Electrode for a plasma cutting torch, assembly comprising the same, plasma cutting torch comprising the same, and method for plasma cutting

Abstract

Electrode for a plasma cutting torch, comprising an electrode holder and an emission insert which are connected to each other by force, form and / or material bonding, characterized in that the emission insert consists of an alloy of at least tungsten and at least one of the following elements or compounds: zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide; arrangement with the same, plasma cutting torch with the same and method for plasma cutting.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to electrodes for a, in particular liquid-cooled, plasma cutting torch and, in particular liquid-cooled, arrangements comprising the same, plasma cutting torches comprising the same and methods for plasma cutting.

[0002] Plasma cutting torches are used for plasma cutting of metals. They typically consist essentially of a torch body, an electrode, a nozzle, and a holder. Modern plasma torches and plasma cutting torches also have a nozzle protection cap mounted over the nozzle. A nozzle is often secured with a nozzle cap.

[0003] Depending on the plasma cutting torch type, the components subject to wear during operation of the plasma cutting torch due to the high thermal stress caused by the arc include, in particular, the electrode, the nozzle, the nozzle cap, the nozzle protection cap, the nozzle protection cap holder, and the plasma gas guide and secondary gas guide components. These components can be easily replaced by an operator and are therefore considered wear parts.

[0004] The plasma cutting torches are connected via cables to a power source and a gas supply that feeds the plasma cutting torch. Furthermore, the plasma cutting torch can be connected to a cooling device for a cooling medium, such as a coolant.

[0005] Plasma cutting torches are subject to high thermal stresses. This is caused by the strong constriction of the plasma jet by the nozzle bore. Small bores are used here to generate high current densities of 50 to 150 A / mm² in the nozzle bore, high energy densities of approximately 2x10³ W / cm², and high temperatures of up to 30,000 K. Furthermore, higher gas pressures, typically up to 12 bar, are used in plasma cutting torches. The combination of high temperature and high kinetic energy of the plasma gas flowing through the nozzle bore leads to the melting of the workpiece and the expulsion of the molten material. A kerf is created, and the workpiece is severed.

[0006] In plasma cutting, nitrogen or nitrogen-containing gas mixtures are often used as the plasma gas to cut high-alloy steel, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, or non-ferrous metal alloys, such as aluminum or an aluminum-magnesium alloy. However, it is also possible to cut low-alloy and unalloyed steels, so-called structural steels, using nitrogen or nitrogen-containing gas mixtures.

[0007] A plasma gas flows between the electrode and the nozzle. The plasma gas is guided through a gas guide (plasma gas guide). This allows the plasma gas to be directed precisely. It is often set in rotation around the electrode by a radial and / or axial offset of the openings in the plasma gas guide. The plasma gas guide is made of electrically insulating material because the electrode and nozzle must be electrically insulated from each other. This is necessary because the electrode and nozzle have different electrical potentials during operation of the plasma cutting torch. To operate the plasma cutting torch, an arc is generated between the electrode and the nozzle and / or the workpiece, which ionizes the plasma gas.To ignite the arc, a high voltage can be applied between the electrode and nozzle, which pre-ionizes the gap between the electrode and nozzle and thus forms an arc. The arc burning between the electrode and nozzle is also called the pilot arc.

[0008] The pilot arc exits through the nozzle bore and strikes the workpiece, ionizing the path to the workpiece. This allows the arc to form between the electrode and the workpiece. This arc is also called the main arc. The pilot arc can be switched off during the main arc. However, it can also continue to operate. In plasma cutting, this is often switched off to avoid placing additional strain on the nozzle.

[0009] The electrode and nozzle, in particular, are subject to high thermal stress and require cooling. At the same time, they must also conduct the electrical current required to form the arc. Therefore, materials with good thermal and electrical conductivity are used, usually metals such as copper, silver, aluminum, tin, zinc, iron, or alloys containing at least one of these metals.

[0010] The electrode often consists of an electrode holder and an emissive insert made of a material with a high melting temperature (> 3000°C). Tungsten is used as the material for the emissive insert when using non-oxidizing plasma gases such as argon, hydrogen, nitrogen, helium, and mixtures thereof. The high-temperature material can be pressed into an electrode holder made of a material with good thermal and electrical conductivity, for example, using positive and / or frictional engagement.

[0011] The electrode and nozzle can be cooled by gas, such as plasma gas or a secondary gas flowing along the outside of the nozzle. However, cooling with a liquid, such as water, is more effective. In this case, the electrode and / or nozzle are often cooled directly with the liquid, meaning the liquid is in direct contact with the electrode and / or nozzle. To guide the cooling liquid around the nozzle, a nozzle cap is located around the nozzle. Its inner surface, together with the outer surface of the nozzle, forms a coolant chamber through which the coolant flows.

