Plasma Torch Structure Patents (Class 219/121.48)
-
Patent number: 8373088Abstract: An atmospheric pressure plasma generation apparatus is provided for generating plasma at the atmospheric pressure with stable voltage supply. A plasma generation apparatus of the preset invention includes a first conductor arranged to face a workpiece and having a power plate through power is applied; a second conductor arranged oppositely to a surface facing the workpiece along the first conductor for define a discharge space; and a gas supply unit having a gas supply passage for guiding gas to the discharge space and supporting the first and second conductors. The atmospheric plasma generation apparatus of the present invention is advantageous since the plasma can be uniformly generated in stable manner at an atmospheric pressure on the basis of a stable voltage supply.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2008Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Inventor: Bang Kwon Kang
-
Patent number: 8367965Abstract: An upper electrode for use in a plasma processing chamber is provided, which includes a center segment and a plurality of outer segments. The outer segments are attached to the center segment to adjust the area of the overall electrode. Gas distribution holes may be selectively formed on the center and outer segments, or both. By adding or removing the outer segments and stacking layers, the dimension of the electrode, the area of gas spurting region and the thickness of the provided upper electrode may be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2008Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Hermes-Epitek Corp.Inventors: Benson Chao, Chi-Hua Tseng
-
Patent number: 8367966Abstract: The ceramic plasma reactor includes: a plurality of unit electrodes each of which comprises a plate-shaped ceramic dielectric body 4 and a conductive film 3 embedded in the ceramic dielectric body superimposing them each other with a gap which works as a discharge portion 11, and preferably being formed by sandwiching one unit electrode 2b having no through holes 15 by two unit electrodes having plural through holes 2a there between. A partition wall plate 9 is provided by facing one of unit electrodes on a side opposite to the gap and being held by a holding member 7 at a predetermined distance so as to form there between a gas introducing-circulating portion 21 for introducing and circulating gas in the through-holes 15 so as to send gas introduced to the gap between the unit electrodes as a discharge portion by applying a voltage thereto to generate plasma.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.Inventors: Michio Takahashi, Hiroshi Mizuno, Masaaki Masuda
-
Patent number: 8357872Abstract: A pipe processing apparatus containing a gripping mechanism with bracing rollers, further a drive wheel which is rotationally supported on the pipe processing apparatus and axially parallel to the bracing rollers and is positioned/positionable by its tread at such a site where said tread can make contact with the pipe held by the bracing rollers and can rotate said pipe by static friction; and a drive system to actuate the drive wheel.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: January 22, 2013Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Andreas Lier
-
Patent number: 8350182Abstract: A portable plasma arc torch system can be used for processing materials. The system includes a replaceable or rechargeable power source and replaceable or rechargeable gas source. A controller communicates with at least one of the power source or the gas source. A plasma delivery device received via the controller current from the power source and gas from the gas source to generate a plasma arc at an output of the plasma delivery device. The plasma arc can be used to process materials such as metallic workpieces. The plasma arc torch can include a wearable portable assembly which includes the replaceable or rechargeable power and gas source. A plasma delivery device receives current from the power source in the assembly and gas from the gas source in the assembly to generate a plasma arc.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: E. Michael Shipulski, Nicholas A. Sanders
-
Patent number: 8330069Abstract: An ablative plasma gun includes a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter, wherein a chamber is defined by the first portion and the second portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2010Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Seth Adam Cutler, Dean Arthur Robarge, George William Roscoe
-
Patent number: 8324523Abstract: An apparatus for synergistically combining a plasma with a comminution means such as a fluid kinetic energy mill (jet mill), preferably in a single reactor and/or in a single process step is provided by the present invention. Within the apparatus of the invention potential energy is converted into kinetic energy and subsequently into angular momentum by means of wave energy, for comminuting, reacting and separation of feed materials. Methods of use of the apparatus in the practice of various processes are also provided by the present invention.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignee: Foret Plasma Labs, LLCInventor: Todd Foret
