Fire Power FP-78 User manual

Manual No. 0-2700
December 16, 1998
Operating Manual
A-01678
7/8"- 200 VOLT
AIR PLASMA CUTTING
POWER SUPPLY

WARNING
WARNING
Read and understand this entire Operating Manual and your
employer’s safety practices before installing, operating, or
servicing the equipment.
While the information contained in this Operating Manual
represents our best judgement, Firepower® assumes no liability
for its use.
FP-78 Air Plasma Cutting Power Supply
Operating Manual Number 0-2700
Published by:
Thermal Dynamics Corporation
Industrial Park No. 2
West Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA 03784
[phone]
Copyright 1998 by
Thermal Dynamics Corporation
All rights reserved.
Reproduction of this work, in whole or in part, without written
permission of the publisher is prohibited.
The publisher does not assume and hereby disclaims any liability
to any party for any loss or damage caused by any error or
omission in the FP-78 Air Plasma Cutting Power Supply Operat-
ing Manual, whether such error results from negligence, accident,
or any other cause.
Printed in the United States of America
December 16, 1998

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION1:
GENERALINFORMATION ................................................................................................... 1
1.01 Notes,CautionsandWarnings ....................................................................... 1
1.02 Important Safety Precautions......................................................................... 1
1.03 Publications ................................................................................................... 2
1.04 Note, Attention et Avertissement ................................................................... 3
1.05 Precautions De Securite Importantes............................................................. 3
1.06 DocumentsDeReference .............................................................................. 5
1.07 DeclarationofConformity............................................................................... 6
1.08 StatementofWarranty ................................................................................... 7
SECTION2:
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 9
2.01 Scope of Manual............................................................................................ 9
2.02 General Description........................................................................................ 9
2.03 Specifications/DesignFeatures...................................................................... 9
2.04 Power Supply Options and Accessories........................................................10
SECTION3:
INSTALLATIONPROCEDURES ..........................................................................................11
3.01 Introduction ...................................................................................................11
3.02 Site Selection ...............................................................................................11
3.03 Unpacking .....................................................................................................11
3.04 Lifting Options...............................................................................................12
3.05 InputPower Connections...............................................................................12
3.06 InputPower CableConnections.....................................................................13
3.07 Gas Connections ..........................................................................................13
3.08 ConnectingTorchLeads ................................................................................15
3.09 WorkCableAnd Ground Connections............................................................16
SECTION4:
OPERATION .......................................................................................................................17
4.01 Introduction ...................................................................................................17
4.02 FunctionalOverview......................................................................................17
4.03 OperatingControls ........................................................................................17
4.04 SequenceOfOperation.................................................................................19
4.05 PreparationsforOperating.............................................................................20
4.06 Cut Quality....................................................................................................20
SECTION5:
CUSTOMER/OPERATOR SERVICE ...................................................................................23
5.01 Introduction ...................................................................................................23
5.02 GeneralMaintenance ....................................................................................23
5.03 Common OperatingProblems .......................................................................23
5.04 TroubleshootingGuide ...................................................................................24
5.05 PowerSupplyParts Replacement .................................................................26

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
SECTION6:
PARTS LISTS .....................................................................................................................29
6.01 Introduction ...................................................................................................29
6.02 OrderingInformation .....................................................................................29
6.03 CompleteSystemReplacement....................................................................30
6.04 Options and Accessories ..............................................................................30
APPENDIX I: INPUTWIRING REQUIREMENTS........................................................................31
APPENDIX II: SEQUENCE OF OPERATION (BLOCK DIAGRAM) .............................................32
APPENDIX III: SYSTEM SCHEMATIC .......................................................................................34

