Abstract: A plasma torch is provided having a movable member carrying an electrode and movable along a tubular member bore having a nozzle at one end. A piston member engaged with the movable member moves the electrode between inoperable and operable positions within the bore, the movable member being biased outwardly of the one end of the bore. A first sealing member engaged with the piston member allows a fluid flow into the bore to act on the piston member to move the electrode to the operable position when the nozzle/electrode is engaged with the tubular member. A second sealing member, engaged with the bore, engages the piston member when the nozzle/electrode is removed. The fluid flow enters the bore between the sealing members, the second sealing member thus preventing torch operation when the nozzle/electrode is removed by preventing the fluid flow from acting on the piston.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for igniting, modulating, and sustaining a plasma for various plasma processes and treatments. Such treatments include cleaning and sterilizing parts. In some embodiments, a plasma is ignited by subjecting a gas in a multi-mode processing cavity to electromagnetic radiation having a frequency between about 1 MHz and about 333 GHz in the presence of a plasma catalyst. A part can be cleaned by, for example, inserting hydrogen into the plasma and exposing the part to the hydrogen-enriched plasma. A part can be sterilized by heating the part with the plasma.

Abstract: The invention provides an arc spraying torch head including: a pair of spray material guides attached to a head body so as to face forward and guiding a flexible wire-like spray material inserted therein; a main air nozzle attached to the head body, and jetting main air toward a melting area of the spray material; the head body being provided with an auxiliary air nozzle which jets auxiliary air toward the melting area; the direction of jetted auxiliary air by the auxiliary air nozzle is tilted with respect to the direction of jetted main air by the main air nozzle, the auxiliary air being jetted toward the melting area; and a spray direction of the spray material being inclined with respect to the direction of the jetted main air.

Abstract: A microwave plasma processing apparatus 100 allows microwaves, passed through a plurality of slots 37, to be transmitted through a plurality of dielectric parts 31 supported by beams 26, raises a gas to plasma with the transmitted microwaves and processes a substrate G with the plasma. The beams 26 are made to project out toward the substrate so as to ensure that the plasma electron density Ne around the ends of the beams 26 is equal to or greater than a cutoff plasma electron density Nc. The projecting beams 26 inhibits interference attributable to surface waves generated with the electrical field energy of microwaves transmitted through adjacent dielectric parts 31 and interference attributable to electrons and ions propagated through the plasma generated under a given dielectric part 31 to reach the plasma generated under an adjacent dielectric part as the plasma generated under the individual dielectric parts 31 is diffused.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A modular inductively coupled plasma torch assembly is described. A rear connector unit is positioned and detachably held at a rear end of a tubular plasma chamber to provide a flow of material into it. Detachable connector units are positioned on opposite ends of a tubular jacket, and hold the tubular plasma chamber concentrically within the tubular jacket so as to define an annular chamber between the two tubes. An inductor coil is disposed concentrically around the tubular jacket and energized so as to generate plasma from the material flowing in the tubular plasma chamber. To cool the tubular plasma chamber, coolant flows through the annular chamber using inlet and outlet ports in the detachable connector units for such flow of coolant.

Abstract: A process for increasing the surface tension (“wettability”) of a silicone element crosslinked by polyaddition from a liquid composition containing one or more ?,?-dimethylvinylpolydimethylsiloxanes (PDMS), one or more poly(dimethyl)(methylhydrogenosiloxy)-?,?-dimethylhydrogenosiloxanes, and a platinum crosslinking catalyst. The silicone surface is treated with a homogeneous atmospheric plasma using a plasma spraying apparatus having a rotating head with one or more plasma nozzles that are offset relative to the axis of rotation, each one being capable of generating a plasma jet whose axis is parallel to said axis of rotation. The articles to which the invention relate include composites of flexible substrate (e.g. textile)/silicone coating. Application: adhesive bonding of silicone surfaces crosslinked by ?Si—H/?Si-vinyl polyaddition.

