Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Installation guide
Revision 4 | English
A400
Part 1 of 4
Start-Up and Training Manual
Part 1: Safety and Maintenance
©2020 Bend-Tech LLC
ii Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
©2020 Bend-Tech LLC
All rights reserved. The information in this manual is subject to change without notice.
Bend-Tech LLC strives to produce the most complete and accurate information regarding
its products. We are constantly working to improve and advance our products to increase
performance, user satisfaction and experience. Bend-Tech LLC assumes no responsibility for
errors or omissions regarding this manual. Bend-Tech LLC assumes no liability for damages
resulting from the use of the information contained in this publication.
iiiBend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Revision 4
English
Original Instructions
July 2020
Bend-Tech LLC
729 Prospect Ave.
Osceola, WI 54020 USA
(651) 257-8715
www.bend-tech.com
iv Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Covering Bend-Tech Dragon
Bend-Tech, LLC provides a limited warranty on all new Dragon machines manufactured
directly or under license by Bend-Tech, LLC, and sold by Bend-Tech, LLC or its approved
distributors.
Warranty Coverage
Each Bend-Tech Dragon machine is warrantied by the manufacturer against defects in material
workmanship for 12-months. The warranty period commences the date the Dragon machine is
installed at the customer’s facility.
Repair or Replacement Only
The Manufacturer’s sole liability, and the Customer’s exclusive remedy under this warranty
shall be limited to repairing or replacing the defective part. Repair or replacement of parts
is at the sole discretion of the manufacturer. The Customer is responsible for warranty parts
installation. Bend-Tech does not provide warranty service labor.
Limits
This warranty does not cover components subject to wear due to normal use of the machine
such as belts, lights, tooling etc. This warranty is void if Bend-Tech LLC has determined any
failure is the result of mishandling, abuse, misuse, improper installation, improper storage,
improper maintenance or unauthorized modication of the machine. The warranty does not
cover damage due to natural disasters, re, ood or other external factors.
Software
Dragon software is covered by a 2-year maintenance plan from the purchase date of the
Dragon A400 machine. After the 2-year maintenance plan is expired, the Customer can
purchase a maintenance plan. A maintenance plan will ensure the customer always has
the newest version of Dragon software. The maintenance plan is critical to keeping Dragon
software updated with the newest capabilities possible, and is critical to the servicing of the
machine. Bend-Tech, LLC will contact the Customer regarding updates to the maintenance
plan within 1-month of expiration. Contact Bend-Tech Support to ensure software is up to date:
Limited Warranty
vBend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Any questions or concerns regarding this manual can be directed to Bend-Tech, LLC
representatives via the Dragon website, www.bend-tech.com. Click Contact in the menu bar for
communication options and send your comments to the Dragon Customer Service department.
Online Resources
• https://www.youtube.com/user/bendtech2020
• http://www.bend-tech.com/wiki7
• http://www.bend-tech.com
• https://www.facebook.com/2020ssi
• https://www.instagram.com/bend_tech
Customer Service
Congratulations on your purchase of the world’s best CNC plasma tube and pipe cutting
machine, the Dragon A400. Bend-Tech, LLC places great pride in customer satisfaction and it
is our promise to oer you the best support available for your Dragon A400. We recognize that
our support is a key factor in your success.
Contact Us
You can contact Bend-Tech, LLC customer service at 651-257-8715. Our support hours are
mailing address is: Bend-Tech, LLC, 729 Prospect Ave., Osceola, WI 54020, U.S.A..
Customer Satisfaction Commitment
vi Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
This manual contains important statements that are called out from the regular text with an
associated signal word: “Danger,” “Warning,” “Caution,” or “Note.” Each of these signal words
is accompanied by its own icon. These signal words and icons indicate the severity of the
condition and the warning. The machine operator should familiarize themselves with these
warnings and read the statements before operating the machine.
Denitions & Examples
Danger
Danger indicates a serious condition that could cause severe injury or death to the operator or
bystanders if the instructions are not followed.
Warning
A Warning indicates there is a possibility for minor injury if the instructions are not followed
correctly.
! Danger !