1 GENERAL INFORMATION
SECTION 1:
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.01 Notes, Cautions and Warnings
Throughout this manual, notes, cautions, and warnings
are used to highlight important information. These high-
lights are categorized as follows:
NOTE
An operation, procedure, or background informa-
tion which requires additional emphasis or is help-
ful in efficient operation of the system.
CAUTION
A procedure which, if not properly followed, may
cause damage to the equipment.
WARNING
A procedure which, if not properly followed, may
cause injury to the operator or others in the oper-
ating area.
1.02 Important Safety Precautions
WARNING
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF
PLASMA ARC EQUIPMENT CAN BE DAN-
GEROUS AND HAZARDOUS TO YOUR
HEALTH.
To prevent possible injury, read, understand and
follow all warnings, safety precautions and in-
structionsbeforeusing theequipment. Call1-603-
298-5711 or your local distributor if you have any
questions.
GASES AND FUMES
Gases and fumes produced during the plasma cutting
process can be dangerous and hazardous to your health.
•Keep all fumes and gases from the breathing area.
Keep your head out of the welding fume plume.
•Use an air-supplied respirator if ventilation is not
adequate to remove all fumes and gases.
•The kinds of fumes and gases from the plasma arc
depend on the kind of metal being used, coatings
on the metal, and the different processes. You must
be very careful when cutting or welding any met-
als which may contain one or more of the follow-
ing:
Antimony Chromium Mercury
Arsenic Cobalt Nickel
Barium Copper Selenium
Beryllium Lead Silver
Cadmium Manganese Vanadium
•Alwaysreadthe MaterialSafety Data Sheets(MSDS)
that should be supplied with the material you are
using. These MSDSs will give you the information
regarding the kind and amount of fumes and gases
that may be dangerous to your health.
•For information on how to test for fumes and gases
in your workplace, refer to item 1 in Subsection
1.03, Publications in this manual.
•Use special equipment, such as water or down draft
cutting tables, to capture fumes and gases.
•Do not use the plasma torch in an area where com-
bustibleor explosivegases ormaterials are located.
•Phosgene, a toxic gas, is generated from the vapors
of chlorinated solvents and cleansers. Remove all
sources of these vapors.
ELECTRIC SHOCK
Electric Shock can injure or kill. The plasma arc process
uses and produces high voltage electrical energy. This
electric energy can cause severe or fatal shock to the op-
erator or others in the workplace.
•Never touch any parts that are electrically “live”or
“hot.”
•Weardry gloves andclothing. Insulateyourself from
the work piece or other parts of the welding cir-
cuit.
•Repair or replace all worn or damaged parts.
•Extra care must be taken when the workplace is
moist or damp.
•Install and maintain equipment according to NEC
code, refer to item 9 in Subsection 1.03, Publica-
tions.
•Disconnectpower source before performingany ser-
vice or repairs.
•Read and follow all the instructions in the Operat-
ing Manual.

GENERAL INFORMATION 2
FIRE AND EXPLOSION
Fire and explosion can be caused by hot slag, sparks, or
the plasma arc.
•Be sure there is no combustible or flammable mate-
rial in the workplace. Any material that cannot be
removed must be protected.
•Ventilate all flammable or explosive vapors from
the workplace.
•Donot cutor weldon containersthat may haveheld
combustibles.
•Provideafire watch whenworking inan area where
fire hazards may exist.
•Hydrogen gas may be formed and trapped under
aluminum workpieces when they are cut under-
water or while using a water table. DO NOT cut
aluminum alloys underwater or on a water table
unless the hydrogen gas can be eliminated or dis-
sipated. Trapped hydrogen gas that is ignited will
cause an explosion.
NOISE
Noisecan causepermanent hearingloss. Plasmaarcpro-
cesses can cause noise levels to exceed safe limits. You
must protect your ears from loud noise to prevent per-
manent loss of hearing.
•To protect your hearing from loud noise, wear pro-
tective ear plugs and/or ear muffs. Protect others
in the workplace.
•Noise levels should be measured to be sure the deci-
bels (sound) do not exceed safe levels.
•For information on how to test for noise, see item 1
in Subsection 1.03, Publications, in this manual.
PLASMAARC RAYS
PlasmaArcRays caninjure your eyesand burn yourskin.
The plasma arc process produces very bright ultra violet
and infra red light. These arc rays will damage your
eyesand burnyour skinifyou are notproperlyprotected.
•To protect your eyes, always wear a welding hel-
metor shield. Alsoalways wear safetyglasses with
side shields, goggles or other protective eye wear.
•Wear welding gloves and suitable clothing to pro-
tect your skin from the arc rays and sparks.
•Keep helmet and safety glasses in good condition.
Replace lenses when cracked, chipped or dirty.
•Protect others in the work area from the arc rays.
Use protective booths, screens or shields.
•Use the shade of lens as recommended in Subsec-
tion 1.03, item 4.
1.03 Publications
Refer to the following standards or their latest revisions
for more information:
1. OSHA, SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS,
29CFR 1910, obtainable from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Wash-
ington, D.C. 20402
2. ANSI Standard Z49.1, SAFETY IN WELDING AND
CUTTING, obtainable from the American Welding
Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Rd, Miami, FL 33126
3. NIOSH, SAFETY AND HEALTH IN ARC WELD-
INGAND GAS WELDINGAND CUTTING, obtain-
able from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
GovernmentPrinting Office,Washington, D.C. 20402
4. ANSI Standard Z87.1, SAFE PRACTICES FOR OC-
CUPATION AND EDUCATIONAL EYEAND FACE
PROTECTION, obtainable from American National
Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY
10018
5. ANSI Standard Z41.1, STANDARD FOR MEN’S
SAFETY-TOE FOOTWEAR, obtainable from the
American National Standards Institute, 1430 Broad-
way, New York, NY 10018
6. ANSI Standard Z49.2, FIRE PREVENTION IN THE
USE OF CUTTING AND WELDING PROCESSES,
obtainable fromAmerican National Standards Insti-
tute, 1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
7. AWS Standard A6.0, WELDING AND CUTTING
CONTAINERS WHICH HAVE HELD COMBUS-
TIBLES, obtainable fromAmerican Welding Society,
550 N.W. LeJeune Rd, Miami, FL 33126
8. NFPA Standard 51, OXYGEN-FUEL GAS SYSTEMS
FOR WELDING, CUTTING AND ALLIED PRO-
CESSES, obtainable from the National Fire Protec-
tion Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA
02269
9. NFPA Standard 70, NATIONAL ELECTRICAL
CODE, obtainable from the National Fire Protection
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
10. NFPA Standard 51B, CUTTING AND WELDING
PROCESSES, obtainable from the National Fire Pro-
tectionAssociation, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA
02269
11. CGA Pamphlet P-1, SAFE HANDLING OF COM-
PRESSED GASES IN CYLINDERS, obtainable from
the Compressed Gas Association, 1235 Jefferson
Davis Highway, Suite 501, Arlington, VA22202