Abstract: A threaded connection for an electrode holder and an electrode in a plasma arc torch is provided. The threaded connection has relatively low height, and the engaged portion of a male threaded portion of the electrode and a female threaded portion of the electrode holder are positioned at least partially within a nozzle chamber. In one inventive aspect, the nominal pitch diameter of the electrode is less than the minor diameter of the electrode. In another, the width of the root area of the electrode thread is wider than the width of the root area of the electrode holder thread by at least about 35%. The width of the root area of the electrode is at least about 15% wider than the width of the crest portion of the electrode. As such, the less consumable of the two parts, the electrode holder, is provided with a thread that is less likely to be worn and damaged. In one particular embodiment, the crest profile of the electrode is that of a Stub Acme thread separated by a larger root profile.

Abstract: A component for a plasma arc torch includes a body portion, a tapered surface on the body portion, the tapered surface including a compressible member that provides a disengagement force relative to the body portion, and an axially disposed surface on the body portion for coupling a mating surface on an adjacent structure of the torch. The component can be a nozzle and/or an electrode.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method and arrangement for controlling a glow discharge plasma in a gas or gas mixture under atmospheric conditions, in a plasma discharge space comprising at least two spaced electrodes in which at least one plasma pulse having an absolute pulse maximum is generated by applying an AC plasma energizing voltage to the electrodes causing a plasma current and a displacement current. The plasma is controlled by providing a relative decrease of the displacement current after the pulse maximum. In a preferred embodiment, the energizing voltage is applied through a series circuit including a choke coil and a non-saturable inductor.

Abstract: An ETC igniter and compatible electrical connector for enabling an ETC gun to be used in a battlefield setting in close proximity with personnel and sensitive electronic equipment. This is accomplished by providing a current path to and from the igniter that is electrically isolated from all other portions of the gun. The connector and igniter are adapted to be capable of withstanding the high connection forces necessary to prevent arcing and the extreme stresses imposed during firing of the gun.

Abstract: A coolant tube and electrode are adapted to mate with each other to align the tube relative to the electrode during operation of the torch. Improved alignment ensures an adequate flow of coolant along an interior surface of the electrode. In one aspect, an elongated body of the coolant tube has a surface adapted to mate with the electrode. In another aspect, an elongated body of the electrode has a surface adapted to mate with the coolant tube. The surfaces of the tube and electrode may, for example, be flanges, tapered surfaces, contours, or steps.

Abstract: An electrode for a plasma arc cutting torch which minimizes the deposition of high emissivity material on the nozzle, reduces electrode wear, and improves cut quality. The electrode has a body having a first end, a second end in a spaced relationship relative to the first end, and an outer surface extending from the first end to the second end. The body has an end face disposed at the second end. The electrode also includes at least one passage extending from a first opening in the body to a second opening in the end face. A controller can control the electrode gas flow through the passages as a function of a plasma arc torch parameter. Methods for operating the plasma arc cutting torch with the electrode are disclosed.

Abstract: An electrode for a plasma arc cutting torch which minimizes the deposition of high emissivity material on the nozzle, reduces electrode wear, and improves cut quality. The electrode has a body having a first end, a second end in a spaced relationship relative to the first end, and an outer surface extending from the first end to the second end. The body has an end face disposed at the second end. The electrode also includes at least one passage extending from a first opening in the body to a second opening in the end face.

Abstract: The present invention provides a modular anode support member for a plasma spray gun including an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, and a coolant tube connectable to the outer sleeve. The outer sleeve having a cylindrical sidewall defining a central opening through a length thereof for receiving the inner sleeve. The outer sleeve including a mounting member for mounting the outer sleeve and an associated spray gun to a spray gun manipulator. The inner sleeve for receiving an anode housing is removably disposed in the central opening of the outer sleeve and includes forward and rearward portions defined by a stepped central bore through a length thereof. The forward portion for receiving an anode housing therein, the rearward portion for carrying coolant to and from the anode housing. Alignment means are provided for fixing the relative position of the inner sleeve and outer sleeve in assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed is a structure aimed to reduce the frequency of replacement of an insulating spacer arranged between grids of an ion beam irradiation device. More specifically, disclosed is a so-called insulating spacer arranged in order to maintain insulation between the grids, the insulating spacer having an annular groove in a portion composed of an annular, substantially plane portion opposed to a grid and a cylindrical portion being raised from the central portion of the annular, substantially plane portion and abutting the grid, with the annular groove being perpendicular to the plane and separating the peripheral portion of the annular portion from the cylindrical portion.

