ESAB PT-26 Plasma Arc Cutting Torch User manual

Category
Welding System
Type
User manual
PT26
Plasma Arc Cutting Torch
Instruction Manual
F15-345-H 03/2010
This equipment will perform in conformity with the description thereof contained in this manual and accompa-
nying labels and/or inserts when installed, operated, maintained and repaired in accordance with the instruc-
tions provided. This equipment must be checked periodically. Malfunctioning or poorly maintained equipment
should not be used. Parts that are broken, missing, worn, distorted or contaminated should be replaced imme-
diately. Should such repair or replacement become necessary, the manufacturer recommends that a telephone
or written request for service advice be made to the Authorized Distributor from whom it was purchased.
This equipment or any of its parts should not be altered without the prior written approval of the manufacturer.
The user of this equipment shall have the sole responsibility for any malfunction which results from improper
use, faulty maintenance, damage, improper repair or alteration by anyone other than the manufacturer or a ser-
vice facility designated by the manufacturer.
BE SURE THIS INFORMATION REACHES THE OPERATOR.
YOU CAN GET EXTRA COPIES THROUGH YOUR SUPPLIER.
These INSTRUCTIONS are for experienced operators. If you are not fully familiar with the
principles of operation and safe practices for arc welding and cutting equipment, we urge
you to read our booklet, “Precautions and Safe Practices for Arc Welding, Cutting, and
Gouging,Form 52-529. Do NOT permit untrained persons to install, operate, or maintain
this equipment. Do NOT attempt to install or operate this equipment until you have read
and fully understand these instructions. If you do not fully understand these instructions,
contact your supplier for further information. Be sure to read the Safety Precautions be-
fore installing or operating this equipment.
CAUTION
USER RESPONSIBILITY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 Safety Precautions ..........................................................................................................................................................................5
1.1 Safety - English .....................................................................................................................................................................5
1.2 Safety - Spanish ....................................................................................................................................................................9
1.3 Safety - French ................................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.0 Description ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
2.1 Description ......................................................................................................................................................................... 19
3.0 Installation ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
3.1 Torch to Power Source Connections .......................................................................................................................... 21
3.2 Retrots to Older Power Sources ................................................................................................................................21
3.3 Gas Selection .....................................................................................................................................................................22
3.4 Gas Connections ...............................................................................................................................................................22
3.5 Assembling Front End Parts .........................................................................................................................................23
3.6 Stand-o Guide .................................................................................................................................................................24
3.7 Loose Comsumables .......................................................................................................................................................24
3.8 installation of Swirl Bae ..............................................................................................................................................24
4.0 Operation ........................................................................................................................................................................................25
4.1 Operation ............................................................................................................................................................................25
4.2 Operating Parameters ....................................................................................................................................................27
4.3 Cut Data ...............................................................................................................................................................................27
5.0 Maintenance .................................................................................................................................................................................. 33
5.1 Disassembly of Front End ..............................................................................................................................................33
5.2 General .................................................................................................................................................................................33
5.3 Dirt or Contamination ....................................................................................................................................................34
5.4 Removal and Replacement of the Torch Head ......................................................................................................34
5.5 Removal and Replacement of Torch Cables ...........................................................................................................35
5.6 Replacement of Flex Support, Switch Board, or Handle ....................................................................................35
5.7 Replacement of Torch Switch ......................................................................................................................................35
5.8 Measuring Torch Gas Flows ..........................................................................................................................................36
6.0 Replacement Parts ....................................................................................................................................................................... 37
6.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
6.2 Ordering .............................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Section / Title Page
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
5
SECTION 1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1.0 Safety Precautions
1.1 Safety - English
WARNING: These Safety Precautions are
for your protection. They summarize pre-
cautionary information from the references
listed in Additional Safety Information sec-
tion. Before performing any installation or operating
procedures, be sure to read and follow the safety
precautions listed below as well as all other manuals,
material safety data sheets, labels, etc. Failure to observe
Safety Precautions can result in injury or death.
PROTECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS --
Some welding, cutting, and gouging
processes are noisy and require ear
protection. The arc, like the sun, emits
ultraviolet (UV) and other radiation
and can injure skin and eyes. Hot metal can cause
burns. Training in the proper use of the processes
and equipment is essential to prevent accidents.
Therefore:
1. Always wear safety glasses with side shields in any
work area, even if welding helmets, face shields, and
goggles are also required.
2. Use a face shield tted with the correct lter and
cover plates to protect your eyes, face, neck, and
ears from sparks and rays of the arc when operat-
ing or observing operations. Warn bystanders not
to watch the arc and not to expose themselves to
the rays of the electric-arc or hot metal.
