Longevity 60i User Manual

Page 1
Operating Manual
for
ForceCut™ 60i and 80i
IGBT Pilot Arc
Plasma Cutters
Page 2
Page 3
ForceCut™ 60i and 80i Plasma Cutters
Table of Content
Pg. i
Thank you From LONGEVITY®
Pg. ii
Warranty/Shipping Damage/Order Information
Pg. 1-2
Introduction
Pg. 3
Warning and Safety Tips
Pg. 4-5
Specifications and Ratings
Pg. 6
What’s Included?
Pg. 7-8
Basic Diagram, Wiring, and Setup Instructions
Pg. 9-12
Main Unit Knob/Button/Function
Pg. 13
Assembly of Plasma Cutter Torches
Pg. 14-15
Basic Plasma Cutter Operation
Pg. 16
Summary Chart of All LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters
Pg. 17-18
Features Chart of All LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters
Pg. 19
Typical Applications of All LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters
Pg. 20
Cutting Methods
Pg. 21
Tips and Advice for LONGEVITY Plasma Cutting by
www.plasma-cutters.com and www.freeweldingforum.com
Pg. 22-27 Routine Maintenance
Pg. 28
Troubleshooting
Pg. 29
Conclusion
Pg. 30
Table of Contents
Page 4
PLASMA CUTTERS www.LWELD.com
THANK YOU!
We, at LONGEVITY®, want to thank you for purchasing our product. You are almost ready to experience LONGEVITY® Welding first hand. LONGEVITY® definitely appreciates your business and understand that this equipment may be overwhelming to setup and operate so we have prepared a manual that will assist you in understand your new plasma cutter/welder. If you have any questions during or after reading this manual, please feel to contact us! Please take a moment to register your product on our website at www.longevity-inc.com or www.lweld.com
Once again, thank you for choosing LONGEVITY® as your main welding supplier!
LONGEVITY® Global, Inc 23591 Foley St Hayward, CA 94545
Toll-Free Customer Support: 1-877-LONG-INC / 1-877-566-4462 Website: www.longevity-inc.com Sales: [email protected] Customer Service: [email protected] Dealers: [email protected] Complaints: [email protected]
Please join our welding forums to share welding tips and tricks, to receive useful information from customers who also use our products, and to be a part of the LONGEVITY® welding community at www.freeweldingforum.com
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W
arranty
LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters, Welders, and Multi-Purpose Welders are covered for specific Parts and Labor warranty at our facility. For detailed information regarding your specific LONGEVITY welder or cutter, please view our Terms and Policies page on our website at the following website link: http://www.longevity-
inc.com/terms/
.
Shipping Damage
Your machine is insured against damage during shipping. Keep all packing materials and containers in case machine must be returned. We will initiate a claim with the shipping company to cover damage or loss. If there is shipping damage upon opening your package, our customer service team will work with you to get the matter resolved.
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In Warranty Service
Customers, who own machines that are in warranty and require service, should contact our Warranty Department by email at [email protected] to obtain a return authorization code. When doing so, please provide the following information:
Order No.: _________________________________ Serial No: _________________________________ Date of Purchase: ____________________________ Warranty Period: ____________________________ Unit Tested Prior to Shipment By: _____________________________
Out-of-Warranty Service
Customers, who own machines that are out of warranty and require service, should contact us for an estimate. LONGEVITY offers an exchange program on out of warranty units. We also help non LONGEVITY customers with repairs, replacement, and service.
If your unit is not manufactured by LONGEVITY® and you cannot receive service from your manufacturer or seller, LONGEVITY® is here to help. Our warranty policy is also available for all plasma cutters and welders. For more information, please email us at [email protected]
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Introduction
The LONGEVITY® ForceCut™ series plasma cutters offer a revolutionary new approach to plasma cutting technology with IGBT internal chips. LONGEVITY® plasma cutters use the newest technology available in the welding industry with the help of IGBT internal components allowing us to push the standards of plasma cutting technology to the next level. With our industrial and commercial plasma cutters, we are able to provide our customers with plasma cutters that will hold up during industrial applications. By producing the units with inverter technology, we are able to produce smaller and more efficient units. During the manufacturing process, we kept the maintenance and repair in mind by enabling the internal components of the machine to be a simply plug and operate circuitry enabling all mother boards to be simply replaced and swapped out if warranty was ever an issue. The ForceCut™ series plasma cutters use special safety-redundant circuitry with built in auto-protection and self-adjusting circuitry to keep the machine running at a safe threshold. This helps protect the machine from over-voltage, power spikes, tip blowouts and shorting cutter. We are proud of our achievements in the welding industry, we are thankful you have chosen to use the LONGEVITY® ForceCut™ series.
