SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Manual Content

Microstep 1. Foreword

2. Overview

SH-HC30 
Flame / Plasma Cutting Torch 3. Installation

Height Controller
4. Fast Operation

System Manual 5. Debugging

6. Operating guide

7. Control Panel

8. Troubleshooting

9． Initial positioning

10． NC and commands related with

height adjustment device

11. Height adjustment remote

controller

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Graphic model of height controller

All rights reserved

Forbidden to transmit or copy any files for the purpose of commercial, telecommunication and others without
particular permission. Compensation should be paid if any clause is violated. All rights belong to the
company.  

Disclaimer
 We already made a consistency inspect between the content of the printed file and the hardware & software
described. We can’t guarantee absolute accuracy due to the inaccuracy can’t be eliminated completely. We
will check the information in the file regularly and make some necessary amendments afterwards. We are
pleased to accept any suggestions on the amendments. The company will reserve all the rights to make
some amends technically or on the base of amended files.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Contents
1. Preface .................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Purpose.............................................................................................................................. 1

1.2 Important statement:........................................................................................................ 1

1.3 Warning ............................................................................................................................. 2

1.4 Terms................................................................................................................................. 2

1.5 Company Information ....................................................................................................... 3

2. Overview ................................................................................................................................. 3

2.1 Technical Features .......................................................................................................... 3

2.2 Main Technical Parameters ............................................................................................... 4

3. Installation ............................................................................................................................. 5

3.1 Mechanical Installation ..................................................................................................... 5

3.2 Electrical Installation Connection ..................................................................................... 8

3.2.1 External Switch Control Mode ........................................................................................ 8

3.3 Description of functions of voltage divider board ........................................................... 14

3.4 Dimensional drawing of voltage divider board................................................................ 16

4. Quick Operation Guide for Capacitance and Arc Voltage height Controller.......................... 17

4.1 The control operation of electrical operation panel: (external switch mode) ................. 17

4.2 SH-2002AH/SH-2200H CNC system output interface operation (I / O control mode) ... 18

4.3 The communication interface of the CNC system is used to complete the operation
(RS232 communication mode) .............................................................................................. 19

4.4 Operation Flow ................................................................................................................ 19

4.5 Operation Flow of Daily Work.......................................................................................... 20

Figure 4-2 Operation Flow of Daily Work .............................................................................. 20

5 Operating Guide..................................................................................................................... 21

5.1 Parameter Setting ........................................................................................................... 21

5.2 Manual Operation ............................................................................................................ 21

5.3 Automatic Operation ....................................................................................................... 21

6. Debugging............................................................................................................................. 21

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

6.1 Initial debugging of capacitive detection ........................................................................ 21

6.2 Debugging steps of a key height calibration ................................................................... 22

7 Controller Panel ..................................................................................................................... 22

7.1 Control Parameters ......................................................................................................... 22

7.2 Operation Panel ............................................................................................................... 23

7.3 Description of Display...................................................................................................... 24

8 Troubleshooting..................................................................................................................... 25

9 Description of initial positioning function.............................................................................. 26

9.1 Positioning mode............................................................................................................. 26

9.2 Positioning height setting ............................................................................................... 26

9.3 Process ............................................................................................................................ 26

10 Command Functions Related To M of CNC System and Height Controller........................... 27

10.1 Function M of Direct Control Output Port of CNC System ............................................. 27

10.2 Fixed Cycle of Function M............................................................................................ 27

11 Height Adjustment Remote Controller ................................................................................ 28

11.1 Function Introduction ................................................................................................... 29

11.2 Operation Guide ............................................................................................................ 29

11.3 Wiring Instructions ....................................................................................................... 30

11.4 Installation Dimensions ................................................................................................ 31

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

1. Preface
Either flame cutting or plasma cutting mode the stability of the distance (height) between the cutting torch
and the cutting board in cutting is essential, which will directly affect the cutting speed and cutting quality.

Figure1-1 SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller

1.1 Purpose

SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller is the automatic control module for cutting torch
height with the integration of mechanical increase and electric control specially designed for portable flame
and plasma cutting machine, and another new product in the aspect of industrial automation control of
Beijing Start Microstep Control Technology Co., Ltd.
SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller is easy to use; debugging is convenient; and the
price is low; it inherits the characteristics of Microstep products: "The performance of imported product;
Domestic price." It is the ideal accessory product for welding and cutting equipment manufacturers.

1.2 Important statement:

 Please comply with the actual instrument if there is any discrepancy between the
SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller and the content of the
manual. We won’t inform you particularly if some amendments about the product
and its accessories are made. If you want to know more updated content, please
go to our website http://www.startsh.com, or call Beijing Start Microstep Control
Technology Co., Ltd.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
 Please read the safety warning and attentions to avoid any accidents due to
incorrect operations.
 Please operate the machines strictly following the manual and its detailed
instructions before you install and use this machine.
 All the responsibilities will be undertaken by the users if any particular illegal
utilization of SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller or manual is
made for it doesn’t represent our position and we refuse to admit the legal
responsibility.
 The safety warning is to avoid any accidents to the human body or properties.
 For any quality problems during the utilization of the SH-HC30 flame / plasma
cutting torch height controller, the customers can call the service center of our
company or authorized agents, distributors to get service and help.
 It’s not allowed to copy, transmit or utilize any content of this manual without the
specific permission. Any offenders will undertake all the responsibilities for the
loss.

