Fire Power FP-80 User manual

Manual No. 0-2803
November 7, 2001
Plasma Cutting
Power Supply
Model FP-80
Operating Manual
A-02218

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, the manufacturer assumes no
liability for its use.
FirePower FP-80 Plasma Cutting Power Supply
Operating Manual Number 0-2803
Published by:
Thermal Dynamics Corporation
Industrial Park No. 2
West Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA 03784
[phone]
Copyright 2000 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 this Manual, whether such error results from negli-
gence, accident, or any other cause.
Printed in the United States of America
November 7, 2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1:
GENERAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................. 1
1.01 Notes, Cautions andWarnings ...................................................................... 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 Documents De Reference ............................................................................. 5
1.07 Declaration of Conformity .............................................................................. 7
1.08 Statement ofWarranty ................................................................................... 8
SECTION 2:
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 9
2.01 Scope of Manual............................................................................................ 9
2.02 General Description....................................................................................... 9
2.03 Specifications/Design Features ..................................................................... 9
2.04 Power Supply Options and Accessories ...................................................... 10
SECTION 3:
INSTALLATION PROCEDURES ........................................................................................ 11
3.01 Introduction.................................................................................................. 11
3.02 Site Selection............................................................................................... 11
3.03 Unpacking ................................................................................................... 11
3.04 Lifting Options.............................................................................................. 11
3.05 Input Power Connections............................................................................. 12
3.06 InputVoltage Selection ................................................................................ 13
3.07 Input Power Cable Connections................................................................... 13
3.08 Gas Connections ......................................................................................... 14
3.09 ConnectingTorch Leads .............................................................................. 16
3.10 Work Cable And Ground Connections ......................................................... 16
SECTION 4:
OPERATION ...................................................................................................................... 19
4.01 Introduction.................................................................................................. 19
4.02 Functional Overview .................................................................................... 19
4.03 Operating Controls ...................................................................................... 19
4.04 Sequence Of Operation ............................................................................... 21
4.05 Preparations for Operating........................................................................... 22
SECTION 5:
CUSTOMER/OPERATOR SERVICE.................................................................................. 23
5.01 Introduction.................................................................................................. 23
5.02 General Maintenance .................................................................................. 23
5.03 Common Operating Problems ..................................................................... 23
5.04 Troubleshooting Guide ................................................................................. 24
5.05 Power Supply Parts Replacement ............................................................... 26

TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
SECTION 6:
PARTS LISTS.....................................................................................................................29
6.01 Introduction.................................................................................................. 29
6.02 Ordering Information.................................................................................... 29
6.03 Complete Power Supply Replacement......................................................... 30
6.04 Basic Parts Replacement ............................................................................ 30
6.05 Options and Accessories............................................................................. 30
APPENDIX I: INPUT WIRING REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................... 31
APPENDIX II: SEQUENCE OF OPERATION (BLOCK DIAGRAM) ........................................... 32
APPENDIX III: SYSTEM SCHEMATIC....................................................................................... 34

Date:5/1/00(Special) 1 GENERALINFORMATION
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
WARNINGS
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF
PLASMA ARC EQUIPMENT CAN BE DAN-
GEROUS AND HAZARDOUS TO YOUR
HEALTH.
Plasma arc cutting produces intense electric and
magnetic emissions that may interfere with the
proper function of cardiac pacemakers, hearing
aids, or other electronic health equipment. Per-
sons who work near plasma arc cutting applica-
tions should consult their medical health profes-
sional and the manufacturer of the health
equipment to determine whether a hazard exists.
To prevent possible injury, read, understand and
follow all warnings, safety precautions and in-
structionsbeforeusingtheequipment. 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
•Always readtheMaterial Safety 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 explosive gases ormaterials arelocated.
• Phosgene, a toxic gas, is generated from the vapors
of chlorinated solvents and cleansers. Remove all
sources of these vapors.
• This product, when used for welding or cutting,
produces fumes or gases which contain chemicals
known to the State of California to cause birth de-
fects and, in some cases, cancer. (California Health
& Safety Code Sec. 25249.5 et seq.)
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.”

