PLASMA CUTTER - 25 AMP
Model 90648
ASSEMBLY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
3491 Mission Oaks Blvd., Camarillo, CA 93011
Visit our Web site at: http://www.harborfreight.com
Copyright 2003 by Harbor Freight Tools
®
. All rights reserved. No portion of this
manual or any artwork contained herein may be reproduced in any shape or form
without the express written consent of Harbor Freight Tools.
For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353.
®
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM1
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
SAVE THIS MANUAL
You will need this manual for the safety warnings and precautions, assembly,
operating, inspection, maintenance and cleaning procedures, parts list and as-
sembly diagram. Keep your invoice with this manual. Write the invoice number
on the inside of the front cover. Keep this manual and invoice in a safe and dry
place for future reference.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
WARNING!
READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL INSTRUCTIONS
Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in
electric shock, fire, and/or serious injury.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
WORK AREA
1. Keep your work area clean and well lit. Cluttered benches and dark areas
invite accidents.
2. Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the
presence of flammable liquids, gases, or dust. Power tools create sparks
which may ignite the dust or fumes.
SKU 90648 PAGE 2
Item Description
Electrical Requirements 220V / 60Hz / 25 AMPS
Duty Cycle 25% @ 25 AMPS
Cutting Capacity Cuts Steel Up To 1/4” Thick
Torch Lead 14 Ft. Long
Input Thread 1/4”-18 NPT
Accessories Grounding Lead / Spare Fuse
Two Nozzles / Two Electrodes / Regulator
Weight 63 Pounds
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM2
3. Keep bystanders, children, and visitors away while operating a power tool.
Distractions can cause you to lose control. Protect others in the work area from
debris such as chips and sparks. Provide barriers or shields as needed.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY
4. Grounded tools must be plugged into an outlet properly installed and
grounded in accordance with all codes and ordinances. Never remove the
grounding prong or modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter
plugs. Check with a qualified electrician if you are in doubt as to whether
the outlet is properly grounded. If the tools should electrically malfunction or
break down, grounding provides a low resistance path to carry electricity away
from the user.
5. Avoid body contact with grounded surfaces such as pipes, radiators,
ranges, and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your
body is grounded.
6. Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power
tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
7. Do not abuse the Power Cord. Never use the Power Cord to carry the tools
or pull the Plug from an outlet. Keep the Power Cord away from heat, oil,
sharp edges, or moving parts. Replace damaged Power Cords immedi-
ately. Damaged Power Cords increase the risk of electric shock.
8. When operating a power tool outside, use an outdoor extension cord
marked “W-A” or “W”. These extension cords are rated for outdoor use, and
reduce the risk of electric shock.
PERSONAL SAFETY
9. Stay alert. Watch what you are doing, and use common sense when oper-
ating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while tired or under the influ-
ence of drugs, alcohol, or medication. A moment of inattention while operat-
ing power tools may result in serious personal injury.
SKU 90648 PAGE 3
10. Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewelry. Contain long hair.
Keep your hair, clothing, and gloves away from moving parts. Loose
clothes, jewelry, or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM3
11. Avoid accidental starting. Be sure the Power Switch is off before plugging
in. Carrying power tools with your finger on the Power Switch, or plugging in
power tools with the Power Switch on, invites accidents.
12. Remove adjusting keys or wrenches before turning the power tool on. A
wrench or a key that is left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result
in personal injury.
13. Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Proper
footing and balance enables better control of the power tool in unexpected
situations.
14. Use safety equipment. Always wear eye protection. Make sure you are
wearing your protective clothing, ANSI approved safety glasses with side shields,
air respirator, and welding helmet.
TOOL USE AND CARE
15. Use clamps (not included) or other practical ways to secure and support
the workpiece to a stable platform. Holding the work by hand or against your
body is unstable and may lead to loss of control.
16. Do not force the tool. Use the correct tool for your application. The correct
tool will do the job better and safer at the rate for which it is designed.
17. Do not use the power tool if the Power Switch does not turn it on or off.
Any tool that cannot be controlled with the Power Switch is dangerous and must
be replaced.
18. Disconnect the Power Cord Plug from the power source before making any
adjustments, changing accessories, or storing the tool. Such preventive
safety measures reduce the risk of starting the tool accidentally.
19. Store idle tools out of reach of children and other untrained persons. Tools
are dangerous in the hands of untrained users.
20. Maintain tools with care. Keep all components of the Torch clean and dry.
Do not use a damaged tool. Tag damaged tools “Do not use” until repaired.
