Plasma arc torch having an electrode with internal passages

US8680425B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Hypertherm, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Peter J. Twarog · Lebanon, US
• Charles M. Hackett · Hanover, US
• David J. Cook · Bradford, US
• Bruce P. Altobelli · Lebanon, US
• David L. Bouthillier · Hartford, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 11, 2008
• Grant date: Mar 25, 2014
• Expiry date: Dec 14, 2030

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H05H1/34
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

An electrode for a plasma arc cutting torch which minimizes the deposition of high emissivity material on the nozzle, reduces electrode wear, and improves cut quality. The electrode has a body having a first end, a second end in a spaced relationship relative to the first end, and an outer surface extending from the first end to the second end. The body has an end face disposed at the second end. The electrode also includes at least one passage extending from a first opening in the body to a second opening in the end face. A controller can control the electrode gas flow through the passages as a function of a plasma arc torch parameter. Methods for operating the plasma arc cutting torch with the electrode are disclosed.