GENERAL INFORMATION 2 Date 5/1/00 (Special)
•Weardry gloves and clothing. Insulate yourself 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 sourcebeforeperforminganyser-
vice or repairs.
• Read and follow all the instructions in the Operat-
ing Manual.
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.
•Do not cut orweld on containers thatmayhave held
combustibles.
• Provideafirewatchwhenworkinginanareawhere
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 cause permanent hearing loss. 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
PlasmaArcRayscaninjureyour eyes andburnyourskin.
The plasma arc process produces very bright ultra violet
and infra red light. These arc rays will damage your
eyesandburnyourskinif you arenotproperlyprotected.
• To protect your eyes, always wear a welding hel-
metor shield. Also always wear safety glasseswith
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 suggested in the following
per ANSI/ASC Z49.1:
Minimum Protective Suggested
Arc Current Shade No. Shade No.
Less Than 300* 8 9
300 - 400* 9 12
400 - 800* 10 14
* Thesevalues apply wherethe actual arcisclearly
seen. Experience has shown that lighter filters
may be used when the arc is hidden by the work-
piece.
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 WELDING AND CUTTING, obtain-
able from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
GovernmentPrintingOffice,Washington,D.C. 20402
4. ANSI Standard Z87.1, SAFE PRACTICES FOR OC-
CUPATIONAND EDUCATIONALEYEAND 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

Date:5/1/00(Special) 3 GENERALINFORMATION
6. ANSI Standard Z49.2, FIRE PREVENTION IN THE
USE OF CUTTING AND WELDING PROCESSES,
obtainable from American 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 from American 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 Protection
Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
9. NFPAStandard70,NATIONALELECTRICALCODE,
obtainable from the National Fire Protection Asso-
ciation, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269
10. NFPA Standard 51B, CUTTING AND WELDING
PROCESSES, obtainable from the National Fire Pro-
tection Association, 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
12. CSA Standard W117.2, CODE FOR SAFETY IN
WELDING AND 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 à caractère 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
AVERTISSEMENTS
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.
Coupantàl’arcaujetdeplasmaproduitde l’énergie
électrique haute tension et des émissions
magnétique qui peuvent interférer la fonction
propre d’un “pacemaker” cardiaque, les appareils
auditif, ou autre matériel de santé electronique.
Ceux qui travail près d’une application à l’arc au
jet de plasma devrait consulter leur membre
professionel de médication et le manufacturier de
matériel de santé pour déterminer s’il existe des
risques 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
lesavertissements,touteslesprécautionsde 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 procédé de jet de
plasma peuvent présenter des risques et des dangers de
santé.

GENERAL INFORMATION 4 Date 5/1/00 (Special)
• 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 à alimentation 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 trouvantsurlemétaletdesdifférents
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 à la quantité et 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 à la page 5.
• Utilisez un équipement spécial tel que des tables de
coupe à débit d’eau ou à courant descendant pour
capter la fumée et les gaz.
• N’utilisez pas le chalumeau au jet de plasma dans
une zone où se trouvent des matières ou des gaz
combustibles ou explosifs.
• Le phosgène, un gaz toxique, est généré par la fumée
provenantdessolvantsetdes produitsdenettoyage
chlorés. Eliminez toute source de telle fumée.
• Ceproduit,dansleprocéderdesoudageetde coupe,
produit de la fumée ou des gaz pouvant contenir
des éléments reconnu dans L’ état de la Californie,
qui peuvent causer des défauts de naissance et le
cancer. (La sécurité de santé en Californie et la code
sécurité Sec. 25249.5 et seq.)
CHOC ELECTRIQUE
Les chocs électriques peuvent blesser ou même tuer. Le
procédé au jet de plasma requiert et produit de l’énergie
électrique haute tension. Cette énergie électrique peut
produire deschocsgraves,voiremortels,pourl’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
Lesincendiesetlesexplosionspeuventrésulterdesscories
chaudes, des étincelles ou de l’arc de plasma. Le procédé
à l’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 pas et nesoudez pas les conteneursayant
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 à moins que le gas hydrogène
peut s’échapper ou se dissiper. Le gas hydrogène
accumulé explosera si enflammé.
RAYONS D’ARC DE PLASMA
Les rayons provenant de l’arc de plasma peuvent blesser
vosyeuxetbrûlervotrepeau.Leprocédéà l’arcdeplasma
produit une lumière infra-rouge et des rayons ultra-vio-
lets très forts. Ces rayons d’arc nuiront à vos yeux et
brûleront votre peau si vous ne vous protégez pas
correctement.

