The Mestek Machinery Blog

The Benchmark in Plasma Cutting: Lockformer VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System

Written by Mestek Machinery | September 8, 2026

If plasma cutting is integral to your HVAC sheet metal fabrication process, its critical to choose a machine that simplifies operation while minimizing downtime, troubleshooting, waste, and training time. Thanks to its durable parts and superior software, the Lockformer VulcanPlus Sheet Metal Plasma Cutting System is the benchmark for today's plasma cutting systems. Let's discuss the advanced features of the VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System and the modern integrations that will maximize your shop productivity and connectivity.

Next Generation Control System B&R Industrial Automation

The Lockformer VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System is powered by the latest generation control system from B&R Industrial Automation, moving beyond traditional Windows-based interfaces to a robust, Linux-based platform. This system acts as the digital nerve center for your entire production line, offering:

  • Universal Software Acceptance: Directly download job data from leading CAM modeling platforms, including Autodesk, Trimble, PractiCAM, Shop Data Systems, and others.
  • Modern Remote Diagnostics: Features built-in Site Manager technology for secure, real-time remote troubleshooting and system monitoring.
  • Onboard Machine Insight: Access detailed performance data, fault alerts, and maintenance indicators directly at the machine interface, no external connection required, for faster troubleshooting and reduced downtime.
  • Simulation Capabilities: Test and refine production runs digitally before feeding material to ensure maximum efficiency and minimal waste.
  • Advanced User Interface: A dedicated pedestal-mount control featuring touchscreen, mouse, and keyboard for intuitive operation.

VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System Machine Features

Loaded with features for unmatched accuracy and precision, VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System has a capacity of 3/8″ and 1/2″ mild steel with a positioning speed of 3,000 in/min max, which is the fastest cutting, positioning, and traversing times in the industry. The fixture-welded 3 x 3 steel tube construction ensures the frame will be as perfectly aligned today it will be years from now. The virtually indestructible plug-in components are standard. Everything is protected, as motors and drive systems are never exposed. Plus, the three (3) servo motors, planetary gears, and single-shaft belt are the most accurate in the industry. 

In addition to its rugged design and construction, the VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System offers:


System features:
  • All Premium “plug-in” components
  • Fixture-welded, 3″ x 3″ steel tubing framework
  • Stand-alone control console
  • All axis home positioning using motor torque measurement
  • 8” x 8” steel table leg pads with leveling feature
Drive features:
  • Dual Y drive
  • Double deck, 24 strand steel, precision reinforced radial timing belts
  • HIWIN® linear x-axis bearing and way
  • 3″ diameter x 128″ long, turned, ground and polished Y-axis guidance rail
  • Precision cam followers
  • X-axis brush guard
  • Steel enclosed housing for X-axis servo drive motor

Hypertherm PowerMax65 Sync Plasma Cutter features:

  • 50% duty cycle at 65 amp output
  • Solid-state inverter power supply with output variable from 20 to 65 amps optimum performance on thickness from 28 gauge to 3/4″ metal
  • Conical flow nozzle increases arc energy density for superior cut quality with little dross
  • Patent-pending shield reduces dross buildup and enables smoother drag cutting for a better cut
  • Hypertherm-shielded nozzle design to increase consumable life
  • Universal power supply 220V AC single phase power supply
  • CNC interface and fast-connect torch connection increases versatility
  • Power-cool design cools internal components more effectively for greater system reliability and improved uptime
  • Full 3 year power supply warranty and a 1-year torch warranty

Maximize Productivity with Iowa Precision Coil Feed NEO

In high-volume duct manufacturing, the ultimate goals are speed, flexibility, and the total elimination of material handling. The Lockformer VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System seamlessly integrates with the NEW Coil Feed NEO from Iowa Precision, forming a single, fully automated sheet metal processing work cell that redefines shop floor productivity,

Coil feeding maximizes the productivity of the Plasma Cutting System. In addition to saving valuable floor space on traditional sheet racks, coil feeding optimizes material utilization, reduces scrap, and reduces labor costs associated with manually handling sheet stock.

But the Iowa Precision NEO Coil Feed takes the benefits of coil feeding to another level. With its automatic, multi-gauge operation the NEO Coil Feed allows you to run your operation seamlessly by the job instead of batching your production by material gauge with no manual intervention for the ultimate in production precision, flexibility, and productivity.

Contact Mestek Machinery today to learn more about the benefits of the VulcanPlus Plasma Cutting System and request your 1-on-1 Consultation with a Mestek Machinery Technical Advisor.