[0012] Modern plasma cutting torches also feature a nozzle protection cap outside the nozzle and / or nozzle cap. The inner surface of the nozzle protection cap and the outer surface of the nozzle or nozzle cap form a space through which a secondary or shielding gas flows. The secondary or shielding gas exits the bore of the nozzle protection cap and envelops the plasma jet, creating a defined atmosphere around it. The secondary gas also protects the nozzle and nozzle protection cap from arcs that can form between the nozzle and the workpiece. These are known as double arcs and can damage the nozzle. The nozzle and nozzle protection cap are subjected to significant stress from hot material spraying up, particularly when piercing the workpiece.The secondary gas, whose volume flow during piercing may be higher than that during cutting, keeps the splashing material away from the nozzle and the nozzle protection cap and thus protects it from damage.

[0013] The nozzle protection cap is also subject to high thermal stress and requires cooling. Therefore, materials with good thermal and electrical conductivity are used for it, usually metals such as copper, silver, aluminum, tin, zinc, iron, or alloys containing at least one of these metals.

[0014] The electrode and nozzle can also be cooled indirectly. In this case, they are in contact with a component made of a material that conducts heat and electricity well, usually a metal such as copper, silver, aluminum, tin, zinc, iron, or alloys containing at least one of these metals. This component, in turn, is cooled directly, meaning it is in direct contact with the usually flowing coolant. These components can simultaneously serve as a holder or receptacle for the electrode, nozzle, nozzle cap, or nozzle protection cap, dissipating heat and supplying current.

[0015] It is also possible that only the electrode or only the nozzle is cooled with liquid.

[0016] The nozzle cap is usually cooled solely by the secondary gas. Arrangements are also known in which the secondary gas cap is cooled directly or indirectly by a cooling liquid.

[0017] Plasma torches, and especially plasma cutting torches, are subject to high levels of wear and tear due to the high energy density and high temperatures involved. This particularly applies to the electrode.

[0018] The previously known solutions for the electrode, which involve inserting the emission insert made of a high-melting material, such as tungsten, into a material with good thermal conductivity, such as copper or silver, often do not achieve sufficient results in terms of service life and / or cutting quality.

[0019] Especially when using nitrogen or nitrogen-containing gas mixtures as plasma gas, the lifetime is often too short. Furthermore, there are often large fluctuations in lifetime.

[0020] High cutting quality and cutting speed are achieved when cutting high-alloy steel, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, or non-ferrous metal alloys by using so-called point electrodes. The emissive insert protrudes from the electrode holder and is pointed at the front. When cutting with an argon-hydrogen mixture, a long service life and good cutting quality are also achieved for workpiece thicknesses of 6 mm and above.

[0021] With smaller workpiece thicknesses, larger perpendicularity and inclination tolerances occur according to DIN ISO 9013. Furthermore, increased burr formation occurs on the lower edge of the workpiece.

[0022] Cutting quality can be improved by using nitrogen, argon-nitrogen, nitrogen-hydrogen, or argon-hydrogen-nitrogen mixtures. However, the electrode's service life is significantly reduced, even at currents below 100 A, which are relatively low for plasma cutting.

[0023] The emissive insert wears during operation, i.e., when the arc or plasma jet is burning. It gradually burns back, and the portion protruding from the electrode holder shortens. As the burnback increases, the cut quality deteriorates significantly. Especially when cutting high-alloy steel, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, or non-ferrous metal alloys, this leads to a larger perpendicularity and inclination tolerance of the cutting surface according to DIN ISO 9013, the formation of dross on the underside of the material being cut, and increased roughness of the cutting surface.

[0024] If it has burned back more than 1 mm, the cut quality is usually no longer acceptable. If it burns back even further, for example, more than 2 mm, the arc transfers from the emissive insert to the electrode holder, causing the entire electrode to suddenly fail. This also destroys the nozzle. It can even destroy the entire torch.

[0025] It is known to dope tungsten electrodes with rare earth oxides to increase their service life and improve the ignitability of the arc. Examples include lanthanum, thorium, or cerium oxide. This is known for applications using argon as the gas. If such electrodes are used with nitrogen, their service life decreases rapidly.

[0026] It is also known to use so-called flat electrodes, in which the emissive insert does not protrude from the electrode holder. This results in an improved service life. However, the cutting speed and cut quality are significantly reduced when cutting high-alloy steel, stainless steel, non-ferrous metals, or non-ferrous metal alloys. The longer service life is achieved by better cooling of the emissive insert, as it is inserted into the electrode holder up to the arc initiation point, i.e., its front end. The poorer cut quality is probably due to the different or even poorer flow conditions for the plasma gas that a so-called flat electrode in combination with a nozzle creates.

[0027] The aim of the invention is to achieve a high cutting speed, a high cutting quality and a long service life of at least the electrode during plasma cutting.

[0028] According to the invention, this object is achieved according to a first aspect by an electrode for a plasma cutting torch, comprising an electrode holder and an emission insert which are connected to one another in a force-fitting, form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner, characterized in that the emission insert consists of an alloy of at least tungsten and at least one of the elements or compounds listed below: zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide.