3 GENERAL INFORMATION
12. CSA Standard W117.2, CODE FOR SAFETY IN
WELDINGAND CUTTING, obtainable from the Ca-
nadian Standards Association, Standards Sales, 178
Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale, Ontario, Canada M9W
1R3
13. NWSA booklet, WELDING SAFETY BIBLIOGRA-
PHY obtainable from the National Welding Supply
Association, 1900Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA19103
14. American Welding Society StandardAWSF4.1, REC-
OMMENDED SAFE PRACTICES FOR THE PREPA-
RATION FOR WELDINGAND CUTTING OF CON-
TAINERS AND PIPING THAT HAVE HELD
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, obtainable from the
American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Rd,
Miami, FL 33126
15. ANSI Standard Z88.2, PRACTICE FOR RESPIRA-
TORY PROTECTION, obtainable from American
National Standards Institute, 1430 Broadway, New
York, NY 10018
1.04 Note, Attention et
Avertissement
Dans ce manuel, les mots “note,”“attention,”et
“avertissement”sont utilisés pour mettre en relief des
informations àcaractère important. Ces mises en relief
sont classifiées comme suit :
NOTE
Toute opération, procédure ou renseignement
général sur lequel il importe d’insister davantage
ou qui contribue à l’efficacité de fonctionnement
du système.
ATTENTION
Toute procédure pouvant résulter
l’endommagement du matériel en cas de non-
respect de la procédure en question.
AVERTISSEMENT
Toute procédure pouvant provoquer des blessures
de l’opérateur ou des autres personnes se trouvant
dans la zone de travail en cas de non-respect de la
procédure en question.
1.05 Precautions De Securite
Importantes
AVERTISSEMENT
L’OPÉRATION ET LA MAINTENANCE DU
MATÉRIEL DE SOUDAGE À L’ARC AU JET
DE PLASMA PEUVENT PRÉSENTER DES
RISQUES ET DES DANGERS DE SANTÉ.
Il faut communiquer aux opérateurs et au person-
nel TOUS les dangers possibles. Afin d’éviter les
blessures possibles, lisez, comprenez et suivez tous
les avertissements, toutes les précautions de
sécurité et toutes les consignes avant d’utiliser le
matériel. Composez le + 603-298-5711 ou votre
distributeur local si vous avez des questions.
FUMÉE et GAZ
La fumée et les gaz produits par le procédéde jet de
plasma peuvent présenter des risques et des dangers de
santé.
•Eloignez toute fumée et gaz de votre zone de respi-
ration. Gardez votre tête hors de la plume de fumée
provenant du chalumeau.
•Utilisez un appareil respiratoire àalimentation en
air si l’aération fournie ne permet pas d’éliminer la
fumée et les gaz.
•Les sortes de gaz et de fumée provenant de l’arc de
plasma dépendent du genre de métal utilisé, des
revêtementsse trouvant sur lemétaletdes différents
procédés. Vous devez prendre soin lorsque vous
coupez ou soudez tout métal pouvant contenir un
ou plusieurs des éléments suivants:
antimoine cadmium mercure
argent chrome nickel
arsenic cobalt plomb
baryum cuivre sélénium
béryllium manganèse vanadium
•Lisez toujours les fiches de données sur la sécurité
des matières (sigle américain “MSDS”); celles-ci
devraient être fournies avec le matériel que vous
utilisez. Les MSDS contiennent des renseignements
quant àla quantitéet la nature de la fumée et des
gaz pouvant poser des dangers de santé.
•Pour des informations sur la manière de tester la
fumée et les gaz de votre lieu de travail, consultez
l’article 1 et les documents cités àla page 5.

