So I cut some 1/4" steel today for the first time and I noticed that when the tip volts were at recommended height, the torch was about .360" above the metal. I was using a 60 amp extended hypertherm tip, 70ipm, and 140 vlots on the thc. The cut quality seamed good but there was some noticeable kurf angle. I always thought the tip was a lot closer to the material. When I cut some 16ga with a 40 amp shielded tip it was about .120" above the material at 134 volts. Is this a problem?

Sounds like you have a TD. They cut at higher standoffs and lower volts than a Hypertherm. There is no "law" you have to keep the tip voltage at the suggested setting. The standoff should be about the same for the thicker metal so lower the tip volts a you cut and bring it down to the right gap. It will help your flair and give you a better overall cut. As you change tips, current and material you will need to adjust the target voltage (preset tip volts) differently. Best way to quickly develop your own "table of values" is by adjusting the cut gap then reading the voltage the gives the correct gap.

NOTE: I don't have to tell welders this, but for you "fresh meat" guys doing plasma cutting, WEAR UV Protection on your eyes and if you stare at the arc to see the gap they need to be REALLY dark.

TOM CAUDLE
www.CandCNC.com

I am using a Hypertherm 1000. I have been doing some more reading and I think I have a ground loop somewhere.