Abstract: Various mechanisms are provided relating to plasma-based light source that may be used for lithography as well as other applications. For example, a device is disclosed for producing extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light based on a sheared plasma flow. The device can produce a plasma pinch that can last several orders of magnitude longer than what is typically sustained in a Z-pinch, thus enabling the device to provide more power output than what has been hitherto predicted in theory or attained in practice. Such power output may be used in a lithography system for manufacturing integrated circuits, enabling the use of EUV wavelengths on the order of about 13.5 nm. Lastly, the process of manufacturing such a plasma pinch is discussed, where the process includes providing a sheared flow of plasma in order to stabilize it for long periods of time.

Abstract: Among other things, light that carries information about cooking is directed in a first direction towards a redirection element and, at the redirection element, the light is redirected to be visible to a person cooking.

Abstract: A adjustable upper coil or electrode for a reaction chamber apparatus useable in semiconductor processing, is constructed so that its shape may be selectively changed or so at least two portions thereof may be selectively driven at different power and/or frequencies. The adjustable upper coil or electrode, therefore, enables the plasma density distribution in the reaction chamber apparatus to be selectively controlled.

Abstract: 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.

Abstract: A plasma treatment apparatus that can perform an excellent plasma treatment on a portion of a work which is to be used for producing products or parts, while preventing undesirable occurrence of discharge at that portion reliably is provided. The plasma treatment apparatus performs a plasma treatment on a plate-shaped work having an usable region to be used for producing products or parts and an unusable region other than the usable region.

Abstract: A customizable ion fusion formation system and method is used to repair a targeted repair region of a workpiece with successive layers of feedstock material. The system includes a moveable positioning platform and a control platform positioned separate and apart from the moveable positioning platform. A positioning arm is mounted to the moveable positioning platform and has a deposition head, including a plasma torch and a feedstock feeder mounted thereto. The deposition head is positioned relative to the targeted repair region by positioning and repositioning the moveable positioning platform, and thus the positioning arm, thereby providing customizable repair.

Abstract: A method of generating an electrical arc includes steps of providing a first electrode and a second electrode, determining a dielectric strength of a gap region between the electrodes, determining a desired dielectric strength change based on the determined dielectric strength, injecting an amount of ions into the gap region, wherein the amount of ions is controlled based on the desired dielectric strength change, and providing a voltage to the first electrode, the voltage causing the electrical arc to be formed between the first electrode and the second electrode. Preferably, the amount of ions injected into the gap region causes the dielectric strength of the gap region to be changed by an amount substantially equal to the desired dieletric strength change. The method may be implemented in an apparatus employing an electrician arc, such as, without limitation, a fusion splicer or an apparatus for preparing an optical fiber.

Abstract: A plasma jet electrode device includes an orientation base, a ceramic pipe, a round plate having a plurality of tilted through holes thereon and a high-voltage metal electrode. A dielectric discharging plasma area is formed between the high-voltage metal electrode and the ceramic pipe. The plasma jet electrode device further has a rotating base, a bottom plate, and a grounding electrode. A low-temperature non-equilibrium plasma area is formed between the grounding electrode and the high-voltage metal electrode. The round plate has a spray head praying low-temperature non-equilibrium plasma. The plasma treatment area is increased, and the uniformity is improved. The present plasma jet electrode system has a frame for fixing at least one plasma jet electrode device. It evidently increases the effective plasma treatment area. The system can also provide additional functions of cooling, guiding, plating and etching, etc.

Abstract: Vented shield systems for plasma arc torches are provided that comprise a shield cup body defining a distal end portion, a vented retainer secured to the distal end portion of the shield cup body, and a shield cap secured to the vented retainer. The vented retainer defines at least one vent passageway that directs a flow of secondary gas inward toward the shield cap, and the vented shield system blocks at least a portion of molten metal from contacting components, such as a tip or nozzle, of the plasma arc torch. The shield cap may comprise a mechanized cap, a drag cap, a gouging cap, or a deflector cap, among others. Accordingly, various shield caps may be employed without removal or replacement of the vented retainer. The same vented retainer may be used throughout a variety of plasma arc torch applications.

