Consumable cartridge for a plasma arc cutting system

Abstract

The invention features a replaceable cartridge for a plasma arc torch. The cartridge includes a cartridge body (112) having a first section (112A) and a second section (112B). The first and second sections are joined at an interface (132) to form a substantially hollow chamber. The interface (132) provides a coupling force that secures the first and second sections together. The cartridge also includes an arc constricting member (124) located in the second section; an electrode (120) included within the substantially hollow chamber; and a contact start spring element (128) affixed to the electrode (120). The spring element (128) imparts a separating force that biases the electrode (120) toward at least one of the first section or the second section of the body (112). The separating force has a magnitude that is less than a magnitude of the coupling force.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of plasma arc cutting systems and methods. More specifically, the present invention relates to methods and apparatus for simplifying, optimizing and reducing cutting time and cost through the use of improved consumable cartridges. Background technique [0002] Plasma arc torches are widely used for cutting and marking materials. A plasma torch generally includes an arc emitter (e.g., an electrode), an arc constrictor or constriction member (e.g., a nozzle) with a central exit hole mounted in the torch body, electrical connections, channels for cooling, and The arc controls the passage of a fluid (eg, plasma gas). The torch produces a constricted ionized jet of gas with high temperature and high momentum. The gas used in the torch can be non-reactive (eg, argon or nitrogen) or reactive (eg, oxygen or air). During operation, a dimensional arc is first created between the arc emitter (cathode) and t...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0003] Known consumables have a number of disadvantages before and during cutting operations

Selecting and installing the correct set of consumables for a particular cutting task can be tedious and time consuming prior to the cutting operation

During operation, current consumables suffer from performance issues such as the inability to effectively dissipate and conduct heat away from the torch and maintain proper alignment and spacing of the consumables

Furthermore, current consumables include very large quantities of expensive materials, such as copper and / or Vespel™, which result in significant manufacturing costs and inhibit their widespread commercialization, production and adoption

Images