[0029] Furthermore, according to a second aspect, this object is achieved by an electrode for a plasma cutting torch, wherein the electrode has a front end and a rear end, extends along a longitudinal axis and has at least one emission insert at the front end and an electrode holder, in particular wherein at least a part of the emission insert protrudes or projects from the electrode holder in the direction of the front end of the electrode, in particular wherein the emission insert protruding or projecting from the electrode holder has a section that tapers towards the front end, preferably conically.

[0030] Furthermore, this object is achieved according to a third aspect by an arrangement comprising an electrode according to one of claims 1 to 23 and a nozzle.

[0031] Furthermore, according to a fourth aspect, this object is achieved by a plasma cutting torch comprising an electrode according to one of claims 1 to 23, a nozzle and / or a nozzle protection cap and / or a plasma gas guide part. Furthermore, according to a fifth aspect, this object is achieved by a method for plasma cutting using a plasma cutting torch according to one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the plasma cutting torch (1) is operated with nitrogen or a gas mixture containing nitrogen as the plasma gas.

[0032] Advantageously, in the electrode according to the first and second aspects, the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is at least 0.1%, better at least 0.3% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert.

[0033] Advantageously, the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is a maximum of 5%, preferably a maximum of 2% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert.

[0034] Advantageously, the proportion of tungsten is at least 95%, better at least 98%, and most preferably 99% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert.

[0035] Furthermore, it can be provided that the portion of the alloy of the emission insert remaining at 100% by volume or mass is formed of at least 20%, preferably at least 25%, even better at least 30% copper and / or silver.

[0036] In a particular embodiment, the electrode has a front end and a rear end, extends along a longitudinal axis L and the emission insert is located at the front end.

[0037] Furthermore, a part of the emission insert may protrude or protrude from the electrode holder towards the front end of the electrode.

[0038] In particular, it can be provided that the emission insert protruding or projecting from the electrode holder has a section tapering towards the front end, preferably conically.

[0039] Advantageously, an outer surface of the preferably conically tapered section extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis L forms an angle (β) of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25°, between the outer surface and the longitudinal axis L.

[0040] The electrode holder may have a tapered, preferably conical, section towards the front end.

[0041] Advantageously, an outer surface of the preferably conically tapered section extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis L forms an angle α of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25°, between the outer surface and the longitudinal axis L.

[0042] Ideally, the angles α and β should have a difference of no more than 10°, better of no more than 5°, and ideally they should be the same size.

[0043] Advantageously, the emission insert at the front end of the electrode has a circular area with a diameter D 3 of maximum 1.5 mm, preferably maximum 1.0 mm, most preferably maximum 0.6 mm.

[0044] Advantageously, the emission insert has a circular area at the front end of the electrode, which has a diameter D3 of at least 0.2 mm, better of at least 0.4 mm.

[0045] The area at the front end of the electrode can also be other than circular. Regardless of whether it is circular or not, it is advantageously a maximum of 1.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.8 mm², ideally a maximum of 0.3 mm², and / or a minimum of 0.05 mm², preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm².

[0046] In a particular embodiment, the emission insert has a largest outer diameter D2 and the electrode holder has a smallest outer diameter D1, the difference between D1 and D2 being between 0.2 mm and 1 mm.

[0047] In the electrode according to the second aspect, an outer surface of the preferably conically tapered section extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis L can form an angle β of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25°, between the outer surface and the longitudinal axis L.

[0048] The electrode holder may have a preferably conical, tapered section towards the front end.

[0049] Advantageously, an outer surface of the preferably conically tapered section extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis L forms an angle α of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25°, between the outer surface and the longitudinal axis L.

[0050] The angles α and β can have a difference of maximum 10°, better of maximum 5°, and ideally be equal.

[0051] The emission insert may have a circular area at the front end of the electrode with a diameter D3 of maximum 1.5 mm, preferably maximum 1.0 mm, most preferably maximum 0.6 mm.

[0052] The emission insert can have a circular area at the front end of the electrode with a diameter D3 of at least 0.2 mm, better of at least 0.4 mm.

[0053] The area at the front end of the electrode can also be other than circular. Regardless of whether it is circular or not, it is advantageously a maximum of 1.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.8 mm², ideally a maximum of 0.3 mm², and / or a minimum of 0.05 mm², preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm².

[0054] The emission insert can have a largest outer diameter D2 and the electrode holder a smallest outer diameter D1, with the difference between D1 and D2 being between 0.2 mm and 1 mm.

[0055] In the arrangement according to the third aspect, it can be provided that the angles between the outer surface (7.1.3) of the conical section (7.1.1) of the electrode (7) and the longitudinal axis (L) as well as the inner surface of the nozzle (4) opposite the outer surface and the longitudinal axis (L) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, even better are the same.

[0056] According to a particular embodiment, the distance L1 between the front end (14) of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel (4.1) of the nozzle (4) is: L1≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 * D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel.

