Hey guys, I've been talking to Hypertherm support about my 0-21 error on my Powermax 65, but I was wondering if you guys had any ideas. I've had my TM 4x4 Growth Series for over a year now and I've cut with 45A Fine Cut no problems! But starting a few weeks ago, I get the 0-21 error, the torch will rise and continue the toolpath but doesn't cut. I read a few forums with Jim Colt saying it has to do with air flow. Pressure gauge reads 130psi to the plasma. I did try a cut with 45A regular consumables, which it cut successfully, but it doesn't look as good as Fine Cut. When I tried the same cut with 45A Fine Cut right after using 45A consumables, it popped the 0-21 code. So far I've replaced the ground, replaced consumables + swirl ring, checked air pressure while cutting(which doesn't drop below 100psi). Any ideas? Thank you.
I can only recommend using the Maintenance Menu to verify if the gas pressure is sufficient. Press and hold the two buttons on the front of the unit, press the Amps/Gas button (button on right) to place the asterisk on the G field, turn the amperage knob to allow the torch to purge air. Then look at the setting to the left (P) the first field is the set pressure, this is adjustable when the asterisk is on P, the second field is the Read pressure which should match the Set pressure when purging. I would also recommend downloading the Service Manual for your plasma cutter from HT website, there is a lot more troubleshooting information in there.
Have you replaced the Gas Filter Element in the Hypertherm? https://www.hypertherm.com/Download?fileId=HYP110872&zip=False
0-21 error: - If incoming pressure drops below 90 psi....even momentarily while cutting you can get an 0-21 - If you are piercing too close to the material with Finecut consumables you will get this code. Ensure that you are using ohmic contact and that your pierce height is as suggested in the cut charts in the operators manual. - Worn swirl ring is a common cause of 0-21. The swirl ring acts as 1. a gas flow control, 2. an insulator between the nozzle and shield., 3. A bearing that allows the electrode to slide freely. They generally will still look new after you change 50 or more sets of nozzles and electrodes, however air flow is incorrect and the bearing function may be sticking under air pressure conditions. - Worn torch retaining cap. - Aftermarket consumables will cause 0-21 codes, and possible torch damage. Jim Colt Hypertherm
