Newbie- THC?

[turboedgs]

I am kind of new to the world of plasma but not so much to gantry type CNC machines.

I am converting one of my mills into a plasma cutter and need to find a solution for the THC. I am still researching/shopping for the best option. I plan on using Mach3 as I already know the software and have the license.

What I need clarification on is THC. From what I understand is that a THC system continually measures the arc current at the touch while cutting and will increase/decrease the touch height using the z axis to maintain a consistent cutting distance between the torch and the work piece. Is this correct?

[millman52]

Originally Posted by turboedgs I am kind of new to the world of plasma but not so much to gantry type CNC machines. I am converting one of my mills into a plasma cutter and need to find a solution for the THC. I am still researching/shopping for the best option. I plan on using Mach3 as I already know the software and have the license. What I need clarification on is THC. From what I understand is that a THC system continually measures the arc current at the touch while cutting and will increase/decrease the touch height using the z axis to maintain a consistent cutting distance between the torch and the work piece. Is this correct?

Yes It sounds as if you have a pretty good understanding of how it works.

Typically there will have to be some sort of sensor to let the machine know where the top of the plate is, Floating head/micro switch, torque sensor, etc.

Then the THC will retract to a pre determined pierce height, then begin cut then move to & maintain a precise (ideal) cut height for your particular plasma machine.

[Rbeckett]

Yup, you are pretty much dead on in your understanding of THC. Most THC's are fairly expensive, and it seems that those that arent are not very good at maintaining the torch height at the prescribed cut and pierce heights. If you look around in the Hypertherm sub forum there are several discussions of THC's as well as in the general forums if you search "THC" you will get a ton of reading. Welcome to the forum, and hope this helps ya find what youre looking for.
Bob

[larryy1022]

you prefer stand alone THC, or other type?
for stand alone type, maybe u can hv a check at ours?

if not stand alone type, I think Candcnc THC worth a check, and you are just using Mach3.

Choose a THC depends on what you want from the THC, quite a few options on the market.

Tks larry