I bought some nozzles and electrodes on amazon a month or so ago. Threw a 1.0mm tip in the torch and set it to 42A to hand cut some 3/16 mild steel diamond plate. The air supply system has 2 compressors on it, one big enough to run the machine, and a backup. The air goes through a 2 stage filter set up, and a motorguard that is attached to the plasma cart. I got about 120 inches of cut, and had checked the hole on the nozzle a couple times.
When i decided to change it, the electrode looked bad. It was disfigured and discolored so i went to change that too. I hand tightened it in and gave it MAYBE 1/16 more with pliers. Well to get it out i had to fight it. The threads on the torch were mangled, it looks like the electrode welded to it.
So now I need a new torch head. Ive found things online saying I can use ipt40 torches or s45 torches. Can anyone confirm what I should buy? Also, do you think I did something wrong with operating the unit that caused this?