1.3 Warning

Please read and strictly comply with the following instructions before operating the product to reach the
design control accuracy of product and avoid any damage and accident.
 Installation must be carried out by technical personnel of related industry or
having relevant experiences.
 Please thoroughly read the instructions before installation.
 Confirm that the selected power supply complies with the required specifications.
 Installation, inserting and pulling of plugs are prohibited when the current is
switched on.
 Keep away from heat for the installation position.
 The controller shell must be grounded well to avoid electric shock or affecting the
controller.
 The cutting board must be grounded well, and maintain a good grounding with
the controller shell in order to ensure the accuracy of height control.

！ 
Note: If the controller shell and the cutting board are not grounded well, the height controller will not work
normally.

 Take care when transporting and never make some fierce collision or tremble for
damage may occur.
 Please don’t disconnect the SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height
controller or change its internal construction for any accidents or fault may occur.

1.4 Terms

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
 One key height calibration: when the capacitance height measurement is
adopted, the specific inductive capacity between the capacitance detection ring
and the cutting board may affect the accuracy of height measurement due to
temperature, pressure, humidity, gas composition and many other factors on site.
In addition, the serious non-linear relationship exists between capacitance value
and height value. Our company has developed the intelligent program of "a key
height calibration". You only need to press a key on site, you can set various
factors of change automatically. And within 3-30mm, the display and control of
high accuracy, high precision and high linearity are realized.
 High speed zone: When the difference between the actual height and the set
height is bigger, in order to reach the set value at the fastest speed, the cutting
head advances for the set value at the highest speed; this zone is called high
speed zone.
 Speed Regulating Zone: When the cutting head reaches the set value at high
speed, severe oscillation may be caused so that the height control is unstable. In
order to achieve a smooth transition, the speed regulating zone is set. This zone
is located between the high-speed zone and dead zone. In this zone, when it is
farther away from the set value, the cutting head moves at higher speed; if not,
at a lower speed. The range value in this zone may be set. When it is too big, the
transition is smooth, but the track time is too long; when it is too small, the
tracking is conducted in time, but oscillation may be caused easily.
 Dead zone: When the cutting head is within certain height value, the height of
the cutting head will not be adjusted any more. The range is called dead zone.
When the dead-zone value is too large, the control precision is too low; when it is
too small, the cutting head may oscillate up and down easily. The appropriate
value of dead zone not only can guarantee the control precision but also do not
generate oscillation.

1.5 Company Information

Beijing Start Microstep Control Technology Co.,Ltd.

Address：Room 604, ZeYang Building, No. 166,Fushi Road, Shijingshan District, Beijing
Postcode：100043
Tel：010-88909150（switchboard）
Sales：010-88909276/77/78 Market：010-88909270/72/73
Fax：010-88909271
Website：http://www.startsh.com/eng

E-mail：[email protected]

2. Overview

2.1 Technical Features

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 Stepper motor instead of the traditional DC motor
SH-HC30 flame / plasma cutting torch height controller uses the unique stepper
motor control technology of Start Microstep Company. It subverts the traditional DC
motor height control mode and makes it become fast and smooth, and the life of the
product is increased greatly.
 The height of cutting nozzle is displayed directly in the mode of

capacitance height control

 The advanced height linear calibration technology makes the cutting nozzle and
cutting board be within 3 ~ 30mm in the automatic height controlling in the
capacitance mode; the absolute height display and control are realized; the unit is
mm. The display accuracy is ± 0.1mm.
 Integration of mechanical lifting device and height controller
The integrated design of detector, controller and drive makes the products reach a
high degree of integration; adjusting the stroke: 10Cm.
 All Digital Technology
Circuit uses SMD technology without any adjustable devices; all digital control
technology ensures that the product has a high degree of reliability.
 Simple and convenient linearization calibration
The function of "One key for height calibration" guarantees that in any circumstances,
the user only needs to press a key, he can calibrate the absolute height
measurement and achieve a linear height measurement.
 It can be used in tough environment
The shell uses the sealed, tamper-proof, waterproof and moisture-proof aluminum
box design, particularly applicable to the severe environment of high temperature
and high electromagnetic interference from flame cutting and plasma cutting.
 There are various interfaces that are easy to use.
 The interface is simple and easy to control, suitable for all flame cutting and plasma
cutting numerical control system, and they can also be used alone.
 RS232 communication interface
Asynchronous communication function can be connected with the numerical control
system, convenient for parameter setting, automatic / manual control, taper angle
transition control and data exchange.