. We hope you enjoy your LONGEVITY® ForceCut™ series plasma
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Welding and plasma cutting may be dangerous to the operator and to bystanders, if the equipment is not operated properly. Welding or cutting must be performed in accordance with all relevant safety regulations. Carefully read and understand this instruction manual before installing and operating this equipment.
Changing function modes during welding may damage equipment.
Before welding, disconnect the electrode-holder cable
from the equipment.
A circuit breaker is required to prevent electrical
overload of the equipment.
Only high quality welding tools should be used.
Electric Shock can be fatal.
Ensure that ground cable is connected in accordance with
applicable safety codes.
Never touch electrodes, wires, or circuit components with
bare hands. Wear dry welding gloves when welding.
The operator must be insulated from the work piece.
Smoke and gas can be harmful to health.
Ensure that the working area is well ventilated. Avoid breathing smoke and gas generated during the
welding process.
Arc-light emission can be harmful to eyes and skin.
Always wear a welding helmet, anti-radiation glass, and
work clothes while welding.
Ensure that people in or near the working area are
protected.
Welding splash is a fire hazard.
Keep flammable material away from the work place. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, and have all personnel
trained in it’s use.
Surface noise generated while welding or cutting can be
harmful to hearing.
In the event of a machine fault.
Refer to this instruction manual. If the fault cannot be determined, contact your local
dealer or supplier for assistance.
Warning
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Safety Tips
Consider the following tips to ensure safe operation of your welding/cutting equipment:
Ensure that this welding equipment is installed in an area free of corrosive
chemical gases, flammable gases or materials, and explosive chemicals.
The area should contain little dust, and have a humidity of no more than 80%. Operate the welding equipment in an area sheltered from direct sunlight and
precipitation. Work area temperature should be maintained at -10C to +40C;
If, because of an overload, the machine suddenly stops, and it is necessary to
restart it, leave the internal fan operating to lower the inside temperature.
Always wear protective clothing and a welding mask to protect your skin. Wear safety goggles designed to darken the arc generated by your machine. Wear suitable noise protection to protect your hearing. Ensure that machine is grounded through the power cord or on the machine case. Never operate the machine in bare feet or on a wet floor. Never switch the machine off while it’s in use. Doing so will damage the internal
circuitry.
Ensure that your circuit breaker is rated to handle the current requirements of
your machine.
Use a UL approved receptacles and plugs with your machine. Never hard wire
the machine to main power.
Work in a well ventilated area to avoid smoke. Keep your head out of the smoke.
Ensure that air is flowing away from you to avoid inhaling smoke.
Ensure proper ventilation through the machine’s louvers. Maintain a distance
least 12 inches between this cutting equipment and any other objects in the
of at work area.
Use a screen or curtain designed to keep passers by from viewing the arc. The arc spray and metal spray from machine use may cause nearby fires. Use
caution.
If, after reviewing this manual, you have any problems in setting up or operating
your machine, contact us at help@LONGEVITY®-inc.com.
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Type
Parameter
ForceCut 60i
ForceCut 80i
Input Voltage (V)
Single Phase 220/230/240V
Cup Capacity max/sev (in.)
