Patent ID: 8436270

Claim:
An automated method for cutting a plurality of hole features in a part in a workpiece with a plasma arc torch while using a single plasma torch consumable configuration, the method comprising: cutting a first hole feature in the part, the first hole feature having a first diameter, and the first hole feature being cut using a first automated process comprising: initiating a secondary gas flow having a first gas composition; and cutting the first hole feature with a first set of cutting parameters comprising a first lead-in command speed; cutting a second hole feature in the part, the second hole feature having a second diameter that is different than the first diameter of the first hole, and the second hole feature being cut using a second automated process comprising: initiating the secondary gas flow having a second gas composition; and cutting the second hole feature with a second set of cutting parameters comprising a second lead-in command speed, wherein the second lead-in command speed is different from the first lead-in command speed.