2.2 Main Technical Parameters

 Power Requirements: DC 24V ± 2 V 3 A

 Applicable motor: 17 / 23 hs series of stepper motors
 Manual adjustment range: 0 ~ 100 mm
 Automatic increase of control range: 3 ~ 30 mm
 Automatic increase of control speed: 3000 mm / min (30 ° slope)
 Control precision: ±0.5 mm
 Dimensions of box body: (155 × 87 × 71) mm
 Operating temperature: -10 ℃ ~ 50 ℃
 Weight: total weight of capacitance height control: 1.990kg

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
 Total weight of Arc Voltage height: 1.645kg
 Detection system: capacitance-type detector, arc voltage height detector

3. Installation

3.1 Mechanical Installation

 The name and position of relevant components of the height controller are shown in Figure 3-1.
 Among them, capacitive sensor connecting components are only added in flame .

Lift stepper 

Standard high frequency 

Detector ring 

Operating display 
panel 

Cutting torch holder 
Detector ring holder 

Flame cutting torch 

Detector ring 

 Figure 3-1 The position, name and function of various components of controller
 6 screw holes M6 on the back of the height controller are used to fix the box body
to the support. Their position and size are shown in Figure 3-2.

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Note:
Pay attention to the depth of six mounting
holes in installation so as not to affect the
stroke.
2. The distance from the shell of the height
controller to the interior should be less than
8mm, namely the length inserting into the
interior of the height controller shell must not
exceed 8mm.

Figure 3-2 Position for installation of screw holes on the back of the controller

 Left view installation drawing of the height controller and related dimensions, as shown in Figure 3-3.
Back view installation drawing of the height controller and related dimensions, as shown in Figure 3-4.

Figure 3-3 The right view of the controller

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Figure 3-4 Back view of height controller

Installation diagram of the connecting components of the height controller is shown in Figure 3-5

Figure 3-5 Installation diagram of the connecting components of the height controller

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3.2 Electrical Installation Connection

3.2.1 External Switch Control Mode

The external switch control mode is applicable to the capacitance

height control and arc voltage height control
Manual and automatic switching  K1 

K2 
Manual rise 

K3 
Manual falling 

Ground

Electrical diagram of external switch control

When K1 is turned off, the height controller is in manual state;

When K1 is closed, the height controller enters the automatic state.

When K1 is turned off, closure of K2 and K3 is valid.

When K1 is closed, closure of K2 and K3 is invalid.

3.2.2 CNC system input / output control mode (I / O control)

Electrical installation of capacitive detection height controller

 The electrical installation of capacitive detection height controller is shown in Figure 3-6.

 The high-frequency cables and plugs are special parts. The high-frequency cables of 1000mm can
be configured according to different demands.

 The connection to height control (15-pin connector) and the numerical control system (25-pin
connector) may be made by the user. The connection mode is shown in Figure 3-7. For the detailed
pin definition of 15-pin and 25-pin see Table 3-1 and Table 3-2.

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Figure 3‐6 capacitive controller electrical installation diagram 

Note: The diameter of 24 V power wire and ground wire should be larger than 0.75 mm2 

Manual and automatic switching 

Manual rise 

Manual falling

Ground 

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
Table 3-1 25-pin connector of numerical control system for the pin definition of the height control system

No. Property Description

5 Output Manual / automatic selective signal

6 Power Supply Power supply 24V ground, height controller power supply

7 Output Manual rise signal, drive cutting gun to rise

12, 13 Power Supply Power supply 24 V positive, height controller power supply

19 Output Manual falling signal, drive cutting gun to fall

24, 25 Power Supply Power supply 24 V positive, height controller power supply

Note: 25-pin plugs of the numerical control system that do not list the pin serial number will not be used.

Table 3-2 Pin definition of 15-pin connector of height Controller

No. Property Description Remarks

1 Serial port public 232-COM

2 Serial port Receiving 232-RXD

3 Serial port sending 232-TXD

4 Input Signal Arc voltage (height of cutting head) signal

5 Signal ground Arc voltage signal ground

7, 14 Power supply Power supply 24 V positive, height controller power supply

8, 15 Power supply Power supply 24 V ground, height controller power supply

10 Input manual / automatic selection signal

12 Input Manual rise signal, drive the cutting gun to rise

13 Input Manual falling signal, drive the cutting gun to fall

Note: 15-pin plugs of the numerical control system that do not list the pin serial
number will not be used.

Electrical installation of arc voltage detection-type height controller

 The electrical installation of arc voltage detection-type height controller is shown in Figure 3-8.
 The cables connecting to height control (15-pin connector), numerical control system (25-pin connector)
and voltage divider board (9-pin connector) are made by the user. For the pin definition of 15-pin,

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
25-pin connector and 9-pin connector see Table 3-1, Table 3-2 and Table 3-3

Plasma Power Supply 

Height controller 

Voltage divider board

The back of numerical control system

Figure 3-8 Electrical installation diagram of arc voltage controller

Table 3-3 The pin definition of 9-pin connector of voltage divider board

No. Property Description

2 Power supply V ground, height controller power supply

5 Power supply V ground, height controller power supply

6 Output Arc voltage signal, height signal of the plasma cutting nozzle

9 Output Power supply 24 V positive, height controller power supply

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Note: Those that do not list the pin serial number will not be used.