Date:5/1/00(Special) 5 GENERALINFORMATION
• Pour protéger vos yeux, portez toujours un casque
ouunécrande soudeur.Porteztoujoursdes lunettes
de sécurité munies 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 approprié pour 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.
• Utilisez la nuance de lentille qui est suggèrée dans
le recommendation qui suiventANSI/ASC Z49.1:
Nuance Minimum Nuance Suggerée
Courant Arc Protective Numéro Numéro
Moins de 300* 8 9
300 - 400* 9 12
400 - 800* 10 14
*Cesvaleurss’appliquentoul’arcactuelestobservé
clairement. L’experience a démontrer que les filtres
moins foncés peuvent être utilisés quand l’arc est
caché par moiceau de travail.
BRUIT
Le bruit peut provoquer une perte permanente de l’ouïe.
Les procédés de soudage à l’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.
•Pourprotégervotre ouïe contreles bruitsforts,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.
• 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 été faites à celles-ci pour de plus amples
renseignements :
1. OSHA, NORMES DE SÉCURITÉ DU 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 SÉCURITÉ DES
OPÉRATIONS DE COUPE ET DE SOUDAGE,
disponible auprès de la Société Américaine de
Soudage (American Welding Society), 550 N.W.
LeJeune Rd., Miami, FL 33126
3. NIOSH, LA SÉCURITÉ ET LA SANTÉ LORS 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’InstitutAméricain des 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 RENFERMÉ DES
PRODUITSCOMBUSTIBLES, disponible auprès de
laAmerican WeldingSociety, 550 N.W.LeJeuneRd.,
Miami, FL 33126
8. Norme 51 de l’Association Américaine pour la Pro-
tectioncontreles Incendies(NFPA), LES SYSTEMES
À GAZ AVEC ALIMENTATION EN OXYGENE
POUR LE SOUDAGE, LA COUPE ET LES
PROCÉDÉS ASSOCIÉS, disponible auprès de la
National Fire ProtectionAssociation, Batterymarch
Park, Quincy, MA 02269
9. Norme 70 de la NFPA, CODE ELECTRIQUE NA-
TIONAL,disponible auprèsde la National Fire Pro-
tectionAssociation, Batterymarch Park, 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

GENERAL INFORMATION 6 Date 5/1/00 (Special)
11. Brochure GCA P-1, LAMANIPULATION SANS
RISQUE DES GAZ COMPRIMÉS EN
CYLINDRES, disponible auprès de l’Association
des Gaz Comprimés (Compressed Gas Associa-
tion), 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 501,
Arlington, VA 22202
12. Norme CSA W117.2, CODE DE SÉCURITÉ
POUR LE SOUDAGE ET LA COUPE, disponible
auprèsdel’AssociationdesNormesCanadiennes,
Standards Sales, 178 Rexdale Boulevard, Rexdale,
Ontario, Canada, M9W 1R3
13. ivret NWSA, BIBLIOGRAPHIE SUR LA
SÉCURITÉ DU SOUDAGE, disponible auprès de
l’Association Nationale de Fournitures de
Soudage (National Welding SupplyAssociation),
1900 Arch Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
14. Norme AWSF4.1 de l’Association Américaine de
Soudage, RECOMMANDATIONS DE PRA-
TIQUES SURES POUR LAPRÉPARATIONÀLA
COUPE ET AU SOUDAGE DE CONTENEURS
ET TUYAUX AYANT RENFERMÉ DES
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

Date:5/1/00(Special) 7 GENERALINFORMATION
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
legislation for the enforcement of this Directive.
Serialnumbers areunique with each individualpiece of equipment anddetails description, parts usedto manufacture
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) (EN50192) (EN50078) applicable to plasma cutting equipment and associ-
ated 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: Giorgio Bassi
Managing Director
Thermal Dynamics Europe
Via rio Fabbiani 8A
40067 Rastignano (BO)
Italy

