or point  280 ) and cuts a semicircle in the workpiece (e.g., a semi-circle path) along the first zone  110  of the path. The plasma arc torch can cut along the first zone  110  and “lead-in” to the second zone  160  of the path and begin cutting the perimeter of the hole feature. The plasma arc torch can cut along the second zone  160  of the path into the third zone  210  of the path. In some embodiments, the plasma arc torch cuts along the second zone  160  of the path using O 2  plasma gas and O 2  shield gas. The plasma arc torch can cut the workpiece in the third zone  210  while either substantially maintaining the command speed of the torch or while increasing the command speed of the torch. The plasma arc torch can continue to cut the workpiece in the third zone  210  of the path until it reaches at or substantially near a “0 degree point”  270  (e.g., where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  (e.g. the lead-in) substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge  250  of the third zone  210  and/or the outer kerf edge  190  of the beginning  170  of second zone  160 ). The cutting current can be ramped down in the third zone  210  such that the cutting current is extinguished and/or the arc is “shut off” (e.g., the plasma arc torch stops cutting the workpiece) as the plasma arc torch reaches at or near this “0 degree point”  270  (e.g., the arc shut off point). The torch head can continue moving past the “0 degree point”  270  even though the torch is no longer cutting the workpiece. After the torch head reaches the “0 degree point”  270  and after the arc has been extinguished, the torch head can be decelerated along a path  240 . The torch head can be decelerated while moving a path  240  that overlaps with the second zone  160 . If the torch is decelerated along a path  240  that follows the circular path of the hole feature, as shown in  FIG. 4C , the following equations can be used to calculate the “lead-out” motion angle (e.g., the angle traveled by the torch head after the “0 degree point”  270  after which the torch is decelerated to a stop) and the minimum “lead-out” motion length (e.g., the distance traveled by the torch head after the “0 degree point”  270  after which the torch is decelerated to a stop):
 
 L=V   2 /(2· a )  EQN. 1
 
Φ=360· L /(Π· D )  EQN. 2
 
where “L” is the minimum lead-out motion length, “V” is the velocity of the torch head, “a” is a table deceleration and “D” is the motion diameter of the hole feature. In some embodiments, the torch head begins to decelerate only after the current has been extinguished. The minimum lead-out motion length “L” can be defined as the minimum distance required between the “0 degree point”  270  and the point where the torch decelerates to a stop to ensure that the torch does not begin decelerating prior to the “0 degree point”  270 . The torch head can be commanded to decelerate to a stop at point  290  a predetermined distance after the “0 degree point”  270 . In some embodiments, the minimum lead-out motion length is about ¼ of an inch.
 
       FIG. 4D  shows a fourth zone  240  or  240 ′ of a path (e.g., a “deceleration zone”) for a plasma arc torch head, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. As noted above, the plasma arc torch can stop cutting (e.g., the cutting current extinguished) as the plasma arc torch reaches at or substantially near the “0 degree point”  270  (e.g., where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge  250  of the third zone  210  and/or the outer kerf edge  190  of the beginning  170  of second zone  160 ). The plasma arc torch head can enter a fourth zone  240  or  240 ′ of the path and decelerate in the fourth zone. 
     In some embodiments, the fourth zone  240  substantially overlaps in space with a beginning  170  the second zone  160 . In some embodiments, the torch head can travel in the fourth zone  240 ′ where the path extends to another location on the workpiece. In some embodiments, the torch head can be decelerated to a stop at point  290  or  301  located at a predetermined distance (e.g., ¼ of an inch) after the “0 degree point”  270  so that the torch does not begin to decelerate until the arc is substantially extinguished. 
     A method for cutting a hole feature from a workpiece can include cutting in the first zone  110  using at least one cutting parameter from a first cutting parameter set, cutting in the second zone  160  using at least one cutting parameter from a second cutting parameter set, and cutting in the third zone  210  using at least one cutting parameter from a third cutting parameter set. The first cutting parameter set can include a first cutting current or a first command speed establishing a first torch speed. The command speed can be a setpoint for the speed set by a user, CNC, or computer program, etc. The torch/cutting speed can be defined as the command speed offset by an acceleration/deceleration of the torch to reach the command speed setpoint and any inefficiencies/limitations inherent in the plasma arc torch system. The second cutting parameter set can be different from (e.g., have at least one parameter different from) the first cutting parameter set and can include a second cutting current or a second command speed (e.g., greater than the first command speed) establishing a second torch speed. The third cutting parameter set can be different from (e.g., have at least one parameter different from) the first cutting parameter set or the second cutting parameter set and can include a third cutting current (e.g., less than the second cutting current) or a third command speed establishing a third torch speed. The first, second and third parameter sets can be independent from one another (e.g., the parameters are selected independently of one another). 