Connecting to voltage divider boar 

Connecting to numerical control system 

Connecting to height controller 

9‐pin connector of voltage divider board 

15‐pin connector of height    25‐pin connector of numerical control system 

Figure 3-9 Wiring diagrams of arc-type height controller, voltage divider board and numerical control system

Note: The wire diameter of 24V power cord and ground wire should be greater than 0.5 square millimeter.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

The electrical installation diagram of height controller when the arc

voltage detection and the capacitive detection are used together.

Plasma Power Supply 

Arc voltage signal

15-pin
High-frequen
 

分压板 9 芯接头 
 

The back of numerical control

Height controller 

Capacitive detecting ring

25pin 

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Automatic open

Arc voltage signal

Manual rise 
Manual falling

24V GND

This figure is kept on standby – automatic connecting method by using arc voltage and capacitance

3.2.3 The control mode of communication interface of CNC system

(RS232 control)
The control mode of communication interface of CNC system is conducting the software debugging

3.3 Description of functions of voltage divider board

 The voltage divider board is to reduce the voltage after arc starting of plasma cutting torch in a certain
proportion, and is separated and converted to the functional module reflecting the low-voltage signal of
cutting nozzle and cutting board. It is the indispensable accessory in the height monitoring and control
of plasma cutting. The voltage dividing ratio of the voltage divider board of standard configuration is 50:
1.
 The description of various interfaces of the voltage divider board is shown in Figure 3-10.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

J3 AC power, connecting device J2 arc voltage input, arc p voltage

AC220V power supply terminal connecting to the plasma
power supply

J1 arc voltage output of voltage divider

board, connecting to the height controller
and the numerical control system

Figure 3-10 The interface description of voltage divider board

The interface pin definition is shown in Table 3-4, Table 3-5 and Table 3-6.

 Table 3-4 The pin definition of J1 connector

No. Property Description

2 Power supply Power supply 24V ground, height controller power supply

5 Power supply Power supply 24V ground, height controller power supply

6 Output Arc voltage signal, the height signal of plasma cutting nozzle

9 Power supply Power supply 24V positive, height controller power supply

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
Note: Those without pin number will not be used.

 Table 3-5 The pin definition of J2 connector

No. Property Description

1 Power supply Ground

Plasma arc voltage positive terminal (clip for connecting with

2 Input
steel plate)

3 Input Plasma arc voltage negative terminal (arc voltage output)

Note: push the orange button inside and insert the stripped cable into the wiring hole and then release.

 Table 3-6 The pin definition of J3 connector

No. Property Description

1 Power supply ～220V±10%

2 Power supply ～220V±10%

 The voltage divider board may choose the installation position as required, but note: J1 interface is
low-voltage signal; J2 is the high-voltage signal. In order to prevent the interference of
high-pressure and high-frequency signals on the low-voltage signal and improve the stability of the
system, the wire laying of J1 and J2 should be carried out independently.

3.4 Dimensional drawing of voltage divider board

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4. Quick Operation Guide for Capacitance and Arc

Voltage height Controller

4.1 The control operation of electrical operation panel: (external

switch mode)

For the wiring of electrical connection of capacitance height control see the "Electrical
Connection" of section 3.2
For the wiring of electrical connection of arc voltage height control see the "Electrical
Connection" of section 3.3
Operation steps are as follows:
1. The automatic / manual control switch is set to manual mode.
Cutting gun control
Automatic Rise  fall 
The automatic / manual
control switch is set to
manual mode
Manual 

2.The direction switch of the cutting gun is used to adjust its rise and fall .

The direction switch Cutting gun control

of the cutting gun is Automatic  Rise  fall 
used to adjust its
rise.

Manual 

Cutting gun control

Automatic  Rise  fall 
The direction
switch of the
cutting gun is used
to adjust its fall.
Manual 
3. The automatic / manual control switch is set to automatic
Cutting gun control
Automatic  Rise  fall 
The automatic / manual
control switch is set to
automatic mode. 
Manual 

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Now the mechanical lift device of the height controller realizes the automatic height control. If the height of
the cutting gun is inappropriate, repeat the above steps 1-3. In automatic mode, the up / down switch of the
cutting gun does not work.

4.2 SH-2002AH/SH-2200H CNC system output interface operation (I /

O control mode)
For the wiring of electrical connection of capacitance height control see the
"Electrical Connection" of section 3.2
For the wiring of electrical connection of arc voltage height control see the
"Electrical Connection" of section 3.3.
The operation steps are as follows
1. Adjust the rise and fall of cutting gun to a suitable height directly by pressing the keys for rise and fall of
the cutting gun on CNC panel.

Press S↑ to adjust the cutting gun to rise 

Press S↓ to adjust the cutting gun to fall

The height of the cutting gun may be

adjusted by pressing the key “pause” in
operation

Press “5” to control the rise of arc

voltage

Press “6” to control the fall of arc voltage

The height of the cutting gun may be

adjusted by pressing the key “pause” in
operation

KEY  USB

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
Usually, I / O of the numerical control system is in the manual control mode of the height controller. When
the processing starts, I / O of the numerical control system converts to the automatic control mode of the
height controller. Now the mechanical lifting device of the height controller realizes the automatic height
control.

