Some plasma questions.

admin

I started cutting with my new Thermal Dynamics 51 this weekend. I have read the manuals for both the power supply and the torch. Neither gives any clear statement on power settings. The charts in the back of the torch manual show 40amps as the setting for all material and all thicknesses. I had tried cutting on different settings with mixed success, lots of heavy bottom dross, none on top. I tried different drag speeds on mild steel and aluminum. I then just turned the machine to 40amps and left it. My cuts were much better. Is a little dross a given. I would like to learn to cut so a quick edge cleaning is all that's required. Is it possible? Thanks for any advicePS air pressure at 70psi at machine and no oil or water on a gas check against welding goggle lens.snoboy
Reply:I wanted to add that I was drag cutting with torch directly on material. The machine came with a stand-off guide but I didn't try it.
Reply:I have a Miller 375, and it likes to have a gap of about 1/16 for heavy duty cutting.  I've found if I drag the tip, it dont cut near as thick.
Reply:Tips for Thermal Dynamics torches are current rated. Your machine was supplied with 40 amp tips. If you want to cut at lower amperages you should get either the 20 amp tips  catalog number 9-8205 or 30 amp tips catalog number 9-8206.These are designed to drag on the work piece. The shorter the arc length the less heat in the cut area and thus less dross.
Reply:Originally Posted by xt300301nutTips for Thermal Dynamics torches are current rated. Your machine was supplied with 40 amp tips. If you want to cut at lower amperages you should get either the 20 amp tips  catalog number 9-8205 or 30 amp tips catalog number 9-8206.These are designed to drag on the work piece. The shorter the arc length the less heat in the cut area and thus less dross.