Abstract: A system for providing a dynamically controlled plasma cutting system. The plasma cutting system includes a proportional valve and a sensing device arrangement and a controller connected to this arrangement. The system is configured to dynamically control gas flow in a plasma torch. The system measures gas pressure at a proportional valve and makes necessary gas pressure adjustments in the system by way of controlling a drive signal sent to the proportional valve to control gas flow.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a high-frequency induction plasma reactor apparatus for producing nano-powder, which is configured to continuously manufacture nano-powder in large quantities using solid-phase powder as a starting raw material and to manufacture high-purity nano-powder by completely vaporizing the material powder. The high-frequency induction plasma reactor apparatus comprises an upper body and a cover. The upper body is provided with a reaction pipe receiving a reactor extending vertically inside thereof, a high-frequency coil surrounding the outer periphery of the reaction pipe and a ceramic inner wall provided inside the reaction pipe. The ceramic inner wall is formed with a plurality of gas passing bores and defines a gas movement passage with the inner side wall of the reaction pipe therebetween for allowing the inflow of argon gas from the outside into the reactor. The cover is mounted to the upper end of the reactor and adapted to seal the reactor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for plasma gasification of waste materials consisting of organic and inorganic portions is provided which includes a refractory-lined reactor vessel, a feeder mechanism, and a DC electrode device. The refractory-lined reactor vessel has a processing chamber formed therein. The feeder mechanism feeds continuously waste materials into the processing chamber at a controlled feed rate. The DC electrode device is used for heating the processing chamber to a sufficient temperature so as to convert the organic portions of the waste materials to a synthetic gas consisting of hydrogen and carbon monoxide and to a carbon particulate, and to convert the inorganic portions of the waste materials to a molten material consisting of a lower metallic layer and a slag layer formed on top of the metallic layer.

Abstract: The footprint of a reactive atom plasma processing tool can be modified using an aperture device. A flow of reactive gas can be injected into the center of an annular plasma. An aperture can be positioned relative to the plasma such that the effective footprint of the plasma can be changed without adjusting the gas flows or swapping out the tool. Once the aperture and tool are in position relative to a workpiece, reactive atom plasma processing can be used to modify the surface of the workpiece, such as to etch, smooth, polish, clean, and/or deposit material onto the workpiece. If necessary, a coolant can be circulated about the aperture. Multiple apertures can also be used to provide a variety of footprint sizes and/or shapes. This description is not intended to be a complete description of, or limit the scope of, the invention. Other features, aspects, and objects of the invention can be obtained from a review of the specification, the figures, and the claims.

Abstract: A method and device for laser drilling in which the geometric form of the drill-hole wall is influenced by reciprocal action between a laser beam and a supplied process gas, which thereby is ionized to plasma. Furthermore, the outlet opening of the drill hole is influenced by a suitable arrangement of a backing.

Abstract: An improved collimator for a plasma arc torch consists of an annular holder member and an insert member. The insert member includes a tubular stem portion ending in an integrally formed, radially extending face plate. When the stem portion is fitted into the central bore of the holder member with a predetermined clearance fit therebetween, a cooling water passage is created. The improved collimator is characterized by the absence of any welds between the holder member and the insert member that would be exposed to conductive gases given off during use of the plasma arc torch and a lesser resistance to cooling water flow than prior art collimator designs.

Abstract: Example embodiments relate to a plasma-spraying device for spraying a powdered material, including electrodes, which may form a plasma channel having an inlet end and an outlet end, and a unit for supplying the powdered material to the plasma channel. The powder supply unit may be arranged between a first section of the electrodes located upstream of the powder supply unit and a second section of the electrodes located downstream of the powder supply, as seen in the direction of plasma flow of the plasma channel.