Exceeding the material weight limit of the Dragon A400 can result in serious injury
to the operator and/or bystanders.
! Warning !
Due to the extreme temperatures that result from the plasma cutting process, parts
cooled in water in the parts catcher can still be extremely hot. Always use caution
when handling newly-cut parts.
Warnings
Example
Example
viiBend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Caution
Caution warns the operator that minor injury or machine damage could occur if instructions are
not followed. It could also mean that not following directions could aect the overall procedure
being performed.
Note
A Note gives clarication or focuses on information that is critical or unique to an operation.
! Caution !
Exceeding the material weight limit can aect performance and possibly damage
the Dragon A400.
Water Cooling system greatly reduces smoke and vapor emitted by the machine.
Bend-Tech recommends use of the Water Cooling system whenever possible.
Example
Example
viii Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Glossary
Glossary
A400
Indicates machine with 400-lb weight limit.
Axis
A xed reference line used by the Dragon A400.
Bend-Tech 7X
Machine design software - CAD.
BOB
Breakout Board.
Material Support Lifter
The Material Support Lifter supports
material to reduce sag.
Chuck
Located on the Trolley, the Chuck
holds the material so it can be moved
forward, backward and rotated.
Control Box
Connects Dragon Software Suite
to the Dragon A400.
Coolant Tray
Cools cut parts as they are produced.
Drive Belt
The X Motor uses the Drive Belt to power the
Trolley along the Rail. The Drive Belt is mounted
stationary along the length of the machine.
Drive Belt Pulley
Located on the X Motor, it works in
conjunction with the Drive Belt to
power the Trolley along the Rail.
E-Stop
Emergency stop.
ESS
Ethernet Smooth Stepper (Control Board).
Ethernet
System for connecting multiple
computers via a Local Area Network.
Front Gate
The Gate supports the material at the
front of the machine. It consists of two
sets of self-centering roller jaws.
Gate Lead Screw
Controls operation and adjustment of the Gate.
Interface
Any particular screen display generated
by Bend-Tech software.
Mach3
Machine driver software.
Parts Catcher
The parts catcher is placed at the front of
the machine to catch parts as they are cut.
Rail
The Rail is the main structure of the Dragon
A400. The Trolley rides on the Rail.
Tail
The Tail is located at the opposite end of
the Head of the machine. The Tail arrives
pre-assembled. The X Axis homing sensor,
Drive Belt Adjustment Block and E-Stop
are located at the Tail of the machine.
Toolhead
Operates the Marker, Engraver and Torch.
Trolley
The Trolley rides on the Rail, and carries
the Chuck forward and backward along
the length of the Rail Support Beam.
ixBend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Contents
Contents
Limited Warranty .....................iv
Customer Service.................... v
Customer Satisfaction
Commitment............................. v
Warnings ..................................vi
Glossary ..................................viii
Contents................................... x
01
Safety....................................... 13
1.1 General Safety Notes ........... 13
1.2 Safety Procedures .............. 14
1.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) ........................ 14
1.3 Recommended PPE for Operating the
Dragon A400 ..................... 14
1.3.1 Ultraviolet Eye Protection .... 14
1.3.2 Footwear ................. 15
1.3.3 Heat-Resistant Gloves....... 15
1.3.4 General Eye Protection ...... 15
1.3.5 Hearing Protection.......... 15
1.3.6 Breather Mask or Ventilation
System ....................... 15
1.4 Operational Safety .............. 16
1.4.1 Guards................... 16
1.4.2 Machine Walkthrough ....... 16
1.4.3 Machine Operational Movement16
1.4.4 Material Securing........... 16
1.5 Pinch Points ................... 17
1.6 Recommended Safety Guidelines .. 17
1.7 Modications To The Machine ..... 18
1.7.1 Unauthorized Modications ... 18
1.7.2 Factory Parts Kits and Updates 18
1.8 Emergency Stops (E-Stops). . . . . . . 19
1.8.1 E-Stop Overview ........... 19
1.8.2 Control Screen E-Stop....... 20
1.9 Electrical Servicing.............. 20
1.9.1 Power Down Before Servicing. 20
1.10 Material Weight ............... 20
1.10.1 Weight Limit.............. 20
1.11 Material Length................ 21
1.11.1 Material Support Lift........ 21
1.12 Plasma Torch ................. 21
1.12.1 Torch Overview ........... 21