Up to 1 ¼”
Up to 1 5/8”
Input Current (Amp)
50
70
Output Current (Amps)
60
80
No-load Voltage (V)
200v
200v
Current Range (Amp)
20-60
20-80
Rated Duty Cycle (%)
60
60
Efficiency
85
85
Power Factor (Cos0)
0.93
0.93
Insulation Class
B
B
Protection Class
IP21
IP21
Arc Starting
HF Continuous Pilot Arc
HF Continuous Pilot Arc
Suggest Air Pressure (psi)
75-80
75-80
Suggested Air Volume (cfm)
4.0
4.0
Adjustable Post Flow Time (Seconds)
2-10
2-10
Machine Weight (lbs)
42
48
Size LxWxH (inches)
21 x 9 x 15
24 x 11 x 17
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Specifications and Ratings
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What’s Included:
Main Unit Cutting Torch (Ground) Earth Clamp Water Separator and Bracket Air Hose Consumables: 2 piece tips, 2 piece electrodes, and 2 piece shield cups Power Plug CNC Plug Pin Adapter
Pictures of Accessories: (Note: 60i accessories pictured)
Plasma Torch
(Note: Torch will vary by model)
Ground Clamp
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60i and 80i Included Accessories:
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Installation and Setup Instructions:
The item numbers referenced in the following paragraphs, refer to the numbered parts display in the diagrams shown below. LONGEVITY® has an instructional setup installation video on our website at www.longevity-inc.com, which we ask that you view prior installing the unit. The video shows the complete assembly of the machine. The video is located in the Resources section of the website under manuals and installation/set-up videos.
The LONGEVITY® ForceCut 60I and 80I are both 220v 1 phase units.
Connecting the electrical plug to the unit
Connecting the power plug to the unit is important. Please view the proper connection instructions below:
Wiring Introduction for 220 Volt
Danger: Read this manual completely before having your electrician attempt to wire up or connect your machine to an electrical power source. LONGEVITY® units should be wired by a certified electrician to insure your safety and a proper 110/220v plug match at your operating facility. Remember 220v plugs come with 3 or 4 prongs on them. Have the electrician check your existing receptacle.
Note: The power cord on single-phase machines has one ground wire and two hot wires when connecting to 220vac. Connecting these wires properly is extremely important. Improperly connected wires will void the warranty, affect personnel safety, and possibly damage your machine and electrical power outlet.
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Identifying
Caution: The machine may appear to operate with an incorrectly connected ground wire, but it will not operate properly. Selecting the correct ground wire is important for proper machine operation and personnel safety.
Ground wires on LONGEVITY® Welding machines are usually one of the following colors:
The ground wire is a dark green with a yellow stripe. The wire may also be just SOLID GREEN.
Clean the ends of the wires to more easily distinguish the colors. The best and safest way to determine which wire is ground is to measure the resistance between the machine chassis and the selected wire, using an ohmmeter. Another method is to check the continuity between the chassis and the wire, using a continuity meter. If the selected wire is ground, the connection between the chassis and the wire will cause the meter to illuminate. If, for any reason, you cannot visually detect the ground wire or do not feel comfortable with your selection, ask an electrician for help.
Identifying
For 220vac service, both the brown and blue wire are positive wires. As you may know, 220vac features two hot wires. If you are wiring to 220vac, your blue and brown wires are both hot. The green with yellow or SOLID GREEN is the ground. Remember, any hot wire can be attached to either hot leg on the plug.
Note: Hot Wires May also be WHITE and BLACK if a GREEN WIRE is one of the three wires. Therefore, GREEN is ALWAYS GROUND.
NOTE: LONGEVITY® recommends a 30 AMP breaker.
the Ground wire
the hot wire
Finished Plug:
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Basic Diagram Pictured Model ForceCut™ 60i (Note: Both 60i and 80i models have the same connections)
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Rear View (Pictured ForceCut™ 60i Plasma Cutter)
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Main Unit Knob/Button Functions/Inlets:
1. On/Off Breaker or Switch: Either breaker or switch located on the back or front of the
unit will control the unit to be turned on or off.
2. Power Indicator : Shows unit is powered on. Indicator is present in some models with
a green LED bulb.
3. O.C. Over Current Light: Illuminates when the duty cycle has been exceeded or the
machine has overheated due to improper ventilation. Discontinue use until lamp goes out. Allow the fan to continue to run. Once lamp goes out, you may resume using the unit.
4. Digital Display: Displays the approximate amount of amperage set to on the unit.
5. Gas (Air) Test/Cutting: This mode allows you to test air pressure and release air
through the torch. Selecting Gas (Air) Test, you should have air passing through the torch as long as the compressor is on. Cutting mode allows you to use the plasma cutter normally.