-
Publication number: 20120298634Abstract: An improved plasma torch and method of starting the torch are provided. The torch may comprise a main torch body with an electrode assembly coupled to a piston therein. The piston and electrode assembly are moveable between a starting position whereby the electrode assembly contacts a nozzle, and an operating position whereby the electrode assembly does not contact the nozzle. The piston is moveable by directing fluid, which may comprise coolant, through the plasma torch either in a first direction which biases the piston to the starting position, or in an opposite second direction which biases the piston so as to retract the electrode assembly to the operating position. A reversing valve or reversible pump may be used to control the direction of the flow of the fluid. Thereby, the coolant supply may be used to both cool the torch and control the starting and operation of the torch.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2012Publication date: November 29, 2012Applicant: THE ESAB GROUP, INC.Inventors: Wayne Stanley Severance, JR., Ruben A. Chico
-
Patent number: 8309892Abstract: There is disclosed a control system for operating automotive vehicle components. The control system typically includes at least a control module programmed with instructions for controlling a heater, a ventilator or both.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2010Date of Patent: November 13, 2012Assignee: W.E.T. Automotive System, LtdInventors: Lucas Fernandez, Konstantin Majarov
-
Patent number: 8304684Abstract: A plasma torch rotation assembly for relieving stress on a lead. The rotation assembly can include an outer housing, which can have a mounting surface adapted to be fixedly coupled to a torch mount. The rotation assembly can include an inner component disposed at least partially within the outer housing, and a bearing structure disposed between the outer housing and the inner component. The bearing structure can facilitate rotational movement of the outer housing relative to the inner component, about a longitudinal axis of the rotation assembly. The rotation assembly can include a torch adapter disposed near a first end of the inner component. The torch adapter can be adapted to mate with a plasma arc torch. The rotation assembly can include a receiving portion disposed at a second end of the inner component, the receiving portion adapted to receive at least a portion a lead.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: November 6, 2012Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Brian J. Currier, Ross A. Smith, Jeremy Beliveau, Jon W. Lindsay
-
Patent number: 8294115Abstract: A linear plasma electron source is provided. The linear plasma electron source includes a housing acting as a first electrode, the housing having side walls a slit opening in the housing for trespassing of a electron beam, the slit opening defining a length direction of the source, a second electrode being arranged within the housing and having a first side facing the slit opening, the first side being spaced from the slit opening by a first distance, wherein the length of the electron source in the length direction is at least 5 times the first distance, and at least one gas supply for providing a gas into the housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2008Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Guenter Klemm, Volker Hacker, Hans-Georg Lotz
-
Patent number: 8288677Abstract: The invention relates to a coupling device (24) used for producing a flow path between the tank (6) of a water vapor cutting device (1) and a liquid-filled cartridge (25), wherein said coupling device (24) comprises a housing (29) provided with a receiving area (30) which is formed therein, used for mounting the cartridge (25) on said housing (29) and which comprises a channel (39) provided with an input orifice (40) fluidically connectable to the cartridge (25) and to an output opening (41) which is also fluidically connectable to an external surrounding area, for example to the tank (6).Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2006Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Fronius International GmbHInventors: Ernst Aunitzky, Wolfgang Haberler, Roland Ortner, Heribert Pauser, Max Stöger, Martin Trausner, Andreas Wiesinger
-
Patent number: 8289512Abstract: A device for mass spectroscopy comprising a chamber configured to provide an atomization source, a boost device configured to provide radio frequency energy to the chamber, and a mass analyzer in fluid communication with the chamber and configured to separate species based on mass-to-charge ratios is disclosed. In certain examples, a boost device may be used with a flame or plasma to provide additional energy to a flame or plasma to enhance desolvation, atomization, and/or ionization.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2010Date of Patent: October 16, 2012Assignee: Perkinelmer Health Sciences, Inc.Inventor: Peter Morrisroe
-