     In some embodiments, no two parameter sets are identical. For example, the plasma arc torch system can change a command speed when transitioning from the first zone to the second zone (e.g., increase the command speed so that the command speed in the second zone is higher). A higher command speed (e.g., resulting in a higher torch speed) can be used to cut the second zone (e.g., perimeter) than the first zone (e.g., lead in) so as to minimize changes in centripetal acceleration and minimize dynamic responses by the arc. If a command speed were to be substantially maintained between the first zone and the second zone, the centripetal acceleration in the first zone would be greater than the second zone, which can result in dynamic responses by the cutting arc and unwanted defects. The plasma arc torch system can also change a cutting current when transitioning from the second zone to the third zone (e.g., ramp down the cutting current in the third zone). The plasma arc torch system can also change the torch speed when transitioning from the third zone to the fourth zone (e.g., begin to decelerate the torch after the cutting current has been extinguished). 
       FIG. 4E  shows a method for cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The method can include step  310  of cutting in the first zone  110  using a first command speed establishing a first torch speed, step  320 . The method can also include cutting in the second zone  160  using a second, different, command speed establishing a second torch speed, such that the torch speed is increased when moving from the first zone to the second zone. In some embodiments, the first command speed and the second command speed are part of an acceleration curve (e.g., where the second command speed is greater than the first command speed). In some embodiments, the workpiece is cut at a first torch speed (e.g., established by a command speed) where the first zone and the second zone substantially intersect and a second, greater, torch speed is used to cut at least a portion of the second zone (e.g., a majority of the second zone). As noted above, the torch speed can be increased when moving from the first zone to the second zone so as to minimize changes in centripetal acceleration and dynamic responses by the cutting arc which can result in unwanted defects. The method can also include step  330  of ramping down a cutting current (e.g., reducing a cutting current) in the third zone  210  such that the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes (step  350 ) at a location/point corresponding to a beginning  170  of the second zone  210  where the first zone  110 , second zone  160  and third zone  210  substantially intersect (e.g., at or substantially near the “0 degree point”  270  as shown in  FIGS. 4C and 4D ). The method can include substantially maintaining or further increasing the command speed in the third zone during ramp down of the current (step  340 ). The method can include decelerating a torch speed of the plasma cutting system after the cutting current has reached substantially zero (Step  360 ). 
     The command speed of the cut for the second zone  160  can be different (e.g., greater than) than a command speed of the cut in the first zone  110 . The first command speed can be based at least in part on a diameter of the hole feature. The third zone  210  can be cut with a command speed (e.g., a third command speed) greater than the command speed of the second zone  160  of the cut. The torch speed can be decelerated after a point where the outer kerf edge  140  of the cut in the first zone  110  substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210  (e.g., the “0 degree point”  270  as shown in  FIGS. 4C and 4D ). The torch speed (e.g., the actual speed of the torch head) can be decelerated to reach zero at a predetermined distance after the point where the outer kerf edge  140  of the cut in the first zone  110  substantially intersects with the outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210 . 
     The plasma cutting current in the third zone  210  (e.g., the third cutting current) can be extinguished when a torch head passes from the third zone  210  to the second zone  160  at a location where the first zone  110 , second zone  160  and third zone  210  substantially intersect. The cutting current can be reduced (e.g., ramped down) in the third zone  210  such that the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes at a point/location where an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210  substantially meets an outer kerf edge  140  of the cut in the first zone  110 . The ramp down for the cutting current in the third zone  210  can be ramped down at a rate based, at least in part, upon a length between a beginning  220  of the third zone  210  and the beginning  170  of the second zone  160 . Alternatively, the rate at which the cutting current is ramped down can be a function of a diameter of the hole feature to be cut from the workpiece. A ramp down of the cutting current can be initiated at a location in the third zone  210  determined by the third torch speed and a ramp down time (e.g., the time required for the current to reach substantially zero amperes). 