GENERAL INFORMATION 4
•Utilisez un équipement spécial tel que des tables de
coupe àdébit d’eau ou àcourant descendant pour
capter la fumée et les gaz.
•N’utilisez pas le chalumeau au jet de plasma dans
une zone oùse trouvent des matières ou des gaz
combustibles ou explosifs.
•Le phosgène, un gaz toxique, est générépar la fumée
provenantdessolvants etdes produits denettoyage
chlorés. Eliminez toute source de telle fumée.
CHOC ELECTRIQUE
Les chocs électriques peuvent blesser ou même tuer. Le
procédéau jet de plasma requiert et produit de l’énergie
électrique haute tension. Cette énergie électrique peut
produire deschocsgraves, voire mortels,pour l’opérateur
et les autres personnes sur le lieu de travail.
•Ne touchez jamais une pièce “sous tension”ou
“vive”; portez des gants et des vêtements secs.
Isolez-vous de la pièce de travail ou des autres par-
ties du circuit de soudage.
•Réparez ou remplacez toute pièce usée ou
endommagée.
•Prenez des soins particuliers lorsque la zone de tra-
vail est humide ou moite.
•Montez et maintenez le matériel conformément au
Code électrique national des Etats-Unis. (Voir la
page 5, article 9.)
•Débranchez l’alimentation électrique avant tout tra-
vail d’entretien ou de réparation.
•Lisez et respectez toutes les consignes du Manuel
de consignes.
INCENDIE ET EXPLOSION
Lesincendies et lesexplosionspeuvent résulterdes scories
chaudes, des étincelles ou de l’arc de plasma. Le procédé
àl’arc de plasma produit du métal, des étincelles, des
scories chaudes pouvant mettre le feu aux matières com-
bustibles ou provoquer l’explosion de fumées
inflammables.
•Soyez certain qu’aucune matière combustible ou in-
flammable ne se trouve sur le lieu de travail.
Protégez toute telle matière qu’il est impossible de
retirer de la zone de travail.
•Procurez une bonne aération de toutes les fumées
inflammables ou explosives.
•Necoupez paset nesoudez pasles conteneurs ayant
pu renfermer des matières combustibles.
•Prévoyez une veille d’incendie lors de tout travail
dans une zone présentant des dangers d’incendie.
•Le gas hydrogène peut se former ou s’accumuler
sous les pièces de travail en aluminium lorsqu’elles
sont coupées sous l’eau ou sur une table d’eau. NE
PAS couper les alliages en aluminium sous l’eau ou
sur une table d’eau àmoins que le gas hydrogène
peut s’échapper ou se dissiper. Le gas hydrogène
accumuléexplosera si enflammé.
RAYONS D’ARC DE PLASMA
Les rayons provenant de l’arc de plasma peuvent blesser
vosyeux etbrûler votre peau.Le procédéàl’arcdeplasma
produit une lumière infra-rouge et des rayons ultra-vio-
lets très forts. Ces rayons d’arc nuiront àvos yeux et
brûleront votre peau si vous ne vous protégez pas
correctement.
•Pour protéger vos yeux, portez toujours un casque
ouun écran desoudeur.Portez toujoursdeslunettes
de sécuritémunies de parois latérales ou des lu-
nettes de protection ou une autre sorte de protec-
tion oculaire.
•Portez des gants de soudeur et un vêtement
protecteur appropriépour protéger votre peau
contre les étincelles et les rayons de l’arc.
•Maintenez votre casque et vos lunettes de protec-
tion en bon état. Remplacez toute lentille sale ou
comportant fissure ou rognure.
•Protégez les autres personnes se trouvant sur la zone
de travail contre les rayons de l’arc en fournissant
des cabines ou des écrans de protection.
•Respectez le teint de lentille recommandédans le
article 4, page 5.
BRUIT
Le bruit peut provoquer une perte permanente de l’ouïe.
Les procédés de soudage àl’arc de plasma peuvent
provoquer des niveaux sonores supérieurs aux limites
normalement acceptables. Vous dú4ez vous protéger les
oreilles contre les bruits forts afin d’éviter une perte
permanente de l’ouïe.
•Pourprotégervotreouïecontrelesbruitsforts, portez
des tampons protecteurs et/ou des protections
auriculaires. Protégez également les autres
personnes se trouvant sur le lieu de travail.
•Il faut mesurer les niveaux sonores afin d’assurer
que les décibels (le bruit) ne dépassent pas les
niveaux sûrs.

