It is the responsibility of the operator/user to ensure the safe use/handling of the system, refer to Thermacut’s terms and conditions of sale for specific responsibilities and limitations on liability. Information in this document is subject to change without notice. The manual is for the convenience...
EX-TRACK ® SECTION 1. SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS: 1.1. General system safety precautions ................12 1.1.1. System safety ......................... 12 1.1.2. Personal protective equipment ................... 12 1.1.3. Safety precautions prior to handling and operation ..........13 1.2. Plasma/oxy fuel gas cutting safety awareness .............. 14 1.2.1.
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EX-TRACK ® Safety Instructions Many accidents are caused by disregard for basic safety rules in the operation, inspection and maintenance of devices. So carefully read, fully understand, and comply with the safety measures and precautions described in this instruction manual and on the system before operating, inspecting, and maintaining the system.
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EX-TRACK ® Warning symbols Symbol Title Meaning General General caution, warning and danger. Be careful not to get your Possible injury to fingers if caught in the insertion fingers caught! part. Caution: Electric shock! Possible electric shock under special conditions.
® 1.1. General system safety precautions 1.1.1. System safety The EX-TRACK CNC System is fitted with an Emergency Stop or E-Stop Button. This button is used ® to isolate the system from the input (120V/220V) power source. It is intended for use in the case of an accident or emergency.
Failure to do so can result in injury. 9. To reduce the risk of an accident, prohibit the touching of moving parts while the system is running. 10. DO NOT use the EX-TRACK for welding purposes the circuit boards will suffer catastrophic ®...
EX-TRACK ® 1.2. Plasma/oxy fuel gas cutting safety awareness It is essential that ALL operators of the system are aware of the potential danger/risk associated with Plasma/Oxy fuel Gas cutting operations. Keep “SAFETY” in mind! 1.2.1. Prevention of fire and explosion 1.
2. Never cut into sealed or open canisters/containers that have been used for gases or flammable products. 3. Do not keep lighters or matches on your person. 4. When operating the EX-TRACK system, maintain a safe distance from the torch. ®...
EX-TRACK ® 6. Oxy fuel cutting, ensure that the nozzle is correctly seated and tightened so as not to damage the seat/sealing area and prevent “Flashbacks” to the system. • When fixing a nozzle to the torch, use two wrenches to avoid damage to the torch. Over tightening the nozzle will result in the nozzle overheating during the cutting process, making the nozzle more difficult to remove.
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EX-TRACK ® ATTENTION: Prior to starting the cutting process, perform a system/equipment check to ensure there are no gas leaks or visible damage to component parts. If during the cutting process there is the odor from a gas leak, immediately press the E-Stop button to isolate the electrical power supply, turn off the gas supply at the torch and then at the point of supply - Cylinder/Manifold.
EX-TRACK ® SECTION 2. LOCATION OF WARNING AND SAFETY LABELS: Warning and Safety labels have been affixed to the system for the purpose of hazard awareness and correct use of the system. Prior to operating the system carefully read the labels and follow the instructions.
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EX-TRACK ® SAFETY !Caution! Caution! Read operator’s manual The symbol shown in this section means: !Caution! !Beware! Follow the safety instructions to avoid danger. ¡There are possible hazards with this procedure! Only qualified persons should install, operate, maintain and When you find this symbol in the manual or on the system, repair the system.
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EX-TRACK ® CUTTING CAN CAUSE FIRE OR FLYING SPARKS (ARC SPRAY) EXPLOSION CAN CAUSE INJURY, FIRE OR EXPLOSION FIRE PREVENTION Flying sparks are created during the metal cutting/gouging processes; the area should be kept free from flammables. • Use face shield/safety glasses with side protection.
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EX-TRACK ® SMOKE AND GASES CAN BE HAZARDOUS Induction heating of certain materials, adhesives, and fluxes may cause fumes or smoke. Breathing the fumes and smoke can be hazardous to your health • Work in a confined space only if it is well ventilated, •...