[0057] In the plasma cutting torch according to the fourth aspect, it can be provided that the angles between the outer surface of the conical section of the electrode and the longitudinal axis L and the inner surface of the nozzle opposite the outer surface and the longitudinal axis L have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, even better are the same.

[0058] The plasma cutting torch can be designed so that the distance L1 between the front end of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel is: L1 ≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 * D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel.

[0059] In the method according to the fifth aspect, the plasma gas mixture may consist of nitrogen and argon or of nitrogen and hydrogen or of nitrogen and argon and hydrogen.

[0060] Advantageously, the plasma cutting torch is operated with nitrogen or a gas mixture with nitrogen or air or a gas mixture with air as secondary gas.

[0061] Advantageously, the secondary gas mixture consists of nitrogen and argon or of nitrogen and hydrogen or of nitrogen and argon and hydrogen or of air and argon or of air and nitrogen.

[0062] Advantageously, at least 30%, better 50% and most preferably 75% of the volume of the plasma gas and / or the secondary gas consists of nitrogen or air.

[0063] Advantageously, at least the electrode and / or the nozzle and / or the nozzle protection cap is / are cooled with a liquid medium.

[0064] The workpiece to be cut can be made of a high-alloy steel, a stainless steel or a non-ferrous metal or a non-ferrous metal alloy.

[0065] The non-ferrous metal may consist at least partially of aluminum, copper, titanium, zinc or tin.

[0066] The present invention is based on the surprising finding that the materials used and / or the structural design of the electrode achieve a long service life and high cutting quality even over a long period of time when using a nitrogen-containing plasma gas or mixture in a plasma torch, in particular when cutting high-alloy steel, stainless steel or a non-ferrous metal / alloy.

[0067] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the appended claims and the following description, in which several embodiments are explained in detail with reference to the schematic drawings. In the drawings: Figure 1 shows a sectional view through a plasma cutting torch head of a plasma torch according to a particular embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows a sectional view through a plasma cutting torch head of a plasma torch according to a further particular embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 shows an individual view of the Figures 1 and 2 contained electrode in side view; Figure 4 a detailed view of the Figure 3 ; Figure 5 a view of the Figure 3 shown electrode from below; Figure 6 is a partial sectional view of an electrode according to a particular embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 7 is a partial sectional view of the electrode shown in the Figures 1 , 2 and 3 to 5 electrode shown.

[0068] The Figures 1 and 2 show sectional views through plasma cutting torch heads according to particular embodiments of the present invention, in which an electrode according to a particular embodiment of the present invention and an arrangement of electrode and nozzle according to a particular embodiment of the present invention have been used.

[0069] The Figures 3 , 4 and 5 show details of the plasma cutting torch heads of the Figures 1 and 2 contained electrode.

[0070] The Figure 6 shows a sectional view of an electrode according to another particular embodiment of the invention, and Figure 7 shows a sectional view of the Figures 1 , 2 and 3 to 5 electrode shown.

[0071] The Figure 1The plasma cutting torch head 1 shown comprises an electrode 7, a nozzle 4, and a plasma gas supply 3 for plasma gas PG. The plasma cutting torch head according to a particular embodiment of the present invention extends along the longitudinal axis L and has a front end 14 and a rear end 15.

[0072] The electrode 7 is screwed into an electrode holder 6 by means of a thread and is cooled from the inside with a cooling medium which is supplied via the interior of a cooling tube 11 as coolant flow WV1 and is returned to a space 13 formed between the exterior of the cooling tube 11 and the electrode holder 6 as coolant return WR1.

[0073] The nozzle 4 is held by a nozzle cap 2. Between the nozzle 4 and the nozzle cap 2, a cooling medium flows in a space 10, which is fed in via the coolant supply line WV2 and returned via the coolant return line WR2.

[0074] A nozzle protection cap 9 encloses the nozzle 4 and the nozzle cap 2. Secondary gas SG flows between them through a secondary gas guide 9.1, which simultaneously isolates the nozzle protection cap 9 from the nozzle cap 2 and keeps them at a distance. The secondary gas guide 9.1 can, for example, be designed to rotate the secondary gas SG. The nozzle protection cap 9 is secured by a nozzle protection cap holder 8, which is threaded onto the plasma torch head.

[0075] The nozzle 4 has in its interior, as seen from the front end 14, a nozzle channel 4.1 and a conically widening chamber 4.3. The inner surface of the chamber 4.2 of the nozzle 4 runs parallel to a conical outer surface 7.1.3 of a section 7.1.1 of the electrode 7. This ensures a good plasma gas flow in the remaining space between the nozzle 4 and the electrode 7. Due to the pointed design of the electrode 7, the front circular surface of the emission insert 7.2 comes very close to the end of the nozzle channel 4.1. Figure 1 For example, the distance L1 between the electrode and the rear end of the nozzle channel 4.1 is 0.8 mm and in the Figure 2For example, L1 = 1.2 mm. The diameter D4 of the nozzle channel 4.1 is 1.2 mm in both figures. Furthermore, the front surface 7.2.4 of the emission insert can also be other than circular. Regardless of whether it is circular or not, it is advantageously a maximum of 1.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.8 mm², ideally a maximum of 0.3 mm², and / or a minimum of 0.05 mm², preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm².