5 GENERAL INFORMATION
•Pour des renseignements sur la manière de tester le
bruit, consultez l’article 1, page 5.
1.06 Documents De Reference
Consultez les normes suivantes ou les révisions les plus
récentes ayant étéfaites àcelles-ci pour de plus amples
renseignements :
1. OSHA, NORMES DE SÉCURITÉDU TRAVAIL ET
DE PROTECTION DE LA SANTÉ, 29CFR 1910,
disponible auprès du Superintendent of Docu-
ments, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washing-
ton, D.C. 20402
2. Norme ANSI Z49.1, LA SÉCURITÉDES
OPÉRATIONS DE COUPE ET DE SOUDAGE,
disponible auprès de la SociétéAméricaine de
Soudage (American Welding Society), 550 N.W.
LeJeune Rd., Miami, FL 33126
3. NIOSH, LA SÉCURITÉET LA SANTÉLORS DES
OPÉRATIONS DE COUPE ET DE SOUDAGE À
L’ARC ETAU GAZ, disponible auprès du Superin-
tendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402
4. Norme ANSI Z87.1, PRATIQUES SURES POUR LA
PROTECTION DES YEUX ET DU VISAGE AU
TRAVAIL ET DANS LES ECOLES, disponible de
l’InstitutAméricaindes Normes Nationales(Ameri-
can National Standards Institute), 1430 Broadway,
New York, NY 10018
5. Norme ANSI Z41.1, NORMES POUR LES
CHAUSSURESPROTECTRICES, disponibleauprès
de l’American National Standards Institute, 1430
Broadway, New York, NY 10018
6. Norme ANSI Z49.2, PRÉVENTION DES
INCENDIES LORS DE L’EMPLOI DE PROCÉDÉS
DE COUPE ET DE SOUDAGE, disponible auprès
de l’American National Standards Institute, 1430
Broadway, New York, NY 10018
7. Norme A6.0 de l’Association Américaine du
Soudage (AWS), LE SOUDAGE ET LACOUPE DE
CONTENEURS AYANT RENFERMÉDES
PRODUITSCOMBUSTIBLES, disponibleauprèsde
laAmerican Welding Society,550 N.W. LeJeuneRd.,
Miami, FL 33126
8. Norme 51 de l’AssociationAméricaine pour la Pro-
tectioncontreles Incendies (NFPA),LES SYSTEMES
ÀGAZ AVEC ALIMENTATION EN OXYGENE
POUR LE SOUDAGE, LA COUPE ET LES
PROCÉDÉS ASSOCIÉS, disponible auprès de la
National Fire ProtectionAssociation, Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA02269
9. Norme 70 de la NFPA, CODE ELECTRIQUE NA-
TIONAL,disponible auprès dela NationalFirePro-
tectionAssociation, BatterymarchPark, Quincy,MA
02269
10. Norme 51B de la NFPA, LES PROCÉDÉS DE
COUPE ET DE SOUDAGE, disponible auprès de
la National Fire Protection Association,
Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
11. Brochure GCA P-1, LA MANIPULATION SANS
RISQUE DES GAZ COMPRIMÉS EN CYLINDRES,
disponible auprès de l’Association des Gaz
Comprimés (Compressed Gas Association), 1235
Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 501, Arlington, VA
22202
12. Norme CSAW117.2, CODE DE SÉCURITÉPOUR
LE SOUDAGE ET LA COUPE, disponible auprès
de l’Association des Normes Canadiennes, Stan-
dards Sales, 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale,
Ontario, Canada, M9W 1R3
13.ivretNWSA, BIBLIOGRAPHIESUR LASÉCURITÉ
DU SOUDAGE, disponible auprès de l’Association
Nationale de Fournitures de Soudage (National
Welding Supply Association), 1900 Arch Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19103
14. Norme AWSF4.1 de l’Association Américaine de
Soudage,RECOMMANDATIONS DEPRATIQUES
SURES POUR LA PRÉPARATION ÀLA COUPE
ETAUSOUDAGE DECONTENEURS ETTUYAUX
AYANT RENFERMÉDES PRODUITS
DANGEREUX , disponible auprès de la American
Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Rd., Miami, FL
33126
15. Norme ANSI Z88.2, PRATIQUES DE PROTEC-
TION RESPIRATOIRE, disponible auprès de
l’American National Standards Institute, 1430
Broadway, New York, NY 10018

GENERAL INFORMATION 6
1.07 Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
Address: Industrial Park #2
West Lebanon, New Hampshire 03784
USA
The equipment described in this manual conforms to all applicable aspects and regulations of the‘Low Voltage Direc-
tive’(European Council Directive 73/23/EEC as amended by Council Directive 93/68/EEC) and to the National leg-
islation for the enforcement of this Directive.
Serialnumbers areunique witheach individualpiece ofequipment anddetails description, partsused tomanufacture
a unit and date of manufacture.
National Standard and Technical Specifications
The product is designed and manufactured to a number of standards and technical requirements among them are:
* CSA(Canadian StandardsAssociation) standard C22.2 number 60 forArc welding equipment.
* UL(Underwriters Laboratory) rating 94VO flammability testing for all printed-circuit boards used.
* ISO/IEC 60974-1 (BS 638-PT10) (EN 60 974-1) applicable to welding equipment and associated accessories.
* Extensive product design verification is conducted at the manufacturing facility as part of the routine design and
manufacturing process. This is to ensure the product is safe, when used according to instructions in this manual and
related industry standards, and performs as specified. Rigorous testing is incorporated into the manufacturing
process to ensure the manufactured product meets or exceeds all design specifications.
Thermal Dynamics has been manufacturing products for more than 30 years, and will continue to achieve excellence in our
area of manufacture.
Manufacturers responsible representative: DavidAshworth
Vice President & Managing Director
Thermadyne Europe
Chorley England.

