Abstract: A quick disconnect for use in a plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a plug housing and a mating socket housing, a locking ring disposed around the plug housing secures the plug housing to the socket housing. A negative lead gas carrying pin is disposed within the plug housing, and a mating main power socket is disposed within the socket housing for the purpose of conducting both gas and electricity from a power supply to a plasma arc torch. Further, the negative lead gas carrying pin and mating main power socket are positioned off-center in order to provide additional volume for a plurality of signal conductors disposed within each housing, along with a pilot return conductor. Additionally, both the plug housing and the socket housing define a D-configuration in order to properly align the housings and conductors disposed therein, among other novel features of the present invention.

Abstract: A quick disconnect for use in a plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a plug housing and a mating socket housing, wherein a locking ring disposed around the plug housing secures the plug housing to the socket housing. A negative lead gas carrying pin is disposed within the plug housing, and a mating main power socket is disposed within the socket housing for the purpose of conducting both gas and electricity from a power supply to a plasma arc torch. Further, the negative lead gas carrying pin and mating main power socket are positioned off-center in order to provide additional volume for a plurality of signal conductors disposed within each housing, along with a pilot return conductor. Additionally, both the plug housing and the socket housing define a D-configuration in order to properly align the housings and conductors disposed therein, among other novel features of the present invention.

Abstract: An o-ring removal slot is provided that adjoins an o-ring groove or o-ring shoulder disposed within a sealing member. Accordingly, the o-ring removal slot provides access to the o-ring groove or shoulder for removal of an o-ring disposed therein, and more particularly when the o-ring groove or shoulder are recessed such that access to the o-ring is restricted. Preferably, the o-ring removal slot is approximately perpendicular to the o-ring groove and extends between a distal end of the sealing member and the o-ring groove. In one form of the present invention, the sealing member is a negative lead gas carrying pin disposed within a quick disconnect to a power supply of a plasma arc cutting torch.