6. AMP Adjustment Knob: Adjusts the amount of amps to desired AMP setting.
7. Ground Clamp Connector (+): Location of ground clamp to be plugged in and ran to
the workpiece.
8. Torch Remote Connector: 2 or 7 pin torch connector plugs here to activate the torch
relay once the trigger is pressed on the torch.
9. Torch Connector: Connect torch for air to pass through the unit and generate the arc
at the torch tip.
10. Pilot Arc Torch Connector: Connect the torch pilot arc wire coming from the torch to
this knob for proper arching.
11. Torch Air Outlet: This is only used with specific torches that require water cooling.
Your unit does not come with this feature as it is not required.
12. Air Regulator Pressure Gauge: Shows the amount of pressure at the torch in PSI.
13. Pressure Regulator Adjustment Knob: Adjust the amount of pressure at the unit. Pull
the knob towards you to unlock, turn clockwise for more pressure and counter clockwise for less pressure. Once the desired pressure is reached, pop the knob back in place to lock it in place.
14. Thermal Protection Fan: Cools your unit during operation. Fan should be operating
once the power is turned on and the unit power indicator is lit.
15. 220v Power Cord: Attach the power cord to the wall outlet for unit power. Required
30amp breaker on 220v side.
16. Ground Lug: An additional safety grounding lug. You can earth this wire or properly
ground it to your electricians specifications. Grounding the unit and yourself during cutting is extremely important
17. Air Inlet: Attach air compressor hose to the air inlet here.
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Plasma Torch Assembly:
The plasma cutter torch handle is made of fire and heat resistant materials. Avoid dropping the torch or striking anything with it. For convenience and ease of use, the torch’s ON/OFF switch can be positioned on the top, the side, or the bottom of the torch body.
Assembly for the ForceCut™ 60i model.
Assemble the consumables as pictured above, and described below.
1. Insert the electrode.
2. Place the copper tip over the electrode, ensuring that is seated flat.
3. Secure all parts into place by turning the pink ceramic cup clockwise until it
is snug. Do not over tighten.
4. If your unit comes with a torch space, place spacer into the groove of the
ceramic tip.
5. Remember to properly plug the torch into the unit including the Pilot Arc
wire.
The torch consumables are now successfully assembled.
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Assembly of ForceCut 80i Plasma Cutter
Assemble the consumables as pictured above, and described below.
1. Insert the electrode.
2. Place the copper tip over the electrode ensuring that is seated flat.
3. Secure all parts into place by turning the ceramic cup clockwise until it is
snug. Do not over tighten.
4. If your unit comes with a torch spacer, you can properly attach it to your
torch.
5. Remember to properly secure all connections of the torch to the unit.
The torch consumables are now successfully assembled.
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Basic Operation
1. Ensure that all cables are connected to the machine.
2. Ensure that the machine’s OFF/ON switch is set to OFF, and plug the machine
into the electrical outlet.
3. Connect the air compressor supply line to the air input side on the unit.
4. Turn the ON/OFF switch to ON. The cooling fans should operate and the ON
indicator LED or power switch (if applicable) should illuminate.
5. Clean the contact point on the work piece to ensure a good electrical connection.
Ensure that no rust of paint is present that could create an open circuit.
6. Connect the ground clamp to the work piece to be cut.
7. Connect the torch to the unit properly.
8. With the pilot arc knob connected, you should get a full continuous arc when the
trigger on the torch is pressed.
9. Depress the button on your torch to start the arc and begin cutting.
10. You can test the air to insure that is it properly flowing by selecting Gas (Air)
Test. Air will pass through the torch.