3. Wear ameproof gauntlet type gloves, heavy long-
sleeve shirt, cuess trousers, high-topped shoes,
and a welding helmet or cap for hair protection, to
protect against arc rays and hot sparks or hot metal.
A ameproof apron may also be desirable as protec-
tion against radiated heat and sparks.
4. Hot sparks or metal can lodge in rolled up sleeves,
trouser cus, or pockets. Sleeves and collars should
be kept buttoned, and open pockets eliminated from
the front of clothing.
5. Protect other personnel from arc rays and hot
sparks with a suitable non-ammable partition or
curtains.
6. Use goggles over safety glasses when chipping slag
or grinding. Chipped slag may be hot and can y far.
Bystanders should also wear goggles over safety
glasses.
FIRES AND EXPLOSIONS -- Heat from
ames and arcs can start res. Hot
slag or sparks can also cause res and
explosions. Therefore:
1. Remove all combustible materials well away from
the work area or cover the materials with a protec-
tive non-ammable covering. Combustible materials
include wood, cloth, sawdust, liquid and gas fuels,
solvents, paints and coatings, paper, etc.
2. Hot sparks or hot metal can fall through cracks or
crevices in oors or wall openings and cause a hid-
den smoldering re or res on the oor below. Make
certain that such openings are protected from hot
sparks and metal.
3. Do not weld, cut or perform other hot work until the
workpiece has been completely cleaned so that there
are no substances on the workpiece which might
produce ammable or toxic vapors. Do not do hot
work on closed containers. They may explode.
4. Have re extinguishing equipment handy for instant
use, such as a garden hose, water pail, sand bucket,
or portable re extinguisher. Be sure you are trained
in its use.
5. Do not use equipment beyond its ratings. For ex-
ample, overloaded welding cable can overheat and
create a re hazard.
6. After completing operations, inspect the work area
to make certain there are no hot sparks or hot metal
which could cause a later re. Use re watchers when
necessary.
7. For additional information, refer to NFPA Standard
51B, "Fire Prevention in Use of Cutting and Welding
Processes", available from the National Fire Protec-
tion Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA
02269.
ELECTRICAL SHOCK -- Contact with
live electrical parts and ground can
cause severe injury or death. DO NOT
use AC welding current in damp areas,
if movement is conned, or if there is
danger of falling.
6
SECTION 1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1. Be sure the power source frame (chassis) is con-
nected to the ground system of the input power.
2. Connect the workpiece to a good electrical
ground.
3. Connect the work cable to the workpiece. A poor
or missing connection can expose you or others
to a fatal shock.
4. Use well-maintained equipment. Replace worn or
damaged cables.
5. Keep everything dry, including clothing, work
area, cables, torch/electrode holder, and power
source.
6. Make sure that all parts of your body are insulated
from work and from ground.
7. Do not stand directly on metal or the earth while
working in tight quarters or a damp area; stand
on dry boards or an insulating platform and wear
rubber-soled shoes.
8. Put on dry, hole-free gloves before turning on the
power.
9. Turn o the power before removing your gloves.
10. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (listed on
next page) for specic grounding recommenda-
tions. Do not mistake the work lead for a ground
cable.
ELECTRIC AND MAGNETIC FIELDS
May be dangerous. Electric cur-
rent owing through any conduc-
tor causes localized Electric and
Magnetic Fields (EMF). Welding and
cutting current creates EMF around welding cables
and welding machines. Therefore:
1. Welders having pacemakers should consult their
physician before welding. EMF may interfere with
some pacemakers.
2. Exposure to EMF may have other health eects which
are unknown.
3. Welders should use the following procedures to
minimize exposure to EMF:
A. Route the electrode and work cables together.
Secure them with tape when possible.
B. Never coil the torch or work cable around your
body.
C. Do not place your body between the torch and
work cables. Route cables on the same side of
your body.
D. Connect the work cable to the workpiece as close
as possible to the area being welded.
E. Keep welding power source and cables as far
away from your body as possible.
FUMES AND GASES -- Fumes and
gases, can cause discomfort or harm,
particularly in conned spaces. Do
not breathe fumes and gases. Shield-
ing gases can cause asphyxiation.
Therefore:
1. Always provide adequate ventilation in the work area
by natural or mechanical means. Do not weld, cut, or
gouge on materials such as galvanized steel, stain-
less steel, copper, zinc, lead, beryllium, or cadmium
unless positive mechanical ventilation is provided.
Do not breathe fumes from these materials.
2. Do not operate near degreasing and spraying opera-
tions. The heat or arc rays can react with chlorinated
hydrocarbon vapors to form phosgene, a highly
toxic gas, and other irritant gases.
3. If you develop momentary eye, nose, or throat ir-
ritation while operating, this is an indication that
ventilation is not adequate. Stop work and take
necessary steps to improve ventilation in the work
area. Do not continue to operate if physical discom-
fort persists.
