Patent · US Active

Systems, devices, and methods for starting plasma

US11963287B2 · kind B2 · utility

5Cited by
328References
19Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateSep 20, 2021
Grant dateApr 16, 2024
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 26, 2042

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB33Y70/00
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Some embodiments herein are directed to devices and methods for automatically starting a plasma utilizing a wand. In some embodiments, the wand may be used to start a plasma in a plasma torch such as, for example, a microwave plasma torch or an induction plasma torch, as discussed below. The wand may comprise an elongate, hollow wand member comprising a closed distal end, a proximal end, and one or more apertures extending from a hollow interior of the wand member to an exterior surface of the wand member; and an elongate wire member positioned within the hollow interior of the wand member and extending along at least a portion of a length of the wand member, wherein the wire member is configured to be placed in operable communication through the aperture with a power source, such that the power source can be activated to in turn start the plasma within the plasma torch. The plasma torches discussed herein may be used in various applications including, for example, high volume synthesis of advanced materials such as nano-materials, micro-powders, coatings, alloy compositions for additive manufacturing.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.