11. If necessary remove slag from the under part of the cut using a grinder or chisel.
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Plasma Cutters
Rated Output
"Rated" Cutting Thicknesses at 220 V (110V reduces power in
half)*
Mild Steel
Stainless
Steel
Aluminum
Recommended
Generator
Power
ForceCut®
LP-40D
Plasma Cutters
40 A at 60%
(230 V Input)
30 A at 60%
(110 V Input)
1/2 in
1/2 in
1/4 in
2500 watts
ForceCut®
LP-40D
Pilot Arc
Plasma Cutters
40 A at 60%
or 30 A at
100% (230 V
Input)
30 A at 60%
or 25 A at
100% (110 V
Input)
1/2 in
1/2 in
1/4 in
4000 watts
ForceCut®
LP-50D
Plasma Cutters
50 A at 60%
or 40 A at
100% (230 V
Input)
40 A at 60%
or 30 A at
100% (110 V
Input)
3/4 in
3/4 in
3/8 in
4000 watts
ForceCut®
LP-50D
Pilot Arc
Plasma Cutters
50 A at 60%
or 40 A at
100% (230 V
Input)
40 A at 60%
or 30 A at
100% (110 V
Input)
3/4 in
3/4 in
3/8 in
4000 watts
ForceCut®
LP-60D
60 A @ 60%
Duty Cycle
1 in
1 in
1/2 in
10,000 watts
Summary Chart of Plasma Cutters:
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Plasma Cutters
(230 V Input)
40 A @ 100%
Duty Cycle
(110 V Input)
ForceCut®
LP-70 Plasma Cutters
70 A at 60%
(230 V Input)
1 1/4 in
1 1/4 in
5/8 in
8000 watts
ForceCut®
LP-80 Plasma Cutters
80 A at 60%
(230 V Input)
1 1/2 in
1 1/2 in
3/4 in
9000 watts
MaxArc®
LP-100
Plasma Cutters
100 A at 60%
(230 V Input
1- phase)
2 in
2 in
1/4 in
10,000 watts
ForceCut® 60I Plasma
Cutters
60 A @ 60%
Duty Cycle
(220 V Input)
1 1/4 in
1 1/4 in
3/4 in
6500 watts
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Technology
Plasma Cutters
Product
Weight
Highlighted Features
MOSFET Technology
ForceCut® LP-40D
25 lbs (28 lbs
Boxed)
110/220 V Input, Portable, High Frequency Start, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-40D Pilot Arc
25 lbs (28 lbs
Boxed)
Pilot Arc Starting Technology, 110/220 V Input, Portable, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-50D
25 lbs (28 lbs
Boxed)
60% Duty at 50A & 100% Duty at 40A, 110/220 V Input, Portable, High Frequency Start, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-50D Pilot Arc
25 lbs (28 lbs
Boxed)
Pilot Arc Starting Technology, 60% Duty at 50A & 100% Duty at 40A, 110/220 V Input, Portable, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-60D
36 lbs (40 lbs
Boxed)
Powerful and Versatile! 110/220 V Input with 1" Cut Capability, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-70
38 lbs (45 lbs
Boxed)
Commercial Grade, Powerful, 220 V Input, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
ForceCut® LP-80
40 lbs (47 lbs
Boxed)
Most Powerful 1-Phase 220 V Input, 1 1/2 in Rated, Toshiba Mosfet Technology
MaxArc® LP-100
74 lbs (90 lbs
Boxed)
Industrial Grade, 220 V Input 3-phase, 2 in Rated, Portable
IGBT Technology
ForceCut® 60I
45 lbs (52 lbs
Boxed)
Commercial Plasma Cutter, Portable, Industrial Grade, 220 V Input 1-Phase,
1.25" Cut Power
Features Chart of Plasma Cutters:
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Technology
Plasma Cutters
Typical Applications
MOSFET Technology
ForceCut® LP-40D
Hobbyist, Auto-Body, Plumbers, Sheet Metal Work,
Thin Material, HVAC
ForceCut® LP-40D Pilot Arc
Hobbyist, Auto-Body, Plumbers, Sheet Metal work,
Thin materials. Pilot Arc enables easier Arc Starting25
lbs (28 lbs Boxed)
ForceCut® LP-50D
Hobbyist, Light Industrial, Commercial, Fabrication,
Maintenance, Light Construction
ForceCut® LP-50D Pilot Arc
Hobbyist, Light Industrial, Commercial, Fabrication,
Maintenance, Light Construction
ForceCut® LP-60D
Boat Repair, Commercial, Light Industrial, Body
Shops, Repair
ForceCut® LP-70
Commercial, Industrial, Repair, Fabrication
ForceCut® LP-80
Manufacturing, Repair, Heavy Fabrication,
Construction, Industrial
MaxArc® LP­100
Manufacturing, Industrial, Construction, Heavy Duty
Fabrication, Automation
IGBT Technology
ForceCut® 60I
Portable Fabrication, Industrial Repair, Heavy
Manufacturing, Thick metal cutting, Commercial Use,
Construction, Fab Work
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Typical Applications Chart of Plasma Cutters:
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LP-
40D
Cutting Methods
Different material thicknesses require different cutting techniques.