4. Refer to ANSI/ASC Standard Z49.1 (see listing below)
for specic ventilation recommendations.
7
SECTION 1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
5. WARNING: This product, when used for welding
or cutting, produces fumes or gases
which contain chemicals known to
the State of California to cause birth
defects and, in some cases, cancer.
(California Health & Safety Code
§25249.5 et seq.)
CYLINDER HANDLING -- Cylinders,
if mishandled, can rupture and vio-
lently release gas. Sudden rupture
of cylinder, valve, or relief device can
injure or kill. Therefore:
1. Use the proper gas for the process and use the
proper pressure reducing regulator designed to
operate from the compressed gas cylinder. Do not
use adaptors. Maintain hoses and ttings in good
condition. Follow manufacturer's operating instruc-
tions for mounting regulator to a compressed gas
cylinder.
2. Always secure cylinders in an upright position by
chain or strap to suitable hand trucks, undercar-
riages, benches, walls, post, or racks. Never secure
cylinders to work tables or xtures where they may
become part of an electrical circuit.
3. When not in use, keep cylinder valves closed. Have
valve protection cap in place if regulator is not con-
nected. Secure and move cylinders by using suitable
hand trucks. Avoid rough handling of cylinders.
4. Locate cylinders away from heat, sparks, and ames.
Never strike an arc on a cylinder.
5. For additional information, refer to CGA Standard P-1,
"Precautions for Safe Handling of Compressed Gases
in Cylinders", which is available from Compressed
Gas Association, 1235 Jeerson Davis Highway,
Arlington, VA 22202.
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE -- Faulty or
improperly maintained equipment can
cause injury or death. Therefore:
1. Always have qualied personnel perform the instal-
lation, troubleshooting, and maintenance work.
Do not perform any electrical work unless you are
qualied to perform such work.
2. Before performing any maintenance work inside a
power source, disconnect the power source from
the incoming electrical power.
3. Maintain cables, grounding wire, connections, power
cord, and power supply in safe working order. Do
not operate any equipment in faulty condition.
4. Do not abuse any equipment or accessories. Keep
equipment away from heat sources such as furnaces,
wet conditions such as water puddles, oil or grease,
corrosive atmospheres and inclement weather.
5. Keep all safety devices and cabinet covers in position
and in good repair.
6. Use equipment only for its intended purpose. Do
not modify it in any manner.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY INFORMATION -- For
more information on safe practices for
electric arc welding and cutting equip-
ment, ask your supplier for a copy of
"Precautions and Safe Practices for Arc
Welding, Cutting and Gouging", Form
52-529.
The following publications, which are available from
the American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJuene Road,
Miami, FL 33126, are recommended to you:
1. ANSI/ASC Z49.1 - "Safety in Welding and Cutting"
2. AWS C5.1 - "Recommended Practices for Plasma Arc
Welding"
3. AWS C5.2 - "Recommended Practices for Plasma Arc
Cutting"
4. AWS C5.3 - "Recommended Practices for Air Carbon
Arc Gouging and Cutting"
8
SECTION 1 SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
5. AWS C5.5 - "Recommended Practices for Gas Tung-
sten Arc Welding“
6. AWS C5.6 - "Recommended Practices for Gas Metal
Arc Welding"“
7. AWS SP - "Safe Practices" - Reprint, Welding Hand-
book.
8. ANSI/AWS F4.1, "Recommended Safe Practices for
Welding and Cutting of Containers That Have Held
Hazardous Substances."
MEANING OF SYMBOLS - As used
throughout this manual: Means Atten-
tion! Be Alert! Your safety is involved.
Means immediate hazards which,
if not avoided, will result in im-
mediate, serious personal injury
or loss of life.
Means potential hazards which
could result in personal injury or
loss of life.
Means hazards which could result
in minor personal injury.
17
SECTION 2 DESCRIPTION
PT-26 Torch
This versatile, easy-to-use 300 amp torch provides superior performance for a full range of manual and mechanized cutting
applications.
