Maximizing Consumable Life - Lincoln Electric FineLine 170HD Operator's Manual

BK8053-000111 Rev D

5.3 Maximizing Consumable Life

Use the following guidelines to maximize consumable parts life:
The System utilizes the latest advancement in technology for extending the life
of the torch consumable parts. To maximize the life of the consumable parts, it
is imperative that the shutdown procedure of the arc is carried out properly.
The arc must be extinguished while it is still attached to the workpiece. A
popping noise may be heard if the arc extinguishes abnormally. Note that
holes are usually programmed without lead-outs to prevent loss of the arc
during shutdown. There is a time delay between the reception of a stop signal
and when the arc is extinguished. During this time, the gases and cutting
current are changed to optimum values for extinguishing the arc. Ideally, the
CNC controller should provide a plasma stop signal prior to the end of the cut
path so the gases and current reach the shut off values at the same time that
the part has been completely cut. The shutdown times are different for each
current and are given in the table below.
Consumable life and cut quality will be adversely affected if the motion/height
control doesn't begin retracting the torch from transfer height to pierce height
within 15mS after arc transfers to the plate.
Use the recommended pierce height given in the cutting charts. A pierce
height that is too low will allow molten metal that is ejected during the piercing
process to damage the shield cap and nozzle. A pierce height that is too high
will cause the pilot arc time to be excessively long and will cause nozzle
damage. Refer to Section 5.5.
Never fire the torch in the air. Nozzle damage will occur.
Make sure the torch does not touch the plate while cutting. Shield cap and
nozzle damage will result.
Use a chain cut when possible. Starting and stopping the torch is more
detrimental to the consumables than making a continuous cut.
Always check the FineLine UI > Status Screen > Logs to keep track of cut
errors.
This information is subject to the controls of the Export Administration Regulations [EAR]. This information shall not be provided to
non-U.S. persons or transferred by any means to any location outside the United States contrary to the requirements of the EAR.
Arc Shutdown Times
Current (A) Time (ms)
30 548
80 315
140 340
170 260
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FineLine 170HD Plasma System