PM65 CNC and Perf Metal

[rwskinner]

I'm trying to cut some 16ga SS Perf Metal. 1/8" holes using 45 amp FineCut.
I'm using commandCNC and I have the 485 disconnected, and I have the machine manually set to 45 amps and Expanded metal mode.
In CommandCNC, I have the it ignoring the HOLD (Arc OK).

The problem is, the torch will not stay on. It fires then goes out a second later like it's not in expanded metal mode.
Mode knob is fully CCW and the top LED for expanded metal is on.

Why will the torch not stay in pilot mode and transfer back and forth?

So far, I've been laying some 16ga under the metal so it will cut but it makes a mess and gets expensive.

Richard

[rwskinner]

Installing regular 45 amp consumables works fine, but 45 amp FC do not.
At least, not on mine.

Richard

[jimcolt]

Since you manually set the amperage, using similar technique manually set the cut air pressure as low as it will go...this will help it transfer to pilot mode over the voids in your expanded metal with Finecut consumables. Jim Colt