     The plasma arc torch can cut in the first zone  110 , second zone  160 , and/or the third zone  210  using a gas flow composition of O2 plasma gas and O2 shield gas (e.g., or low N 2  gas composition) to reduce defects such as bevel and/or taper of the hole feature. 
     A plasma arc torch system (e.g., as shown in  FIG. 1 ) can be used to cut a hole feature in a workpiece along a first zone  110 , a second zone  160 , and a third zone  210 . The plasma arc torch system can include a plasma torch  24  including an electrode  27  and a nozzle  28 , a lead that provides a cutting current to the plasma arc torch  24 , a gantry  26  that moves the plasma torch and a CNC  12  that controls cutting parameters of the plasma arc torch in the first zone  110 , the second zone  160 , and the third zone  210 . A CNC  12  can select cutting parameters for cutting a hole feature in a workpiece. A computer readable product, tangibly embodied on an information carrier, and operable on a CNC  12 , can include instructions being operable to cause the CNC  12  to select the cutting parameters. The CNC  12  can establish a first command speed for the first zone  110  and a second command speed for the second zone  160 . The first command speed can be based, at least part, on a diameter of the hole feature. The second command speed can be greater than the first command speed. The CNC  12  can also establish a third cutting current for the third zone  210  and ramp down the third cutting current so that the third cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes where an outer kerf edge  140  of the cut in the first zone  110  substantially intersects with an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210 . The CNC  12  can include a look-up table to identify the cutting parameters of the plasma arc torch. 
       FIG. 4F  shows a method for cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to another illustrative embodiment of the invention. To cut a hole feature from a workpiece, the plasma gas flow can be initiated, a current flow can be initiated to ignite a pilot arc and the arc can be transferred to the workpiece. The workpiece can be pierced (e.g., to begin cutting an internal feature/hole feature in the workpiece). A cutting arc and a cut speed can be established with respect to the workpiece (e.g., piercing the workpiece at point  370  and setting a command speed that defines the cut speed). The cut speed can be increased to a second cut speed after a first point  380  (e.g., after the end of the first zone as described above in  FIG. 4A ) in a hole cut path. In some embodiments, the plasma arc torch can cut the workpiece in the third zone so that the amount of current per linear distance traveled reduces as the torch cuts along the third zone. A cutting current can be ramped down after a second point  390  in the hole cut path (e.g., after the end of the second zone and at or after the beginning of the third zone as described above in  FIGS. 4B-4C ) either while substantially maintaining the cut speed or while increasing the cut speed. The plasma arc torch can also substantially maintain the cutting current but increase the command speed (e.g., thereby increasing the torch speed) while cutting in the third zone. The torch can cut from the second point  390  in the hole cut path and return back to the first point  380  in the hole cut path to form the hole feature in the workpiece. The cutting current can be ramped down while cutting from the second point  390  in the hole cut path back to the first point  380  in the hole cut path. The cutting arc can be extinguished substantially near the first point  380  in the hole cut path (e.g., near the “0 degree point”  270  shown in  FIGS. 4C-4D ). The second cut speed can either be maintained until the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes or the second cut speed can be increased to a third cut speed before the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes (e.g., at or near first point  380 ). 
       FIGS. 5A-5C  show different shapes for the first zone of the path (e.g., lead-in shapes) that can be used in cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to illustrative embodiments of the invention. Different lead-in shapes can be used to cut a hole feature from a workpiece.  FIG. 5A  shows an exemplary straight lead-in shape  110 A for cutting a hole feature.  FIG. 5B  shows an exemplary quarter circle  110 B lead-in shape for cutting a hole feature.  FIG. 5C  shows an exemplary semi-circle lead-in shape  110 C for cutting a hole feature. 