Abstract: This invention relates to a plasma igniter for directly igniting the pulverized coal burner. Said plasma igniter consists of a plasma generator which includes a composite anode, an combined type cathode, an electromagnetic coil and a transmitting coil; a pulverized coal burner which comprises multi-stage chambers for conveying igniting coal, an equipment for adjusting concentration of coal powder and a four-stage burner canister; and a generator brace. Said combined type cathode consists of a cathode plate, a fixation nut, a conductive pipe, an inflowing pipe, an inflowing guiding pipe, a cathode lid and a sealing spacer. The lining for generating electric arc is assembled with the front of cathode. An alloy plate is used as the cathode plate. The nozzle that used for cooling the cathode is first convergent and then expansive, and is placed in the middle of the conductive pipe. The plasma igniter has the advantage of stable burning.

Abstract: Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) reforming converts carbonaceous compounds into a fuel for use in generating electrical power. Energy rich hydrocarbon fuels, such as coal, marine diesel, oils, and hydrocarbon wastes are employed as a feedstock for the ICP, which transforms the feedstock into a fuel that can be used by fuel cells and gas turbines for the production of electricity. The overall efficiency of an ICP-based electrical power system can be increased by providing partial oxidation within the reaction vessel. The partial oxidation conditions consume a small amount of the reformed fuel gas, thereby liberating sufficient thermal energy to reduce the electrical power requirements of the ICP to maintain desired reactor temperatures, and providing an increase in the overall net electrical power production. The integrated power production system can also adjust to meet an increased requirement for process heat and steam by balancing the effect of partial oxidation.

Abstract: A current sensor for installation on a conductor without breaking the conductor may include an insulating base having a conductor supporting portion and a conductive coil disposed within an outer surface of the insulating base. A magnetically permeable conductor retaining member includes a portion that passes through the coil and is secured to the insulating base. The retaining member defines a conductor receiving aperture portion with the aperture portion being disposed adjacent the conductor supporting portion of the insulating base. With a conductor positioned within the aperture portion, the conductor is secured by the retaining member to the conductor receiving portion of the insulating base and a substantially continuous permeable path is formed by the conductor retaining member about the conductor.

Abstract: A microfabricated plasma generator and a method of generating a plasma, the plasma generator comprising: a substrate chip; a chamber defined by the substrate chip, the chamber including an inlet port through which analyte is in use delivered, an outlet port and a plasma-generation region in which a plasma is in use generated; and first and second electrodes across which a voltage is in use applied to generate a plasma in the plasma-generation region.

Abstract: Portable microwave plasma systems including supply lines for providing microwaves and gas flow are disclosed. The supply line includes at least one gas line or conduit and a microwave coaxial cable. A portable microwave plasma system includes a microwave source, a waveguide-to-coax adapter and a waveguide that interconnects the microwave source with the waveguide-to-coax adapter, a portable discharge unit and the supply line. The portable discharge unit includes a gas flow tube coupled to the supply line to receive gas flow and a rod-shaped conductor that is axially disposed in the gas flow tube and has an end configured to receive microwaves from the microwave coaxial cable and a tapered tip positioned adjacent the outlet portion of the gas flow tube. The tapered tip is configured to focus microwave traveling through the rod-shaped conductor and generate plasma from the gas flow.

Abstract: A plasma arc torch and methods for assembling and disassembling a plasma arc torch wherein a plurality of front end parts of the torch form a unit that is removable from the torch in a single operation to gain access to the electrode. The unit can then be reinstalled in the torch in a single operation after replacement of the electrode. An assembly fixture is employed to facilitate pre-assembly of the unit of front end parts prior to installation of the unit in a torch.

Abstract: A plasma welding method for a golf club head includes the steps of: preparing a club head body and a striking plate, and mounting the striking plate to the club head body; moving a plasma nozzle to aim to a connection line formed between the club head body and the striking plate before the plasma welding; tilting the plasma nozzle a predetermined inclined angle with respect to a vertical direction of the combination of the club head body and the striking plate for the plasma welding; and controlling the tilted plasma nozzle to weld the striking plate to the club head body so as to constitute the golf club head.

Abstract: A device for clamping at least two components for use in friction stir welding supports the components and holds the components in place using a plurality of channels placed under vacuum for clamping of the components during friction stir welding. Both sides of a welding backup plate may have a mounting device including the vacuum channels, for example. The mounting device may have a contoured support surface for supporting components with a simple or complex surface curvature, allowing the same device to be rapidly configured to a plurality of component types with varying surface curvatures.

