Electric arc equipment
US6635842B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 30, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 21, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 30, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23K37/006
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The invention relates to electric arc processes particularly for underwater use. Electric arc processes effected under water ordinarily operate at a voltage of 20 or 30 volts, with an open circuit of e.g. 50 volts, and are at a level that does not pose a serious risk to the diver. Such as plasma arc cutting has typical voltages of 100-200 volts, and an open circuit voltage of 200-400 volts, and can put a diver at considerable risk of electric shocks at a level that can be life threatening. The object of the invention is to avoid such risks, an objective met by electric arc equipment comprising an earthed safety electrode strategically positioned close to the torch of the electric arc equipment, to create the closest earth to which current could flow, but without the striking of an arc between a torch electrode and the earthed safety electrode.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.