Thin material: Start perpendicular to the work piece. It is unnecessary to
angle or start on the edge, as the arc will pass through quickly.
Medium material: Angle the torch tip to avoid damaging the tip. Once the
arc passes through the material, you may begin cutting normally.
Thick material: Drill a pilot hole through which to start your arc, or start on
the edge of the work piece.
Never cut material on a flat surface. Raise the work piece above the surface to avoid blow back which may burn you or cause fires.
Real Time Arc-Curve Delay
When cutting thick materials you must maintain a steady even motion in the direction of the cut. Moving the torch too quickly causes an arc-curve delay. An arc-curve delay can leave the work piece with uncut sections, requiring you to re-cut those sections, which could distort or damage the work piece.
To avoid arc-curve delay, allow the arc to pass completely through the work piece before moving too far ahead. The arc-curve should lag not more than the thickness of the material being cut. In other words, if the work piece is one-half inch thick, the arc curve should lag not more than one-half inch behind the torch, as shown below.
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Tips For Plasma Cutting provided by:
www.plasma-cutters.com www.freeweldingforum.com
Using a LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter with either High Frequency or Pilot Arc technology is very easy to use, and since each LONGEVITY unit is quality tested at our in house testing facility before it is shipped , most of our customers take right out of the box, plug it in and get to work. Naturally, it is easy to understand how excited you would be to see the delivery truck pull up with your brand new LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter and you should be. Congratulations is in order and we want to ensure you have the best experience with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter. However, excited as we are you can't wait to put your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter into action, we would like you to consider these helpful tips and examples that will enable you to get the most out of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter and it's consumables. So, before using your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter it is extremely important to read the owner's manual all the way through regardless of your experience level. Even if you are a seasoned veteran, give it a once through and keep it near by in case you, someone you know or someone you work with has a question about the use or specifications of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter.
At this point, let us assume that you have purchased the LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter that is right for you, and even though you did your research already, it is always a good idea to revisit the safety precautions, specifications and unique options ensuring you achieve the most with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter while staying safe. In case you have not decided which LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter is right for you, please visit the Help Me Choose section and take advantage of the LONGEVITY Smart Selector.
In terms of safety, the price of carelessly cutting corners can be extremely costly, not only to your health but to the people around you as well. So, before you get started using your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter to create your master piece, build a bridge, or whatever you want to do, make sure you have a quality safety checklist you follow after you read the manual and before you get started. Below are a list of tips and safety measures you might find useful in developing your safety checklist. Remember, in no way shape or form does this checklist or any other check list ever replace the necessity of thoroughly reading the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter.
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Check List Suggestions
Connect the air supply to your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter and consult your owner's manual to ensure the correct PSI. The PSI is about 65-75.
Each LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter, regardless if it uses Pilot Arc or High Frequency technology, comes with an air flow regulator and water catcher. Reference the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter for specifications and care instructions of your air flow regulator and filter.
Check the torch of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter and make sure everything is in order. Reference the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter to make sure all of your consumables are clean, correct, and pieced together securely before you begin cutting.
Gouging or piercing can be achieved by simply lowering the amperage output and keeping with the recommended psi. Examples on how to achieve the desired results can be referenced in the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter.
Now you are ready to use your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter safely and efficiently. Turn the machine on and enjoy the satisfying experience of a quality LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter.
Double check your air supply, air flow regulator and water filter. (More on this below.)
All LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters require a solid ground connection as close to the work piece as practical. Remember, even though your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter can cut through paint and other coatings on the metal, the ground connection requires a clean, flush connection to the work piece.
Utilizing the proper safety equipment is just as important as understanding how to properly operate your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter. Consult the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter
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to be sure you are using the correct gloves, eye protection, welding leathers, face shield, etc. You can find all of the necessary equipment as stated in the owner's manual of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter in the accessories section of our website.
