The Cost Of Running Continuous Pilot Arc?

[urbnsr]

I normally run in non-continuous pilot arc mode. I have had a few times where the torch runs through a previous cutout (somewhat intentional) and I loose the arc and my current config will keep X/Y axis moving basically ruining the part.

Is there a greater cost to running in continuous pilot arc if it's not really needed 99% of the time? I assume the electrode's life is shortened when used to keep the arc going through open areas, but didn't know if continuous pilot arc had other considerations to be aware of.

Thanks...
Paul

[jimcolt]

The nozzle life is shortened dramatically (electrode should not be affected) when using continuous pilot mode. This is because the arc while cutting is between the electrode and the material being cut, during pilot arc it is between the electrode and nozzle......and erodes the orifice rapidly.

Jim Colt

[urbnsr]

Thank you, Jim. I appreciate your time to reply.

I'm now assuming that in non-continuous mode that the loss of arc from the electrode to work does not automatically transfer to the nozzle until material to be cut returns under the torch tip? Or is there a setting for same...?

PK

[jimcolt]

When you are cutting and drive into a void or hole....the arc transfers back to the nozzle (from the material). On most Hypertherm units this is only allowed to happen when you have the front panel selector switch in the "continuous pilot" position. There is a pilot arc control circuit in these units that senses loss of current to the material...and quickly ramps down the amperage to minimize nozzle damage.....as soon as there is metal in close proximity to the nozzle, the circuit senses some current transfer to the material and rapidly ramps the amperage back up to cutting current.

Some brands and some older technology cutters did not have this type of pilot controller circuit....and would eat nozzles up when cutting over open spaces.

Jim

Thank you, Jim. I appreciate your time to reply.

I'm now assuming that in non-continuous mode that the loss of arc from the electrode to work does not automatically transfer to the nozzle until material to be cut returns under the torch tip? Or is there a setting for same...?

PK

[urbnsr]

Very nice. Thanks Jim.

Paul