
Originally Posted by
dick_freebird
I am having trouble with the plasma cutter function on my Super160P.
The arc or jet, whatever you call it, does not want to stay "lit". It will
work for a second and then snuff out, the air keeps coming but no heat.
It is very difficult to get the jet to light off although I can see a small
spark from the tip to workpiece. I can hear sounds from inside the case
that also sound like arcing, when the thing is trying and failing to light
off. Every once in a while it will start up, just enough to make me think
it's not entirely busted.
I have tried drag starting, touch starting and holding a small gap, I
have tried a variety of air pressures and current settings, nothing seems
to help make it start reliably or maintain the arc. The 65PSI I've seen
recommended is no better luck than 40PSI or 80PSI. Current seems not
to matter.
Does any of this sound like a familiar problem? It seems like it should
not be that difficult. I am trying to cut 1/4" steel plate.