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Troubleshoot Common Problems
Troubleshooting for common problems
Possible gouging problems
When you are gouging with the torch, you may have an issue. Refer to this table to help identify the problem and solution.

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Where to Find Information
Install and Set Up the Plasma Power Supply
Operate the Plasma System
Cut and Mark with the Hand Torch
Gouge with the Hand Torch
Troubleshoot Common Problems
- Start here: troubleshooting checklist
  When a problem occurs, go through the troubleshooting checklist first. It is necessary to complete these steps before doing other troubleshooting procedures.
- Frequently used procedures for troubleshooting
- Troubleshooting for common problems
  - The cut quality is unsatisfactory, or the cut does not sever the workpiece
    Unsatisfactory cut quality can have many causes. These can be related to the cartridge, the work lead connection, the gas supply, or an incorrect output current, cut speed, operating mode, or extension cord.
  - The power switch is ON, but the power LED is off
    The power switch is set to ON (I), but the Power ON Light Emitting Diode (LED) is off. The voltage to the control circuits is not sufficient, or a power component has a short circuit.
  - The arc does not transfer to the workpiece
    The plasma arc does not transfer to the workpiece. The continuity between the work lead and the workpiece is unsatisfactory.
  - The plasma arc stopped while cutting, but starts when you fire the torch again
    There is a problem with the Hypertherm® cartridge, the cut height, the air filter element, or the input gas pressure.
  - The plasma arc makes sputtering and hissing sounds
    There is a problem with the air filter element, or it is necessary to clean the input gas supply. There can also be a problem with the Hypertherm® cartridge.
  - The system changes the gas pressure after you set it manually
    The plasma power supply will override manual gas mode under some conditions.
  - The system changes the output current (A) or the operating mode after you set them
  - Possible gouging problems
    When you are gouging with the torch, you may have an issue. Refer to this table to help identify the problem and solution.
  - Troubleshooting for power-related problems with generators
    Problems with input line voltage can occur more frequently with some generators.
- Troubleshooting procedures for fault LEDs and fault codes
Complete Regular Maintenance Tasks

Possible gouging problems

When you are gouging with the torch, you may have an issue. Refer to this table to help identify the problem and solution.

When gouging, always make sure that:

A Hypertherm® gouging cartridge is installed.
The Hypertherm cartridge is not worn or damaged. Refer to Signs that a cartridge is near end-of-life
The operating mode is set to Gouge mode.


Problem	Solution
The arc goes out during gouging.	Decrease the arc stretch (standoff). Put the torch in a more upright position.
The torch tip hits the molten metal (slag).	Increase the arc stretch (standoff). Keep the torch tip pointed in the direction of the gouge that you want to make.
The gouge has too much depth.	Tilt the torch down so that it is closer to the workpiece. Increase the arc stretch (standoff). Increase the gouging speed. Decrease the output current (A).
The gouge does not have enough depth.	Put the torch in a more upright position. Decrease the arc stretch (standoff). Decrease the gouging speed. Increase the output current (A).
The gouge has too much width.	Put the torch in a more upright position. Decrease the arc stretch (standoff). Increase the gouging speed. Decrease the output current (A).
The gouge does not have enough width.	Tilt the torch down so that it is closer to the workpiece. Increase the arc stretch (standoff). Decrease the gouging speed. Increase output current (A).