       FIGS. 6A-6D  show the results of hole features cut from a workpiece using a semi-circle shaped path in the first zone (e.g., semi circle lead-in) and a hole feature cut from a straight path in the first zone (e.g., a straight lead-in).  FIGS. 6A-6D  show “transition” points  400 A-D where the end  230  of the third zone  210  substantially intersects the beginning  170  of the second zone  160  (e.g., where lead-in of the cut meets the perimeter of the cut and the kerf break-in region (e.g., “lead-out”) of the cut).  FIG. 6A  shows a top view of a hole feature cut from a workpiece using a straight shape for the first zone of the path (e.g.,  110 A of  FIG. 5A ).  FIG. 6B  shows a bottom view of the hole feature of  FIG. 6A .  FIG. 6C  shows a top view of a hole feature using a semi-circle lead-in shape (e.g.,  110 C of  FIG. 5C ).  FIG. 6D  shows a bottom view of the hole feature cut from a workpiece of  FIG. 6C . As shown in  FIGS. 6A-6B , a hole feature cut using a straight-shaped first zone (e.g., a straight lead-in or  110 A of  FIG. 6A ) resulted in unwanted defects, such as a protrusion. As shown in  FIGS. 6C-6D , a hole feature cut using a first zone shaped like a semi-circle  110 C (e.g., a semi-circle lead-in) generated a hole feature with less defects than the hole feature cut using a straight lead-in. 
       FIG. 7  is a graph showing measured deviations for different lead-in command speeds, according to illustrative embodiments of the invention. The graph shows measurements of deviations in the hole feature in the transition area where the first zone, second zone and third zone as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C  merge. The graph shows deviations (“D level deviations”) for different “lead-in speeds” (e.g., command speed set for cutting along the first zone as shown in  FIG. 4A ). Specifically, the graph shows “D level deviations” which are deviations measured in the hole feature +90 degrees counterclockwise from the “0 degree point”  270  and −90 degrees clockwise from the “0 degree point”  270  as shown in  FIGS. 4C-4D . The “0.000” line is where the hole should be if the hole were a “perfect” hole free of defects/deviations. Points above and below the “0.000 line” indicate deviations/defects such as protrusions and divots, respectively. There are smaller deviations/defects at the −90 degree point and +90 degree point and greater deviations/defects near the “0 degree point” (e.g., point  270  in  FIGS. 4C-4D ). As compared to cylindricity (as described above for  FIG. 3A ), which encompasses the thickness and the perimeter of the hole feature, the deviations in  FIG. 7  reflect a segment/portion of the hole feature at a given depth. While it can be desirable for the lead-in speed (e.g., command speed for the first zone of the path) to be less than the speed for cutting the perimeter of the hole (e.g., the command speed for the second zone of the path), there exists an optimal speed for the hole feature. Optimizing the lead-in speed can further reduce deviations (e.g., divots or protrusions) at positive angles (e.g., in the second zone where the first zone transitions into the beginning of the second zone). 
     A method to measure deviations in the hole feature can include the step of scanning, at a depth near the bottom of the hole, a half circle of the hole feature away from the lead-in and arc shut off region (e.g., scanning a portion of the second zone/perimeter of the hole, for example, clockwise from the −90 degree point to the +90 degree point or counterclockwise from the +90 degree point to the −90 degree point as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4D ) to determine the hole diameter and center location. The method can include a second step of scanning, at about the same depth, the lead-in and arc shut off region of the hole (e.g., scanning the third zone and the beginning of the second zone, for example, clockwise from the +90 degree point to the −90 degree point or counterclockwise from the −90 degree point to the +90 degree point as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4D ) and calculate deviations from the measured hole diameter and location (e.g., by comparing the measurements obtained by scanning away from the lead-in and arc shut off region with the measurements obtained by scanning the lead-in and arc shut off region). As noted above the current can be extinguished at or substantially near the “0 degree point”  270  (e.g., where the outer kerf edge of the first zone intersects with the outer kerf edge of the third zone as shown in  FIG. 4C-4D ), thus defining the “arc shut off region.” The deviation data can be plotted at each angular position. To determine the optimal process for cutting a hole feature, the lead-in speed having minimal defects (e.g., deviation values closest to zero) in the region can be selected for each hole size. 
