Topics

1

General Mach Discussion / Chinese Cnc Plasma

« on: February 19, 2013, 01:04:16 PM »

Hi guys

I've built three plasma Cnc systems to date. The first plasma used was with thermodyme HF which gave me endless problems with noise and PC errors. Eventually got it to fire without errors. But not that reliable when working long with it. It had me despondent for a long while but learning much about grounding via net.

This last build with hypertherm pwm45 and first cut - no problem.

I wanna know - the Cnc plasma tables including their local brand plasmas - why are their products selling so well? Surely clients are having noise issues and errors, no? I've purchased a cheap plasma and a while back and without even connected to table - just firing it - caused PC errors. Because I wanna try convert a  low end plasma to work with Cnc tables - trouble free - I've read a couple of informative forums regarding various types on the market such as http://weldingweb.com/showthread.php?t=25405
And http://www.machsupport.com/forum/index.php?topic=20076.0

In reading these article - my understanding is if the torch is converted, it will work and work well in line with pc controls etc. or am I wrong?
I met a guy that claims he does conversions - just with a Panasonic mechanized torch and claims its successful.

Do you have or know any that has a Chinese plasma Cnc machine wihyperbole end (or unknown) brands that are successfully cutting without PC errors and stalling? What plasma are they using?

Or any that uses a converted plasma to function failure free in line with Cnc table?

2

General Mach Discussion / Torch Height Control Process

« on: February 17, 2013, 08:10:09 AM »

Hi All

I tried searching for explanations in the simplest terms the process of THC and how it functions with software, thus hoping I can get a detailed yet simple explanation.
I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one in need of this understanding. I understand why it's necessary with regards to cut quality etc and saving the torch to some degree. But! What I don't understand is the actual process in which it operates and what is expected from an operator.

Here are my questions
1. Describe the arc ok signal and it's role? Does it play a role in torch ignition?
Terms like pilot arc, arc transfer and arc good - are there differences?

2. Why are some plasma models expected to have a current transformer? And are the connections different if current transformer is used?

3. THC Units requiring raw arc volts, compare to voltage divider?
4. The function of voltage divider (50:1 and so on) and differnce to raw arc volts?

5. What is expected from the operator with regards to settings/adjustments etc?
6. What is is the installer/fabricator/DIYer expected to know - if they (like myself) are electronically challenged?

It's fine to read connection diagrams, software config and hook up a product but having a bit more knowledge on the process would make it a lot more easier if we run into problems.

My final question
Advantage and Disadvantage comparison between Arc Voltage THC vs Mechanical THC? What is the real difference?


Feel free to add in explanations if I've left out vital questions.

3

General Mach Discussion / Need help with torch on output please and pci card

« on: February 17, 2013, 07:33:01 AM »

Hi all

I'm having trouble with with getting my plasma torch to fire and another prob being pci card installed for lpt2 is not signaling with inputs and outputs. need to run THC on port 2 hooking up to hypertherm powermax 45. Thc unit from cncdirect.

Currently for testing the thc I'm using port 1 to check signals but can't seem to get torch to fire. All settings as per supplier instructions yet no click on relay. All inputs from thc display panel works and signals in diagnostics except the torch switching on. Any ideas/suggestions please.

As for port - I've purchase 2 brands and both with moschip yet no luck. Even tried a second pc but no luck.

Thx