The Plasma Torch can be used with or without the MASSO DTHC.

Tool 112

To change to Plasma, issue a T112 M06 command in MDI. This command should also be included in your G-code file to ensure the correct screen is selected when the program runs.

This integrates Plasma and Mill operation into the same software, allowing users with a dual machine to switch between processes without changing software.

The X, Y, and Z offsets relative to the Main Spindle can be entered in the Multi-Head Settings page.

A Torch Touch Offset is provided to account for the activation distance required to trigger a touch switch.

Both Ohmic sensing and a touch switch can be used to set the Plasma torch height.

A Plasma Up/Down output is provided to move the Plasma torch into position if the machine uses multiple heads (for example, Plasma and Spindle).

A Plasma On/Off output is provided to control the Plasma Arc.

A piercing count is recorded on the F2 screen to allow the user to track wear on consumables. This value is retained in memory even when power is turned off.

The Plasma Torch can also be used without THC if height control is not required.

THC support is provided through the MASSO DTHC module and also supports older Up/Down THC units.

The MASSO DTHC module has been developed to work exclusively with, and integrate directly into, the Plasma Torch Multi-Head software.

For more information on the DTHC, see MASSO_DTHC.

For more information on setting up legacy THC units, click here.

A dedicated input is provided on MASSO Input 9 for the MASSO DTHC Input. No other input can be used for this function.

A new G-code command G200 has been introduced for Plasma operation. This command is an integral part of the MASSO DTHC module, but it can also be used with legacy THC systems.

Assigning MASSO DTHC Input

Assigning Plasma Inputs

Assigning Plasma Outputs

Multi-Head Settings

F2 Screen

Seven parameters are provided on the F2 Plasma tab to allow easy adjustment of the Plasma torch while cutting.

Each parameter box can be clicked, allowing a new value to be entered directly.

Touch-off and piercing operations are automated in MASSO Plasma and will occur on each M3 command before moving to the cutting height. These functions are controlled by Parameters 1 to 4.

The THC voltage can be set directly in MASSO, either by entering a new value or by using the Torch Up / Down buttons on the screen. Each press adjusts the voltage by 1 volt.

The THC feed rate can be adjusted as required. This controls the speed of the Z-axis when under THC control.

Feed Rate Anti-Dive is a percentage of the X and Y axis feed rate. If the feed rate drops below this value, the Z-axis will lock while under THC control, preventing the torch from dropping and contacting the material.

Parameters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 can be set in the G-code file using the command G200.

Parameter 6 is set using the command M667.

Configuration

Enable Plasma Torch in the Multi-Head screen.

Assign an input for Plasma–Ohmic if using Ohmic touch sensing.

Assign an input for Plasma Touch if using a touch switch.

Assign an input for Plasma–Torch Breakaway.

Assign an input for Plasma–MASSO THC if using THC

Enter the X, Y, and Z offsets from the reference tool in the Plasma Torch Multi-Head Settings page.

If the Plasma torch is used with a Main Spindle, enter the offsets relative to the spindle. If the machine is a standalone Plasma machine, leave these values set to 0.

Enter the Torch Touch Offset value if using a Plasma torch with a built-in touch switch.

Assign a Plasma output for Plasma Torch On/Off.

Assign a Plasma Up/Down output if the torch must be moved into position.

Plasma Logic

Example command: T112 M06

When the Plasma tool is selected:

The Plasma Up/Down output goes High to move the torch into position. This is not required if the Plasma torch is the primary head.

When the G-code file is loaded, the cutting parameters are automatically populated in the Plasma tab.

The M3 command will start the Plasma process. The torch will:

1. Touch off on the material

2. Move to the piercing height

3. Start the arc

4. Wait for the Piercing Delay time

5. Move to the cutting height

The piercing count will increase to allow the user to track wear on consumables.

MASSO will then continue executing the G-code file.

If a MASSO THC is installed and enabled using M667 F???, the THC will take control of the Z-axis height and maintain a constant height using the specified Cutting Voltage.

If the X/Y feed rate drops below the Anti-Dive value, the Z-axis will lock to prevent the torch from contacting the material. Once the feed rate returns to a valid speed, the Z-axis will resume THC control.

M666 will disable the THC.

Parameters 1–7 can be adjusted in the Plasma tab by selecting the parameter box and entering a new value. This can be done while machining is in progress to fine-tune cutting performance.

Torch Up and Down buttons are provided on the F2 screen to allow fine adjustment of torch height. Each press adjusts the cutting voltage by ±1 volt.

M5 will turn off the Plasma Arc.

Changing to another tool will cancel Plasma mode.

The Plasma Up/Down output goes Low to retract the torch to the up position.

A THC Feed Rate Override is available under the Override tab, allowing the THC feed rate to be adjusted in real time.

THC Feed Rate Override

Installing and Setting Up MASSO DTHC

Information on installing and setting up the MASSO DTHC can be found here.

INFORMATION: Older Up/Down THC units can also be used with the new Multi-Head software.
 Arc OK, THC Up, and THC Down inputs can be assigned as shown in the Proma THC 150 section of the documentation.