SKU 90648 PAGE 4
21. Check for misalignment or binding of moving parts, breakage of parts, and
any other condition that may affect the tool’s operation. If damaged, have
the tool serviced before using. Many accidents are caused by poorly main-
tained tools.
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22. Use only accessories that are recommended by the manufacturer for your
model. Accessories that may be suitable for one tool may become hazardous
when used on another tool.
SERVICE
23. Tool service must be performed only by qualified repair personnel. Service
or maintenance performed by unqualified personnel could result in a risk of injury.
24. When servicing a tool, use only identical replacement parts. Follow
instructions in the
“Inspection, Maintenance, And Cleaning”
section of this
manual. Use of unauthorized parts or failure to follow maintenance instructions
may create a risk of electric shock or injury.
GROUNDING
SKU 90648 PAGE 5
1. WARNING! The Power Cord (11) requires the attachment of a 220 volt,
grounded, 3-Prong Plug (not included). For safety purposes, only a qualified,
certified, electrician should attach a Plug to the Power Cord. Never modify the
Plug in any way. To comply with the National Electric Code, and to provide
additional protection from the risk of electrical shock, this product should only be
connected to a 220 volt electrical outlet that is protected by a Ground Fault Cir-
cuit Interrupter (GFCI).
2. Do not use the tool if the Power Cord or Plug is damaged. If damaged,
have it repaired by a qualified service facility before use.
EXTENSION CORDS
1.
Grounded
tools require a three wire extension cord.
2. As the distance from the supply outlet increases, you must use a heavier
gauge extension cord. Using extension cords with inadequately sized wire
causes a serious drop in voltage, resulting in loss of power and possible tool
damage. (See Figure A, next page.)
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM5
SKU 90648 PAGE 6
3. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the greater the capacity of the
cord. For example, a 14 gauge cord can carry a higher current than a 16 gauge
cord. (See Figure A.)
4. If using more than one extension cord to make up the total length, make
sure each cord contains at least the minimum wire size required.
(See Figure A.)
5. If you are using one extension cord for more than one tool, add the name-
plate amperes and use the sum to determine the required minimum cord
size. (See Figure A.)
6. If you are using an extension cord outdoors, make sure it is marked with
the suffix “W-A” (“W” in Canada) to indicate it is acceptable for outdoor
use.
7. Make sure your extension cord is properly wired and in good electrical
condition. Always replace a damaged extension cord or have it repaired by a
qualified electrician before using it.
8. Protect your extension cords from sharp objects, excessive heat, and
damp or wet areas.
REQUIRED MINIMUM EXTENSION CORD GAUGE - 220 VOLT
NAMEPLATE
AMPERES
(At Full Load)
EXTENSION CORD LENGTH
0-25 FT. 25-50 FT. 50-100 FT. 100-150 FT.
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
18
18
18
16
16
16
14
14
14
14
12
12
12
16
16
14
14
12
12
12
12
10
10
10
10
10
14
12
12
10
10
10
8
8
8
8
8
6
6
12
10
10
8
8
8
8
6
6
6
6
4
4
FIGURE A
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SKU 90648 PAGE 7
SYMBOLOGY
Double Insulated
Canadian Standards
Association
Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc.
Volts Alternating Current
Amperes
No Load Revolutions
per Minute (RPM)
n
o
xxxx/min.
A
V ~
SPECIFIC SAFETY RULES
1. Maintain a safe working environment. Keep the work area well lit. Make sure
there is adequate surrounding workspace. Always keep the work area free of
obstructions, grease, oil, trash, and other debris. Do not use the Plasma Cutter
in areas near flammable chemicals, dusts, and vapors.
2. Maintain labels and nameplates on the Plasma Cutter. These carry
important information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for
a replacement.
4. Never plug the Power Cord of this product into an electrical outlet while
standing on a wet or damp surface.
5. Do not unplug the Plasma Cutter by pulling on the Power Cord. Keep the
Power Cord away from heated surfaces.
6. Use eye, skin, and breathing protection. Always wear ANSI approved safety
glasses with side shields under an ANSI approved welding helmet. Wear fire
resistant work gloves, a heavy, long-sleeved shirt, trousers without cuffs, shoes
with high insteps to protect skin from arc rays and metal sparks. Also wear an
ANSI approved air respirator.
7. Always turn off the Plasma Cutter, and unplug the unit from its electrical
outlet before performing any inspection, maintenance, or cleaning
procedures. Make sure all components are cool to the touch before
beginning work on the Plasma Cutter.