       FIG. 7  is a deviation plot for various lead-in speeds (e.g., various speeds for the first zone of the path as shown in  FIG. 4A ). The holes were 0.394 inch diameter holes cut from ⅜″ Mild Steel using a cutting current of 130 amperes and a gas composition of O2/O2 (plasma gas/shield gas). A cutting speed for the perimeter (e.g., second zone in  FIG. 4B ) of the feature was set at about 45 ipm. The optimal lead-in speed for this process, material and hole size were speeds set at about 25-27 ipm (plots  440  &amp;  450 ). For example, hole features cut from a lead-in speed set at about 40 ipm (plot  480 ) produced greater defects (i.e., protrusions measured at about 0.023 inches) than holes cut from a cut lead-in speed set at about 25-27 ipm. Hole features cut from a lead-in speed set at about 20 ipm (plot  410 ) produced greater defects (i.e., divots measured at about −0.013 inches) than holes cut from a cut lead-in speed set at about 25-27 ipm. In contrast, hole features cut at lead-in speeds of about 25-27 ipm produced protrusions (e.g., in portion of the second zone defined clockwise from the +90 degree to the 0 degree point) measured at about 0 inches to about 0.002 inches. 
     Typically, the optimal lead-in speeds are reduced as the hole diameter gets smaller. A plot of optimal lead-in speed as a function of hole diameter could be tested, similar to the plot shown in  FIG. 7 , developed and curve fit to an equation. The coefficients for the equation could appear in the hole cut chart which could be read and used in the calculations performed by the CNC.  FIG. 8  is an exemplary look-up chart  570  for lead-in command speeds, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the optimal lead-in speed can be a function of hole diameter and can vary based on the cutting current level and thickness of the workpiece. The size of the hole feature can be directly related to the magnitude of the lead-in speed. For example, smaller hole features can be cut using lower lead-in speeds and larger hole features can be cut using greater lead-in speeds. For example, a process for cutting a 0.276 inch diameter hole feature from a 0.375 inch mild steel workpiece at 130 Amps can have an optimal lead-in speed set at about 12 ipm to minimize defects in the hole feature. In contrast, a process for cutting a 0.315 inch diameter hole feature from a 0.375 inch mild steel workpiece at 130 Amps can have an optimal lead-in speed set at about 19 ipm to minimize defects in the hole feature. 
       FIG. 9  shows a third zone for a path used in cutting a hole feature from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The motion of the torch head can follow path  210 . The third zone can extend from a point where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  (e.g., the lead-in of the cut) intersects with an inner kerf edge  200  of the second zone  160  to the “0 degree point”  270  (e.g., where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  merges with the outer kerf edge  250  of the third zone  210 ). As noted above, this is an approximation as the leading edge  261  of the cut will intersect the outer kerf edge of the first zone before the inner kerf edge  200  of the second zone  160  intersects. When the torch angular position (Φ)  580  while cutting the hole reaches Φref, the kerf leading edge breaks into the lead-in (e.g., first zone) outer kerf edge  140 , approximately where third zone  210  begins. As Φ  580  decreases, the amount of material remaining decreases reaching zero at Φ=0 (“0 degree point”). The remaining material (e.g., the “diminishing material”  590 ) can be calculated as a function of Φ. 
     The diminishing material  590  can be the leftover material from the workpiece to be cut once the torch head reaches the beginning  220  of the third zone  210 . The diminishing material  590  can be defined at least in part by an outer kerf edge  140  of the cut in the first zone  110  and an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210 . Removing too much material can cause divots in the hole feature, while not removing enough material can cause protrusions in the hole feature. Therefore, it is desirable to optimize the material removed in the third zone  210  so that an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210  substantially aligns with an outer kerf edge  180  of the cut in the second zone  160 . As the amount of remaining material to be removed (e.g., the diminishing material  590 ) to cut the hole feature varies along the third zone  210  (e.g., from the beginning  220  of the third zone  210  to the end  230  of the third zone  210  where the first zone  110 , second zone  160 , and third zone  210  substantially intersect), the current density used to cut the workpiece as the torch travels along the third zone  210  can be optimized so that the correct amount of material is removed from the workpiece. A ramp down of the cutting current (e.g., the third cutting current) and/or varying the torch speed (e.g., the cutting speed) can be optimized to provide the desired amount of current density per linear distance of the travel by the torch in the third zone  210 . A cutting current can be ramped in the third zone  210  to remove a diminishing material  590  such that an outer kerf edge  250  of the cut in the third zone  210  substantially aligns with an outer kerf edge  180  of the cut in the second zone  160 . The method can also include substantially maintaining or increasing a torch speed in the third zone  210  until the torch head passes from the third zone  210  into a location corresponding to the second zone (e.g., zone  240  shown in  FIG. 4C ). 
