Spectrum Thunder problems and general questions.

[griff01]

I have a Spectrum Thunder that isn't working right. Before I get into particulars, I have some general questions.
Why do you need to ground the piece being cut? If you pull the trigger in the air, the arc shoots out. The plasma arc cuts the metal. What does the ground clamp do? Is it simply a safety reason or is it needed for the cutting action?

My spectrum thunder just doesn't work right. When I turn it on for the first time that day, it will cut for about 3" then stop. The compressor runs but I can't get a strong plasma arc anymore. I get a thin weak arc for a second but the compressor doesn't "go under load" like it did for the first 3".
I tried putting in new consumables and it still won't kick in and cut. If I come back tomorrow, it will cut again for a couple inches then quit and not cut anymore. Then, it won't even produce the thin arc, just the compressor runs.
I don't get any trouble lights except for the power light. I mean the yellow light doesn't come on.
What can I check to fix this?
Thanks
Danford1

You are not "grounding" the piece being cut. That connection is completing the electrical circuit. Without that connection, the plasma cutter will not work.
That connection also needs to be good. Try grinding your work where you put the work clamp and see if your results improve.

HTH
Griff

[danford1]

I have a Spectrum Thunder that isn't working right. Before I get into particulars, I have some general questions.
Why do you need to ground the piece being cut? If you pull the trigger in the air, the arc shoots out. The plasma arc cuts the metal. What does the ground clamp do? Is it simply a safety reason or is it needed for the cutting action?

My spectrum thunder just doesn't work right. When I turn it on for the first time that day, it will cut for about 3" then stop. The compressor runs but I can't get a strong plasma arc anymore. I get a thin weak arc for a second but the compressor doesn't "go under load" like it did for the first 3".
I tried putting in new consumables and it still won't kick in and cut. If I come back tomorrow, it will cut again for a couple inches then quit and not cut anymore. Then, it won't even produce the thin arc, just the compressor runs.
I don't get any trouble lights except for the power light. I mean the yellow light doesn't come on.
What can I check to fix this?
Thanks
Danford1