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM7
8. Never leave the Plasma Cutter unattended when it is plugged into an
electrical outlet. Make sure to unplug it from its electrical outlet before leaving
the area.
9. Do not allow children to handle or play with this product.
10. Store idle equipment. When not in use, tools and equipment should be stored
in a dry location to inhibit rust. Always lock up tools and equipment, and keep out
of reach of children.
11. Do not use this product if under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Read
warning labels on prescriptions to determine if your judgement or reflexes are
impaired while taking drugs. If there is any doubt, do not attempt to use this
product.
12. Industrial applications must follow OSHA requirements.
13. Maintain this product with care. Keep this product clean and dry for better and
safer performance.
14. Maintenance: For your safety, service and maintenance should be performed
regularly by a qualified technician.
15. Check for damaged parts. Before using this product, carefully check that it will
operate properly and perform its intended function. Check for damaged parts
and any other conditions that may affect the operation of this product. Replace
or repair damaged or worn parts immediately.
16. Connect the earth ground as near as possible to the operating area. Earth
connections to structural parts of the building or other places distant to the oper-
ating area will reduce their effectiveness and increase the danger of electric
shock.
17. Do not pass equipment cables through or near lifting chains, crane cables,
or any electrical lines.
18. Do not touch the electrode if you are in contact with the workpiece, ground,
or another electrode from a different machine.
SKU 90648 PAGE 8
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19. Never use the Plasma Cutter near water. Ensure that the surrounding area
and cutting objects are dry. Do not spray water or other liquids on or near the
Plasma Cutter.
20. Avoid all direct contact between the skin and wet garments and metal parts
under electrical power. Check that gloves and protective clothing are dry.
21. Always wear welding gloves and rubber soled shoes when working indamp
areas or standing on metal objects.
22. Always turn off the Plasma Cutter in the event of a power failure.
23. Do not allow the Torch Head to touch earth ground. Accidental earth dis-
charges may cause overheating and fire hazards.
24. Significant DC voltage exists after turning off and unplugging the Plasma
Cutter. Discharge the electrode to ground before handling.
25. Position a fire-resistant screen (not included) around the Plasma Cutting
area to protect people in the vicinity from arc rays, sparks, and slag.
26. Clear away or protect flammable objects. Protect objects such as wood, saw
dust, clothing, paints, solvents, petroleum products, natural gas, acetylene,
propane, and other substances with fireproof material (not included).
27. Keep an ABC type fire extinguisher near the work area.
28. Never perform welding or cutting operations on closed pipes or containers,
as the possible internal fumes may cause an explosion.
29. Never perform welding or cutting operations on open pipes or containers
that may have come in contact with moisture, chemicals, or flammable
materials. Always clean and dry the areas first.
30. Welding and cutting fumes and gases may be hazardous if inhaled for long
periods of time.
31. Install a natural or forced-air ventilation system in the work area. If the
ventilation system is inadequate, use an air respirator.
32. Use a forced-air ventilation system when welding or cutting lead, beryllium,
cadmium, zinc, zinc-coated or painted materials. Always wear an air respira-
tor.
33. When welding or cutting in small areas, the operator should be externally
SKU 90648 PAGE 9
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM9
accompanied by another person (standing
near
the enclosed work area) to
observe accident prevention procedures.
34. Do not perform welding or cutting operations near chlorinated hydrocarbon
vapors produced by degreasing or painting. The heat generated by arc rays
can react to form phosgene, a highly toxic gas.
35. Irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat are symptoms of inadequate ventila-
tion. Take immediate steps to improve ventilation. Do not continue operations if
symptoms persist.
36. Electric shock can be fatal. Never touch exposed electrical parts.
37. Switch off and disconnect the power source before installing or opening
the Plasma Cutter.
38. Installation must be performed by a qualified technician. Installation proce-
dures must comply with the National Electric Code, and all other relevant regula-
tions.
39. When welding or cutting, be aware that high frequency radiation may be
produced which can interfere with radio navigation, safety devices, com-
puters, and communications equipment. Before operating, have a qualified
technician check out that possibility.
40. Keep high frequency source doors and panels tightly shut. Keep spark
gaps at the correct settings. Use proper grounding and shielding to minimize the
possibility of interference. Keep all cables close together and close to the
ground. Locate the welding or cutting operation as far as possible from sensitive
electronic equipment, or have the electronic equipment shut down temporarily.
41. Performance of this Plasma Cutter may vary depending on variations in
local line voltage. Extension cord usage may also affect tool performance.