7 GENERAL INFORMATION
1.08 Statement of Warranty
LIMITEDWARRANTY: Firepower®(hereinafter “Firepower”) warrants that its products will be free of defects in workmanship
or material. Should any failure to conform to this warranty appear within the time period applicable to the Firepower products
as stated below, Firepower shall, upon notification thereof and substantiation that the product has been stored, installed, operated,
and maintained in accordance with Firepower’s specifications, instructions, recommendations and recognized standard industry
practice, and not subject to misuse, repair, neglect, alteration, or accident, correct such defects by suitable repair or replacement,
at Firepower’s sole option, of any components or parts of the product determined by Firepower to be defective.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXCLUSIVE AND IS IN LIEU OF ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: Firepower shall not under any circumstances be liable for special or consequential damages,
such as, but not limited to, damage or loss of purchased or replacement goods, or claims of customers of distributor (hereinafter
“Purchaser”) for service interruption. The remedies of the Purchaser set forth herein are exclusive and the liability of Firepower
with respect to any contract, or anything done in connection therewith such as the performance or breach thereof, or from the
manufacture, sale, delivery, resale, or use of any goods covered by or furnished by Firepower whether arising out of contract,
negligence, strict tort, or under any warranty, or otherwise, shall not, except as expressly provided herein, exceed the price of the
goods upon which such liability is based.
THISWARRANTY BECOMES INVALID IF REPLACEMENTPARTS OR ACCESSORIES AREUSED WHICHMAYIMPAIR
THE SAFETY OR PERFORMANCE OF ANY FIREPOWER PRODUCT.
THIS WARRANTY IS INVALID IF THE PRODUCT IS SOLD BY NON-AUTHORIZED PERSONS.
The limited warranty periods for Firepower products shall be as follows: A maximum of three (3) years from date of sale to an
authorized distributor and a maximum of two (2) years from date of sale by such distributor to the Purchaser, and with the
following further limitations on such two (2) year period.
PARTS
FP-78, POWER SUPPLIES All OTHERS LABOR
MAIN POWER MAGNETICS ............................................................................................ 2 YEARS ................ 1 YEAR
ORIGINAL MAIN POWER RECTIFIER ........................................................................... 2 YEARS ................ 1 YEAR
CONTROL PC BOARD .......................................................................................................2 YEARS ................ 1 YEAR
ALL OTHER CIRCUITS AND COMPONENTS ............................................................... 1 YEAR ................. 1 YEAR
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, STARTING
CIRCUIT, CONTACTORS, RELAYS, SOLENOIDS, PUMPS,
POWER SWITCHING SEMI-CONDUCTORS
CONSOLES, CONTROL EQUIPMENT, HEAT................................................................... 1 YEAR ................ 1 YEAR
EXCHANGES, AND ACCESSORY EQUIPMENT
TORCH AND LEADS ............................................................................................................. 180 DAYS............. 180 DAYS
REPAIR/REPLACEMENT PARTS ......................................................................................... 90 DAYS.................NONE
Warranty repairs or replacement claims under this limited warranty must be submitted by an authorized Firepower repair
facility within thirty (30) days of the repair. No transportation costs of any kind will be paid under this warranty. Transportation
charges to send products to an authorized warranty repair facility shall be the responsibility of the customer. All returned goods
shall be at the customer’s risk and expense. This warranty supersedes all previous Firepower warranties.
Effective May 15, 1998

GENERAL INFORMATION 8

Manual 0-2700 9 INTRODUCTION
SECTION 2:
INTRODUCTION
2.01 Scope of Manual
Thismanual containsdescriptions, operatinginstructions
and basic maintenance procedures for the FP-78 Air
Plasma Cutting Power Supply. Service of this equip-
ment is restricted to Firepower®trained personnel; un-
qualified personnel are strictly cautioned against at-
tempting repairs or adjustments not covered in this
manual, at the risk of voiding the Warranty.
Read this manual thoroughly. A complete understand-
ing of the characteristics and capabilities of this equip-
ment will assure the dependable operation for which it
was designed.
2.02 General Description
The power supply provides 60 amp maximum output
and includes all control circuitry, electrical and gas in-
puts and outputs, pilot circuitry, torch leads receptacle
and a work cable with clamp.
NOTE
The power supply can be ordered in various con-
figurations with various options factory installed.
A-01679
Power Supply
Torch and
Leads
Work Cable
With Clamp
Figure 2-1 FP-78 Power Supply
The power supply is designed to work with the Model
FP78-1 Hand Plasma Torches.
Torches will provide a maximum 7/8 inch (22.2 mm)
cut capacity. Hand torches are available in 70°and 90°
configurations. Torch leads are available in 20 ft (6.1 m),
or 50 ft (15.2 m) lengths with fittings for simple installa-
tion. The torch includes a spare parts kit which provides
an assortment of replacement torch parts.
NOTE
Refer to Section 2.04 for list of power supply op-
tions and accessories.
2.03 Specifications/Design Features
A. Power Supply Technical Specifications
The following specifications apply to the Power Supply
only:
1. Front Panel Controls
ON/OFF Switch and Output Current Control
2. Front Panel LED Indicators
AC, TEMP
3. Rear Panel
Input power cable with strain relief, gas connection,
Gas Regulator Assembly, optional Filter Assembly
4. Input Power
Available for the following input power:
208/230 VAC (±8%), 50/60 Hz, Single
5. Output Power
Continuously variable from 15 to 60Amps maximum
6. Duty Cycle
40% Duty Cycle @ 120V output with 60 Hz input
40% Duty Cycle @ 120V output with 50 Hz input
7. Cut Capacity
7/8 inch (22.2 mm); 1 1/4 inch (31.8 mm) severance
8. Pilot Circuitry
High Frequency (HF), Pulsed DC
9. Weight
72 lbs (32.7 kg)
10. Overall Dimensions (with handle installed)
18.9" (480 mm) High x 10" (330 mm) Wide x 23.5"
(597 mm) Long