EX-TRACK ® 3.1. System overview The EX-TRACK CNC Cutting System is the latest generation of high precision, programmable and ® portable cutting system designed for use in the workshop or on site. 3.1.1. Main features The system has a similar functionality to the fixed table type equipment fitted with a large gantry.
OX - Oxygen FG - Fuel gas (Propane) Name plate fixed to the back of the main unit. WARNING: Do not use EX-TRACK® CNC unit with high frequency ignition plasma systems! HF ignition can damage the unit. 3.3. Technical parameters Cutting area (mm) 1500 ×...
EX-TRACK ® Torch lifting mechanism: comprises of lifting motor, lifting screw, guide shaft and fittings. Torch mounting assembly: comprises of connector, clamp and manual lifting wheel. The torch height and vertical positioning can be adjusted manually, so as to ensure that cut is square. For edge beveling, rotate the torch along the longitudinal or transverse direction to perform an angled cut.
EX-TRACK ® SECTION 4. UNPACKING AND ASSEMBLY: 4.1. Packing list ......................... 27 4.2. System assembly ......................28 4.2.1. Parts check ........................28 4.2.2. Fitting the main unit on to the longitudinal guide rail ..........28 4.2.3. Fitting the transverse guide rail ................... 29 4.2.4.
EX-TRACK ® 4.1. Packing list Upon receipt of the system, check that all parts have been received and that they are undamaged. shortages or damage, contact your supplier. Number Name Quantity Note Assembled parts Main unit (CNC unit) Transverse rails...
EX-TRACK ® 4.2. System assembly 4.2.1. Parts check Check that the main parts listed below have been receipted. Change lifting device to: 4.2.2. Fitting the main unit on to the longitudinal guide rail Place the longitudinal guide rail on an even well supported surface, and then carefully feed the main unit on to the rail guide (it is recommended that this is done with two people).
EX-TRACK ® 4.2.3. Fitting the transverse guide rail Pass the torch height motor lead (complete with plug) through the main unit case, then place the transverse rail in the horizontal plane, as shown in Figure 3, gently feed the rail in through the main unit until the rack meshes with the drive gear in the main unit.
Use a suitable leak test product, ensure that there are no leaks prior to use. The Oxy fuel hoses fitted to this system are standard Ø8mm internal diameter hoses. Where possible use the minimum length of hose between the gas supply point and the EX-TRACK , this ®...
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EX-TRACK ® Plug the torch height motor control lead in to the corresponding input on the main unit side panel. Ensure that there is a functional ground terminal on the input power lead. If not grounded, the operator is at risk of an electrical shock.
5.1.1. Input voltage settings The CNC unit is pre-adjusted from the production on 230VAC. If you need input voltage 110VAC, open the CNC unit and switch the switching power supply to your desire input voltage. 5.1.2. EX-TRACK placement ® The EX-TRACK is to be sited on a well-supported foundation, ensure it is leveled prior to use, do not ®...
EX-TRACK ® 5.3. Cut quality Acceptable cut quality is dependent upon many factors, quality that is acceptable in some instances may not be for others. Make a test cut prior to a production run to ensure the required cut quality has been achieved.
The supplied flashback arrestor is built in on the fuel gas supply at the torch, it is intended for use with Propane gas only, do not use it for any other gases. The EX-TRACK CNC System is not set up for Acetylene gas use.
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EX-TRACK ® Turning the torch off: 1. Close the oxygen preheating valve. 2. Close the fuel gas valve. 3. Close the oxygen cutting valve. Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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EX-TRACK ® SECTION 6. SYSTEM OPERATION: 6.1. Oxy fuel cutting (prior to operation) ..............39 6.2. Plasma arc cutting (prior to operation) ............. 40 Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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8. The operator should be aware that after cutting a profile, the torch should be raised to prevent a collision when moving to the next start point. 9. When using an overhead crane or other lifting device to move the cut profiles or scrap material, ensure that the EX-TRACK will not be damaged. ®...