Excellent cutting capability - cuts up to 3-1/2 in. and severs 4 in.
using air, nitrogen or argon-hydrogen at 300 amps
Produces clean, high quality cuts
Operates with shop or cylinder air, nitrogen or argon-hydrogen
at 300 amps
Compact, lightweight design for ease of handling
Long life electrodes lower operating costs
Pilot arc starting - even starts on paint
Gouging nozzle available
Intermittent cutting capacity for grate or expanded metal
applications
Gouging guard and stand-o guide available for operator
convenience
One-year warranty
Specications
Voltage Class "M" (EN 50078)
Current Capacity (All Service Gases and Pressures)
100% duty cycle ..................................................................................200 A DCSP
60% duty cycle, Manual torches, 100% In-line ........................300 A DCSP
Maximum Rated Current .................................................................300 A DCSP
Approved Service Gases
Plasma ..............................................................0
2
, Air, N
2
, H-35, N
2
/H
2
Mixtures
Shield .................................................................................................Air, N
2
, CO
2
, Ar
Min. Gas Supply Flow Requirements
Shield ................................................ 200 cfh @ 85 psig (94 l/min. @ 6.0 BAR)
Plasma ............................................240 cfh @ 80 psig (112 l/min. @ 5.6 BAR)
Length of Service Lines .................................. 25 ft.or 50 ft. (7.6 m or 15.2 m)
Weight .....................................................................................25 ft. - 16 lbs. (7.3 kg)
50 ft. - 28 lbs. (12.7 kg)
Max. Allowable Inlet Gas Pressure ....................................... 100 psig (6.9 BAR)
Start Gas Pressure .........................................................................30 psig (2.1 BAR)
Minimum Coolant Supply Flow Requirements ..............0.9 gpm @ 95 psig
(3.4 l/min @ 6.6 BAR)
Maximum Coolant Inlet Pressure ........................................ 120 psig (8.3 BAR)
Maximum Coolant Temperature ....................................................105° F (40° C)
Ordering Information
PT-26, 90°, 25 ft. line .........................................................................................36558
PT-26, 90°, 50 ft. line .........................................................................................36559
PT-26, 70°, 25 ft. line ............................................................................ 0558002208
PT-26, 70°, 50 ft. line ............................................................................ 0558002209
PT-26, IN-LINE, 6 ft. ............................................................................... 0558002132
PT-26, IN-LINE, 17 ft.............................................................................. 0558002133
PT-26, IN-LINE, 25 ft.............................................................................. 0558002320
PT-26, IN-LINE, 50 ft.............................................................................. 0558002321
NOTE: IN-LINE torches have 2" barrel diameter and come without
rack or torch holder.
PT-26SL, IN-LINE, 17 ft. ........................................................................ 0558005620
PT-26SL, IN-LINE, 25 ft. ........................................................................ 0558005621
PT-26SL, IN-LINE, 50 ft. ........................................................................ 0558005622
NOTE: IN-LINE “SL” torches have 1 3/8" barrel diameter and come
with a 32 pitch rack.
Optional Accessories
Plasmit Torch Head Protector
For gouging ....................................................................................................... 20806
25 ft. Leather Sheath*
Protects torch leads from abrasion and molten metal; particularly
recommended for plasma gouging .............................................0558002921
50 ft. Leather Sheath* ...................................................................0558002922
Spare Parts Kit 150A .......................................................................0558002864
Torch Holder, 2" ..............................................................................0558002985
Torch Rigging Kit ............................................................................0558003186
*Standard on manual torch.
Spare Parts Kit ............................................................................................... 36821
Compatible Consoles
ESP-150, ESP-200 and DEUCE PACK 150
PT-26
PT-26 IN-LINE
18
Electrode
36565 - Air, Nitrogen, Nitrogen/Hydrogen
36566 - Argon/Hydrogen (H-35)
Bae Tube - 34585
O-Ring Location - 2029450
Heat Shield
Manual Torch - 34592
*Close Proximity - 37146
Insulator - 34593
Includes O-Ring - 84W87
Electrode Holder - 34583
Includes O-Rings
85W49 (Upper)
948317 (Lower)
Stand-O Guide - 36648
Torch Head -
90° ............................... 34599
70° ....................0558002204
Includes O-Rings:
2110706 (1)
2029450 (3)
O-Ring Location - 2110706
* Close proximity Heat Shield. Optional for Manual
Torch when cutting or gouging in close proxim-
ity of workpiece.
AMPS P/N ORIFICE SIZE
Cutting Nozzle
50 36567 .052
150 36568 .078
200 36569 .089
300 36570 .104
Gouging Nozzle
200 36571 .125
300 36572 .144
All include O-Rings 2110578 (Upper)
994092 (Lower)
SECTION 2 DESCRIPTION
Figure 2.1 Assembly of PT-26 Front End Parts
PT-26 Manual Models
PT-26 In-Line Models
Electrode
36565 - Air, Nitrogen, Nitrogen/Hydrogen
36566 - Argon/Hydrogen (H-35)
Bae Tube - 34585
**Swirl Bae, In-line - 0558003583
Includes O-Ring - 2110578 & 14K07
Electrode Holder - 34583
Includes O-Rings
85W49 (Upper)
948317 (Lower)
Torch Head -
IN-LINE.......0558002110
Includes O-Rings:
2110706 (1)
2029450 (3)
O-Ring Location - 2029450
O-Ring Location - 2110706
**These items along with a bae installa-
tion tool (0558003584) are shipped with
all mechanized versions of this torch.