1.12.2 Ultraviolet Light ........... 22
1.12.3 Heat .................... 22
1.12.4 Gloves .................. 22
1.12.5 Fumes .................. 22
1.13 Other Safety Information ........ 23
1.14 More Information .............. 23
xBend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Contents
02
Maintenance............................ 25
2.1 Dragon A400 Maintenance Overview 25
2.2 Daily Maintenance .............. 25
2.2.1 Clean Gate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
2.2.2 Clean Rail ................ 26
2.2.3 Water Level ............... 26
2.2.4 Part Catcher. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.2.5 Air Pressure ............... 26
2.2.6 Work Area ................ 26
2.2.7 Plasma System ............ 26
2.3 Weekly or Every 40 Hours ........ 26
2.3.1 Grease and Oil Buildup ...... 26
2.3.2 Electronic Connections ...... 27
2.3.3 Trolley And Related ......... 27
2.3.4 Drive Belt ................. 27
2.4 Monthly or 150 Hours............ 27
2.4.1 Fasteners................. 27
2.4.2 Cooling System ............ 27
2.4.3 Eccentric Bearings.......... 27
2.4.4 E-Stop ................... 28
2.5 Quarterly or 500 Hours. . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.5.1 Coolant Screens ........... 28
2.5.2 Pillow Block Bearings ....... 28
2.5.3 Comprehensive Cleaning .... 28
2.5.4 Actuators and Lead Screws... 28
2.6 Bi-Annually or 1000 Hours ........ 28
2.6.1 Chuck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.6.2 Level and Straightness ...... 29
2.7 Annually or 2000 Hours .......... 29
2.7.1 Backlash ................. 29
11Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
01
Safety
1.1 General Safety Notes
Read all warnings, cautions and instructions before operating the machine.
Each company has dierent processes. Always act in accordance with Environmental Health
& Safety (EHS) standards set in place regarding the facility in which the Dragon A400 is being
operated.
Follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of injury or mechanical damage. CNC metal
working machines such as the Dragon A400 introduce hazards such as moving parts, rotating
work, belts, pulleys, high voltage electricity, sparks, heat, noise and compressed air. It is the
responsibility of the Operator to take appropriate safety measures regarding the potential
hazards of this machine, and not the responsibility of Bend-Tech, LLC.
Maintaining cleanliness of the machine is important during normal use as well as prior to and
after servicing the machine. Cleaning procedures may require Personal Protective Equipment
(PPE) beyond the scope of daily operation procedures of the machine.
Read the Start-Up and Training manual in its entirety to ensure safe and ecient operation of
the Dragon A400 machine.
This manual is a reference guide for operation of the Dragon A400 and is not a comprehensive
source of operation or training information. A complete training course and support can be
requested from Bend-Tech, LLC, www.bend-tech.com.
12 Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.2 Safety Procedures
1.2.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Metalworking and metalworking operations can be dangerous. Using the proper PPE is
important in avoiding injuries that can result from sparks, heat, noise, smoke and vapor,
dropped objects and ultraviolet light. Consult local safety codes before operating the machine.
Before any personnel work on or near the machine, it is important to read this manual and fully
understand the safe operation of the machine. Contact Bend-Tech, LLC with any questions or
concerns regarding the safe operation of the Dragon A400.
1.3 Recommended PPE for Operating the Dragon A400
1.3.1 Ultraviolet Eye Protection
Safety glasses with the proper shade based on amperage of the Torch are required for
operation of the machine. It is important the Operator and anyone observing the machine
wear welder’s glasses or a welder’s mask, or the machine be surrounded by a welding curtain.
Refer to Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards to determine proper
safety glass shading and/or welding curtain for the cutting torch amperage being used.
! Caution !
The Dragon A400 should only be operated by authorized and trained personnel. The
Operator should always act in accordance with the Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training
safety procedures and machine instructions for safe operation of this machine. Failure to
follow these guidelines may pose a hazard to personnel and the machine.
