Tip for a plasma arc torch

Abstract

A tip gas distributor is provided that preferably comprises a plurality of swirl holes and a plurality of secondary gas holes, wherein the swirl holes direct a plasma gas to generate a plasma stream, and the secondary gas holes direct a secondary gas to stabilize the plasma stream. Additionally, a tip gas distributor is provided that comprises swirl passages and secondary gas passages formed between the tip gas distributor and an adjacent component to generate and stabilize the plasma stream. Further, methods of generating and stabilizing the plasma stream are provided through the use of the swirl holes and passages.

Description

[0001] related application [0002] The present invention is a Continuation In-part of US Application Serial No. 09 / 794,540, "Contact Start Plasma Arc Torch," filed February 27, 2001. technical field [0003] The present invention relates to plasma arc torches (Plasma Arc Torches), in particular to devices and methods for generating and stabilizing a plasma stream (Plasma Stream). Background technique [0004] Plasma arc torches, also known as electric arc torches, are used to cut, mark, puncture, and weld metal work parts, typically by introducing a high-energy plasma stream of ionized gas particles into a work part. In a typical plasma arc torch, ionized gas is provided at the end of the torch and flows through an electrode before it exits the nozzle or hole in the tip of the plasma arc torch. The electrode, which is one of the several consumption sites on the plasma arc torch, has a relatively negative potential and operates as a cathode; conversely, the tip of the arc t...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, replacing consumable components is time consuming and cumbersome, and if an operator uses different levels of operating current on a normal basis, then incremental quantities of some consumable components must be maintained on the inventory list to accommodate the different Operation in current range

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