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Interface Cable, the cable plugs in to the EX-TRACK on the left side Power in/ ® Connection. 3. Fit the torch height controller lead from the transverse rail to the EX-TRACK on the left ® side Power in/Connection. 4. Feed the plasma torch lead set through the transverse rail (it may be necessary to remove the rail cover) and fit the torch in to the torch mounting.
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EX-TRACK ® SECTION 7. MAINTENANCE: 7.1. Cleaning the system .................... 42 7.2. System lubrication ....................42 7.3. Drive motor adjustment ..................42 7.4. Oxy fuel nozzle maintenance ................42 Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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7.1. Cleaning the system It is a requirement that the EX-TRACK CNC Cutting System is checked for cleanliness prior to, ® during and after the cutting process. Prior to any cleaning, isolate the electrical power supply to the system.
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EX-TRACK ® 8.1. Plasma interface SYSTEM CNC INTERFACE CONNECTION Each type of signal is available through the system CNC interface connector located on the left side of the main unit. Use the chart with details of each signal type below when connecting the system interface lead to the plasma arc power supply.
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EX-TRACK ® SECTION 9. OPERATION: 9.1. Control panel functions ..................48 9.2. CNC system functions ..................48 9.3. System main menu ....................49 9.3.1. Menu features ....................49 9.3.2. Main function F-key menu ................50 9.4. Automatic function ....................50 9.4.1.
EX-TRACK ® 9.1. Control panel functions 1. Display 2. Input keys 3. Menu / Function keys 4. Start button 5. Stop button 6. Software update button 7. USB / Dongle port Note: USB port has low power for file transfer only.
EX-TRACK ® CNC System Technical Specification Processor ARM processing chip Display 7” Color LCD, 800 x 480 resolution Input/output 13 - 16 photoelectric isolation input, 8-way photoelectric isolation output, including four-way relay output CNC Controlled Axes X, Y and Z (Vertical) with Height Controller Top speed <...
EX-TRACK ® 9.3.2. Main function F-key menu [F1] AUTO: Automatic CNC process control. [F2] MANUAL: Manually position the cutting torch. [F3] EDITOR: Edit/modify/USB input/USB output processing program. [F4] PARAMER: System parameter settings. [F5] DIAGNOSE: Check machine input and output information.
BRAKE. Operational information bar indicates: machine activity or stopped, various system limit alarms and dwell period. 9.4.1.4. Input and output signals The EX-TRACK CNC System utilizes 8 input and 8 output ports. The display shows visual signals ® indicating the status of each input and output. The Input/output port is used for system diagnostics.
EX-TRACK ® 9.4.1.6. System coordinates display The coordinates displayed can be in Metric (mm) or Imperial (inches), to switch between settings: See, Parameters-Control. The CNC/Operator panel input keys are used to control the functions below. [IGNITION] - Ignition function see M code M20...
EX-TRACK ® 9.4.1.10. Speed [Y] The speed function indicates the actual speed in Metric/Inch. The Feed ratio can be manually adjusted using the [F↑] and [F↓] keys. The speed can be manually entered, press the [F] key in the screen, at the top of the screen there is an input option for a numerical value to be entered using the keypad.
EX-TRACK ® 9.4.2.4. Graphics display [F4] The on-screen graphics use a cursor to show a profile part or nest of profile parts to be cut, the cutting path of the torch and the completed cut area. Press [1] key to magnify the profile part Image, press up to 3x for a maximum 8x magnification.
EX-TRACK ® 9.4.2.6.1. [F1 OUTLINE] PERIMETER FUNCTION The PERIMETER function is used to confirm the fit of a programmed profile part or nest on to a plate. The system performs a rapid perimeter check in the form of a rectangle; the torch movement can be observed for its travel within the perimeter of the plate.
EX-TRACK ® Returning to Auto Mode MORE [F6] menu, the re-orientation process can be stopped, press the [F3] key. The degree of re-orientation is logged in the system, the process can be repeated as required. 9.4.2.6.3. Mirror [F4] This function lets the operator invert a profile part, creating an exact opposite hand duplicate.
