2.2.1 Inclination and speed of the torch during cutting
- Grip the torch and pull the protection levers (1).
- Press for a moment the torch button (2) so as to generate the
pilot arc; release the control, checking that machine is cor-
rectly operating on the display panel. It is suggested to switch
off the pilot arc in order to prevent wear on the electrode
and the nozzle. If pilot arc is triggered without perfoming any
cutting action, the power source control unit will switch off it
after 6 seconds to prevent damage to the torch.
Position the torch near the piece and begin cutting,
moving forward steadily.
The torch is generally held perpendicular to the workpiece dur-
ing all the cutting phases; obviously, whenever it is required
to carry out chamfering or inclined cutting, the torch must be
tilted to a suitable inclination.
The speed must be adjusted so that the outflow of the arc
below the workpiece is perpendicular (5-10 degrees of slope
are acceptable).
A slow speed start is advisable to prevent spray
of material which could damage the nozzle.
2.2.2 Puncturing
In some cases it is necessary to puncture a hole in the material
using plasma cutting. In this way, the wear on the parts which
are subject to deterioration will be increased, and it becomes
very important to try to work to avoid the return of spray, which
can be dangerous, especially with sheet metal over 5 mm.
thick.
We suggest starting with the torch inclined side-
ways, so as to point the spray outside the cutting
area, avoidin g damage and overheating of the
torch body.
Immediately remove any material accumulated
on the nozzle or on the ceramic hood.
Caution: plasma cutting is a process with a high
thermal element, which takes both the piece to
be cut and the end parts of the torch to extreme-
ly high temperatures.
2.2.3 Circular cutting
For the preparation of flanges and opening holes, it is possible
to use a pair of compasses, equipped with rotating heads and
movement on wheels.
16
2.2.4 Practical advice
We advise igniting the pilot arc away from the workpiece, and
then moving near until the cutting arc is struck; striking a cutting
arc repeatedly and directly by contact with the workpiece cre-
ates an increase in temperature of the torch body.
Avoid turning off the generator before the end of the post-cut
cooling flow, to avoid overheating of the components of the
torch.
3 MAINTENANCE
With the S45 torch, the ignition of the pilot arc takes place by
pneumatic distancing of the electrode from the nozzle; during
the operation, oxidized area are created on the two compo-
nents, that can give ignition problems.
The efficiency of the electrode is therefore not only determined
by the cutting time, but also by the number of starts of the pilot
arc that are made.
It is advisable to replace the electrode before the tungsten insert
in the point is completely worn out.
The nozzle has an average life similar to that of an electrode, and
is replaced when an irregular hole is present which is larger than
the nominal one (this can cause slanted cuts of poor quality).
Electrode and nozzle are replaced simultaneously to prolong
their active life.
Working with electrode and nozzle which are too spoiled can
cause damage to the torch body.
It is important to pay special attention to the fitting of the elec-
trode and nozzle in order not to irreparably damage the torch.
Routine maintenance must be carried out on the
system according to the manufacturer's instruc-
tions.
Any maintenance operation must be performed by qualified
personnel only.
Unauthorized changes to the system are strictly forbidden.
Disconnect the power supply before every opera-
tion!
Check the electric connections and all the connec-
tion cables.
For the maintenance or replacement of torch components,
electrode holders and/or earth cables:
Check the temperature of the component and
make sure that they are not overheated.
Always use gloves in compliance with the safety
standards.
Use suitable wrenches and tools.
Failure to carry out the above maintenance will invalidate all
warranties and exempt the manufacturer from any liability.