! Danger !
The cutting torch emits ultraviolet light. Looking directly at the plasma stream can
damage human retinas.
13Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.3.2 Footwear
The Dragon A400 is a metal working machine and metal materials can be extremely heavy.
A piece of dropped material could cause injury to the Operator or observers. Also, the Torch
emits sparks and possibly hot torch slag. It is highly recommended that the Operator wear
safety shoes or boots while operating the Dragon A400.
1.3.3 Heat-Resistant Gloves
Parts produced by the Dragon A400 will be extremely hot and could cause severe burns if not
handled properly. It is recommended that the Operator wear heat-resistant gloves when
handling parts produced by the Dragon A400.
1.3.4 General Eye Protection
The Dragon A400 will emit sparks, plasma dust and slag during operation. Anyone operating or
observing the machine should wear the appropriate eye protection.
1.3.5 Hearing Protection
While the Dragon A400 is relatively quiet, it is recommended that the Operator wear hearing
protection as specied per the facility safety requirements.
1.3.6 Breather Mask or Ventilation System
Plasma dust and debris is toxic, and inhalation can cause respiratory diculties or other
complications. It is recommended that the Operator and any observers wear a breathing mask,
or that the shop be equipped with an eective ventilation system for safe operation of the
Dragon A400.
! Warning !
Due to the extreme temperatures that result from the plasma cutting process, parts
cooled in water in the parts catcher can still be extremely hot. Always use caution
when handling newly-cut parts.
The Dragon A400 Coolant System greatly reduces smoke and vapor emitted by the
machine. Bend-Tech recommends use of the Coolant System whenever possible. The
Coolant System is especially eective when working with aluminum or stainless steel.
14 Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.4 Operational Safety
1.4.1 Guards
Do not operate the machine without safety guards in place.
1.4.2 Machine Walkthrough
Perform an inspection walkthrough of the machine before each startup, making sure all
electrical cords and cables that function as part of moving assemblies are secure and
fastened. Ensure all tools are fastened securely. Ensure all E-stop switches are disengaged.
1.4.3 Machine Operational Movement
While a program is running, the Trolley and Toolhead can move rapidly at any time through its
short/long travel feed rate procedures. Operator and bystanders should stay clear of the Trolley
and Toolhead during machine operation.
1.4.4 Material Securing
Assure that any material loaded into the machine is securely fastened in the Chuck and is
snug in the Gate.
! Warning !
The Trolley,Toolhead, and Gate are pinch points. Stay clear during machine
operation.
! Warning !
Improperly secured material may cause injury.
15Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.5 Pinch Points
Use caution in the area of pinch points. There are many pinch point locations identied on the
Dragon A400 including the Gate assembly, Toolhead, Trolley and Material Support Lift. It is
advised to use caution in these areas and stay clear of them during machine operation.
1.6 Recommended Safety Guidelines
• Keep unauthorized personnel away from the Dragon A400 work area.
• Keep the work area clean and free of debris.
• Stay clear of the machine and any moving parts during machine operation.
• Stay clear of the Toolhead during operation.
• Never operate the machine while under the inuence of alcohol or drugs.
• Wear appropriate PPE at all times while operating the machine.
• Keep ammables away from machine during operation.
• Risk of electric shock - avoid touching exposed wires while machine is powered.
• Always power o machine and disconnect from main power source before servicing
electrical components.
• Do not exceed the machine’s capacities.
• Do not wear loose-tting clothing or jewelry while operating machine.
• Be aware of sharp edges on cut material.
• Avoid handling hot parts.
Toolhead
movement
Front Gate
movement
Material Support
Lift movement
Where the Trolley
contacts the Rail
Chuck
movement
Where the Trolley
contacts the rear bumper
16 Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.7 Modications To The Machine
1.7.1 Unauthorized Modications
Performing unauthorized modications to the Dragon A400 is not recommended. Bend-Tech,
LLC is not responsible for damage resulting from modications to the Dragon A400.
Unauthorized modications include modications to the machine’s G-code that alter the factory
settings and adversely aect the operation of the machine.