Patent number: 8283593Abstract: A wire cleaning guide for guiding a wire in a feed direction and to clean the wire, including a gas supply nozzle for supplying plasma generating gas, a plasma generating chamber with plasma generating gas supplied from the gas supply nozzle thereto for transforming the plasma generating gas into plasma by energizing a bonding wire that passes there through to clean the wire by means of the plasma gas, and wire-feeder-side and bonding-tool-side guide holes for guiding the wire in the feed direction, the diameter of the wire-feeder-side guide hole is greater than that of the bonding-tool-side guide hole so that the outflow rate of gas after wire cleaning flowing between the wire-feeder-side guide hole and the wire is greater than that of gas after wire cleaning flowing between the bonding-tool-side guide hole and the wire.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ShinkawaInventors: Masayuki Horino, Kazuo Fujita
-
Patent number: 8283594Abstract: A system for supplying fluids to a plasma arc torch includes a single-gas power supply for regulating supply of electrical power to the plasma arc torch and for regulating supply of a first fluid to the plasma arc torch, a flow regulator for regulating supply of a second fluid to the plasma arc torch, and a first pressure-actuated valve disposed between the flow regulator and the plasma arc torch. The pressure-actuated valve shuts off supply of the second fluid to the torch when the first pressure-actuated valve is closed and allows the second fluid to be supplied to the torch when the first pressure-actuated valve is open. The first pressure-actuated valve is structured and arranged to be opened by pressure of the first fluid being supplied to the torch and to be closed when the first fluid is not being supplied to the torch. The system can also include a second pressure-actuated valve in the supply line for the first fluid, which is opened by pressure of the second fluid being supplied to the torch.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2010Date of Patent: October 9, 2012Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.Inventor: David C. Griffin
-
Publication number: 20120235569Abstract: Systems for generating microwave plasma from a combustion flame. The present invention provides a microwave plasma nozzle that includes a hollow cylindrical housing through which combustible material flows, and a rod-shaped conductor disposed in the housing. A portion of the rod-shaped conductor extends into a microwave cavity to receive microwaves passing in the cavity. The rod-shaped conductor transmits microwaves along the surface thereof, and has a distal end disposed in proximity to and surrounded by a proximal end portion of the housing. During operation, a combustion flame is formed in proximity to the proximal end portion of the housing, and the microwaves transmitted along the surface heat up the flame to generate plasma in proximity to the distal end of the rod-shaped conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2011Publication date: September 20, 2012Applicant: AMARANTE TECHNOLOGIES, INC/Inventors: Sang Hun Lee, Joong Soo Kim, Jae-mo Koo, Orion Weihe, Andrew Way, Richard Warfield
-
Patent number: 8269134Abstract: A DC steam plasma torch includes front, middle and rear sections. The front section includes a first amount and a first electrode attached to the first amount, thus defining co-axial first internal and external coolant channels. The middle section includes a second mount and a second electrode co-axially connected to the second mount, thus defining co-axial second internal and external coolant channels. The rear section includes an insulating transient element connected to the second electrode, a window frame connected to the insulating transient element and a window provided in the window frame. A first swirl generator is provided between the first and second sections to receive primary working gas and generating a swirl in the same. A second swirl generator is provided between the middle and rear sections to receive auxiliary working gas and generating a swirl in the same.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2008Date of Patent: September 18, 2012Assignee: Atomic Energy Council—Institute of Nuclear Energy ResearchInventors: Deng-Lian Lin, Chin-Ching Tzeng
-
Patent number: 8263897Abstract: A device for sustaining a plasma in a torch is provided. In certain examples, the device comprises a first electrode configured to couple to a power source and constructed and arranged to provide a loop current along a radial plane of the torch. In some examples, the radial plane of the torch is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the torch.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Perkinelmer Health Sciences, Inc.Inventor: Peter J. Morrisroe
-
Patent number: 8261688Abstract: A torch (1) for thermal spraying of surface coatings, of the type that comprises a head (3) and a bracket (2) for the head (3), in which the head (3) pivots relative to the bracket (2). The invention also relates to the coatings obtained using the torch, whether of polymer, metal or ceramic materials, on any substrate coated thereby, whether of polymer, metal or ceramic or composite materials. The invention is applicable to different types of thermal spray torches, using plasma spray, combustion spray, High Velocity Oxygen Fuel (HVOF), or Low Velocity processes.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2007Date of Patent: September 11, 2012Assignee: Turbocoating S.p.A.Inventors: Nelso Antolotti, Andrea Scrivani, Michele Scartazza, Gabriele Rizzi