       FIG. 10  is a graph  600  showing a cutting current and a command speed as a function of time, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The process current  610  can be signaled  620  (e.g., by a CNC) to ramp down and extinguish at or substantially near the “0 degree point”  270 ′ (e.g., where the outer kerf edge  140  of the first zone  110  merges with the outer kerf edge  250  of the third zone  210  as shown in  FIG. 4C  and  FIG. 9 ). There can be a propagation delay  630  between when the signal  620  to ramp down the current is sent and when the current level actually begins to ramp down. The torch speed  640  (e.g., the torch speed) can be decelerated after the torch head passes the “0 degree point”  270 ′ and after the current has been extinguished (e.g., after the cutting current reaches substantially zero amperes). 
     At least one of a plurality of cutting current ramp down operations for cutting in the third zone can be selected, where each of the plurality of cutting current ramp down operations can be a function of a diameter of the hole feature. The cutting current can be ramped down at a first point in the third zone  210 ′ (e.g., at or near the beginning of the third zone) such that the cutting current  610  is extinguished at or substantially near a second point  270 ′ (e.g. corresponding to point  270  as shown in  FIGS. 4C-4D ) in the third zone  210  where the first zone, the second zone and the third zone  210 ′ substantially intersect (e.g., near the end  230 ′ of the third zone  210 ′). The first point in the third zone can be determined/calculated using a ramp down time of the cutting current. The plasma arc torch can be decelerated so that a torch speed reaches substantially zero at a predetermined distance  650  (e.g., ¼″) after the second point  270 ′. 
     The process current  610  ramp down and shut off in the third zone  210 ′ can be performed at full process cutting speed (e.g., by substantially maintaining the command speed) or at a higher torch speed than the second zone (e.g., by increasing the command speed). The current shut off  610  can be substantially coincident with the 0 degree mark  270  (e.g., the lead-in/hole transition location or location where the first zone transitions into the second zone). In some embodiments, the torch head can be decelerated  640  to a stop at a predetermined distance  650  (e.g., ¼ of an inch) after the “0 degree mark”  270 ′ equal to or greater than the minimum “lead-out” motion length (as described above). The plasma can be signaled  620  to ramp down at a point in time corresponding to the current ramp down time and propagation delay so that the current is extinguished when the torch reaches at or near the “0 degree point”  270 . Therefore, the time interval between the point where the plasma current is signaled  620  to ramp down and the point  270  where the current is extinguished can correspond to the ramp down time. 
       FIG. 11  is an exemplary look-up chart  660  for cutting parameters, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The ramp down time of the current can be included in the cut chart  660 . The current ramp down time can vary depending on the current level of the process. By way of example, a process operating with a current level of 400 A can take about 250 ms to ramp down (e.g., to extinguish the current). A process operating with a current level of about 50 Amps can take about 50 ms to ramp down. Therefore, to extinguish the current at the “0 degree point” (e.g., where the outer kerf edge of the first zone merges with the outer kerf edge of the third zone as shown in  FIG. 4C  and  FIG. 9 ), the CNC can signal the plasma arc torch system to ramp down the current to extinguish the current at a point based, at least, on a command speed and the ramp down time (e.g., the time taken for the current to be extinguished). 
