BUG-O Systems Programmable Gantry System - Manual (Page 25)

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PLASMA CUTTING
The Programmable Gantry System can be used successfully for plasma cutting; however it is important to
take certain precautions to avoid interference and protect the control circuits. (These comments also apply
to TIG welding or any process that uses high frequency to strike an arc.) An external relay box is available
separately or in the welding kit to provide the contact signal to the plasma source.
PRECAUTIONS:
1. NEVER lay the plasma gun cable across the top of the machine. The further away from the machine
it can be routed and supported, the better.
2. See that all grounding procedures specified for the plasma source are followed diligently.
3. If the high frequency is produced using a spark gap, adjust the points so that the gap is as small as
possible. The larger the gap, the higher the voltage and stronger the interference.
4. We strongly recommend you disconnect the Hand Held Terminal (programming pendant) when
running the machine. Any length of wire acts as an antenna to receive HF radiation, and though the
cable is shielded, it is possible for some induced voltage to leak through.
5. Use separate power line branches whenever possible to power the plasma source and the machine.
Do not plug them into the same outlet box.
6. Though there is an internal power line filter, an external protective device will always help. Computer
equipment line protection boxes are readily available at low cost, with surge suppression and line
filtering circuitry. The machine can be plugged into the power line through one of these boxes.