Heat Shield -
Manual Torch - 34592
Shield Cup, Mechanized - 0558003582
AMPS P/N ORIFICE SIZE
Cutting Nozzle
50 36567 .052
150 36568 .078
200 36569 .089
300 36570 .104
Gouging Nozzle
200 36571 .125
300 36572 .144
All include O-Rings 2110578 (Upper)
994092 (Lower)
19
SECTION 2 DESCRIPTION
2.1 Description
The PT-26 is a dual gas, water cooled, torch with a 70° or 90° head for manual cutting and gouging and an in-line head for
mechanized cutting and gouging. Each of which is designed for use with certain plasma arc cutting packages. These pack-
ages include the ESP-150, ESP-200 and properly equipped Deuce Pack 150 Systems.
Figure 2.2 PT-26 Dimensions
WARNING
THE PLASMA ARC CUTTING PROCESS EMPLOYS HIGH VOLTAGES.
CONTACT WITH “LIVE” PARTS OF THE TORCH AND MACHINE MUST
BE AVOIDED. ALSO, THE IMPROPER USE OF ANY OF THE GASES EM
PLOYED CAN PRESENT A SAFETY HAZARD. BEFORE BEGINNING OP
ERATION OF THE PT26 TORCH, REFER TO THE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS PACKED WITH YOUR POWER SOURCE
PACKAGE.
USING THE TORCH ON ANY UNIT NOT EQUIPPED WITH A MATING
SAFETY INTERLOCK CIRCUIT WILL EXPOSE OPERATOR TO UNEXPECT
ED HIGH VOLTAGE.
4.01”
(102 mm)
13.11”
(333 mm)
1.60”
(41 mm)
1.66”
(42 mm)
1.50”
(38 mm)
20
SECTION 2 DESCRIPTION
Figure 2.3 PT-26 In-line Torch Dimensions
2.00”
(50.8mm)
16.50”
(419.1mm)
Figure 2.4 PT-26 “SL” In-line Torch Dimensions
1.38”
(35.1 mm)
8”
(203.2 mm)
11.25”
(285.8 mm)
2.00”
(50.8 mm)
21
3.1 Torch to Power Source Connections
Consult your power source instruction literature to learn how to access the torch connections.
The order in which the torch connections can be made will vary with the power source used. Study your power
source to determine the order which will best allow you to make the connections correctly with a wrench.
The PT-26 torch uses a “Csized left hand thread tting for the negative terminal and coolant connection. Con-
nect this tting to the corresponding female tting on the power source and tighten it rmly with a wrench.
After tightening the tting, slide the rubber boot (49N83) on the power cable over the connection. The “B” sized
right hand tting is used to make the positive terminal and coolant connection. Tighten it rmly as well.
The plasma gas and shield gas connections are made with two “B” sized ttings, each with a dierent thread.
Tighten them rmly with a wrench at the corresponding power source panel tting.
The torch switch connection is made with the 5-pin plug on the torch switch lead. Insert the plug into the socket
on the power source and twist the locking ring to secure it in place.
3.2 Retrots to Older Power Sources
The PT-26 torch may be retrotted to older Deuce Pack 150 power sources. This requires installation of a new
plumbing box. The kit for this is P/N 000759.
SECTION 3 INSTALLATION
WARNING
MAKE SURE POWER SWITCH ON CONSOLE IS IN THE OFF POSITION
AND PRIMARY INPUT POWER IS DEENERGIZED.
THE PT26 IS DESIGNED TO FORM A SAFE SYSTEM WITH CERTAIN
POWER SOURCES WHICH HAVE MEANS FOR DETECTING A LOSS OF
COOLANT FLOW RETURNING FROM THE TORCH AND WHICH WILL
NOT ENERGIZE THE TORCH WHEN SUCH A LOSS OF COOLANT IS DE
TECTED. THE REMOVAL OR LOOSENING OF THE TORCH HEAT SHIELD
WILL CAUSE SUCH A COOLANT LOSS. DO NOT USE THE PT26 ON
POWER SOURCES WHICH ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A SYS
TEM.
WARNING
22
3.3 Gas Selection
The PT-26 is a dual gas torch, allowing for one gas to be used for plasma gas and another to be used for shielding
the cut zone. Recommended combinations of gases are listed below.
Air Plasma/Air Shield
Best overall combination for cut quality, cut speed and economy on mild steel, stainless steel and aluminum.
This combination causes some surface nitrating at cut face and some surface oxidation of alloying elements on
stainless steels. Always use clean, dry air. Moisture or oil in the air supply will reduce torch parts life.
