Automatic torch protection

When consumables have a catastrophic failure (or blow out) at high-current settings, torch damage is possible. This torch damage can occur from the plasma arc or from molten copper or brass that gets into the coolant paths of the torch.

Automatic torch protection happens at 220 A, 300 A, and 460 A. At lower currents the torch is protected by the automatic ramp-down error protection algorithm. Refer toAutomatic ramp-down error protection.

If catastrophic consumable failure occurs, the chopper or choppers in the plasma power supply can find the problem at its start through the Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) or noise signature of the current that is being supplied to the torch. The chopper adapts quickly to stop the cutting system and to prevent damage to the torch. The electrode will have a catastrophic failure and there can be damage to other consumables parts, but catastrophic damage to the torch will not occur.