Integral spring consumables for plasma arc torch using blow forward contact starting system
US5897795A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 8, 1996 |
| Grant date | Apr 27, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 8, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05H1/3489
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Disclosed is a novel method and structure for contact starting a plasma arc torch. A translatable, electrically conductive component such as a nozzle or swirl ring is biased into contact with an electrode by a compliant spring element. A pilot arc is formed by first passing current through the electrode/component interface. Thereafter, the component is translated under the influence of gas pressure in a plasma chamber formed between the electrode and component, compressing the compliant element and initiating the pilot arc. The spring element may be maintained integrally with the nozzle, swirl ring, or a retaining cap, facilitating removal and replacement of the spring element with consumable components of the torch. Exemplary spring elements include wave spring washers, finger spring washers, curved spring washers, helical compression springs, flat wire compression springs, and slotted conical discs.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.