Nitrogen Plasma/Air Shield
This combination provides improved parts life, especially for the electrode. Cut speeds will usually be slightly
slower than with air plasma. It creates surface nitriding but provides cleaner cut face on stainless steels. Nitrogen
or CO
2
may be substituted for cooling.
H-35 Plasma/Nitrogen Shield
This combination gives excellent parts life with minimum amount of cut surface contamination, providing ex-
cellent weldability. It is most often used for gouging on mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel. It gives poor
cut quality on mild steel, good cut quality on aluminum and stainless, particularly on thicker sizes.
40% Hydrogen - 60% Nitrogen Plasma/Air Shield
On aluminum only, gives increased speed and thickness capability. Poor performance on stainless and mild
steel.
Oxygen Plasma/Air Shield
Best quality for mechanized cutting of mild steel 1thick or thinner with 150 to 300 amps. Highest metal removal
rate for gouging on mild steel.
3.4 Gas Connections
Refer to Section 1.2 for the list of approved service gases. Do not use gases which are not expressly approved for
the PT-26 torch.
After the gases for the job have been selected, connect the gas supply hoses to the ttings at the back of the
power source. Note that there may be two ttings for each gas. Use the tting which matches your hose. Make
sure that the ttings not used are plugged with the plug attached to the power source.
Note that the ESP-150 & ESP-200 power source has a gas connection labeled Start Gas”. This allows a dier-
ent plasma gas type and pressure setting to be used for the plasma gas at the start of the cut. This is done to
increase electrode life during some types of mechanized plasma cutting. The start gas most typically used in
manual cutting is either the same gas as that used for the cutting/gouging plasma or nitrogen.
IMPORTANT! A gas supply MUST be supplied to the “Start Gas” connection at all times. If this is not
done, the torch will be damaged. The start gas may be any of the approved Plasma gases listed in section
above.
SECTION 3 INSTALLATION
USE ONLY THOSE GASES LISTED AS APPROVED IN THIS DOCUMENT.
WARNING
23
SECTION 3 INSTALLATION
3.5 Assembling Front End Parts
Be sure:
All O-Rings are in place (torch head, nozzle, electrode holder)
Electrode holder is tight
Bae tube is installed and tight
Electrode is installed and tight
Nozzle is installed
Refer to gure 2.1 for the assembly of the front end parts into the torch head.
First, inspect the torch body to ensure that no debris or o-rings are left inside. Remove any found.
Inspect the electrode holder (34583) to make sure that both O-rings are in place. Thread the electrode holder
into the torch head and tighten it rmly using a 3/16" (.187) hex allen wrench. The holder must be tight, but avoid
overtightening to the point of rounding-o the hex inside the holder.
Insert the bae tube (34585) into the electrode holder and thread it into the torch head using the plastic hex
allen wrench tool ( 19129 ). Take care not to overtighten the tube but make sure that it is secured.
Insert the insulator (34593) into the torch head. Make sure the O-ring is in place on the insulator so that the insu-
lator will hold its place in the head. Do not push the insulator too far back. When installed, the nozzle will push
it to the correct position.
Thread the electrode (36565 or 36566) onto the thread of the electrode holder and tighten it in place with the
hex socket end of the plastic tool (19129).
Press the nozzle (36568 - 72) into the front of the torch head. This will probably push the insulator further into
the head. This is normal. Make sure that both O-rings are in place and that the nozzle seats against the torch
head.
WARNING
MAKE SURE POWER SWITCH ON POWER SOURCE IS IN THE OFF PO
SITION AND PRIMARY INPUT POWER IS DEENERGIZED. FAILURE TO
INSTALL FRONT END PARTS PROPERLY CAN EXPOSE YOU TO HIGH
VOLTAGE OR FIRE.
FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THE APPROPRIATE BOOKLET
PACKED WITH YOUR POWER SOURCE PACKAGE. DO NOT INSTALL
OR ATTEMPT TO OPERATE THIS TORCH WITHOUT FOLLOWING
THESE INSTRUCTIONS. THE TORCH FRONT END DESIGN CONTAINS
COMPONENTS WHICH, WORKING TOGETHER WITH POWER SOURCE
CIRCUITRY, PREVENT THE TORCH FROM BEING ACCIDENTLY EN
ERGIZED WHEN THE HEAT SHIELD IS REMOVED AND THE TORCH
SWITCH IS CLOSED.
WARNING
24
SECTION 3 INSTALLATION
3.6 Stand-o Guide
The stand-o guide (36648) provides the operator with the ability to hold a consistent stand-o by keeping the
guide’s feed in contact with the work.
Install the guide by sliding it onto the heat shield (heat shield should be in place on torch) with a clockwise
twisting motion. Always install or adjust the guide on the shield with a clockwise twisting motion to prevent
loosening of the shield.