INTRODUCTION 10 Manual 0-2700
B. Gas Regulator Assembly Specifications
The following specifications apply to the Gas Regu-
lator Assembly only:
1. Gas regulator maximum gauge pressure
160 psi (11 bar or 11.03 kPa)
2. Maximum input gas pressure
125 psi (8.6 bar or 861 kPa)
2.04 Power Supply Options and
Accessories
NOTE
Refer to Section 6, Parts Lists, for part numbers
and ordering information.
The following are accessories that are available for this
power supply:
A. Two Stage Air Line Filter
An optional two stage air line filter is available. The
filter will remove moisture and contaminants from
the air stream when using compressed air. The filter
is capable of filtering to at least 5 microns. The filter
assembly is pre-assembled at the factory and need
only be attached to the power supply.
B. Smart Cart
Steel cart on easy rolling 10" pneumatic tires to pro-
vide maximum mobility for the power supply.
Handle is 3/4" tubing with hooks for storage of torch
leads. A tie down strap is also included.

Manual 0-2700 11 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
SECTION 3:
INSTALLATION
PROCEDURES
3.01 Introduction
NOTE
Depending on how the system was ordered, some
Power Supply Options may already be installed.
If option(s) have been factory installed some of the
instructions may not apply. It is recommended
that all sub-sections be read for general informa-
tion.
This section describes installation of the power supply
and connecting the torch.
These instructions apply to the Power Supply only; in-
stallation procedures for the Torch, Options, and Acces-
sories are given in Manuals specifically provided for
those units.
The complete installation consists of:
1. Site selection
2. Unpacking
3. Connections to Power Supply
a. Input power
b. Gas
c. Work cable
d. Torch Leads
4. Grounding
5. Operator training
3.02 Site Selection
Select a clean, dry location with good ventilation and
adequate working space around all components.
NOTE
Review Important Safety Precautions (page 1) to
be sure that the selected location meets all safety
requirements.
The power supply is fan cooled by air flow through the
front panel to the rear panel. Air flow must not be ob-
structed. Provide at least 2 feet (0.61 m) in the rear and
at least 6 inches (0.15 m) on each side for clearance .
Provide sufficient clearance in front of the unit to allow
access to the front panel controls (minimum 6 inches or
0.15 m).
CAUTION
Operation without proper air flow will inhibit
proper cooling and reduce duty cycle.
3.03 Unpacking
NOTE
Equipment that was ordered as a system is pack-
aged in one shipping carton. All options and the
Torch are factory installed.
Each component of the system is packaged and protected
with a carton and packing material to prevent damage
during shipping.
A. Power Supply
Included with each power supply is Work Cable and
Clamp; Pressure Regulator Assembly and connection
hardware; Primary Input Power Cable; Operating
Manual.
B. Torch and Leads
Included with each Torch is Torch and Leads with Torch
Handle Assembly, Shield Cup, Tip, Electrode, Gas Dis-
tributor and all connectors installed; Torch Spare Parts
Kit; Instruction Manual.
C. Options and Accessories
Options and Accessories are packaged separately if not
installed at the factory.
D. Unpacking Procedure
1. Unpack each item and remove all packing material.
2. Locate the packing list(s) and use the list to identify
and account for each item.
3. Inspect each item for possible shipping damage. If
damage is evident, contact your distributor and/or
shipping company before proceeding with system in-
stallation.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 12 Manual 0-2700
3.04 Lifting Options
WARNINGS
Do not touch live electrical parts.
Disconnect input power conductors from de-en-
ergized supply line before moving unit.
This unit is equipped with one handle mounted onto
the top of the enclosure for hand carrying purposes.
WARNING
FALLING EQUIPMENT can cause serious per-
sonal injury and equipment damage.
•Lift unit with the handle on top of the enclosure.
•Persons only of adequate physical strength should
lift the unit.
•Use hand cart or similar device of adequate capac-
ity.
•If using a fork lift vehicle, place and secure unit on
a proper skid before transporting.
•Unit has a handle mounted on top of the enclosure
for hand lifting only. Be sure unit is lifted and
transported safely and securely.
WARNING
HANDLE is not for mechanical lifting.
3.05 Input Power Connections
A. Input Voltage Selection
The Power Supply accepts input voltages from 208V to
230VAC, 50 or 60 Hz, single-phase.
B. Electrical Connections
The power source must conform to local and national
electric codes. Recommended circuit protection and wir-
ing requirements are shown in Appendix I.
C. Opening Power Supply Enclosure
The Cover of the Power Supply must be removed to gain
access to the input power connections inside the unit.
WARNING
Disconnect primary power at the source before as-
semblingor disassemblingthe PowerSupply, torch
parts, or torch and leads assemblies.
1. Remove the four screws securing the Handle and the
Leads Wrap to the top of the Cover.
A-01693
Handle
Leads Wrap
Mounting Screws
Mounting Screws
Figure 3-1 Handle and Leads Wrap Removal
2. Using a phillips head screw driver remove the ten
screws which secure the Cover to the frame assem-
bly.