The old adage says to measure twice and cut once, but we want to go ahead and suggest you make a sample cut (of the same caliber as the intended use) with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter before you get started. Use this rehearsal just to be sure you have correctly calibrated all the settings to work as desired. If you are going to be cutting for a large piece of metal, it can sometimes be difficult for even the most experienced metal worker to cleanly stop and start. We recommend you use the sample cut to thoroughly rehearse the intended cut with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter.
LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter Tips
In order to successfully execute a clean cut with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter you must consider a combination of elements involved in the cutting process:
The tip of your torch is designed to focus the plasma stream to the work piece in accordance with the appropriate setting (see owner's manual). Trying to use a 80-amp torch tip at a 40-amp setting will not focus the energy of your torch accurately and thus lead to a wider kerf. And the opposite scenario of using an 80-amp setting with a 40-amp tip will abuse your torch tip and require it to be replaced sooner than intended.
When cutting a thicker material with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter it is important to use a torch tip designed for a higher-amp output. Higher-amp tips have a larger opening than lower-amp tips. Attempting to use a 40-amp tip to cut thick metal with a higher­amp output will distort your 40-amp tip meaning it will need to be replaced.
Each LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter, both Pilot Arc and High
Frequency , allow you to cut different metals at different speeds. For example to achieve a quality cut of 1/2in. thick steel with the LONGEVITY Force Cut LP-40D Pilot Arc your speed will be roughly 7 inches per minute. Where as the LONGEVITY Force Cut LP-80D will cut 1.25in. thick steel at the same rate.
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Use extended tips on your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter for tough to reach corners, tracing a pattern, or areas with tight spaces.
Pilot Arc technology allows you to ignite the arc without the tip touching the metal. Use a torch guide or tip shield to protect your consumable. The more often you drag your torch tip across the material or stop and restart the Pilot Arc, the shorter the life span of your consumables will be.
Using a torch guide or tip shield is a great way to protect the consumables of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter. Remember to maintain a 1/16in. - 1/8in. distance from the material when cutting.
* The important things to consider while using your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter to cleanly execute a cut is correct amperage of the torch tip, thickness of the material, intended speed, proper technique, and ultimately protecting the life of your consumables.
Cutting Posture
Sometimes you may find that you are unable to use a guide or shield when operating your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter. In some instances a project may be a very ornate design with different curves and protrusions or the material is too thick to apply a shield or guard to your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter torch tip. In order to maintain the quality and consistency of your work we recommend that you use your other hand as a guide. Give yourself a fighting chance to steady your hands and take advantage of the protective gear you have like our guys on the LONGEVITY Facility Testing Team .
One of the reasons you purchase a LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter is because of it's quality. Therefore, we think you should have a few quality reminders to think about when you are cutting.
If you stop and start an arc in the middle of a cut, often the the quality of your cut will suffer and compromise the integrity of your so far clean cut-line. Remember, even when we do facility testing, a suitable method to apply when using your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter is rehearsing the cut. Be sure you are going to be able to produce a smooth continuous cut-line all the way through.
Along with rehearsing your cut, another equally good reminder is to protect your consumables as much as possible. Often we can get comfortable piercing right through thin steel with our LONGEVITY Plasma Cutters, but when cutting thicker metal often the intense back splash from initial contact will rapidly wear down your torch tip and other consumables. Even though the seeing the bright sparks show off
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the awesome power of your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter, remember we want you to be able to enjoy the results of your work time and time again. So, in situations when you are going to be cutting thick metals at high amperage with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter, we recommend you start with the torch pointed at a 45 degree angle. This angled approach allows for the first blast of metal to be released with out back splash on to your valuable consumables.
Know Your Amperage, Know Your Metal
At www.longevity-inc.com, you can see the cutting thickness capability.
Understanding the amperage in relation to your cut speed is important. Some metals respond differently than others. For example the faster you move on a material such as aluminum, the cleaner your cut will be. Conversely, when using your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter to cut thicker material, set your unit to full output and vary your travel speed accordingly. Thin material requires you to turn down the amperage and change to a lower-amperage to achieve a narrow kerf.