If the t of the stand-o guide is too tight on the shield, open the slot in the shield by twisting with a large at
blade screw driver. If the t is too loose, close the slot by squeezing the guide in a bench wise.
3.7 Loose Consumables
Proper performance of the torch will rely on proper and secure installation of the front end consumable parts,
particularly the electrode holder, bae tube, electrode, and heat shield as well as the associated o-rings.
1. Make sure that the electrode holder is fully threaded into the torch head and securely tightened using a 3/16"
hex allen wrench. Use a metal allen wrench. The plastic wrench is not strong enough for this. Also make sure
that the bae tube is fully installed into the torch and seated against the electrode holder, use the plastic
allen wrench (19129) for this.
2. Fully tighten the electrode onto the electrode holder using the hex socket end of the plastic wrench
(19129).
3. Make sure that the nozzle is secured and its o-rings sealed by fully tightening the heat shield. “Fully” means
as tightly as possible using the hands alone, do not use wrenches.
Improperly installed front end parts will cause coolant leaks which may cause poor cutting or gouging perfor-
mance and may cause damage to the torch itself from internal arcing.
3.8 Installation of Swirl Bae
To install the swirl bae use the swirl bae installation tool, p/n 0558003584. This tool allows the o-ring on the
inside of the swirl bae to easily go onto the O.D. of the electrode holder. Installing swirl bae hand-tight will
be sucient.
Thread the heat shield (34592) onto the torch head to retain the nozzle. The heat shield should be tightened as
tight as possible by hand to prevent coolant leaks from the nozzle O-ring seal.
If the optional stand-o guide (36648) is to be used, install it onto the heat shield by pushing or twisting in a
CLOCKWISE direction until it is fully seated on the shield.
IMPORTANT - Do not twist the stand-o guide in the counter-clockwise direction as this will loosen the heat
shield.
25
4.1 Operation
The torch is now ready for cutting or gouging operation. Refer to the instructions for your power source for mak-
ing any control adjustments.
1. Turn the gas test or gas mode switch to the test or set-up position.
NOTE:
The “CUT” position is to set the cutting plasma gas. The “START/SHIELD” position is to set the starting plasma gas and the
shield gas. If the starting plasma gas and the cutting plasma gas are to be the same and supplied by the same regulator,
use the START/SHIELD position only, the CUT position is not needed.
2. Turn the power switch to the ON position. Gas should now ow at the torch.
3. Adjust the gas pressure settings at the gas supply regulators to the values given in the operating parameters
section. Turn the gas test or gas mode switch to the operating position. Gas Flow should now stop. Adjust
the current control to the correct setting for the nozzle.
4. Bring the torch into the proper position for cutting or gouging. For cutting, the torch stand-o (nozzle-to-
work distance) should be approximately 1/4". If possible, start the cut from an edge on the workpiece. If
piercing must be done, tilt the torch at an angle to deect the molten metal away from the torch and op-
erator until the pierce is complete, then bring the torch back to the vertical and begin the cut. For gouging,
place the torch over the work at an angle of 35° to 45° from the horizontal.
5. Lower your protective helmet.
6. Push down and hold the torch switch button. The gas should start owing. Two seconds later, the main
contactor should close and the arc should transfer to the workpiece.
CAUTION
WARNING
Wear the usual protective gloves, clothing, ear protection and hel-
met. Read Safety Precautions covered in the instruction manual
packed with your power source.
NEVER TOUCH ANY PARTS FORWARD OF THE TORCH HANDLE NOZ
ZLE, HEAT SHIELD, ELECTRODE, ETC. UNLESS THE POWER SWITCH
ON THE POWER SOURCE IS IN THE OFF POSITION.
SECTION 4 OPERATION
NOTE:
Your power source may allow the preow time to be extended longer than two seconds, usually up to four or ve seconds.
If, at the end of the preow time, the pilot arc does not ignite, release the torch switch and check the gas pressure settings.
If the pilot arc does ignite but does not transfer to the work, release the torch switch and check to see that the torch is in
the proper distance from the work and that the work clamp is rmly connected to the work piece.
26
7. When cutting, maintain the torch stand-o at a distance of between 3/16" and 1/2". When cutting thinner
plates, the stand-o should be closer to the lower end of the range and it should be closer to the upper end
of the range for thicker plates. Maintain a cutting speed which gives a cut of the desired quality and pro-
duces a stream of molten metal emitting from the bottom of the workpiece.
8. When gouging, maintain an angle and speed which causes the desired amount of metal to be removed on
each pass. Maintain the torch angle so that all the molten metal is blown directly away from the torch, along
the top surface of the plate or down the groove of the previous pass. Gouging at too steep an angle will
cause molten metal to y directly back at the torch.
