CNC Plasma Cutter Operations Checklist

Preparing To Cut

1. Reserve time for a cutting session on calender
2. Screen off plasma cutting area with welding curtains
3. Check the water level (corner nearest the sink is the lowest spot, water should be ⅛" below top of tank edge
4. Turn on Shop Ventilation
5. Ensure air compressor is on and plasma cutter area has air pressure
6. Place sheet for cutting on the table
7. Assemble torch
8. Turn on gantry controller, height controller, and control computer
9. Set appropriate pierce height (initial pierce height), init cut height (Torch-to-work Distance), pierce delay, Voltage (AVHC)
10. Open Torchmate 4 software and connect to the gantry controller
11. Turn on the plasma cutter power unit, set appropriate current (amps) on the plasma cutter power unit

Plasma Cutting

1. Import G-code (generated using built in DX converter or in other CAM tool such as Torchmate CAD)
2. Set the cutting speed multiplier (100 = 100% of speed selected when making G-Code)
3. Jog the torch head to the desired zero position, and set the program coordinates to 0
4. "Dry run" your part with the plasma power unit disabled
5. Enable the power unit by holding the "Cut" button on the height controller until red light turns on
6. Run the cut, keeping your hand over the spacebar in case something goes wrong
7. "Safe" the power unit by holding the "Cut" button on the height controller until the light turns off
8. Inspect the first piece for dimensional accuracy and straight edges

Teardown and Cleanup

1. Jog the head of the machine to the corner closest to the operator station
2. Turn off gantry controller, height controller, and power unit
3. Remove the torch head / nozzle assembly and replace with orange blank cover
4. Remove the cut sheet from the table and store it in your personal space or recycle it
5. Dry any wet or damp areas of the gantry's outer steel rails to prevent rust