     A minimum deceleration time can be defined as the minimum time that can be set for a plasma arc torch to decelerate to a stop, so that the plasma arc torch does not begin to decelerate until the arc is extinguished and the torch reaches the “0 degree point” as described above in  FIGS. 4C-4D . The minimum deceleration time can be calculated by using an upper limit for the torch head speed (e.g., an 80 Amp process on a ¼″ Mild Steel workpiece can use a cut speed of about 55 ipm) and a lower limit for the table deceleration (e.g., a “slow table” can have a table deceleration of about 5 mG). EQN. 1 above can be used to calculate the minimum lead-out motion length “L” (e.g., the minimum distance that can be set so that the table does not begin decelerating until after the current has been extinguished and/or after the torch head has substantially reached the “0 degree point,” the minimum distance calculated for a fast torch speed and slow table) which can be about 0.25 inches given a torch speed of about 55 ipm and a table deceleration of about 5 mG. Therefore, for most processes, a plasma arc torch can be commanded to decelerate to a stop 0.25 inches after the “0 degree point” so that the plasma arc torch maintains the torch head speed until the current is extinguished. A process with a lower speed (e.g., a slower torch speed) and/or or a faster table (e.g., a greater table deceleration) will come to a stop before it reaches 0.25 inches after the “0 degree point” but the table will still decelerate after the current has been extinguished. In an alternative embodiment, the CNC negative cut off time to decelerate the torch head (e.g., to a stop) can be set to the sum of the propagation delay  630 , process ramp down  610  (e.g., the time taken to ramp down the current), any additional lead-out and motion deceleration times  650 . 
     As described above in  FIG. 7 ,  FIG. 12  shows measurements of deviations in the hole feature in the transition area where the first zone, second zone and third zone as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4C  merge. Specifically, the graphs show deviations in the hole feature +90 degrees counterclockwise from the “0 degree point” and −90 degrees clockwise from the “0 degree point” as shown in  FIGS. 4A-4D . Graph  670  shows measured deviations for a hole feature, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Plot  661  shows the outer kerf edge of the first zone, as shown in  FIG. 4A . To minimize the depth of the lead-in/lead-out form error “ding” and/or “divot”, the process ramp down (e.g., ramping down on the current in the third zone as shown in  FIGS. 4C and 10 ) can be performed by substantially maintaining or increasing the full process cutting speed (e.g., increasing the cutting speed by setting a higher command speed). The average deviation (e.g., divot) produced in the third zone (e.g., between −90 degrees and 0 degrees as shown in  FIG. 4C ) for the holes was about −0.020 inches. 
       FIG. 13  shows a method for operating a plasma arc torch to cut a hole feature from a workpiece, according to an illustrative embodiment of the invention. Software can generate code for the CNC to execute and instruct the plasma system to perform a number of steps during operation of the torch. A step can include locking out height control for the plasma arc torch (step  800 ). The gas composition (e.g., O2/O2 for plasma/shield gas) can be set from the lookup chart (step  810 ). The kerf value (e.g., from a lookup chart) can be used to calculate the motion diameter from the hole feature diameter to be cut (step  820 ). A step can include reading/setting the command speed from values in the hole cut chart (step  830 ). The path used to cut the hole feature can be programmed to include a 360 degree arc, an asynchronous stop command, and a lead-out arc length (e.g., an arc in the fourth zone as shown in  FIG. 4D ) (step  850 ). The asynchronous stop command can be a command that tells the plasma arc torch to extinguish the plasma arc, but to continue moving the torch head. The torch stop command (e.g., the command to decelerate the torch to a stop) can then be given later. The asynchronous stop command can be inserted at the “0 degree point” (e.g., point  270  as shown in  FIGS. 4C-4D ) and can include an offset with a time interval that corresponds to the ramp down time so that the current is extinguished to substantially zero at the “0 degree point” (Step  840 ). The lead-out arc length can be programmed to correspond to the minimum lead-out motion length (e.g., as described above in EQN. 1), so that the torch does not begin to decelerate until after the “0 degree point” (e.g., so that the torch speed is not lowered until the current is extinguished). A lead-in shape (e.g., a semi-circle) from the hole center to the motion diameter (step  860 ) can be programmed. A lead-in speed can be read/set from values in the hole cut chart (e.g., command speeds for the first zone as described above) (step  870 ). The current ramp down time can be read from a look up table for any number of holes sizes and any significant propagation delay can be added to the time interval that offsets the asynchronous stop command as described above. Thus, an appropriate current ramp down time can be calculated for any number of hole sizes. 
       FIG. 14  is a graph comparing hole quality results for holes cut from different processes. The graph shows the cylindricity for hole features cut using different cutting processes  880 - 920 . Cylindricity can be a function of hole size (e.g., hole diameter). The hole features cut using processes  880 - 920  in  FIG. 14  were each 0.394 inches in diameter, and were cut in ⅜″ thick mild steel workpieces. Processes  900 - 910  are hole features cut from processes incorporating exemplary features of the embodiments of the invention described herein. Process  920  was a hole feature cut using a laser cutting system. While laser cutting systems have previously yielded higher quality holes (e.g., comparing Process  920  to, for example, Process  880 ), plasma arc torch systems are lower in cost. Therefore, there is a need for high quality holes cut from plasma arc torch systems. 