4.3 The communication interface of the CNC system is used to

complete the operation (RS232 communication mode)

The function is being developed. For the final functions see the additional remarks after the functions are
completed.

4.4 Operation Flow

Flow starts 

arc voltage type  capacitive type

detection moden

For mechanical For mechanical

installation see 3.1; installation see 3.1;
connection of connection of capacitance

For electrical installation

For capacitance electrical
of arc voltage see 3.3
installation see 3.2 

Electrify, the Electrify, the

detection mode is detection mode is
set as the arc set as the

The flow is

Figure 4-1 The operation flow using or needing the replacement of detection mode for the first time

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

4.5 Operation Flow of Daily Work

Flow starts

numerical control system

and height controller
power-on 

auto-detection of "manual
/auto" status

Yes  No 
Manual 

When the manual rise signal The cutting torch adjusts the
is low level, the cutting height automatically
torch moves upward according to the set height

When the manual fall signal The set value of height of

is low level, the cutting “rise key” on the operation
torch moves downward panel plus 1 

The set value of height of The set value of height of “fall

“rise key” on the operation key” on the operation panel
panel plus 1 minus 1

The set value of height of “fall The display displays the

key” on the operation panel current actual height 
minus 1

The display displays the

current set value of height

Figure 4-2 Operation Flow of Daily Work

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

5. Operating Guide

After turn-on, the height controller has three states: manual, automatic and parameter editing states.

5.1 Parameter Setting

 In the manual or automatic mode, press the key “Enter” for a long time, enter the parameter editing
state. Click the key “Enter” in the editing state, you can exit to the manual or automatic state. The
exited state depends on the state before entering.
 In the editing state, press the function key, switch the edited parameters circularly. The switching
sequence is: H (upper limit value) → L (lower limit value) → A (set value of height) → E (dead-zone
value) → d (speed regulating zone value) → C (detector mode selection) → b (non-board reduction
parameters) → H (upper limit value). (See 7.3)
 Click the up arrow, the selected parameter value plus 1 (for the selective range of parameter values see
7.1).
 Click the down arrow, the selected parameter value minus 1 (for the selective range of parameter values
see 7.1).

5.2 Manual Operation

 Manual / automatic signals: at high level, the controller is in manual state.

 Manual rise signal: at high level, invalid; at low level, the cutting head rises.
 Manual fall signal: at high level, invalid; at low level, the cutting head falls.
 Press the key "↑" on the operation panel, the cutting head rises.
 Press the key "↓" on the operation panel, the cutting head falls.
 When the manual rising and falling is implemented, the set value of height is modified.

5.3 Automatic Operation

 Manual / automatic signal: at low level, the controller is in the automatic state.
 In the automatic state, the controller controls the cutting head automatically according to the set height
by the user.
 Press the key "↑" on the operation panel; the set value of height plus 1; hold it, plus 1 continuously.
 Press the key“↓” on the operation panel; the set value of height minus 1; hold it, minus 1 continuously.

6. Debugging

6.1 Initial debugging of capacitive detection

The capacitance height measurement is to detect the distance through the capacitance between the
capacitance detection ring and the cutting board, namely, the height measurement mode, thereby to
achieve the height control.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
When the capacitive height measurement is adopted, the specific inductive capacity (SIC) between the
capacitance detection ring and the cutting board may affect the height measurement accuracy due to the
temperature, pressure, humidity, gas composition and many other factors on site. In addition, the serious
non-linear relationship exists between the capacitance value and the height value. Our company has
developed the intelligent program of "a key height calibration ". On site you only need to press a key, you
can set various change factors automatically on site and realize the display and control of high accuracy, high
precision and high linearity within 3-30mm.
In the following situations, the height calibration is needed.
1. When the equipment is used for the first time;
2. When the use environment of equipment changes;
3. When you find that the actual height of capacitance detection ring is not consistent with its display height.
Because "a key height calibration" is very simple, you only need to press a key, the users may calibrate at
any time.

6.2 Debugging steps of a key height calibration

 Check: the circular ring at the bottom of capacitance detection ring must be parallel to the cutting
board.
 Turn on the cutting torch height controller.
 Set the detector mode as the capacitance detector mode (for the method see 7.3).
 In manual mode, the cutting nozzle is adjusted to be connected with the cutting board.
 Press the key "down arrow" on the height control panel for about two seconds "; a key height
calibration” starts automatically, as follows:
1.Rise to about 30mm high in five steps;
2. And then fall to about 10mm from the cutting board and stop;
3. All the calibration is completed.
The initial debugging is finished.
 For the height control operation see 5.2 and5.3.

7. Controller Panel
There are display and keys on the height controller panel. Through the panel operation, you can modify
relevant parameters and monitor operation status.

7.1 Control Parameters

 Set value (A: Accuracy Height): the expectation value of the space (height) between the cutting nozzle
and the cutting board, set by the user. For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1.
 Dead zone value (E: Error Area): When the actual height is A ± E, the cutting torch height is not
adjusted any more (see 1.4). For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1
 Speed regulating zone (d: Down Speed Area): the speed regulating zone is between AEd ~ AE, and A
+ E ~ A + E + d (see 1.4). For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1.
 High limit place (H: High Limit): When the cutting torch position is higher than the set value, display
alarm, and moving-up stops. For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1.
 Low limit place (L: Low Limit): When the cutting torch is lower than the set value, display alarm, and
moving-down stops. For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1.

