Patent · US Expired

Plasma arc torch starting process having separated generated flows of non-oxidizing and oxidizing gas

US5017752A · kind A · utility

41Cited by
14References
6Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMar 2, 1990
Grant dateMay 21, 1991
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 2, 2010

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
  • CPC primaryH05H1/3468
  • WIPO fieldChemical engineering
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

A process for starting a plasma arc torch is disclosed which minimizes the oxidation of the electrode to thereby extend the life of the electrode. A flow of non-oxidizing gas is first generated between the discharge end of the torch electrode and the nozzle assembly of the torch. A pilot arc then is created between the discharge end of the electrode and the nozzle assembly. The pilot arc is transferred and the flow of non-oxidizing gas is terminated. A flow of oxidizing gas then is generated for plasma formation.

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