[0076] By "very close" we generally mean the following: L1≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 *D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel.

[0077] A plasma gas guide part 3.1 is mounted between the electrode 7 and the nozzle 4. This guide part isolates the electrode 7 and the nozzle 4 from each other and allows the plasma gas PG to flow into the nozzle interior through openings. The plasma gas PG can be set in rotation by radially offsetting the openings relative to the longitudinal axis L or by inclining the openings relative to the longitudinal axis L.

[0078] The electrode 7 consists of an electrode holder 7.1 and an emission insert 7.2. In one embodiment, however, it can also consist of more components. The emission insert 7.2 is fastened in the electrode holder 7.1. This can be done by force, form, or material connection. This achieves good heat transfer between the emission insert 7.2 and the electrode holder 7.1. The electrode holder 7.1 can be water-cooled, and it can have a cavity inside through which the cooling medium flows. The electrode holder 7.1 is made of a material with good thermal and electrical conductivity, e.g., copper or silver or an alloy thereof. An alloy as specified in any of claims 1 to 5 can be used for the emission insert 7.2.

[0079] Advantageously, the thermal conductivity is >300W / (m*K), for example, silver 429W / (m*K), copper 398W / (m*K). Alternatively or additionally, the electrical conductivity is advantageously more than 10 7 < S / m (for example, silver 61 * 10 6 < S / m, copper 58 * 10 6 < S / m).

[0080] In this example, an alloy of tungsten and zirconium oxide is used. The tungsten content is 99.3% and the zirconium oxide content is 0.3% of the alloy's mass. The remaining portion to 100% of the mass in this example consists of copper, which accounts for 0.15% of the total mass.

[0081] The one in the Figure 2 The plasma cutting torch head 1 shown differs from the one shown in Figure 1shown plasma cutting torch head in the inner contour of the nozzle. The nozzle 4 has in its interior, seen from the front end 14, a cylindrical nozzle channel 4.1, a further essentially cylindrical chamber 4.2 and a conically widening chamber 4.3. By essentially cylindrical is meant that the cylindrical inner surface of this chamber 4.3 is larger than the inner surface of the smaller conical section shown here directly at the nozzle channel 4.1. The inner surface of the chamber 4.3 of the nozzle 4 runs parallel to the outer surface 7.1.3 of section 7.1.1 of the electrode 7. This ensures good plasma gas flow in the remaining space between the nozzle 4 and the electrode 7. Due to the pointed design of the electrode 7, the emission insert 7.2 protrudes into the chamber 4.2. The front circular surface 7.2.4 of the emission insert 7.2. comes very close to the end of the nozzle channel 4.1. The length L1 here is 1.2 mm, for example.The diameter D4 of the nozzle channel 4.1 is, for example, 1.2 mm.

[0082] Furthermore, the front surface 7.2.4 of the emission insert may also be other than circular. Regardless of whether it is circular or not, it is advantageously a maximum of 1.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.3 mm², and / or a minimum of 0.05 mm², preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm².

[0083] The Figures 3 , 4 and 5 show in more detail the structure of the electrode of Figures 1 and 2 . The Figures 3 , 4 and 5 show the electrode 7, which extends along a longitudinal axis L and has a front end 7.4 and a rear end 7.3.

[0084] The electrode consists of the electrode holder 7.1 and the emission insert 7.2, which is pressed into the electrode holder 7.1 with its rear section 7.2.1 and is thus connected in a force-locking manner.

[0085] The electrode holder 7.1 has a rear section 7.1.2, which is designed here, for example, with a thread and can be screwed into the electrode holder 6 of the plasma cutting torch head. The electrode holder 7.2 has a conically tapered section 7.1.1 with an outer surface 7.1.3 towards the front end 7.4 of the electrode 7. At the front end is a circular surface with a diameter D1. An angle α enclosed by the outer surface 7.1.3 of the conical section 7.1.1 of the electrode holder 7.1 and the longitudinal axis L is, for example, 23° here.

[0086] The emission insert 7.2 has a rear section 7.2.1 projecting into the electrode holder 7.1 and a section projecting from the electrode holder 7.1, which has a cylindrical section 7.2.2 with the diameter D2 and a conically tapered section 7.2.3 with an outer surface 7.2.5.

[0087] The diameter D1 is 2.0 mm, for example. The diameter D1 is 2.5 mm, for example. The difference between D1 and D2 is 0.25 mm.

[0088] The small difference ensures that the pressure in the space between the nozzle 4 and the electrode 7 (as shown in the Figures 1 and 2 The plasma gas PG flowing through the plasma (shown) is disturbed as little as possible and flows as evenly and homogeneously as possible. This ensures good cutting quality.