-
Patent number: 8258424Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided that includes a wear stop designed to detect wear of an electrode and prevent the use of the electrode once the electrode has experienced a certain amount of wear. Either the electrode or the nozzle is movable with respect to the main torch body, and the movable component defines a projection. The wear stop is positioned a predetermined distance from a nozzle of the torch, such that prior to experiencing an excessive amount of wear, the electrode is able to contact the nozzle and initiate a pilot arc for starting a torch operation. Once the length of the electrode becomes shorter than a predetermined length due to wear, the projection of the electrode engages the wear stop, and the wear stop prevents the electrode from contacting the nozzle. In this way, an electrode that is excessively worn cannot be used in subsequent torch operations.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.Inventor: David C. Griffin
-
Patent number: 8258423Abstract: An improved plasma torch and method of starting the torch are provided. The torch may comprise a main torch body with an electrode assembly coupled to a piston therein. The piston and electrode assembly are moveable between a starting position whereby the electrode assembly contacts a nozzle, and an operating position whereby the electrode assembly does not contact the nozzle. The piston is moveable by directing fluid, which may comprise coolant, through the plasma torch either in a first direction which biases the piston to the starting position, or in an opposite second direction which biases the piston so as to retract the electrode assembly to the operating position. A reversing valve or reversible pump may be used to control the direction of the flow of the fluid. Thereby, the coolant supply may be used to both cool the torch and control the starting and operation of the torch.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.Inventors: Wayne Stanley Severance, Jr., Ruben A. Chico
-
Publication number: 20120199563Abstract: A method of operating a plasma arc torch is provided that includes directing a first portion of gas into a plasma chamber, directing a second portion of the gas to initiate a pilot arc in the plasma chamber, and redirecting the second portion of the gas to form a shield gas flow rather than venting the second portion to atmosphere. A plasma arc torch for this method includes a start cartridge disposed between an electrode and a tip for initiating the pilot arc. The start cartridge defines at least one redirect gas passageway in fluid communication with a shield gas passageway. The second portion of gas is redirected through the at least one redirect gas passageway and into the shield gas passageway.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2011Publication date: August 9, 2012Applicant: Thermal Dynamics CorporationInventors: Brandon Hebert, Chris Conway
-
Patent number: 8232500Abstract: This application relates to a plasma torch assembly comprising a plurality of tubes; a collar integral with at least one tube comprising a first abutment surface; a base for holding the tubes during operation of the torch comprising a portion for receiving the collar and a second abutment; and co-operating interlocking portions for removably urging the first and second abutment surfaces together by relative rotation of the interlocking portions wherein the first and second abutment surfaces comprise a complimentary taper for aligning the collar in concentric formation with at least one other tube on the base by co-operation of the interlocking portions.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2010Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Glass Expansion Pty Ltd.Inventors: Danny Brezni, Jost Eberhard Kaiser, Bobby Brezni, David Sultana
-
Publication number: 20120181257Abstract: A component for a contact start plasma arc torch is provided. The component includes a hollow body defining a channel with a longitudinal axis. The channel is capable of slideably receiving an electrode body along the longitudinal axis. The component includes a contact element disposed in the hollow body and includes a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is adapted to facilitate electrical communication with a power supply and the second surface is adapted to physically contact a surface of the electrode body when the plasma arc torch is operated in a transferred arc mode. In addition, the second surface is characterized by the absence of physical contact with the surface of the electrode body when the torch is operated in a pilot arc mode.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 6, 2012Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan P. Mather, Nicholas A. Sanders, Jon W. Lindsay, Peter Twarog, E. Michael Shipulski, Zheng Duan, David Jonathan Cook
-
