PLASMATECH SHARK 75 - Common Cutting Defects

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Common cutting defects
The table below provides an overview of common cut defects that can arise when using the machine, and explains how to re-
solve them.
Defect Cause Remedy
Insufficient penetration • Cutting speed too high • Reduce speed
• Current too low • Increase current
• Ground wire connected wrong • Check ground wire connection
Main arc goes out • Cutting speed too slow • Increase speed
• Excessive erosion of electrode • Replace electrode
Excessive residues • Cutting speed too slow • Increase speed
• Electrode hole eroded • Replace electrode
Nozzle overheated or black • Current too high • Reduce current
• Gap between the nozzle and
workpiece too small.
• Increase space
• Air dirty • Clean air filter
• Excessive erosion of electrode • Replace electrode
Pilot arc intermittent or sparking • Air dirty, greasy, wet • Clean air filter
• Pilot arc current too low • Check the equipment pilot arc circuit
• The air filter element is polluted,
replace the element.
• Replace the element.
• Check that there is no
moisture in the air circuit.
• Install or repair the generator's
air filter system.
The arc goes out but ignites again
when the torch button is pushed again
• Consumables worn or damaged • Inspect consumable components
and replace them
• Air dirty and polluted • Replace the air filter element
• Air pressure incorrect • Make sure the air pressure
is at the correct level
The quality of the cut is poor • Torch not used correctly • Check that the torch is used correctly
• Consumables worn or damaged • Check that the consumables are
not worn, and replace if necessary
• Incorrect pressure or poor quality air • Check the air pressure and quality
• Cutting mode selector in
incorrect position
• Check that the cutting mode
selector is in the correct position
for the cutting operations.
• Consumables not correct
or fitted incorrectly
• Check that the correct
consumables are fitted
The arc is not transferred to the plate • Ground wire connected wrong • Clean the contact area between
the earth clamp and the plate,
to ensure a good connection
• Earth clamp damaged • Repair or replace the earth clamp
• Piercing distance too great • Reduce the distance