Solenoid control and safety circuit system and method
US6670572B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 4, 2002 |
| Grant date | Dec 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 17, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH05H1/3473
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A solenoid control and safety circuit suitable for use in connection with contact start, plasma-arc torches. The system monitors a voltage to determine when to open an air control solenoid as part of a contact starting process. If a proper voltage is sensed, a gas solenoid is opened to allow airflow to separate the contact starting elements. The system also includes a circuit that monitors a gas pressure switch to determine whether sufficient pressure exists to separate the contact start elements after a contact start process has been initiated. The circuit removes power if it senses insufficient pressure. Also disclosed is a circuit that monitors a differential voltage between the electrode and the tip to determine if the elements remain in contact after airflow has been provided to the torch head.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.