[0089] Furthermore, the emission insert 7.2 has a circular area 7.2.4 towards the front end 14, which has a diameter D3 of, for example, 0.4 mm (see Figure 4). An angle β enclosed by the outer surface 7.2.5 of the conical section 7.2.3 of the emission insert 7.2 and the longitudinal axis L is, for example, 23°. In this exemplary embodiment, the angles α and β of the conically tapered sections of the electrode holder 7.1 and the emission insert 7.2 are of equal size. By keeping the angles α and β equal, it is achieved that the gas in the space between the nozzle 4 and the electrode 7 (as in the Figures 1 and 2 The plasma gas PG flowing through the plasma (shown) is as even and homogeneous as possible. This ensures good cutting quality.

[0090] Furthermore, the front surface 7.2.4 of the emission insert may also be other than circular. Regardless of whether it is circular or not, it is advantageously a maximum of 1.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.8 mm², preferably a maximum of 0.3 mm², and / or a minimum of 0.05 mm², preferably a minimum of 0.1 mm².

[0091] The diameter D3 in this example is 0.4 mm. This ensures that the electrode's service life is sufficiently long, even during plasma cutting with a nitrogen-containing plasma gas. At the same time, the relatively small circular area 7.2.4 ensures that the electrode remains sufficiently centered. This ensures a long service life and good cutting quality. Since the diameter D3 in this example is 0.4 mm, the circular area 7.2.4 is 0.125 mm².

[0092] The Figure 6 shows an electrode 7, which is different from the one in the Figures 3 to 5 shown embodiments in that the interior is of exemplary solid construction.

[0093] The Figure 7 shows the electrode again Figure 1 The electrode has a cavity 7.12 inside, which extends from the rear end 7.3 towards the front end. Here, cooling is much more effective than with an electrode according to Figure 6because the coolant passes through, as in Figure 1 and 2 As described above, a cooling tube is placed near the emission insert. This also increases the service life of the electrode, especially that of the emission insert.

[0094] The described electrodes 7 and the described plasma cutting torch 1 are used according to the invention for plasma cutting with a nitrogen-containing plasma gas. This is particularly advantageous for plasma cutting workpieces made of high-alloy steel, stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metal or non-ferrous metal alloy. However, it is also possible to cut structural steel.

[0095] The use of an electrode 7 with an electrode holder 7.1 and an emission insert 7.2 ensures a long service life and good cutting quality.