Patent number: 8222561Abstract: A drag tip for use in a plasma cutting torch is provided that includes an inner tip portion defining a distal end face, an inner cavity through which a plasma gas flows, and an orifice disposed between the distal end face and the inner cavity. An outer tip portion surrounds the inner tip portion and defines an inner chamber to accommodate a flow of secondary gas and also a distal end portion. The distal end face of the inner tip portion is adapted for contact with a workpiece and extends distally beyond the distal end portion of the outer tip portion, and the flow of secondary gas exits the outer tip portion proximate the distal end portion. Variations of the drag tip and methods of operation are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2007Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Thermal Dynamics CorporationInventors: Thierry R. Renault, Nakhleh A. Hussary, Christopher J. Conway, Darrin H. MacKenzie
-
Publication number: 20120168410Abstract: A circuit protection device includes a plasma gun configured to generate a plasma plume, at least one capacitor configured to store electrical energy, and a trigger circuit communicatively coupled to the plasma gun and the capacitor. The trigger circuit is configured to transmit a first signal to the capacitor to cause the capacitor to transmit a first portion of the electrical energy to the plasma gun. The trigger circuit is also configured to transmit a second signal to the plasma gun to cause the plasma gun to generate the plasma plume using the first portion of the electrical energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 30, 2010Publication date: July 5, 2012Inventors: John Kenneth Hooker, Hardik Upadhyay, Gitika Tantuwaya
-
Patent number: 8211291Abstract: A sensor apparatus for an electrochemical measuring device. The apparatus has at least one electrode, which can be heated using a heating current in the form of an alternating current, and a first and a second connection for the supply line for the heating current. The electrochemical measuring device is connected to the electrode by a third connection. In this case, the apparatus has the third connection connected to the electrode by a bridge circuit, which is also connected to the first and second connections. There also is provided a method for carrying out electrochemical measurements at elevated temperature. The sensor apparatus and the method for carrying out electrochemical measurements enable electrochemical measurements with little interference and directly heated electrodes in conjunction with a simplified design of the electrodes.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Universitaet RostockInventors: Gerd-Uwe Flechsig, Jan Gimsa, Peter Gründler, Harald Grabow
-
Patent number: 8203096Abstract: A portable plasma arc torch system can be used for processing materials. The system includes a replaceable or rechargeable power source and replaceable or rechargeable gas source. A controller communicates with at least one of the power source or the gas source. A plasma delivery device received via the controller current from the power source and gas from the gas source to generate a plasma arc at an output of the plasma delivery device. The plasma arc can be used to process materials such as metallic workpieces. The plasma arc torch can include a wearable portable assembly which includes the replaceable or rechargeable power and gas source. A plasma delivery device receives current from the power source in the assembly and gas from the gas source in the assembly to generate a plasma arc.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2007Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Nicholas A. Sanders, E. Michael Shipulski, Mike Hoffa, Jay L. Jason
-
Patent number: 8183495Abstract: A cascade source provided with a cathode housing, a number of cascade plates insulated from each other and stacked on top of each other which together bound at least one plasma channel, and an anode plate provided with an outflow opening connecting to the plasma channel, wherein one cathode is provided per plasma channel, which cathode comprises an electrode which is adjustable relative to the cathode housing in the direction of the plasma channel, wherein the clamping provision is preferably of the collet chuck type. Also described is method for controlling the cascade source in use.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2010Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: OTB Solar B.V.Inventors: Martin Dinant Bijker, Leonardus Peterus Maria Clijsen, Franciscus Cornelius Dings, Remco Leonardus J. Robertus Pennings
-
Patent number: 8168915Abstract: A cutting torch splatter and glare guard includes a collar that is structured for releasable engagement with a cutting torch. The collar has first and second collar portions that are biased towards a first position for engagement with the cutting torch and movable against the bias towards a second position for disengagement with the cutting torch. A guard plate coupled to the collar and structured to block splatter and cutting debris emanating from a cutting surface. A plurality of shield plates is pivotably attached to the guard plate so as to pivot info and out of an orientation extending generally perpendicular downwardly relative to the guard plate.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Messer Cutting Systems Inc.Inventor: Andrew Janecek