Abstract: Plasma-assisted methods and apparatus that use multiple radiation sources are provided. In one embodiment, a plasma is ignited by subjecting a gas in a processing cavity to electromagnetic radiation having a frequency less than about 333 GHz in the presence of a plasma catalyst, which may be passive or active. A controller can be used to delay activation of one radiation source with respect to another.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for heating materials or substances in an oven at an oven temperature below their melting and/or vaporization points to either melt and/or vaporize the substance. Substances are inserted into a substantially spherical envelope. The envelope is sealed at a preset pressure. The solid is heated in an oven at an oven temperature substantially below the melting or vaporization temperature of the substance at the preset pressure for a time sufficient to either melt or vaporize the substance.

Abstract: A dual mode plasma arc torch is provided that preferably comprises a start cartridge disposed between an electrode and a tip. In one form, the start cartridge comprises an initiator that is in electrical contact with the electrode and that is resiliently biased into contact with the tip, such that when the plasma arc torch is in a contact start mode, the initiator is movable against the resilient bias to separate from the tip and establish a pilot arc between the initiator and the tip. Further, when the plasma arc torch is in a high frequency start mode, the start cartridge spaces the tip from the electrode such that a pilot arc is established between the electrode and the tip. In other forms, a contact start torch is provided that is operable under high frequency, and conversely, a high frequency start torch is provided that is operable under low voltage.

Abstract: A portable microwave plasma discharge unit receives microwaves and a gas flow via a supply line. The portable microwave plasma discharge unit generates plasma from the gas flow and the received microwaves. The portable microwave plasma discharge unit includes a gas flow tube made of a conducting and/or dielectric material and a rod-shaped conductor that is axially disposed in the gas flow tube. The rod-shaped conductor has an end configured to contact a microwave supply conductor of the supply line to receive microwaves and a tapered tip positioned adjacent the outlet portion of the gas flow tube. The tapered tip is configured to focus the microwaves received from the microwave supply conductor to generate plasma from the gas flow.

Abstract: A remote plasma source employs a helical coil slow wave structure to couple microwave energy to a flowing gas to produce plasma for downstream substrate processing, such as photoresist stripping, ashing, or etching. The system also includes cooling structures for removing excess heat from the plasma source components.

Abstract: An electronic part processing method for peeling off a resin coating of an electronic part having a terminal section. The method includes a step of irradiating, with plasma, a coated wire having copper as a principal constituent and a surface coated with a resin.

Abstract: A torch cable in which both the electrical connection and the pneumatic connection can be made concurrently in one motion by coupling the end of the torch cable to the exterior of the supply unit. The coupling further includes a quick disconnect feature. The torch cable coupling is simple and inexpensive, using standard off-the-shelf components. The end of the cable comprises various components that are overmolded to form an electrically insulative body, e.g., made of urethane rubber compound. This molded body incorporates strain relief, is water resistant, protects the electrical plug, and stabilizes the electrical contacts. Gas, power and control are combined in one assembly. The pneumatic quick disconnect coupling is used as a latching mechanism for the entire assembly. The torch cable can be disconnected from the supply unit by simply releasing the quick disconnect coupling and then pulling the end of the torch cable away from the supply unit.

Abstract: A method of treating a fluorocarbon feedstock includes generating, in a high temperature zone, an electrical arc between at least one cathode and at least one anode, generating in the high temperature zone and by means of the electrical arc and a plasma gas, a thermal plasma having a tail flame, allowing a fluorocarbon feedstock comprising at least one fluorocarbon compound to form a reactive thermal mixture with the thermal plasma tail flame, with the fluorocarbon compound dissociating into at least one fluorocarbon precursor or reactive species having fewer carbon atoms than the fluorocarbon compound, and cooling the reactive thermal mixture to form, from the fluorocarbon precursor or reactive species, a fluorocarbon product.

Abstract: A plasma torch assembly having a quick-connect retaining cup is disclosed. The plasma torch has a torch body constructed to receive an electrode therein. A retaining cup secures the electrode to the torch body by rotating the retaining cup less than approximately 360 degrees relative to the torch body.