[0096] Further aspects of the invention include: 1. An electrode (7) for a plasma cutting torch, comprising an electrode holder (7.1) and an emission insert (7.2), which are connected to one another in a force-fitting, form-fitting, and / or material-fitting manner, characterized in that the emission insert (7.2) consists of an alloy of at least tungsten and at least one of the following elements or compounds: zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide. 2. An electrode (7) according to claim 1, wherein the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is at least 0.1%, better at least 0.3%, of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2). 3. Electrode (7) according to claim 1, wherein the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is a maximum of 5%, preferably a maximum of 2%, of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2).Electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of tungsten is at least 95%, better at least 98%, most preferably 99% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2). 5. Electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the proportion of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2) remaining to 100% of the volume or mass is formed from at least 20%, better at least 25%, even better at least 30% copper and / or silver. 6. Electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode (7) has a front end (7.4) and a rear end (7.3), extends along a longitudinal axis L, and the emission insert (7.2) is located at the front end (7.4). 7. Electrode (7) according to claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the emission insert (7.2) protrudes or protrudes from the electrode holder (7.1) toward the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7).Electrode (7) according to claim 7, wherein the emission insert (7.2) projecting or protruding from the electrode holder (7.1) has a section (7.2.3) that tapers, preferably conically, towards the front end (7.4). 9. Electrode (7) according to claim 8, wherein an outer surface (7.2.5) of the preferably conically tapered section (7.2.3), extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis L, forms an angle (β) of 15° to 30°, preferably 20° to 25°, between the outer surface (7.2.5) and the longitudinal axis (L). 10. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the electrode holder (7.1) has a section (7.1.1) that tapers, preferably conically, towards the front end (7.4). 11. Electrode (7) according to claim 10, wherein an outer surface (7.1.3) of the preferably conically tapered section (7.1.1) forms an angle (α) of 15° to 30°, preferably 20° to 25° between the outer surface (7.1.3) and the longitudinal axis (L). 12. Electrode (7) according to claim 11, wherein the angles (α) and (β) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, and are best of equal size. 13. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7) has a circular area (7.2.4) which has a diameter (D3) of a maximum of 1.5 mm, better of a maximum of 1.0 mm, best of a maximum of 0.6 mm. 14. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 7 to 13, wherein the emission insert (7.2) has a circular surface (7.2.4) at the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7) having a diameter (D3) of at least 0.2 mm, better of at least 0.4 mm. 15. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 7 to 14, wherein the emission insert (7.2) has a largest outer diameter (D2) and the electrode holder (7.1) has a smallest outer diameter (D1), wherein the difference between (D1) and (D2) is between 0.2 mm and 1 mm. 16. Electrode (7) for a plasma cutting torch, wherein the electrode (7) has a front end (7.4) and a rear end (7.3), extends along a longitudinal axis (L) and has at least one emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) and an electrode holder (7.1), in particular wherein at least a part of the emission insert (7.2) protrudes or projects from the electrode holder (7.1) in the direction of the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7), in particular wherein the emission insert (7.2) protruding or projecting from the electrode holder (7.1) has a section (7.2.3) tapering towards the front end (7.4), preferably conically. 17. Electrode (7) according to claim 16, wherein an outer surface (7.2) extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis (L)5) the preferably conically tapered section (7.2.3) forms an angle (β) of 15° to 30°, preferably 20° to 25°, between the outer surface (7.2.5) and the longitudinal axis (L). 18. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the electrode holder (7.1) has a preferably conically tapered section (7.1.1) towards the front end (7.4). 19. Electrode (7) according to claim 18, wherein an outer surface (7.1.3) of the preferably conically tapered section (7.1.1) extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis (L) forms an angle (α) of 15° to 30°, preferably 20° to 25°, between the outer surface (7.1.3) and the longitudinal axis (L). 20. Electrode (7) according to claim 19, wherein the angles (α) and (β) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, and are preferably equal. 21. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) the electrode (7) has a circular surface (7.2.4) which has a diameter (D3) of a maximum of 1.5 mm, better a maximum of 1.0 mm, most preferably a maximum of 0.6 mm. 22. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7) has a circular surface (7.2.4) which has a diameter (D3) of a minimum of 0.2 mm, better a minimum of 0.4 mm. 23. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the emission insert (7.2) has a largest outer diameter (D2) and the electrode holder (7.1) has a smallest outer diameter (D1), the difference between (D1) and (D2) being between 0.2 mm and 1 mm. 24. An arrangement comprising an electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims and a nozzle (4). 25. An arrangement according to claim 24, wherein the angles between the outer surface (7.1.3) of the conical section (7.1.1) the electrode (7) and the longitudinal axis (L) as well as the inner surface of the nozzle (4) opposite the outer surface and the longitudinal axis (L) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, even better are the same size. 26. Arrangement according to claim 24 or 25, wherein the following applies to a distance L1 between the front end (14) of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel (4.1) of the nozzle (4): L1≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 * D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel. 27. Plasma cutting torch, comprising an electrode (7) according to one of claims 1 to 23, a nozzle (4) and / or a nozzle protection cap (9) and / or a plasma gas guide (3.1). 28. Plasma cutting torch according to claim 27 with an electrode according to claim 11 or 19, wherein the angles between the outer surface (7.1.3) of the conical section (7.1.1) the electrode (7) and the longitudinal axis (L) as well as the inner surface of the nozzle (4) opposite the outer surface and the longitudinal axis (L) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, even better are the same size. 29. Plasma cutting torch according to claim 27 or 28, wherein for a distance L1 between the front end (14) of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel (4.1): L1 for a distance L1 between the front end of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel: L1≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 * D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel. 30. A method for plasma cutting using a plasma cutting torch according to one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the plasma cutting torch (1) is operated with nitrogen or a gas mixture containing nitrogen as the plasma gas. 31.32. The method according to claim 30, wherein the plasma gas mixture consists of nitrogen and argon, or of nitrogen and hydrogen, or of nitrogen and argon and hydrogen. 32. The method for plasma cutting according to any one of claims 30 to 31, wherein the plasma cutting torch is operated with nitrogen or a gas mixture containing nitrogen or air, or a gas mixture containing air as the secondary gas. 33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the secondary gas mixture consists of nitrogen and argon, or of nitrogen and hydrogen, or of nitrogen and argon and hydrogen, or of air and argon, or of air and nitrogen. 34. The method according to claim 33, wherein at least 30%, better 50%, and most preferably 75% of the volume of the plasma gas and / or the secondary gas consists of nitrogen or air. 35. The method according to any one of claims 30 to 34, wherein the electrode (7) and / or the nozzle (4) and / or the nozzle protection cap (9) is / are cooled with a liquid medium.A plasma cutting method according to any one of claims 30 to 35, wherein the workpiece to be cut consists of a high-alloy steel, a stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metal or a non-ferrous metal alloy. 37. A plasma cutting method according to claim 36, wherein the non-ferrous metal consists at least partially of aluminum, copper, titanium, zinc, or tin.