-
Publication number: 20120097647Abstract: Atmospheric inductively coupled plasma torch comprising a vessel within which the plasma is generated and a coil wound around the periphery of the vessel. The coil has at least two spaced-apart winding layers. The coil is constructed such that all winding layers of a given multi-turn is wound before an adjacent multi-turn is wound. A first end of the coil is coupled to ground, and a second end of the coil is coupled to receive a RF driver signal that is configured to ignite the plasma to facilitate processing.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Andreas Fischer, Neil Martin Paul Benjamin
-
Publication number: 20120097646Abstract: An apparatus for generating plasma including a plasma generating vessel and a coil having a coil length and a first set of partially enclosing, longitudinally oriented conductive (PELOC) fingers and a second set of PELOC fingers. The PELOC finger sets are oriented along a longitudinal axis of the vessel with each partially enclosing a periphery of the vessel. The two sets of PELOC fingers are oriented fingertips facing fingertips and separated by an inter-set distance that is less than the coil length.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2010Publication date: April 26, 2012Inventors: Neil Martin Paul Benjamin, Andreas Fischer
-
Patent number: 8164033Abstract: A stage onto which is electrostatically attracted a substrate to be processed in a substrate processing apparatus, which enables the semiconductor device yield to be improved. A temperature measuring apparatus 200 measures a temperature of the substrate to be processed. A temperature control unit 400 carries out temperature adjustment on the substrate to be processed such as to become equal to a target temperature based on a preset parameter. A temperature control unit 400 controls the temperature of the substrate to be processed by controlling the temperature adjustment by the temperature control unit 400 based on a measured temperature measured by the temperature measuring apparatus 200.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2011Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Tokyo Electron LimitedInventors: Chishio Koshimizu, Tomohiro Suzuki
-
Patent number: 8154206Abstract: There is provided a small-sized portable microwave plasma generator capable of generating plasma at atmospheric pressure with low electric power including a coaxial cable, an outer conductor, a connection conductor, and a connection member. The coaxial cable includes a first inner conductor and a dielectric material encircling the first inner conductor. The outer conductor encircles the coaxial cable. The connection conductor includes at least one gas inlet tube. The connection conductor electrically connects between the first inner conductor and the outer conductor at one end of the coaxial cable. The connection member includes a second inner conductor passing through the outer conductor and then connecting to the first inner conductor.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignees: Postech Foundation, Postech Academy Industry FoundationInventors: Jun Choi, Felipe Iza, Jae Koo Lee
-
Patent number: 8153925Abstract: A system is provided that includes a torch power unit. The torch power unit includes a compressor and a moisture remover coupled to the compressor. A method is provided that includes compressing a gas via compressor and removing moisture from the gas via a moisture remover coupled to the compressor. A method of manufacturing a torch system is also provided. Additionally, a system for a torch power unit is provided that includes a moisture remover.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Troy A. Sommerfeld
-
Patent number: 8153927Abstract: An improved torch providing high visibility of the work zone to the operator, an increased viewing angle, and a reduced obstruction angle. The high visibility torch includes consumables adapted to maintain torch and consumables performance while reducing visual obstruction to the user, by coordinating, balancing, and optimizing design requirements and stack up tolerances. The invention also includes a related low-profile safety switch that promotes workpiece visibility and minimizes view obstruction.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2011Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Peter J. Twarog, Jesse A. Roberts
-
Publication number: 20120080412Abstract: The present invention provides a hand-held device 10 for providing a flow of plasma for treatment of a treatment region. The device comprises a plasma cell 16 defining a volume in which gas passing through a cell inlet from a gas source 22 can be energised to form a plasma and discharged through a cell outlet for treatment of a treatment region by said generated plasma, and a plurality of electrodes for receiving electrical power for energising gas in the cell to form a plasma, wherein the device comprises a valve arrangement 32 operable in an open condition to allow the discharge of plasma from the device to the treatment region and in a closed condition to resist the passage of ambient contaminants into the device in the absence of gas flow through the device from the gas source.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2011Publication date: April 5, 2012Inventors: Thomas Bickford HOLBECHE, Richard Thomas Reich, Peter Dobson, Michael Wickham