Manual 0-2700 13 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
A-01680
Cover Screws
(5 Places On Each Side)
Cover
Figure 3-2 Cover Removal
3. Carefully pull the Cover up and away from the unit
to gain access to the inside of the unit.
3.06 Input Power Cable Connections
WARNING
Disconnect primary power at the source before as-
sembling or disassembling the power supply, torch
parts, or torch and leads assemblies.
The primary input power cable (6ft.(1/8m) is sup-
plied with a NEMA 6-50 plug. Connect the plug to a
customersupplied 230VAC, single-phase matingcon-
nector.
NOTE
Refer to Appendix I for recommended fuse sizes
for the voltage application.
3.07 Gas Connections
A. Gas Requirements
WARNING
This unit not to be used with oxygen (O2).
Gases: Compressed Air or Nitrogen (N2) Only
Pressure: 60 psi (4.1 bar or 410 kPa)
CAUTION
Maximum input gas pressure must not exceed 125
psi (8.6 bar or 861 kPa)
Flow: Cutting and Gouging - 300 scfh (141.5 lpm)
CAUTION
Air supply must be free of oil, moisture, and other
contaminants. Excessive oil and moisture may
cause double-arcing, rapid tip wear, or even com-
plete torch failure. Contaminants may cause poor
cutting performance and rapid electrode wear.
B. Gas Connection
The gas supply is connected to the rear of the Power
Supply. The connection is the same for compressed air
or high pressure gas cylinders.
CAUTION
The air supply must be free of oil, moisture, and
other contaminants. Excessive oil and moisture
may cause double-arcing, rapid tip wear, or even
complete torch failure. Contaminants may cause
poor cutting performance and rapid electrode wear.
NOTE
Filtering is required when using air from a com-
pressor to insure that moisture and debris from
the supply hose does not enter the torch. It is rec-
ommended to order the Optional Two Stage Air
Line Filter for air filtering.
1. Locate the 1/4 NPT to #4 (6mm) hose barb fitting
shipped inside the Torch Spare Parts Kit.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 14 Manual 0-2700
NOTE
A barb fitting is provided for connection of the
gas supply hose to the rear of the Power Supply.
The fitting is placed in the Spare Parts Kit for
shipment.
2. Depending on the options installed at the factory, in-
stall the supplied barb fitting into the gas connector
fitting input or the IN port of the Optional Two Stage
Air Filter Assembly at the rear panel.
3. Tighten the barb fitting.
4. Place an adjustable hose clamp, 1/4" (6.35mm) to 5/
8" (15.88mm)) over the gas supply hose.
A-01681
#4 (6 mm) Gas
Supply Hose
1/4 NPT to
#4 (6 mm) Hose
Fitting
Hose Clamp
Gas Connector
Fitting
Figure 3-7 Gas Connection To Regulator/Filter
Assembly
A-01682
#4 (6 mm) Gas
Supply Hose
1/4 NPT to
#4 (6 mm) Hose
Fitting
Hose Clamp
Filter IN Port
Gas Connector
Fitting
Two Stage Filter
Assembly
Figure 3-8 Gas Connection To Optional Two Stage
Filter Assembly
5. Refer to the following when using high pressure gas
cylinders as the gas supply:
CAUTION
Pressure should be set at 100 psi (6.9 bar or 690
kPa) at the high pressure gas cylinder regulator.
a. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications for in-
stallation and maintenance procedures for high
pressure gas regulators.
b. Examine the cylinder valves to be sure they are
clean and free of oil, grease or any foreign mate-
rial. Momentarily open each cylinder valve to
blow out any dust which may be present.
c. The cylinder must be equipped with an adjustable
high-pressure regulator capable of outlet pres-
sures up to 100 psi (6.9 bar or 690 kPa) maximum
and flows of up to 300 scfh (141.5 lpm).
6. Slide the gas supply hose over the barb fitting in-
stalled in Step 2.