42. Welding and cutting operations are a source of radiation, noise, heat, and
noxious fumes. The protection of the operator and any spectators must be
guaranteed with suitable safety devices and precautions. Never approach arc
rays or hot metal without protection. Failure to observe these standards during
operation could lead to serious health risks.
SKU 90648 PAGE 10
43. Use the right tool or attachment for the right job. Do not attempt to force a
small tool or attachment to do the work of a larger industrial tool or attachment.
There are certain applications for which this product was designed. It will do the
job better and more safely at the rate for which it was intended. Do not modify
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM10
45. WARNING! People with pacemakers should consult with their physician(s)
before using this product. Operation of electrical equipment in close proximity to
a heart pacemaker could cause interference or failure of the pacemaker.
46. WARNING! The brass components of this product contain lead, a chemi-
cal known to the State of California to cause birth defects (or other repro-
ductive harm).
(California Health & Safety code 25249.5, et seq.)
47. WARNING! This product, when used for welding, cutting, and similar appli-
cations, produces chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer
and birth defects (or other reproductive harm).
(California Health & Safety code 25249.5, et seq.)
48. WARNING! The warnings, precautions, and instructions discussed in this
instruction manual cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may
occur. It must be understood by the operator that common sense and caution
are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the
operator.
UNPACKING
When unpacking, check to make sure all the parts shown on the Parts List on page 16
are included. If any parts are missing or broken, please call Harbor Freight Tools at the
number shown on the cover of this manual as soon as possible.
PRODUCT OVERVIEW
this product, and do not use this product for a purpose for which it was not in-
tended.
44. Replacement parts and accessories: When servicing, use only identical re-
placement parts. Only use accessories intended for use with this product.
1. The Plasma Cutter is an easy to operate, portable unit that provides a simple and
low cost system for cutting any metal including mild steel, aluminum, and stain-
less steel from 1/8” to 1/4” thick.
2. To ensure the safety of the operator, the Plasma Cutter is equipped with an
electrical safety contact on the torch and an air pressure control knob on the air
regulator. The Plasma Cutter also has thermostatic protection and forced cooling
of the various components.
SKU 90648 PAGE 11
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM11
ASSEMBLY AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
NOTE: For additional information regarding the parts mentioned in the following pages,
refer to the Assembly Diagram on page 16.
1. Check the Plasma Torch Head (1A). If necessary, clean or replace the Nozzle
(6A) and Electrode (3A) if worn or dirty.
(See Assy. Diagram.)
2. Clamp the Earth Return Clamp (3) to the bare metal workpiece. (See Figure A.)
3. Connect the air supply hose (not included) to the Air Regulator (5) located on the
back of the Plasma Cutter. (See Figure A.)
4. To increase the air pressure to the Plasma Cutter, turn the Knob on the Air Regu-
lator (5) clockwise. To decrease the air pressure, turn the Knob counterclock-
wise. (See Figure A.)
5. Turn on the air compressor (not included) and, using the Knob on the Air Regula-
tor (5), set the air pressure to 60 PSI as indicated on the Manometer (4).
(See Figure A.)
SKU 90648 PAGE 12
FIGURE A
POWER
SWITCH
(1)
TORCH HEAD WITH START BUTTON (1A)
THERMOSTAT
LIGHT
(7)
POWER
ON
LIGHT
(6)
AIR
SHORTAGE
LIGHT
(8)
MANOMETER (4)
EARTH RETURN CLAMP (3)
POWER CORD (11)
TORCH
LINE
(2)
AIR
REGULATOR
(5)
FUSE
(9)
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM12
6. Make sure the Power Switch (1) is in its “OFF” position. Then, plug the Power
Cord (11) into the nearest 220 volt, grounded, electrical outlet. (See Figure A.)
7. WARNING! Make sure you are wearing your protective clothing, safety
glasses with side shields, air respirator, and welding helmet.
8. While holding the Torch (1A) away from the workpiece, turn the Power Switch (1)
to its “ON” position. The Power Light (6) and Thermostat Light (7) should now be
illuminated. (See Figure A.)
9. NOTE: It is recommended to do a test cut on a piece of scrap metal of the same
type as the actual workpiece to determine the correct air pressure for a clean cut.
If necessary, adjust the Air Regulator (5) to increase or decrease the air pressure.
10. Place the Torch Nozzle (6A) on the metal to be cut, and press the Start Button on
the Torch (1A). (See Figures A and B.)