-
Publication number: 20120067854Abstract: An ablative plasma gun includes a first portion having a first diameter and a second portion having a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter, wherein a chamber is defined by the first portion and the second portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Seth Adam Cutler, Dean Arthur Robarge, George William Roscoe
-
Patent number: 8134097Abstract: A plasma torch having a multi-position head is disclosed. The plasma torch includes a torch body and a torch head pivotably connected thereto. Such a construction provides a single plasma torch having several head-to-handle orientations thereby providing a highly versatile plasma torch assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.Inventor: Joseph C. Schneider
-
Patent number: 8129655Abstract: An electrophoretic medium (102) comprises a plurality of capsules (104), each capsule comprising an internal phase comprising a plurality of electrophoretically mobile particles (106, 108) in a gaseous suspending medium, and a capsule wall surrounding the internal phase. Various processes for producing such an electrophoretic medium are also described.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2003Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: E Ink CorporationInventors: Joseph M. Jacobson, Thomas H. Whitesides, Robert W. Zehner
-
Patent number: 8129656Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing thermal energy, wherein, by means of a plasma arc which is located between a cathode and an anode, light initial material that is suitable for fusion processes is put into the plasma state by supplying electric energy. Use is made of a cathode made of a metal that is suitable for allowing the particles which are produced in the plasma to be diffused and for allowing a fusion process to take place in the metal grid. The invention has a high degree of efficiency in corresponding systems such that said methods can be used anywhere where fossil and/or renewable and/or chemical fuels are used, in order to use the thermal energy directly or by conversion.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2006Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignee: Purratio AGInventors: Richard Reichmann, Karl-Ludwig Barth
-
Patent number: 8124906Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing metal bearing gases involves generating a toroidal plasma in a plasma chamber. A metal bearing gas is introduced into the plasma chamber to react with the toroidal plasma. The interaction between the toroidal plasma and the metal bearing gas produces at least one of a metallic material, a metal oxide material or a metal nitride material.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2009Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: MKS Instruments, Inc.Inventors: William M. Holber, John A. Smith, Xing Chen, Donald K. Smith
-
Patent number: 8115136Abstract: An electrode for a contact start plasma arc torch includes an elongated electrode body formed of an electrically conductive material. The electrode body is movable relative to the torch. A resilient element is used for passing substantially all of a pilot arc current between a power supply, a power connection in electrical communication with the power supply, and the electrode body during pilot arc operation of the plasma arc torch. The electrode and torch can include a contact element having a first surface in electrical communication with the power contact and a second surface for physical contact and electrical communication with a corresponding contact surface of the electrode body for passing substantially all of a transferred arc current between the power supply and the electrode body during transferred arc mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2007Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Jonathan P. Mather, Stephen T. Eickhoff, Jesse Roberts
-
Patent number: 8115135Abstract: An atomic oxygen generator/sprayer is invented. An array of three magnetized torches running at 60 Hz is used to generate non-thermal plasma; thus, the plasma effluent has relatively low temperature (touchable) and yet contains high energy electrons (>5 eV) capable to dissociate oxygen molecules to atomic oxygen. The emission spectroscopy of the torch indicates that the plasma effluent carries an abundance of reactive atomic oxygen (RAO), which can effectively kill all kind microbes. A cap holding three pairs of rectangular permanent magnets is used to spread torches laterally into fan shape, which extends to a width exceeding 100 mm. The flux of RAO exceeds 2×106 cm?2 sec?1; its flow speed exceeds 20 m/s and it reaches out more than 20 mm. This invention is suitable for applications such as sterilizing carpets, clothes, and bed sheets.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2008Date of Patent: February 14, 2012Assignee: Adventix Technologies Inc.Inventor: Spencer P Kuo
-