[0097] The features of the invention disclosed in the above description, in the drawings and in the claims may be essential both individually and in any combination for the realization of the invention in its various embodiments. List of reference symbols

[0098] 1Plasma cutting torch head 2Nozzle cap 3Plasma gas supply 3.1Plasma gas guide part 4Nozzle 4.1Nozzle channel 4.2Chamber 4.3Chamber 5Nozzle holder 6Electrode holder 7Electrode 7.1Electrode holder 7.1.1Tapered section of the electrode holder 7.1.2Rear section of the electrode holder 7.1.3Outer surface of the tapered section of the electrode holder 7.2Emission insert 7.2.1Rear section of the emission insert located in the electrode holder 7.2.2Part of the emission insert protruding from the electrode holder 7.2.3Tapered section of the emission insert 7.2.4Circular surface of the emission insert 7.2.5Outer surface of the tapered section of the emission insert 7.3Rear end of the Electrode 7.4 front end of the electrode 7.12 cavity 8 nozzle protection cap holder 9 nozzle protection cap 9.1 secondary gas guide part 10 chamber 11 cooling tube 12 workpiece 13 chamber 14 front end 15 rear end D1 smallest diameter of the front end of the electrode holder 7.1 D2Diameter of the part of the emission insert protruding from the electrode holder 7.2 D3Smallest diameter of the front end of the emission insert 7.2 D4Smallest diameter of the nozzle channel LLongitudinal axis of the plasma torch head 1 and the electrode 7 L1Distance between electrode and rear end of the nozzle channel PGPlasma gas SGSecundary gas WV1, WV2Coolant feed lines WR1, WR2Coolant return lines αAngle between the outer surface 7.1.3 of the electrode holder and the longitudinal axis L βAngle between the outer surface 7.2.5 of the emission insert and the longitudinal axis L.

Claims

1. Electrode (7) for a plasma cutting torch, wherein the electrode (7) has a front end (7.4) and a rear end (7.3), extends along a longitudinal axis (L) and has at least one emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) and an electrode holder (7.1), in particular wherein at least a part of the emission insert (7.2) protrudes or projects from the electrode holder (7.1) in the direction of the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7), in particular wherein the emission insert (7.2) protruding or projecting from the electrode holder (7.1) has a section (7.2.3) tapering towards the front end (7.4), preferably conically.

2. Electrode (7) according to claim 1, wherein an outer surface (7.2.5) of the preferably conically tapered section (7.2.3) extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis (L) forms an angle (β) of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25° between the outer surface (7.2.5) and the longitudinal axis (L).

3. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the electrode holder (7.1) has a preferably conically tapered section (7.1.1) towards the front end (7.4).

4. Electrode (7) according to claim 3, wherein an outer surface (7.1.3) of the preferably conically tapered section (7.1.1) extending towards the front end along the longitudinal axis (L) forms an angle (α) of 15° to 30°, preferably of 20° to 25° between the outer surface (7.1.3) and the longitudinal axis (L).

5. Electrode (7) according to claim 4, wherein the angles (α) and (β) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, and are best of equal size.

6. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7) has a circular area (7.2.4) which has a diameter (D3) of a maximum of 1.5 mm, better a maximum of 1.0 mm, most preferably a maximum of 0.6 mm.

7. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the emission insert (7.2) at the front end (7.4) of the electrode (7) has a circular area (7.2.4) which has a diameter (D3) of at least 0.2 mm, better of at least 0.4 mm.

8. Electrode (7) according to one of claims 16 to 7, wherein the emission insert (7.2) has a largest outer diameter (D2) and the electrode holder (7.1) has a smallest outer diameter (D1), the difference between (D1) and (D2) being between 0.2 mm and 1 mm.

9. Electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrode holder (7.1) and the emission insert (7.2) are connected to one another in a force-fitting, form-fitting and / or material-fitting manner and the emission insert (7.2) consists of an alloy of at least tungsten and at least one of the following elements or compounds: zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide, in particular wherein the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is at least 0.1%, better at least 0.3% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2) or wherein the proportion of zirconium and / or hafnium and / or zirconium oxide and / or hafnium oxide is at most 5%, better at most 2% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2).

10. Electrode (7) according to claim 9, wherein the proportion of tungsten is at least 95%, better at least 98%, most preferably 99% of the volume or mass of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2).

11. Electrode (7) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the portion of the alloy of the emission insert (7.2) remaining at 100% by volume or mass is formed of at least 20%, better at least 25%, even better at least 30% copper and / or silver.

12. Arrangement comprising an electrode (7) according to one of the preceding claims and a nozzle (4).

13. Arrangement according to claim 12, wherein the angles between the outer surface (7.1.3) of the conical section (7.1.1) of the electrode (7) and the longitudinal axis (L) as well as the inner surface of the nozzle (4) opposite the outer surface and the longitudinal axis (L) have a difference of a maximum of 10°, better of a maximum of 5°, even better are the same.

14. Arrangement according to claim 12 or 13, wherein for a distance L1 between the front end (14) of the electrode and a rear end of the nozzle channel (4.1) of the nozzle (4) applies: L1≤ 1.5 mm, better L1 ≤ 1 mm and / or L1 ≤ 1.5 * D4, better L1 ≤ 1.0 * D4, with D4 being the smallest diameter of the nozzle channel.

15. Plasma cutting torch, comprising an electrode (7) according to one of claims 1 to 11, a nozzle (4) and / or a nozzle protection cap (9) and / or a plasma gas guide (3.1).

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