plasma torch height setting for mach 3

[Anonymous]

Hello there,

we have set up an flatbed with our plasma torch. The flatbed is controlled by mach 3 and the camduct generates perfect exact NC code files for it. The only problem is, that there is no option /either in tool "air plasma" or machine itself/ to set proper height of the torch - the camduct automatically generates NC code with cutting height (Z axis movement) at 2mm and traverse height 10mm. The cutting height is no big problem, but the traverse height is problem - the thin sheet metal sometimes waves after cut and the torch then grabs the sheet. I think there has to be possibility to set the traverse height or cutting height, but there is no such option for mach 3 postprocessor and air plasma tool, in either detailed tabs... 

Any suggestion? 

[Anonymous]

Not familiar with your machine but on our Hypertherms, that's a setting on the control. Head down while cutting, up while traversing.  No height control beyond that.

If you can't get what you need in the standard post, 2016 allows you to create a custom post. May want to see if there's a way to control it from there.

[LanceTSM · Accepted solution]

I am assuming that your machine has a Z axis to control the Torch Height rather than a "Hypertherm type" Torch Height Controler (THC).

If so then:

In the Tools setup under Installed Machines you should be able to add parameters to either "GLOBALS" or "DETAILS" to set "Operating Height" & "Positioning Height" these will then come out in your Gcode to set the Z axis to the required heights.

"Operating Height" while cutting & "Positioning Height" while traversing.

Also in Mach3 settings you will find a "Safe Z" setting which you should also set to ensure it clears your webs when moved manually in Mach3.