Publication number: 20120018410Abstract: The invention relates to a plasma generating device that comprises at least one very high frequency source (>100 MHz) connected via an impedance adaptation device to an elongated conductor attached on a dielectric substrate, at least one means for cooling said conductor, and at least one gas supply in the vicinity of the dielectric substrate on a side opposite to that bearing the conductor. The invention also relates to plasma torches using said device.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2008Publication date: January 26, 2012Applicant: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme Pour L'Etude Et L "Exploitation Des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Zenon Zakrzewski, Michel Moisan, Daniel Guerin, Jean-Christophe Rostaing
-
Publication number: 20120012565Abstract: A torch tip for a plasma arc torch includes a body having a first end, configured to attach to the torch, and a second end, where an end wall is disposed. A plasma exit orifice is formed in the end wall. At least two castellations are formed in the end wall. At least one slot is disposed between two castellations. Each slot is defined by a first and second castellation wall, and a slot floor. The first castellation wall is opposite the second castellation wall. The torch tip has at least one of the following characteristics: a slope of the slot floor within the at least one slot tapers in an outward radial direction relative to the plasma exit orifice toward the first end of the body, or a distance between the first and second castellation walls along the slot floor increases with distance away from the exit orifice.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2010Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Yu Zhang, Zheng Duan
-
Publication number: 20120012566Abstract: A protective shell for surrounding a portion of a body of a handheld plasma torch includes a first and second shell section. The plasma torch body includes a handle, a head extending from the handle and a torch tip extending from the head. The first shell section is structurally independent from an outer surface of the plasma torch body. The second shell section is structurally independent from the outer surface of the plasma torch body and is capable of being secured to the first shell section such that, in combination, the first and second shell sections surround the torch head and provide (i) structural protection to the torch head and (ii) thermal insulation to the torch head, wherein the first and second shell sections are electrically insulated relative to the torch head.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 15, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Applicant: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Jesse Roberts, Peter Twarog
-
Patent number: 8097828Abstract: Apparatus and methods for thermally processing a workpiece include directing a plasma arc to the workpiece and using a dielectric shield or dielectric coating to protect a forward portion (e.g., a torch head) of a plasma arc torch. The dielectric shield or dielectric coating covers a nozzle disposed within the torch head and protects the nozzle from the effects of slag and double arcing. The shield also improves operator visibility due to the spatial relationship between the dielectric shield and the nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.Inventors: Jesse A. Roberts, Michael F. Kornprobst, David Jonathan Cook
-
Patent number: 8089024Abstract: A torch spacing apparatus for a plasma or flame cutting machine includes a gantry that is guided to travel in an X axis. Mounted to the gantry is at least one carriage that is/are guided to travel in a Y axis. Mounted to each carriage are selected tooling having at least two cutting torches mounted thereon with an active cutting tool in an active cutting position. The carriage is mounted to enable tooling substitution whereby the torch spacing apparatus includes a substitution mechanism which is operatively attached to the carriage and tooling such that the said substitution mechanism is adapted to allow the position of a cutting torch or active cutting torch to be substituted with another cutting torch currently in the active position to space the torches accordingly by rotating the cutting tools about a Z axis.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2008Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Eigen Systems LimitedInventor: Murray Houlton Forlong
-
Patent number: 8080760Abstract: A plasma processing chamber includes a cantilever assembly configured to neutralize atmospheric load. The chamber includes a wall surrounding an interior region and having an opening formed therein. A cantilever assembly includes a substrate support for supporting a substrate within the chamber. The cantilever assembly extends through the opening such that a portion is located outside the chamber. The chamber includes an actuation mechanism operative to move the cantilever assembly relative to the wall.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2010Date of Patent: December 20, 2011Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventors: Rajinder Dhindsa, Eric H. Lenz, Andy W. DeSepte, Lumin Li