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 Selection of detector (C: capacitance): 0 is the arc voltage detection; 1 is capacitive detection. For the
set range and factory value see Table 7-1.
 No board drop parameter (b):
In the capacitive detection mode, when the detected height is higher than value b, the cutting torch
stops; when the height returns to the value below it, the automatic height control continues;
In the arc voltage detection mode, when it falls manually, it encounters the zero signal, the cutting torch
rises to b mm in the opposite direction. For the set range and factory value see Table 7-1.

Table 7-1 Setting range (V)

H L A E d C b

Set range
100～300 10～40 20～200V 0～20 0～100 0～1 0～50
（V）
Arc voltage
Factory
280 10 80 3 5 1 5
value（V）

Set range
20.0～30.0 3.0～10.0 6.0～25.0 0.0～4.0 0.0～4.0 0～1 2.0～30.0
（mm）

Capacitance
Factory
value 25.0 4.0 10.0 0. 3 2. 0 1 25.0
（mm）

7.2 Operation Panel

The operation panel is shown in Figure 7-1.

Display 

Up arrow 

Enter key 

function

down arrow

Figure 7-1 Operation Panel

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
 Enter key: enter or exit the editing state.
 Function key: in the manual state, implement the function of “a key height
calibration”; in the editing state, switch the current editing parameters.
 Up arrow: in manual and automatic state, the set height value plus 1; in the
editing state, the current parameter plus one.
 Down arrow: in manual and automatic state, the set height value minus 1; in the
editing state, the current parameter minus 1.
 Display: the display functions are as follows:
1. Manual operation status: Display detector mode, operation status, set value of
height.
2. Automatic operational state: display detector mode, running state, the current
height value.
3. Editing parameter status: Display the editing parameter names and the
corresponding editing parameter values.

7.3 Description of Display

 Manual operation state: The first one displays the detection mode; the second one
displays the operation state; the last 3 digits display the set value of height.
 The first one: C: the capacitance detector mode, U: the arc voltage detector mode.
 The second one: no operation, flash between and ; manual rising: ; manual
falling: .
 The last 3 digits: in the capacitance mode, a decimal; unit: of mm; in arc voltage
mode, there is no decimal place; unit: V.
 Automatic operation state: The first one displays the detection mode (as shown

above); the second one displays the operation state; the last 3 digits display the set

value of height (as shown above). The second one is described as follows:
When is the fixed display, the cutting torch is adjusted up at high speed.
When is the flashing display, the regulating speed of the cutting torch is
increased.
 When is the fixed display, the cutting torch is adjusted down at high
speed.
 When is the flashing display, the regulating speed of the cutting torch is
reduced.
 When is the flashing display, the cutting torch is adjusted to the place.
 When the last 3 digits are and the height value flashes, it is the high
alarm
 When the last 3 digits are and the height value flashes, it is the low
alarm
 When the last 4 digits are and display, it is the upper limit position.
 When the last 4 digits are and display, it is the lower limit position.
 Editing parameter status: The first one displays the parameter name; the second one
displays the equal sign ; the last 3 digits display the parameter value in the
flashing mode. In the capacitance mode, there is a digit after decimal; unit: mm; in

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
arc voltage mode, there is no decimal point position; unit: V. The first one is
described as follows:
 H: the upper limit value. When the height is larger than this value, it is the
high alarm. The cutting torch can only move down and cannot move up.
 L: lower limit value. When the height is lower than this value, it is the low
alarm. The cutting torch can only move up and cannot move down.
 A: the set value of height; in the automatic mode, this value is used as the
given value to adjust height automatically.
 E: Dead zone value (see 7.1).
 D: Speed regulating zone value (see 7.1).
 C: selection of detector mode (see 7.1).
 b: No board falling parameter value (see 7.1)

8. Troubleshooting
For the common faults, inspection methods and corrective measures see Table 8-1.
Table 8-1

Fault Inspection items Corrective measures

Whether it is powered on Power on

The motor does
Whether the power supply voltage is normal Check the power supply
not work

Whether it is locked-rotor motor Load reduction

No display Check the power supply Power on

Upper limit The running exceeds the upper limit value of Check the limit switch in
alarm machinery high position

Lower limit The running exceeds the lower limit value of Check the limit switch in
alarm machinery low position

Instable signal Whether the cutting board is grounded reliably Grounded firmly

Inaccurate Implement “a key height

Operating environment changes
height calibration”

Increase the speed

Vibrate wildly Speed reduction zone value is too small
reduction zone value d

Too slow Reduce the speed

Speed reduction zone value is too big
tracking reduction zone value d

Increase the dead zone

Slight vibration Dead zone value is too small
value E

Too low Reduce the dead zone

Dead zone value is too big
accuracy value E

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9. Description of initial positioning function

9.1 Positioning mode

The impact position switch is set in the height controller. When the cutting gun moves down and collides
with the cut workpiece, the internal switch is turned on without the need of special cutting gun and
"protection cap". Electrical loop must not be formed between the "protection cap" and the workpiece. This
approach applies to any plasma cutting gun.
How to use the positioning function: in the plasma mode, the signal of "manual down" of the external
control interface is valid. When the cutting gun moves down and collides with the steel plate, the internal
switch is turned on. It returns up to a certain height by automatic control of the height controller, and then
positioning is completed.