9. If the main arc is lost during the cut (or gouge), the pilot arc will immediately reignite as long as the torch
switch is depressed. At this time the torch should quickly be repositioned at the workpiece to re-establish
the main arc or else the torch switch should be released.
10. The main arc will automatically extinguish at the end of the cut as the torch is moved away from the work-
piece. The torch switch should be released immediately to keep the pilot arc from reigniting.
11. When cutting (or gouging) operations are completed, wait a few minutes before placing the power switch
on the power source in the OFF position to allow the fan to remove heat from the unit. After this time, shut
o the primary power at the main disconnect switch.
SECTION 4 OPERATION
27
To ensure optimum cutting performance and aid in troubleshooting any cut quality problems, please refer to
the following cutting parameters charts.
4.3 Cut Data
PT-26 in-line torch cutting conditions:
Data taken with Swirl Bae (0558003583) and Shield Cup (0558003582).
65 Amp data uses standard Heat Shield (34592) or Close Proximity Heat Shield (37146) in place of Shield Cup
(0558003582) and uses a 50 Amp Nozzle (36567).
Material
Thickness
inch (mm)
Stando
inch (mm)
Speed
ipm (mm/m)
Start Gas and
Pressure
psig (bar)
Cut Gas and
Pressure
psig (bar)
Shield
Gas and Pressure
for ESP-150 and 200
psig (bar)
Carbon
Steel
0.12 (3.2)
0.19 (4.8)
190 (4826)
Air
30 (2.1)
Air
60 (4.1)
Air
50 (3.4)
0.25 (6.4) 100 (2540)
0.50 (12.7) 0.25 (6.4) 30 (762)
Aluminum
0.12 (3.2)
0.19 (4.8)
50* (1270)
0.25 (6.4) 70 (1778)
0.50 (12.7) 0.25 (6.4) 20 (508)
Stainless
Steel
0.12 (3.2)
0.19 (4.8)
75 (1905)
0.25 (6.4) 50 (1270)
0.50 (12.7) 0.25 (6.4) 20 (508)
SECTION 4 OPERATION
Table 4.1 65 Amp Cut Data
4.2 Operating Parameters
Recommended Gas Pressures -
Start ............................................ 30 psig
Plasma (Cutting) .................... 50 - 70 psig
Plasma (Gouging) .................. 40 - 45 psig
Shield .......................................... 40 - 50 psig
Recommended Stand-o -
5/16" - 1/2"
Travel Speeds -
Travel speeds for the PT-26 are given in Tables 4-1 through 4-4.
28
Material
Thickness
inch (mm)
Stando
inch (mm)
Speed
ipm
(mm/m)
Start Gas and
Pressure
psig (bar)
Cut Gas and
Pressure
psig (bar)
Shield
Gas and Pressure for
ESP-150 and 200
psig (bar)
Carbon
Steel
0.19 (4.8)
0.19 (4.8)
150 (3810)
Air / N
2
30 (2.1)
O
2
60 (4.1)
Air
60 (4.1)
0.25 (6.4) 130 (3302)
0.38 (9.7) 80 (2032)
0.50 (12.7) 70 (1778)
0.62 (15.7)
0.25 (6.4)
50 (1270)
0.75 (19.1) 35 (889)
1.00 (25.4) 20 (508)
0.19 (4.8) 0.19 (4.8) 150 (3810)
Air
30 (2.1)
Air
60 (4.1)
0.25 (6.4)
0.25 (6.4)
130 (3302)
0.38 (9.7) 80 (2032)
0.50 (12.7) 70 (1778)
0.62 (15.7) 50 (1270)
0.75 (19.1) 35 (889)
1.00 (25.4) 20 (508)
Aluminum
0.19 (4.8) 0.19 (4.8) 175 (4445)
0.25 (6.4)
0.25 (6.4)
130 (3302)
0.38 (9.7) 90 (2286)
0.50 (12.7)
0.31 (7.9)
70 (1778)
0.62 (15.7) 50 (1270)
0.75 (19.1) 35 (889)
1.00 (25.4) 25 (635)
Stainless
Steel
0.19 (4.8) 0.19 (4.8) 165 (4191)
0.25 (6.4)
0.25 (6.4)
125 (3175)
0.38 (9.7) 80 (2032)
0.50 (12.7) 0.31 (7.9) 50 (1270)
0.62 (15.7)
0.38 (9.7)
35 (889)
0.75 (19.1) 20 (508)
1.00 (25.4) 10 (254)
SECTION 4 OPERATION
Table 4.2 150 Amp Cut Data
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ESAB PT-26 Plasma Arc Cutting Torch User manual

Category
Welding System
Type
User manual

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