Nozzle Am387-0001 W/Radius No Groove 1.0mm Centricut/Original: The AM387-0001 nozzle is a laser/plasma cutting consumable manufactured under the Centricut / Hypertherm consumable line. It is specified as 1.0 mm aperture, with a radius tip geometry and no groove on the face. According to Centricut’s parts listings, the part number AM387-0001 (71800016A0, BQ933D283H01, L1126) corresponds to exactly this configuration: “nozzle – 1.0 mm with radius, no groove.”
In welding and cutting shops, “radius / no groove” refers to the shape and finish of the nozzle’s orifice face. A radius tip has a rounded transition rather than a sharp edge, and the no groove face means it lacks any channels or indentations meant to direct gas flow. These design choices influence the stability and behavior of the plasma or laser arc.
The AM387-0001 is often marketed for shops that need high repeatability and cut quality—especially for applications where tolerances or edge finish matter.
Key Specifications & Technical Details
Here are core technical details and characteristics of the AM387-0001 nozzle:
| Specification | Value / Description |
|---|---|
| Part Number | AM387-0001 (and equivalents: 71800016A0, BQ933D283H01) |
| Aperture / Orifice | 1.0 mm |
| Tip Geometry | Radius tip (rounded) rather than flat edge |
| Face Style | No groove (no indentations or channels) |
| Material | Copper alloy (typical of OEM nozzles) |
| Compatible Systems | OEM Centricut / Hypertherm / Mitsubishi / Amada laser/plasma systems (as listed in Centricut catalogs) |
Because this nozzle is in OEM catalogs for Mitsubishi and Amada systems, it is part of the standard consumable offering for those laser platforms.
Why “Radius, No Groove” Matters for Cutting Performance
Choosing the right geometry and face style of a nozzle has a nontrivial effect on cut quality, arc stability, and consumable life. The radius, no-groove design of AM387-0001 offers several advantages:
- Smoother gas / plasma flow
The rounded orifice transition (radius) helps reduce turbulence in the gas column, which promotes a more stable arc and consistent plasma shape. - Reduced debris accumulation
Grooved faces may trap spatter, particles, or slag, which disturbs the flow. A no-groove face tends to remain cleaner longer under cutting conditions. - Sharper kerf and cleaner edges
With less disturbance in the flow, the arc is more focused, which leads to narrower kerf and better edge precision—especially beneficial in thinner materials or applications with tight tolerances. - Improved repeatability
For shops that require consistency (e.g. nested part cutting, production runs), a stable nozzle geometry helps maintain process parameters across many parts.
These benefits make the AM387-0001 a good choice when performance and predictability are priorities.
Typical Applications & Use Cases
The AM387-0001 nozzle is suited for a variety of cutting tasks in industrial settings. Common use scenarios include:
- Precision sheet and plate cutting
Where tight tolerances, low dross, and clean edges are required (e.g. mild steel, stainless steel, aluminum). - High-mix production shops
In environments where many different part geometries are cut, stability and consistency help reduce scrap and setup time. - OEM repair / fabrication
In shops that demand reliable consumables for mission-critical parts, where rework cost is high. - Laser systems in Amada / Mitsubishi platforms
Because the nozzle is listed in Centricut’s consumable catalogs for those brands, it integrates into such systems with minimal adaptation.
If your application involves thick materials or highly abrasive cutting, other nozzle sizes or types may be more appropriate, but for moderate thickness and fine-cut jobs, this nozzle is well suited.
Selection, Installation & Maintenance Best Practices
To get the most out of the AM387-0001 nozzle, following proper usage and maintenance can extend its life and maintain cut quality. Here are important guidelines:
Selection Tips
- Always pair the nozzle with a matching electrode / shield from the same consumable OEM set, to maintain arc centering.
- Use clean, dry gas supply (air, nitrogen, or other depending on machine) to avoid contamination, oxidation, or tip erosion.
- Verify your torch’s retaining cap and cooling setups are compliant with the geometry of 1.0 mm tip and radius/no-groove face.
Installation Guidelines
- Power off and allow the torch head to cool before changing consumables.
- Insert the nozzle carefully, avoiding damage to the tip face.
- Ensure concentric alignment with the electrode.
- Confirm correct standoff height settings for your machine (consult OEM specs).
Maintenance & Replacement Schedule
- Monitor the kerf width over time—if it begins to widen or lose edge definition, it’s time to replace.
- Clean the nozzle face regularly (with soft, non-abrasive tools) to remove spatter accumulation.
- Avoid bumping or striking the tip against surfaces, which can deform the radius face.
- In production, rotate stock of nozzles so new and used ones are used systematically.
By following these practices, shops can improve nozzle lifespan and maintain consistent cut performance.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
Even quality nozzles like the AM387-0001 can exhibit problems if conditions deviate. Here are some typical issues and their remedies:
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Suggested Remedy |
|---|---|---|
| Arc misfires / inconsistent cutting | Worn electrode, contaminated gas, misalignment | Replace electrode + nozzle, purge gas lines, realign components |
| Excessive dross on bottom | Too slow speed, poor standoff | Increase traverse speed, correct standoff height |
| Kerf widening or edge deterioration | Orifice erosion | Replace nozzle before quality degrades further |
| Tip face damage or uneven surface | Impact or spatter accumulation | Replace nozzle; inspect handling methods |
| Unstable or wavy cutting line | Turbulence from nozzle geometry issues, gas turbulence | Ensure clean, stable gas; verify nozzle is original spec |
Diagnosing early and replacing gently before catastrophic failure helps avoid part rejects or machine downtime.