Method and apparatus for automatic gas control for a plasma arc torch

A method and apparatus for controlling a gas supply to a plasma arc torch uses a proportional control solenoid valve positioned adjacent the torch to manipulate the gas flow to the torch, thereby extending electrode life during arc transfer and shutdown. Swirl ring design can be simplified and gas s...

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Bibliographische Detailangaben
Hauptverfasser: LIEBOLD STEPHEN M, KAMATH GIRISH R, BEST GUY T, LINDSAY JON W, BRANDT AARON D, DUAN ZHENG, PASSAGE CHRISTOPHER S, SELMER SHANE M
Format: Patent
Sprache:eng
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Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:A method and apparatus for controlling a gas supply to a plasma arc torch uses a proportional control solenoid valve positioned adjacent the torch to manipulate the gas flow to the torch, thereby extending electrode life during arc transfer and shutdown. Swirl ring design can be simplified and gas supply and distribution systems become less complicated. The invention also allows manipulation of shield gas flow to reduce divot formation when making interior cuts. The system can be controlled with a digital signal processor utilizing a feedback loop from a sensor.