Method and apparatus for automatically controlling gas pressure for a plasma cutter

Abstract

A system for providing a dynamically controlled plasma cutting system includes a plasma cutting system having a proportional valve and a sensing device arrangement and a controller connected to this arrangement. The system is configured to dynamically control gas flow in a plasma torch. The system measures gas pressure at a proportional valve and makes necessary gas pressure adjustments in the system by way of controlling a drive signal sent to the proportional valve to control gas flow.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]The present application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S. Ser. No. 11 / 460,446 filed Jul. 27, 2006, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to plasma cutting systems and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for automatically controlling gas pressure for a plasma cutter.[0003]Plasma cutting is a process in which an electric arc and plasma gas are used to cut or gouge a workpiece. Plasma cutters typically include a power source, a gas supply, such as compressed air, and a torch. The torch is constructed to create and maintain the plasma arc. To generate the plasma cutting power, a power source receives an input voltage from a transmission power receptacle or generator and provides output power to a pair of output terminals. One of the output terminals is connected to an electrode and the other is connected to the workpiece. An ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides a plasma cutting system that can dynamically control gas flow in a plasma torch. This is achieved through a proportional valve and pressure sensor arrangement connected to a controller. The controller adjusts the drive signal sent to the proportional valve to regulate gas flow. This results in a more efficient and precise plasma cutting system. Additionally, the invention includes a method for controlling gas pressure in a plasma cutting system, which ensures consistent and accurate gas pressure for optimal cutting performance.

Problems solved by technology

While control of air pressure settings in this manner provides an operator with a great deal of control, such a construction is not without its drawbacks.

One drawback associated with existing gas pressure regulation systems, such as the one described above, is the imprecision associated with the use of mechanical regulators.

Another drawback of existing systems is the inefficiency associated with the operator's need to adjust gas pressure settings.

Suspending one process in order for the operator to check a pressure gauge and adjust the pressure setting for another operation is time consuming and results in overall process inefficiency.

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