1.7.2 Factory Parts Kits and Updates
Some parts kits and update packages are manufactured and sold by Bend-Tech, LLC.
Customers may choose to install these kits and updates themselves. However, the Customer
should have a thorough understanding of the machine and the service actions being
performed. If a Customer has any doubts regarding their ability to install parts kits or update
packages contact Bend-Tech, LLC for assistance.
! Caution !
Bend-Tech, LLC does not recommend unauthorized modications to the Dragon
A400. Contact Bend-Tech service representatives with any questions regarding
operation or capabilities of the machine.
17Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.8 Emergency Stops (E-Stops)
1.8.1 E-Stop Overview
There are four external emergency stop (E-stop) buttons located on the Dragon A400 machine.
There is one E-stop on the Tail of the machine, one on the Trolley cover, and one on each side
of the Gate. These four emergency stops completely shut power o to all motors and outputs.
To re-enable the machine after pressing an E-stop, the E-stop must be disengaged and power
to the motors must be initialized by pressing the green light on the Control Box. If the green
light doesn’t initialize, this is an indicator that the E-stop is still engaged. The green light
indicates the motors have power.
E-Stop
Locations
18 Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.8.2 Control Screen E-Stop
There is an additional emergency stop located on the machine control screen. This E-Stop
doesn’t cut power to any motors or outputs, but will temporarily disable any software that is
being used. This will discontinue any project that is being run, without losing power to the
motor.
1.9 Electrical Servicing
1.9.1 Power Down Before Servicing
Completely power o the Control Box before handling any electrical components. Electrical
components include all motor connections, motor cables, sensors, sensor cables, emergency
stops, laser cable, and Torch cable.
1.10 Material Weight
1.10.1 Weight Limit
Material weight limit for the Dragon A400 should not exceed 400 lbs. This is the maximum
weight of material the Trolley can support while still operating safely. This is also the maximum
weight of material the Drive Belt and Stepper Motor can handle and maintain safe operation.
! Danger !
Do not touch 120VAC components inside the Control Box without rst disconnecting
the machine from its power source.
! Warning !
Never disconnect a Motor Cable with power applied.
19Bend-Tech Dragon A400 Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.11 Material Length
1.11.1 Material Support Lift
Some non-rigid materials, or excessively long materials, can sag and cause material to
raise at the Toolhead, introducing the danger of material contacting the Torch or damaging
the Engraver. Material longer than 5 ft. or thinner material may need to be supported by the
Material Support Lift in order to avoid contacting the Torch or damaging the Engraver.
1.12 Plasma Torch
1.12.1 Torch Overview
The Torch and plasma cutting device is a high-voltage system that requires extreme caution
when operating. It is recommended that the Operator read the manual and become familiar
with the hazards of working with the machine before operating it in conjunction with the Dragon
A400.
! Danger !
Exceeding the material weight limit of the Dragon A400 can result in serious injury
to the Operator and/or bystanders.
! Caution !
Exceeding the material weight limit can aect performance and possibly damage
the Dragon A400.
20 Bend-Tech Dragon A400
Start-Up and Training Manual
Safety
01
1.12.2 Ultraviolet Light
The Torch emits extreme ultraviolet light which can damage human retinas. Never look directly
at the cutting process without the appropriate eye protection.
1.12.3 Heat
The Torch will introduce extreme heat into the material during the cutting process. The
Operator should take caution handling freshly-cut parts. Always wear heat resistant gloves
when handling parts after cutting.
1.12.4 Gloves
Always wear insulated gloves when handling Torch consumables. Consumables get extremely
hot during Torch operation. Touching Torch consumables can result in electric shock if the
Torch is not disabled before handling.
1.12.5 Fumes
Some metals, including stainless steel, can emit toxic fumes when cut. Bend-Tech
recommends using a ventilation system with the Dragon A400 or ensure the facility has
adequate ventilation to ensure air quality meets standards and regulations
! Danger !
The plasma arc of the Torch can cause severe injury or even death. Never
approach the Torch while it is activated and operating.
! Warning !
Always wear shade 10 glasses when the Torch is cutting.
Other manuals for Dragon A400
14
Table of contents
Other Bend-Tech Cutter manuals