     The plot for Process  880  (“Benchmark Plasma”) shows the cylindricity for a hole feature cut from existing methods. The gas composition for Process  880  used O 2  plasma gas and Air for shield gas. A straight lead-in (e.g., straight cut for the first zone) was used and the torch was decelerated prior to the “0 degree point” (e.g., prior to extinguishing the current). The cylindricity for the hole feature cut from Process  880  was about 0.059 inches. 
     The plot for Process  890  (“Partial A”) shows the cylindricity for a hole feature cut where the only change from Process  880  was the gas composition. The gas composition for Process  890  was O 2  plasma gas and O 2  shield gas. The cylindricity for the hole feature cut from Process  890  was about 0.100 inches. Therefore, merely changing the shield gas composition and flow rate from Process  880  amplified the defects in the hole feature. 
     The plot for Process  900  (“Partial B”) shows the cylindricity for a hole feature where a semi-circle shape was used to cut the first zone (e.g., a semicircle lead in) and where the command speeds for the second zone were higher than the command speed for the first zone. The torch, however, was decelerated before the current was extinguished (e.g., before the “0 degree point” as shown in  FIGS. 4C-4D ). The gas composition for Process  900  was O 2  plasma gas and O 2  shield gas. The cylindricity for the hole feature cut from Process  900  was about 0.039 inches. Therefore, this data shows that changing the command speeds along the cut and choosing a semi-circle lead-in improved the hole quality. A hole cut feature cut by this process has a lower cylindricity than a hole cut by using a process that has a straight lead-in and no torch speed change between the first and second zones. 
     The plot for Process  910  (“Full Solution”) shows the cylindricity for a hole feature where a semi-circle shape was used to cut the first zone, where the command speeds for the second zone were higher than the command speed for the first zone and where the torch was decelerated after the current was extinguished (e.g., after the “0 degree point” as described above). The gas composition for Process  910  was O 2  plasma gas and O 2  shield gas. The cylindricity for the hole feature cut from Process  910  was about 0.020 inches, thereby showing improvement in cut quality as compared to the other plasma arc torch processes. A hole feature cut by this process has a lower cylindricity than a hole feature cut by a torch that was decelerated before the current was extinguished. 
     The plot for Process  920  (“Laser”) shows the cylindricity for a hole feature cut using a laser cutting system. The cylindricity for the hole feature cut from a laser system was about 0.015 inches. Cutting a hole feature incorporating the aspects/features of the embodiments described herein, as shown in plots for Processes  900 - 910 , improved the quality of holes cut using plasma arc torch systems. 
     The above-described techniques can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer hardware, firmware, software, or in combinations of them. The implementation can be as a computer program product, i.e., a computer program tangibly embodied in an information carrier (e.g., a CPS). An information carrier can be a machine-readable storage device or in a propagated signal, for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus (e.g., a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple computers). 
     A computer program (e.g., a computer program system) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network. 
     Method steps can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing a computer program to perform functions of the invention by operating on input data and generating output. Method steps can also be performed by, and apparatus can be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). Modules can refer to portions of the computer program and/or the processor/special circuitry that implements that functionality. 
     Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both. The essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, (e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks). Data transmission and instructions can also occur over a communications network. Information carriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated in special purpose logic circuitry. 
     To provide for interaction with a user, the above described techniques can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer (e.g., interact with a user interface element). Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. 
     The above described techniques can be implemented in a distributed computing system that includes a back-end component, e.g., as a data server, and/or a middleware component, e.g., an application server, and/or a front-end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface and/or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an example implementation, or any combination of such back-end, middleware, or front-end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), e.g., the Internet, and include both wired and wireless networks. 
     Comprise, include, and/or plural forms of each are open ended and include the listed parts and can include additional parts that are not listed. And/or is open ended and includes one or more of the listed parts and combinations of the listed parts. 
     While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to specific illustrative embodiments, it should be understood that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.