9.2 Positioning height setting

Parameter value B is the positioning height, unit: mm; note when detection collision occurs, overmuch
walking and certain deformation of workpieces and cantilever occur, so value B is generally set within
5-12mm.

9.3 Process

This function does not require additional relevant processes and instructions by the numerical control
system. It only needs to extend the time for falling of the cutting gun. Generally, the time for the falling of
the cutting gun is longer than its rise; 2-6 seconds are OK.

Before NC implements the perforating process, the cutting gun will rise or fall. Because the falling time will
be longer than that of rise, and then the cutting nozzle may collide with the workpiece, at this time, the
height controller can detect the collided workpiece and will return up to a certain distance immediately, thus
the initial positioning is realized. Note even if the falling signal for the cutting gun has not been removed by
NC system, the cutting torch will not continue to fall, waiting for falling delay of the cutting gun of NC to end.

 Why special attention should be paid to the collection of arc voltage? Because even
the plasma power of different manufacturers cuts in the same environment, the arc
column voltage is not necessarily the same. Fill in parameters A with the test results
(see control parameters 7.1). If the value A is not tested, the current value is smaller
than the current actual voltage for plasma power cutting, then the plasma cutting
gun will fall rapidly until it collides with the workpiece in automatic cutting, if not, it
will always rise until the arc breaks.
 For the new plasma power that is newly used and is not familiar, when it is equipped
with the height controller for the first time, the actual starting arc testing must be
made for the actual arc voltage of the plasma power supply. The normative power
supply may be based on the "cutting speed chart" provided by the supporting
instruction book by plasma power supply.
 Simple test method: adjust the distance of the cutting torch and steel plate to the
appropriate value manually (according to the power process requirements). In the

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
manual mode of plasma, the height controller carries out the manual starting arc
perforation, after perforation, the cutting gun moves (through the numerical control
system ) for actual cutting, at this time, the value on the nixie tube display of the
height controller is the actual arc voltage of the plasma power supply in the current
environment.

10. Command Functions Related To M of CNC System

and Height Controller

10.1 Function M of Direct Control Output Port of CNC System

M14/M15 switch for rising of cutting gun, M14 (on), M15 (off)
M16/M17 switch for falling of cutting gun, M16 (on), M17 (off)
M38/M39 automatic / manual switch of the height controller M38 (auto) M39 (manual)

10.2 Fixed Cycle of Function M

M07 perforation fixed cycle

The flame cutting operation sequence is as follows:
M07
1. If the gas (acetylene) valve is not opened, then open gas (acetylene) for ignition;
2. The cutting gun falls (cutting gun fall delays, see M71);
3. Open the preheating oxygen valve, the preheating delay starts. If the preheating time is not enough,
you can press the key【pause】, the preheating time is extended to 150 seconds automatically. If the
preheating has been completed, press the key 【start】to end the preheating delay, and the preheating
time is saved automatically in the preheating delay parameter;
4. The cutting gun rises(perforation cutting gun rise delay, M72);
5. Open the cutting oxygen valve (M12), perforation delay time is delayed, after that the cutting gun
falls (perforation cutting gun falling delay M73);
6. Turn on the height controller (M38); the following procedures start.

The plasma cutting operation sequence is as follows:

M07
1. The cutting gun falls (the falling of cutting gun delays, see M71);
2. If the selected perforation positioning is valid, then the cutting gun falls until it collides with the lower
limit position switch, thus the falling stops; the cutting gun rises, after perforation positioning delay is
delayed, the cutting gun stops;
3.Turn on the starting arc switch;
4. Detect the signal of "arc voltage success", if the arc voltage detection selects 0 in the setting of
parameters (not detected), the arc voltage is not detected. After starting arc succeeds, the perforation
delay is delayed (seconds)
5. Turn on the height controller (M38); the following procedures start.
M08 Close the fixed cycle of cutting
The flame cutting operation sequence is as follows:

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
M08
1. Close the cutting oxygen (M13);
2. Turn off the height controller (M39);
3. The cutting gun rises (M70);
The plasma cutting operation sequence is as follows:
M08
1. Turn off the arc voltage switch;
2. Turn off the height controller (M39);
3. The cutting gun rises (M70).
M50 perforation action:
1. The cutting gun rises (M72); when the plasma operation is carried out, there is no such action;
2. Open the cutting oxygen (M12); or plasma starting arc starts and the signal of "arc voltage success" is
detected.
3. The cutting gun falls (M73), when the plasma operation is carried out, there is no such action;
4. Turn on the height controller (M38)
M70 Fixed cycle of the cutting gun rise:
It is used when the procedure starts and the cutting procedure of a stage ends, the cutting gun is lifted so
that it can move to the next cutting position quickly. Operation sequence: turn on the cutting gun rise switch
(M14), cutting gun rise delay is delayed; turn off the switch for the cutting gun rise (M15).
M71 Fixed cycle of cutting gun fall:
It is used before perforation. Its action is contrary to M70, but the value is smaller, because of the action of
gravity, falling is faster than rising. Operation sequence: turn on the switch of cutting gun fall (M16), cutting
gun fall delay is delayed, turn off the switch of the cutting gun fall (M17).
M72 Perforation cutting gun rise cycle:
It is used after preheating. The cutting gun is lifted to a certain extent. Avoid that sprayed steel slag blocks
the muzzle of the cutting gun when the cutting oxygen is opened. Operation sequence: turn on the switch of
the cutting gun rise (M14); perforation cutting gun rise delay is delayed; turn off the switch of cutting gun
rise (M15).
M73 Falling cycle of perforation cutting gun:
It is used after the preheating. After the implementation of M72, open the cutting oxygen, the cutting gun is
placed in the cutting position, the reverse action of M72, but the value is smaller. Because of the action of
gravity, falling is faster than rising.
Operation sequence: turn on the switch of the cutting gun (M16); the perforation cutting gun delay is
delayed; turn off the switch of the cutting gun (M17).
M75 Cutting gun positioning delay:
When the plasma gun is positioned, first the cutting gun falls (M16), when it comes to the lower limit place
(see the input port XXW 8), the falling of the cutting gun stops (M17). Then, the cutting gun rise is started
(M14); after the cutting gun positioning delay, the rising of the cutting gun stops (M15);

11. Height Adjustment Remote Controller

In order to make the users be far away from the cutting site in operation, and make them use it easily,
simply and intuitively, our company provides the users with the dedicated remote controller, as shown in
Figure X-1.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual

Graphic model of remote controller 

Figure X‐1 Outside view of the height adjustment remote controller 

The remote controller uses the computer core design and can implement the information communication
RS232 with the master controller. The adjustment of the height and the sensitivity adopts the simple knob
design so that it has the operation conveniences of analog circuit and accuracy and reliability of digital
circuit.

11.1 Function Introduction

 3 indicator lights.
Power: when the light is on, it is in the electrifying state.
 Manual: when the light is on, it is in the manual operation state, at this time the
automatic indicator light is off.
 Automatic: when the light is on, it is in the automatic operation state, at this time the
manual indicator light is off.
 3 buttons.
 Manual/ automatic: switching between the manual and automatic state.
 Rise: the cutting torch rises manually.
 Fall: the cutting torch falls manually.
 2 knobs, as shown in Figure X-2.
 Height: in automatic state, the height of cutting torch is adjusted.
 Sensitivity: in automatic state, the control sensitivity of the cutting torch is adjusted.

11.2 Operation Guide

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
 When it is powered on, the controller is in manual operation state, the indicator light
"Manual" is on, while the indicator light "automatic” is off. At this time, if the height of
the cutting torch needs to be adjusted, the button of "up" or "down" may be pressed.
When you press the key “up”, the cutting torch rises; when you stop pressing, rising
stops. In the same way, press the button of "down", the falling of the cutting torch
may be completed.
 When the automatic height control is needed, click the button of "manual /automatic",
the light of "Manual" is off; the light of "Automatic" is on, which makes the height
controller enter the automatic control mode. In this mode, the height of the cutting
torch is adjusted according to the set height automatically.
Note: This control system adopts two external control methods for the height
controller, namely, direct external switch control mode and the remote controller
control mode. In this system, if two external control modes exist simultaneously, only
when the two modes are in the automatic control state, the height controller may
enter the automatic control state, otherwise, they are manual control states.
 If the height does not meet the requirements, regulate the knob of "height" to set.
0% is low, 100% is high.
 If you think the regulation accuracy is not enough, you can adjust the knob of
"sensitivity" to the low position (direction 0%), thereby the sensitivity is improved,
but it should not be too low, otherwise it may cause the cutting torch oscillate up and
down; When oscillation is found, the knob of "sensitivity" can be adjusted to a high
position (direction 100%) till the oscillation is eliminated, which is the best.

11.3 Wiring Instructions

 Wiring diagram is shown in Figure X-3.

Wiring unit 1        Back terminal of the remote controller 

Wiring unit 2       
DB15 plug of height controller

Figure X-3 Wiring diagram of height remote controller

The functions of the back terminal of the height remote controller are shown in Table X-1.

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 SH-HC30 Height Controller System Manual
Table X-1 Function definition of the back terminal of the controller

No. Property Description

9 Power supply Power supply 24V ground, height controller power supply

10 Input RS232 communication receiving terminal

11 Input RS232 communication receiving terminal

15 Power supply Power supply 24V positive, height controller power supply

16 Power supply Power supply 24V ground, height controller power supply

1～8,12,13,14 No functional definition

11.4 Installation Dimensions

96X48mm 
48 
48mm

45

12 
68 
96mm

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