11. Start to cut slowly. Then, increase the speed to obtain the desired cut quality.
Regulate the speed to obtain a good cut. The arc varies depending on speed,
material, and thickness. (See Figure B.)
FIGURE B
SKU 90648 PAGE 13
WARNING!
WHEN IN USE,
THE TORCH HEAD (1A)
AND ITS COMPONENTS
REACH EXTREME HIGH
TEMPERATURES.
DO NOT TOUCH THE
TORCH HEAD OR ITS
COMPONENTS, AND DO
NOT POINT THE TORCH
TOWARD OTHERS.
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM13
12. In some cutting operations it may be necessary to start the cut from a point away
from the edge. The backfire particles from this operation could shorten the life of
the Torch components, so it is recommended to do this type of cut as quickly as
possible.
13. Slightly incline the Torch (1A) so that the backfire particles are blown away by the
Nozzle (6A) instead of bouncing back into the Torch. Clean away slag and in-
crustations from the Torch Head. Spraying or immersing the Torch Head in an
anti-slag substance will minimize the quantity of incrustation that will stick to it.
(See Assy. Diagram.)
14. Visually check the Air Shortage Light (8). If at any time during the operation the
Air Shortage Light illuminates it is an indication that the air pressure to the
Plasma Cutter should be increased. (See Figure A.)
15. When the cutting process is complete, release the Start Button on the Torch (1A).
Place the Torch in a safe place. Wait five minutes before turning the Power
Switch (1) to its “OFF” position to allow proper cooling of the unit. Unplug the
Power Cord (11) from its electrical outlet. Shut off the air compressor, and dis-
connect the air supply hose from the Air Regulator (5). (See Figure A.)
TROUBLESHOOTING
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE
Insufficient penetration 1. Cutting speed too fast.
2. Not enough air pressure.
3. Workpiece too thick.
4. Torch (1A) components damaged or worn.
Main arc goes out 1. Cutting speed too slow.
2. Nozzle (6A) is too far from the workpiece.
Slag formation 1. Wrong air pressure.
2. Torch (1A) components damaged or worn.
Burned Nozzle 1. Nozzle (6A) damaged or loose.
2. Nozzle touching the workpiece.
3. Excessive slag, low air pressure.
SKU 90648 PAGE 14
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM14
SKU 90648 PAGE 15
INSPECTION, MAINTENANCE, AND CLEANING
1. WARNING! Always make sure the Power Switch (1) is in its “OFF”
position and the Plasma Cutter is disconnected from its electrical outlet
and air supply source before performing any inspection, maintenance, or
cleaning.
2. Before each use, inspect the general condition of the Plasma Cutter. Check for
misalignment or binding of moving parts, cracked or broken parts, damaged
wiring, and any other condition that may affect its safe operation. If abnormal
noise or vibration occurs, have the problem corrected before further use.
Do not use damaged equipment.
3. Before each use, clean or, if necessary, replace the Nozzle (6A) and Electrode
(3A). (See Assy. Diagram.)
4. To change the Fuse (9), unscrew and remove the Fuse Cap. Remove the old
Fuse, and replace with a new Fuse. Then, replace the Fuse Cap. (See Figure A.)
5. To clean, use a shop vacuum cleaner, or use compressed air.
6. When storing, make sure to store the Plasma Cutter in a safe, clean, and dry
location.
PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY
THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS LIST
AND ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM IN THIS MANUAL AS A REFERENCE TOOL ONLY.
NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION
OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO
MAKE ANY REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO
REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT. IN FACT, THE MANUFACTUER AND/OR
DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THAT ALL REPAIRS AND PARTS
REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED
TECHNICIANS, AND NOT BY THE BUYER. THE BUYER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND
LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRS TO THE ORIGINAL PRODUCT OR
REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER INSTALLATION
OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM15
SKU 90648 PAGE 16
NOTE: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not available individually
as replacement parts.
PARTS LIST
ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM
Part # Description Part # Description
1 Power Switch 1A Torch Head w/Start Button
2 Torch Line 2A O-Ring
3 Earth Return Clamp 3A Electrode
4 Manometer 4A Spring
5 Air Regulator 5A Air Diffuser
6 Power On Light 6A Nozzle
7 Thermostat Light 7A Safety Cup
8 Air Shortage Light 8A Safety Pin
9 Fuse
10 Handle
11 Power Cord
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
1A
2A
3A
8A
4A
5A
6A
7A
90648.p65 12/1/2003, 10:56 AM16
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