EX-TRACK ® 9.4.2.6.6. Tabbing - bridge function [F7 BREAK] Creating tabs or bridge cutting, is performed by pre-determined stops in the cutting process, the size of tabs/bridges is dependent upon the profile part size, thickness and purpose of the tab/ bridge.
EX-TRACK ® 9.5.1. Cutting speed Prior to running a program, refer to the cut chart data for the process used, Oxy fuel/Plasma, material type and thickness, set the appropriate speed, then initiate the Auto Mode. During the cutting process, the feed rate can be adjusted up/down by the [F↑] [F↓] keys, pressing the [F] key, a numerical value input can be made using the keypad.
EX-TRACK ® [STOP] Preheat Timer Extend, pressing the preheat timer key during the preheat process, this increases the preheat process duration. The pierce process can be activated by pressing the [START] key, the timer will stop. [STOP] Program Pause, pressing the [STOP] key during the cutting process, causes the system to ramp down to a halt, in the case of oxy fuel, the oxygen cut flow gas is switched off, in the case of plasma arc cutting, the arc is switched off.
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EX-TRACK ® [S↑] [S↓] Torch Up/Down, the [S↑] [S↓] keys are used to raise and lower the torch. [CUTOXY] Re-Start, use this key to manually restart the cutting process. [PIERCE] Re-Start, use this key to start the pierce process, the process defaults to Auto Mode, the system starts moving at a pre-determined time.
EX-TRACK ® the torch Backwards/Forwards through the cutting sequence at a pre-determined speed, press [STOP] when the torch is at the desired position or the on-screen ERROR CODE G00 is displayed. Pressing keys [F6] [F7} will override the error code.
EX-TRACK ® consumable parts and the parent material. Use the Edge Start setting, input the value 1, initiate a cut sequence in Auto Mode, when the torch reaches the pierce point, an on-screen prompt requires a pierce number. Pressing the [START]/[ENTER] key gives Pierce options: PIERCE HERE the pre-programmed cutting sequence pierces at this point.
EX-TRACK ® 9.6.1.1. [↑] [↓] [←] [→] [UP] [DOWN] [LEFT] [RIGHT] directional control keys [G] The directional control keys are used to position the torch; the speed of travel is faster than the cut speed. Using the [G] key function allows the torch to move non-stop in the direction of the pressed arrow until the arrow is re-pressed to stop the travel, alternatively, pressing the [STOP] key ends the movement.
EX-TRACK ® 9.6.1.4.1. P-START [F3] a P-END [F4] This feature lets the operator check the alignment trueness of the plate to the system. The torch is moved to two positions along the nearest edge of the plate, the system software compensates for the out of true orientation of the plate.
EX-TRACK ® 9.7. Editing function In the system main menu press [F3 EDITOR] to enter the Editing Menu. See the image below. 9.7.1 Edit function 9.7.1.1. New [F1] Use this feature to create a new file that can be edited, using the keypad, manually enter the program code.
EX-TRACK ® 9.7.1.3. Save [F3] Edited programs can be saved in the memory, they can be renamed using the keypad, a maximum of 12 characters can be used to name a file. Press [ENTER] to save changes and [ESC] to leave without change.
EX-TRACK ® 9.8.2. Speed parameters [F1] The speed parameters are accessed in the SETUP menu by pressing the [F1] key. START-SPEED: start up speed of the “X”-”Y” drive motors prior to reaching full speed, a lower speed causes less backlash when starting and stopping. Speed values are shown in Metric-mm/min or Imperial- inches/min.
NUMERATOR: numerical analysis used for positioning accuracy. MA ORIGIN: start point for the System Coordinates. REFERENCE POINT: start point for the Program Coordinates. DRILL OFFSETS: Function not used with EX-TRACK CNC SYSTEM. ® BACKLASH: Function not used with EX-TRACK CNC SYSTEM.
EX-TRACK ® SOFT LIMIT-: Software controlled limit in - direction. Maximal - lenght of the movement (cutting area limitation). For activation SOFT LIMIT fuction go to CONTROL menu and set: SOFTWARE LIMITS EF - „1“ 9.8.4. OXY parameters The flame parameters are accessed in the SETUP menu by pressing the [F3] key.
