Plasma Consumable Question

[DanStew]

Cutting some 1/4 steel today. Brand new consumables. After about 20 mintues of use, the cutter started to not piece of the 1/4 inch like it was. The nozzle is fine, ceramic is fine, the electrode looks it has a hole blown in the center of it. It now looks like a MIG welder tip. Is this the common wear on the electrode? I know i will be going through them quick since i am new. I am not draggin the torch. I have the habit (from using an oxy torch) to tilt the plasma torch into the direction of the cut.

[Gadget]

For plasma you should try to keep the arc straight through the metal. You will get some tailing as you pull the cutter along the cut line, that is normal if it isn't too severe. Raise your tip when piercing to keep splatter off which should increase the life of your consumables.

[KHK]

Gadget is correct. A few other things. As you move the torch the cut stream should lag the torch movement by about 5 deg then you know your torch movement is good. Also if your air pressure is low, you will use up consumables. Air pressure should be about 65 - 75 PSI.

[KHK]

Gadget is correct. A few other things. As you move the torch the cut stream should lag the torch movement by about 5 deg then you know your torch movement is good. Also if your air pressure is low, you will use up consumables. Air pressure should be about 65 - 75 PSI.