GENERAL INFORMATION 8 Date 5/1/00 (Special)
1.08 Statement of Warranty
LIMITED WARRANTY: 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.
THIS WARRANTY BECOMES INVALID IF REPLACEMENT PARTS OR ACCESSORIES ARE USED WHICH MAY IMPAIR 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: Amaximum 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-80, 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 ......................................................................................................................... 1 YEAR .................. 1 YEAR
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 5, 2000

Manual 0-2803 9 INTRODUCTION
SECTION 2:
INTRODUCTION
2.01 Scope of Manual
Thismanual contains descriptions, operating instructions
and basic maintenance procedures for the FirePower
FP-80 Plasma Cutting Power Supply. Service of this
equipmentis restrictedto properlytrainedpersonnel;un-
qualifiedpersonnelarestrictlycautionedagainstattempt-
ing 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
Thepowersupplyprovides60 amp maximumoutputand
includes all control circuitry, electrical and gas inputs 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-02837
Power Supply
Torch and
Leads
Work Cable
With Clamp
Figure 2-1 FirePower FP-80 Power Supply
The power supply is designed to work with the Model
PCH-102PlasmaTorches. Thetorchincludesaspareparts
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 SupplyTechnical Specifications
The following specifications apply to the Power Supply
only:
1. Front Panel Controls
ON/OFF Switch, RUN/SET Switch and Output Cur-
rent Control
2. Front Panel LED Indicators
AC, TEMP, GAS, DC
3. Rear Panel
Input power cable strain relief, 230VAC input power
cable with plug, gas connection and Gas Regulator/
FilterAssembly
4. Input Power
Factory Supplied for:
208/230 VAC (±10%), 50/60 Hz, Single-Phase
Customer Selectable for:
208/230 VAC (±10%), 50/60 Hz, Three-Phase
380-415VAC (±10%), 50/60 Hz,Single or Three-Phase
460 VAC (±10%), 50/60 Hz, Single or Three-Phase
575 VAC, 50/60 Hz, Three-Phase (see Note)
NOTE
Requires Optional 575V Transformer.
5. Output Power
Continuously variable from 15 to 60Amps maximum
6. Duty Cycle
45% Duty Cycle @ 120V output with 60 Hz input
45% 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
Capacitive Discharge (CD), Pulsed DC
9. Weight
72 lbs (32.7 kg)

INTRODUCTION 10 Manual 0-2803
10. Overall Dimensions
18.9" (480 mm) High x 10" (254 mm) Wide x 23.5" (597
mm) Long
Overall dimensions are with handle installed.
B. Gas Regulator/Filter Assembly
Specifications
The following specifications apply to the Gas Regula-
tor/Filter Assembly only:
1. Maximum input gas pressure
125 psi (8.6 bar)
2. Filter
Coalescent type filter
2.04 Power Supply Options and
Accessories
The following accessories are available for this power
supply. Refer to Section 6, Parts Lists, for part numbers
and ordering information.
A. Two Stage Air Line Filter
An optional two stage air line filter is available. The
filterwill removemoisture and contaminants fromthe
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. Multi-Purpose Cart
Rugged steel cart on easy-rolling rear wheels and
front-mounted swivel casters. Provides maximum
mobility for the power supply and can also serve as a
display cart. Top shelf is 12 " (305 mm) x 20 (508 mm).
Steel handle is 30" (762 mm) high.
C. 575VTransformer
This step-down transformer allows the power sup-
ply to operate with 575 VAC three-phase input power.

Manual 0-2803 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-
soriesaregiven in Manualsspecificallyprovidedforthose
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 ad-
equate 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 . Pro-
vide sufficient clearance in front of the unit to allow ac-
cess 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.
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.
3.04 Lifting Options
WARNINGS
Do not touch live electrical parts.
Disconnect input power conductors from de-ener-
gized 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.
• Only persons 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.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 12 Manual 0-2803
• Unit has a handle mounted on top of the enclosure
for handliftingonly. Besureunit is lifted and trans-
ported safely and securely.
WARNING
HANDLE is not for mechanical lifting.
3.05 Input Power Connections
The Power Supply accepts input voltages from 208 to
460VAC, 50/60 Hz, single-phase or three-phase power.
A. Input Voltage Selection
The Power Supply is factory-wired for 230VAC single-
phaseinputpower. ForanyotherinputvoltagethePower
Supply must be changed using the procedure in Section
3.06, Input Voltage Selection.
B. Electrical Connections
Thepowersourcemust conform to localandnationalelec-
tric codes. Recommended circuit protection and wiring
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 disassembling the PowerSupply, torch
parts, or torch and leads assemblies.
1. Remove the two screws securing the Handle and the
Leads Wrap to the top of the Cover.
A-02220
Mounting Screws
Handle
Leads Wrap
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 assembly.
Cover
Cover Screws
(5 Places On Each Side)
A-02221
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.