LINE DELAY-TIME: Use this function for big thicknesess - set this delay time for cutting in the corners or when the torch change the direction SELECT HI HOTUP M24 (0/1): Function not used with EX-TRACK CNC SYSTEM. ®...
Edge starting can be used to cut thick and thin material. *NO-GRAPHIC: in Auto Mode, stops on-screen display of the program parts, time is saved when cutting a large nest/program. *SYNCHRO XZ:0 / YZ:1: function not used with EX-TRACK CNC SYSTEM. ®...
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*G41 /G42 CHECK EFF (0/1): check for kerf faults. No/0 ; Yes/1. *INITIAL CLEAR DOOR: program coordinates are automatically reset to zero when a program starts. *SELECT CYLINDER UP/DOWN: function not used with EX-TRACK® CNC SYSTEM. *SELECT AUTO-REFERENCE: torch can be automatically repositioned to the program zero point when the program ends.
EX-TRACK ® *BRIDGE LENGTH: length of bridge/tab. *DISPLAY CO: do not change this parameter. *SHOW KERF: cutting in Auto Mode, display the kerf offset. YES-”0”. 9.9.2. THC The THC parameters are accessed in the SETUP menu by pressing the [F6] key.
MANUAL SPEED: the torch up/down speed for manual lift (up down manual speed). AUTO SPEED: the torch up/down speed for automatic lift. POSITION SPEED: the torch up/down speed for the initial position. 9.9.3. Save [F7] This key save all adjusted parameters to the internal memory of EX-TRACK unit. ® 9.9.4. Gallery function The gallery function is accessed in the Main Menu by pressing [F6].
EX-TRACK ® 9.9.6. Graphics library (shape development) Pick a shape from the graphics library, input the required dimensions into the Shape Evaluation Screen, nesting data can be added if needed. Validate all data/dimensional inputs using the [F6} OK key. By pressing the [ESC] key to exit the Shape Evaluation Screen, the shape is provisionally stored in the memory.
EX-TRACK ® 9.9.8. Graphics library (nest function) Input the required values for the number of rows and columns, the system software automatically calculates the row height and column width relative to the part size, manual adjustment is permitted to improve the layout. The Row-Offset function may be used when a staggered fit gives better results.
EX-TRACK ® N - Numbering, can be used on all or just some lines, operator aid. G - Motion, rapid feed, circular feed or offset value. M - Machine Function, action code, auxiliary command. T - Tool Selection, used in this system for “Flame” value.
EX-TRACK ® 9.10.7. G-codes Motion codes are used to define the systems programed motions such as rapid feed, circular feed, offset value etc. The default of program input values is positive (+) therefore only a negative (-) value requires input when programming.
EX-TRACK ® The G21 code is associated with Metric (mm) dimensional program input to the controller. The G21 code must be used at the start of the program. 9.10.13. G00 – rapid travel The G00 code is used for rapid travel between parts or positions in the program, it is also used for torch/consumable change/inspection, this action is performed at maximum speed.
EX-TRACK ® 9.10.18. G41 – kerf left This turns on the kerf compensation factor to the left of the cutting path. 9.10.19. G42 – kerf right This turns on the kerf compensation factor to the right of the cutting path.
EX-TRACK ® The M07 code is used to start an automatic cutting sequence, with the following functions for oxy fuel and plasma. The sequence for oxy fuel cutting is: pauses system travel, starts preheat timer, turns on the cutting oxygen and starts the pierce timer, then system starts to travel. The sequence for plasma cutting is: pause system travel, implements height sensing function, plasma arc ignition.
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EX-TRACK ® SECTION 10. FAQ’s Operating the system: 10.1. FAQ’s Operating the system ................83 10.2. Basic trouble shooting ..................85 10.3. Software service instructions - Boot menu ............. 92 10.4. Backup and restore parameters ..............93 10.5. Changing System name text ................95 10.6.
