Hypertherm, U.S.-based manufacturer of advanced metal cutting systems, has announced the launch of the Hypertherm Cutting Institute. This online training community offers a number of resources for people who work with metal cutting systems or want to learn more about cutting metal. Key features of the new Hypertherm Cutting Institute include:

• Video Tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions on a number of metalworking subjects.
• Interactive e-Learning Courses on everything from consumable care and optimization to gouging, and cutting technique.
• Discussion Forums & Blogs where metal fabricators and hobbyists can talk about their current products, troubleshoot issues, and share ideas. As an added bonus, Hypertherm experts, like Jim Colt, will drop by from time to time to offer advice and answer questions.
• Idea Section called "My Hypertherm Voice" for visitors who want to offer suggestions for future metalworking products. Guests can also vote for their favorite ideas.

"We originally launched the Hypertherm Cutting Institute three years ago. Since then, we have seen tremendous interest in the site content and realized the time was right to offer an expanded resource for people who work with metal," said Chris Lorio, Hypertherm's Director of Customer Training. "Going forward, our hope is to offer the site content in many different languages so metal workers around the world can connect with one another."

Hypertherm is marking the launch of the new Hypertherm Cutting Institute by giving away copies of the Plasma Cutting Handbook from now till the end of 2012. The book, authored by renowned Hollywood car customizer Eddie Paul, teaches basic cutting techniques, and shows how to troubleshoot cutting problems. It also contains advanced tips and techniques from Eddie Paul's career of more than four decades in fabrication. Anyone who joins and contributes to the Hypertherm Cutting Institute is eligible to take part in a daily drawing for the book. To learn more visit www.hypertherm.com/PlasmaHandbook.