Figuring out if you are going too slow or too fast can be a daunting task that really only comes with time and experience. However, our guys in the LONGEVITY Facility Testing Team have a few pointers for you:
If your cut has a lot of spray back then you are probably going too fast.
If the arc exits the material going straight down then you are probably moving too slow and you will have an unnecessary buildup of "dross" or "slag."
Your arc should be exiting the material at a 15 - 20 degree angle, but opposite the direction of your cut path.
Using A Cutting Guide
First thing in using a torch guide with your LONGEVITY Plasma Cutter is make sure it isn't flammable! Aluminum works as a great torch guide, but be sure it is attached to the torch cup and not the torch tip. Aluminum is a great contact guide because of it's smooth surface but be wary of the torch tip because of electrical conductivity of aluminum. It would be a terrible mess of a cut, loss of consumables, and overall depressing mistake if your torch guide melted to the torch tip or the project at hand. Next you want to mark the material to be cut with either white chalk or a black marker. If you are unsure of how steady your hands are, we recommend you try using a straight edge clamp attached to the work piece or torch guide.
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All articles are composed by the LONGEVITY Facility Testing Team and are written with expressed interest of maintain a strong standard in LONGEVITY Global Inc. quality, to help address topics, and answer questions for amateur and experienced users alike. Please remember to always exercise extreme causation and abide by all provided safety specification.
Sample Photos:
For more information on plasma cutting from professionals go to
www.freeweldingforum.com and www.plasma-cutters.com
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Routine Maintenance
The life of your machine and the quality of the work performed using your machine, will be enhanced by practicing periodic routine maintenance.
At regular intervals, clear dust that may accumulate in the machine using
clean and dry compressed air. If the working condition has heavy smoke and pollution, the welding machine should be cleaned once a month.
Keep the machine exterior clean with mild soap and water. Do not walk on or store items on the cables or cords. Do not jar, drop, or stack items on top of the machine. Always connect the machine to a well grounded electrical outlet. Always check the torch consumables before and after use and ensure that
they are clear of obstructions, and that no parts are damaged.
Replace any worn or damaged consumables before using machine. For periods of prolonged non-use, remove cables and store them in their
original boxes in a cool dry place.
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Problems, Causes, and Solutions
Problems
Causes/
Solutions
Machine will not turn on.
LONGEVITY
The machine runs, but nothing is happening
pressure. Make sure the regulator adjustment knob is turned clockwise and allow pressure. Check the consumables and make sure they are properly assembled. Check the ground clamp and proper grounding to the unit. Check pilot arc wire to insure it is properly connected to the unit.
Consumables (tips) are being consumed
leaks in the hose, maintain a distance of 1/8” from the torch tip or
workpiece. If your unit comes with a manual Post Flow 2.5 or 5.0 switch make sure you leave it on 5.0 for more air to pass cooling your torch tips.
Heavy Underside Slag (Cutting)
Poor Cut Quality
desired thickness of material. Check the consumables to insure they are producing a stable arc. Replace Consumables and insure you have the proper PSI at the regulator.
Inconsistent Arc
replace consumables and adjust the regulator to proper PSI
O.C. Over Current LED Lights
machine on and allow fans to cool the machine. You can also turn the machine off to properly cool it. Do not continue to weld until light is off.
Issue Not Listed
Troubleshooting
If your unit is not properly functioning, please call us immediately toll free at 1-877­566-4462 for support. We have included a small table here to diagnose most common problems.
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LONGEVITY® Global, Inc. thanks you for your purchase and opportunity to be able to serve you. If, after reviewing this manual, you have any problems in setting up or operating your machine, contact us at [email protected].
LONGEVITY® Global, Inc. Toll-Free 1-877-LONG-INC / 1-877-566-4462 Website: www.longevity-inc.com Sales: [email protected] Customer Service: [email protected] Dealers: [email protected]
Please join our welding forums to share welding tips and tricks, to receive useful information from customers who also use our products, and to be a part of the LONGEVITY® welding community at www.freeweldingforum.com
For the coolest LONGEVITY sponsored race teams plus a complete racing forum that covers everything from Drag Racing to RC Car Racing, please check out
www.longevity-racing.com!
Enjoy your new plasma cutter from LONGEVITY! Thanks again!
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