EX-TRACK ® 10.1. FAQ’s Operating the system Q: How do you continue operation after a cutting stoppage during automatic cutting? A: The following functions can be used after cutting is stopped in the automatic mode: [STOP] key: The system will stop. The program can be continued immediately by pressing [START] key.
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EX-TRACK ® Q: Why does the system lock-up when reading the USB stick? A: If the USB stick checks out OK, there may be two reasons: 1. There may be system or hidden files on the USB stick that the CNC is attempting to read. Some system files will cause the CNC to repeatedly attempt to read a file which cannot be understood by the CNC, so it appears to be locked up.
EX-TRACK ® 10.2. Basic trouble shooting WARNING! HIGH VOLTAGE is present inside this system, ONLY suitably qualified personnel should remove the cover for the purpose of Service or Repair. ELECTRIC SHOCK CAN KILL! Fault This may Cause Solution mean System won’t • Drive Power...
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EX-TRACK ® Fault This may Cause Solution mean Initial Height • Check the IHS • Plug may be loose • Tighten or repair plug. Sensing does cable plug on or damaged. not work. Connector Panel at side of Main Unit.
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THERMACUT for evaluation. normal cutting program? operations. • The CNC appears • Drive motor is • Make sure the System is...
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EX-TRACK ® Fault This may Cause Solution mean One of the • Check wiring • Loose connection. • Secure all wiring motors does from drive amp connections. not turn. to motor. • Check the drive • Check for any • Correct settings of drive amplifier.
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EX-TRACK ® Fault This may Cause Solution mean The system • Check settings • Incorrect parameter • Record the settings for is locked up of SYSTEM setting. Numerator and Denominator in Manual or parameters. in the SYSTEM Parameters. Automatic Then reset the factory mode.
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EX-TRACK ® Fault This may Cause Solution mean USB stick • Try a different • The USB stick may • Use only a compatible USB cannot be read brand of USB not be compatible stick. stick. with this CNC. • Check the file • The USB stick...
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EX-TRACK ® Fault This may Cause Solution mean The system • Select a different • If the other • Check the program. will only cut a program and test programs will run, straight line, it the system. there is a problem...
EX-TRACK ® 10.3. Software service instructions - Boot menu There are three options within the Boot Menu for servicing the system. The Boot Menu is activated from the Main Menu. Press the [ESC] key repeatedly if required, to return to the Home Screen. Press sequentially keys [G] [G] [3] the Boot Menu will be shown as below.
EX-TRACK ® 10.4. Backup and restore parameters All system parameters can be backed up to, or restored from, a USB stick. They can also be saved in to permanent memory as the factory settings, although that procedure is not recommended for use by end users.
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The system firmware of controller can be updated through a USB stick. In case a system software update is supplied by THERMACUT and needs to be installed, carefully follow this procedure: 1. Copy the update file titled STARTCNC.EXE to a USB stick.
System name information displayed on the main menu can be changed if necessary. The standard text is “THERMACUT THE CUTTING COMPANY”, and “EX-TRACK® CNC”, as shown below: The desired text must be entered into a text file called “NAME.txt”, to be supplied by THERMACUT ®...
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EX-TRACK ® Number Description Power switch Main power fuse Power connector Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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5. Damage is caused by acts of nature, or force majeure. 6. Damage caused by incorrect/unauthorized use. 7. Unauthorized repair/modifications to the EX-TRACK CNC Cutting System. ® 8. Damage/failure caused by use of non Thermacut parts/components Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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EX-TRACK ® SECTION 12. Certification and compliance symbols: S Mark; mark indicates that the power supply and torch are suitable for use in environments with danger of electrocution. The hand torches must have shielded consumable parts fitted to maintain mark compliance.
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686 01, Uherské Hradiště Czech Republic www.thermacut.cz sales@thermacut.cz THERMACUT®, FHT-EX® and EX-TRAFIRE® are registered trademarks of THERMACUT, k.s. and may be registered in Czech Republic and/or other countries. All other trademarks are properties of their respective owners. Operator Manual, Revision T-1...
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