Prototype Plasma project w/ Acorn

[VR PLASMA]

Hello, this is victor I bought a plasma table project January of 22. It was a prototype that was never operational built around 1999 I picked it up for $1200 dollars with a never used 99 thermal dynamics pak 75 plus with cnc control cable. Built w/very sturdy frame when purchased it had a computer/control stand on the machine. When the previous owner bought it the controller cord that went to the electrical enclosure was severed so I removed all old controls and electrical. At first I used a cheap 25$ china usb controller. It allowed it to move but kept loosing steps and I hated Mach 3 could not get it to move good. Then I ponied up and bought a Ethernet Smooth stepper with a cnc4pc bob about 300 still couldn’t get it to move properly stupid Mach 3!!!!!

Finally about 3 months ago started down the centroid acorn path. So far I’m ecstatic it’s a nice product and all made by the same company. At first dissent realize i needed the db25 bob but after that I got it bench tested and working then wired the electrical enclosure and installed on the machine and last weekend got it to move and return to home

Next is to get the plasma hooked up to fire

Also I tried to run the hook file but can’t figure it out so I’ve come on here for help



So finally after

[VR PLASMA]

Here are some pics will post Google album with video soon

[VR PLASMA]

Here is a video of me picking it up and getting it tore apart and the first usb Mach 3 control board

[Joey]

Welcome to the forum Victor! Looks like your almost ready to cut.

You can create a report in the F7"Utility" menu and post it on your thread. This will assist anyone helping and we can help look over your wizard settings in case there's anything out of place.
J
Dry run should be used to run a job without the torch on. The arc OK signal is needed when the torch is expected to be on in a job. Dry run does not start the torch in a job. Maybe that's what stopped the job?

[cnckeith]

advice...follow the setup steps in the plasma manual in order! the plasma devil is in the details.
https://www.centroidcnc.com/centroid_di ... manual.pdf

[VR PLASMA]

Thanks in advance for all the advice I’m excited to be able to cut parts! Here are some questions

The plasma cutter seems like I need to get a voltage divider to make a THC work ideas on options?

Advice on THC which brand Proma, centroid, cnc4pc other?

Is sheet cam a good way to nest parts also what free CAD programs are there I have experience with autocad

I will read the plasma manual and load a Report asap

Appreciate the help!

[Joey]

Proma is a good choice and Jeff recently hooked up a primeweld to our THC with good results. The proma was hard to find by itself but I sourced one through this website. https://www.endmill.com.au/proma-voltage-divider/

CNC4PC just released there voltage divider board. I haven't heard that anyone has tried it yet. I hope to try there voltage divider board myself in the next week or two.

[Joey]

Sheetcam is easy to use and does nesting well
I prefer Qcad for a easy to use cad that doesn't break the bank.

[VR PLASMA]

Joey thanks so much you have been a big help! I have more research to do

[Joey]

No problem! Looking forward to your photo album and progress