Common cutting issues – Hypertherm Powermax30 AIR Service Manual User Manual
Page 69

Powermax30 AIR Service Manual 808850
69
5 – Troubleshooting and System Tests
Common cutting issues
Problem
Possible causes
Possible solutions
When you pull the
torch trigger:
• Gas flows from the
torch, but the torch
does not fire or fires
only for a short
period of time.
OR
• The pilot arc starts
but then
extinguishes before
the normal 5-second
timeout period.
• The consumables are worn or
damaged.
• The torch or torch lead is damaged.
• The air filter element is dirty.
• There is a voltage imbalance on the
power board. The power board may
be faulty.
• Inspect the consumables, torch, and
torch lead, and replace if necessary.
• Inspect the air filter element, and
replace if necessary. See
air filter bowl and air filter element on
page 151.
• Perform
balance on power board on page 82.
The arc goes out
during cutting or
intermittently will not
fire.
• The work lead connection is poor. The
work lead may be damaged or not
properly connected to the workpiece.
• Inspect for loose connections at the
ground clamp and at the power
supply, and repair if necessary.
• Reposition the work lead on the
workpiece.
• Clean the cutting surface to make a
better connection with the work lead.
The pilot arc
extinguishes when you
move the plasma arc
off the workpiece while
still pulling the torch
trigger.
• The consumables are worn or
damaged.
• The system is connected to a
generator and is running on low input
voltage (for example, less than
100 V).
• The continuous pilot arc is not
functioning correctly. The power
board may be faulty.
• Inspect the consumables and replace
if necessary.
• If you use a generator, make sure it is
properly rated for this system. See
Generator recommendations on
page 31.
checks on page 80 and
Test 3 – VBUS and voltage balance
on power board on page 82.
The arc blows out but
re-ignites when the
torch trigger is pulled
again, or the arc
sputters and hisses.
• Too much moisture is present in the
consumables.
• The consumables are worn or
damaged.
• Inspect the consumables for signs of
moisture. If moisture is present, fire
the torch approximately 5 times in
succession. Fire the torch in the air,
not on the workpiece.
• If the problem persists, inspect and
replace the consumable parts if they
are worn or damaged.