Abstract: An air handling system for a laser-equipped machine tool. The machine base is specially configured to include and form part of the duct work which extracts fumes produced during the cutting operation. An elongated collection duct is provided in portions of the machine base bracketing a slag collection surface, and the port pattern in the collection ducts is graduated so as to achieve relatively even flow across the entire machine. The collection duct communicates with a main duct in the machine base which has outlet connections at three sides of the base, affording flexibility in selecting a particular outlet for connection to an external vacuum source. Cooperating with the air extraction components, the machine is enclosed and air vents are provided at strategic locations in the enclosure to control both the volume and direction of air into the enclosure to provide for efficient extraction of fumes produced as a by-product of the cutting operation.

Abstract: A punch press having a high-energy, thermal melting device and an improved slag recovery system. The punch press is a bridge-type machine in which the workhead which carries the ram of the punch press and the melting tool moves along a first axis, and the workpiece is moved along a second orthogonal axis. The slag collection system is static for simplistically, economically, and reliably collecting the slag created by the melting tool, and includes a long, slot-like opening congruent with the path of the melting tool. The slot-like opening is in the top of a stationary plenum provided below the workpiece and extends down to an open bottom where a slag tray is provided to collect the slag. A vacuum source is connected to the plenum to draw gases through the slot-like opening and into the plenum for removal. A spark trap is interposed between the vacuum source and the plenum to prevent sparks from entering the vacuum source and causing a fire or explosion.

Abstract: A catch mechanism is provided for use in a toilet tank flushing arrangement that includes a tank for storing water, a manually operated flush lever for causing the water to drain from the tank to flush the toilet, and a float means for detecting the presence of a low tank water level and causing the tank to refill when the low tank water level is detected. The catch mechanism is adapted to engage the float means to prevent it from causing the tank to refill, unless the flush lever has been operated.