High-power electrical quick connector

Abstract

A quick connector assembly for high power electrical applications and method of manufacturing a high-power quick connector assembly are disclosed. The quick connector assembly has a first connector and a second connector constructed to form an electrical connection that can be quickly coupled and decoupled. The first connector has a collar portion connectable to a welding cable and a stem portion having a shank section and a threaded section. The second connector has a recess constructed to receive the stem portion of the first connector and electrically engage both the shank portion and the threaded portion of the first connector.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION [0001] The present application is a divisional and claims priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 711,475 filed Sep. 21, 2004, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates generally to welding-type devices, and more particularly, to a quick connector assembly for use therewith. [0003] Welding-type devices generally have a power source configured to generate a power signal suitable for welding-type applications. This power signal is transmitted beyond the power source by connecting a pair of cables to the power source. One of the cables has a torch at an end thereof and another cable has a work clamp attached at an end thereof. The cables are of such length as to allow an operator to position the torch and work clamp proximate the work piece. Additionally, the cables provide an operator with flexibility in the positioning the work piece relative to the power source. [0004...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

An operator may inadvertently apply stresses to the connection between the weld cable and the power source during repositioning of the weld cables.

Inadvertent overstressing of the connection can result in poor electrical connectivity between the weld cable and the power source.

Poor electrical connectivity between the weld cable and the power source can detract from weld quality and result in wear between the components of the connection.

Ultimately, the connection can be overstressed to a point of mechanical failure or disengagement.

While some connectors provide a relatively robust mechanical connection, such as by bolting the weld cable to the power source, such constructions are not without their drawbacks.

Specifically, welding-type devices that require the weld cable be bolted to the power source detract from the ease of portability of such devices and the interchangeability of weld cables.

As such, in highly dynamic applications where the power source may be relocated several times a day or welding processes may be required at different distances from the welding device, repeatedly disconnecting and reconnecting the weld cables decreases the overall efficiency of welding operations.

As the amount of current passed through the connection increases, the temperature of the components of the connection also increases and is indicative of power loss associated with the connection.

Heat generated in the connection decreases the electrical efficiency of the connection.

Additionally, if left unaddressed, the temperature of the connector can ultimately lead to failure of the connection or damage to other components of the welding-type device including the welding cables, the torch, the welding device housing, or the internal components of the welding-type device.

As such, the connection between the weld cable and the power source may not only decrease the overall efficiency of the welding-type device but may also define a limit for the amount of welding power that can be communicated through the connection.

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