Manual 0-2803 13 INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
3.06 Input Voltage Selection
NOTE
For power supplies to use 575 VAC input power,
the unit must be setup for 460V three-phase op-
eration and the 575V Transformer Accessory must
be installed.
The Power Supply has three voltage settings;
208/230VAC, 380-415VAC, or 460VAC. Power Supplies
are factory-wired for 230VAC single-phase input power.
Input voltage selection is accomplished by switching a
wire harness connector inside the Power Supply. Also, a
jumper wire must be properly installed depending on the
input used.
WARNING
Disconnect primary power at the source before as-
sembling or disassembling the power supply, torch
parts, or torch and leads assemblies.
Move the Voltage Selection Plug to the desired Voltage
Selection Connection for 208/230V, 380-415V, or 460V op-
eration per the label attached to the panel.
Voltage Selection
Plug
380-415 Volts
460 Volts
208/230 Volts
A-02222
Voltage Selection
Connectors
Voltage Selection
Label
Figure 3-3 Input Voltage Selection
3.07 Input Power Cable Connections
The primary power cable must be supplied (see Note) by
the end user and installed to the Power Supply assembly.
Recommended cable sizes are specified inAppendix I.
NOTE
Units are shipped with an input power cable and
plug for 230 VAC, single-phase, operation.
1. Route the primary power cable through the strain re-
lief fitting in the rear panel of the Power Supply and
tighten stain relief screws.
AC Input Power
Cable Strain Relief
AC Input
Power Cable
A-00912
Figure 3-4 AC Input Power Cable Strain Relief
2. Connect the input cable inside the Power Supply for
the type of operation per the following:
Three-Phase Operation
Three-phase operation requires a 3-conductor cable
with ground.
a. Locate the ground stud and remove the top nut
and washer.
b. Install a lug terminal on the ground wire.
c. Place the ground wire onto the ground stud
and secure with the nut and washer.
d. Insert the other three wires into the L1, L2, and
L3 terminals on the contactor. For three-phase
operation, the jumper wire between L2 and L2
(storage) must be left in this storage connec-
tion.
e. Tighten all set screws.
NOTE
The jumper wire from L1 to L4 must not be re-
moved.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURES 14 Manual 0-2803
AC Input
Power Cable
L1
L2
L3
GND
Input Contactor
Unused Jumper
L2 to L2 (Storage)
A-00913
Figure 3-5 Primary Power Cable Connections -
Three-Phase Operation
Single-Phase Operation
Single-phase operation requires a 2-conductor cable
with ground.
a. Locate the single-phase jumper wire connected
between the two L2 terminal lugs on the input
contactor.
b. Move one end of the jumper wire from termi-
nal lug L2 to L3 at the contactor.
NOTE
The jumper wire from L1 to L4 must not be re-
moved.
Single Phase
Jumper Wire
(L2 to L3)
Input Contactor
A-00914
L3 L2
Figure 3-6 Single Phase Jumper Wire Installation
c. Locate the ground stud and remove the top nut
and washer.
d. Install a lug terminal on the ground wire.
e. Place the ground wire onto the ground stud
and secure with the nut and washer.
f. Insert the other two wires into the L1 and L2
terminals on the contactor.
g. Tighten all set screws.
AC Input
Power Cable
L1
L2
GND
Input Contactor
A-00915
Figure 3-7 Primary Power Cable Connections -
Single-Phase Operation
CAUTION
The primary power source, power cable, and plug
all must conform to local electric code and the rec-
ommended circuit protection and wiring require-
ments (refer to Appendix I).
3.08 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)
CAUTION
Maximum input gas pressure must not exceed 125
psi (8.6 bar)
Flow: Cutting and Gouging - 300 scfh (141.5 lpm)