Plasma Torch Structure Patents (Class 219/121.48)
  • Patent number: 7161110
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: CZT, Inc.
    Inventor: Susana Curatolo
  • Patent number: 7157659
    Abstract: In a state that a plate-shaped insulator is disposed adjacent to a plate-shaped electrode, a discharge gas containing an inert gas is supplied to a vicinity of a processing object from one gas exhaust port located nearer from the plate-shaped electrode, out of at least two-line gas exhaust ports which are disposed around the plate-shaped electrode and which are formed so as to be surrounded by the plate-shaped insulator and moreover which are different in distance to the plate-shaped electrode from each other, while a discharge control gas is supplied from the other gas exhaust port to the vicinity of the processing object. Simultaneously with the supply of the gases, electric power is supplied to the plate-shaped electrode or the processing object, by which plasma processing of the processing object is carried out. Thus, plasma processing method and apparatus capable of processing for desired fine linear portions with high precision are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoichiro Yashiro, Tomohiro Okumura, Tadashi Kimura, Mitsuo Saitoh
  • Patent number: 7145098
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a set of torch consumable components secured to a torch head, wherein a supply of cooling fluid flows coaxially through the torch to cool torch components and a supply of plasma gas and secondary gas flows through the torch to generate and stabilize a plasma stream for operations such as cutting workpieces. The torch consumable components, in part, comprise an electrode and a tip that include a variety of configurations for improved cooling, electrical contact, and attachment to adjacent torch components. Further, a consumables cartridge is provided for ease of use and replacement of the torch consumable components. Additionally, methods of operating the plasma arc torch at relatively high current levels are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Darrin H. MacKenzie, Christopher J. Conway, Kevin J. Kinerson, Mark Gugliotta
  • Patent number: 7135653
    Abstract: A plasma generation system that is powered with an alternating current power source has been developed. The system includes a plasma generator that heats gas to a high temperature to form plasma. The gas is heated by passing through an electrical arc generated by electrodes. The gas is fed to the generator by a feed system comprising a plurality pneumatic feed devices that supply the plasma-forming gas. The plasma generator is powered by an alternating current power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Inventors: Alexander P. Routberg, Philip G. Rutberg, Alexei A. Safronov, Vasily N. Shiryaev
  • Patent number: 7132620
    Abstract: The invention relates to an inductive thermal plasma torch comprising a confinement tube that comprises, longitudinally in relation to the tube, metal fingers which are insulated from each other, an ignition device that comprises an igniter (4) and an igniter support (1, 3), the purpose of the igniter (4) being to initiate a discharge in the plasma of the torch, the support having an electrically conductive end (1) which is connected to the electrical earth (2) of the plant and another, electrically insulating, end (3) which carries the igniter, the ignition device also comprising an electrically conductive connection (5) connecting the igniter (4) to the electrically conductive end (1) of the support so that the igniter is able to initiate the discharge in the plasma, the electrically conductive connection (5) having a section that is sufficiently narrow to limit the intensity of the current capable of passing through the igniter (4) in order to avoid electrical arcing by capacitive discharge between the ign
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Daniel Coelho, Jean-Pascal Dumont-Monnet, Pierre Ripoche
  • Patent number: 7125525
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the production of nanotubes, fullerene and their derivatives where, in an environment where an inert gas flows at or below atmospheric pressure, a high frequency electromagnetic field is generated and a pure or doped graphite element is subjected to the electromagnetic field and heated to vaporization to form a plasma.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Schiavon Mauro
  • Patent number: 7124960
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electric arc wire burner for spraying an electric arc, comprising at least two burner tubes (3) for feeding electrodes which are embodied in the form of wire (5). Said electrodes are guided through the burner tube (3) in the direction of the surface of the object which is to be coated. The wire (5) is guided by a deflection device (7) comprising a number of rotationally mounted guiding elements and/or sliding elements (8) and the wire (5) is deformed in an elastic area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Sven Schach, Tilmann Haug, Alexander Sagel
  • Patent number: 7126080
    Abstract: A gas distributor for use in a plasma arc torch is provided that has at least one plasma gas passageway formed conjointly with a metering passageway, and at least one helical gas passageway formed along an interior portion of the gas distributor, wherein the helical gas passageway is in fluid communication with the plasma gas passageway and the metering passageway. The combination of the metering passageway and the helical gas passageway provides for a metered flow rate and a controlled swirling flow of plasma gas within the plasma arc chamber, respectively, which functions to reduce the amount of molten emissive insert that is ejected from within an electrode at arc shut off, thereby resulting in an increased life of the consumable electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Thierry R. Renault, Nakhleh A. Hussary, Darrin H. MacKenzie, Christopher J. Conway, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson
  • Patent number: 7115832
    Abstract: A portable, hand-held microplasma spray coating apparatus comprises an anode, a cathode and an arc gas emitter disposed in a housing, and a powder feeding system, a cooling system and a power source connected to the apparatus. The powder feeding system, cooling system and power source are detachably mounted on a mobile platform. The microplasma spray apparatus can be transported to on-site locations in the field to facilitate quick repair work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Donn R. Blankenship, Gary Shubert, Paul H. Zajchowski
  • Patent number: 7112759
    Abstract: A plasma torch is provided, comprising a first electrode holder configured to be received by the plasma torch and adapted to cut a thinner workpiece. The first electrode holder is configured to receive a first electrode assembly comprising a holder element having an emissive insert element received therein. A second electrode holder is also configured to be received by the plasma torch and is adapted to cut a thicker workpiece. The second electrode holder is interchangeable with the first electrode holder, with respect to the plasma torch. The second electrode holder is further configured to receive a second electrode assembly comprising a pencil element. The interchangeable first and second electrode holders thereby allow a single plasma torch to cut both the thinner and thicker workpieces. An associated electrode system and an electrode device are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Stanley Severance, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7112758
    Abstract: The apparatus for the thermal spray delivery of a precursor solution comprises a first solution reservoir, a second solution reservoir, singular or multiple atomizing liquid injector(s) disposed in fluid communication with the reservoirs, a flame source configured to direct a spray from the atomizing liquid injector to a substrate, and a thermal control device disposed in thermal communication with the substrate. The method of depositing a precursor solution at a substrate to form a coating comprises maintaining a substrate at a pre-selected temperature, delivering the precursor solution from a reservoir bank, atomizing the precursor solution, injecting the atomized precursor solution into a flame, and directing the flame to the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignees: The University of Connecticut, US Nanocorp, Inc., Inframat Corporation
    Inventors: Xinqing Ma, Stephen Murphy, Jeffrey Roth, Danny Xiao, Baki M. Cetegen
  • Patent number: 7105770
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided having a tubular member defining a bore extending axially between opposing ends, and nozzle engaged with one end. A movable member carries an electrode, moves axially along the bore, and is biased toward the one end axially outward of the bore. A piston member engaged with the movable member is configured to selectively move the electrode between a torch inoperable and a torch operable position within the bore. A fluid flow inlet is configured to channel a fluid flow into the bore. A sealing member operably engaged with the movable member is configured to allow the fluid flow to act upon the piston member to move the electrode to the torch operable position when the nozzle is operably engaged with the one end of the tubular member, and to prevent the fluid flow from such when the nozzle is not so operably engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Griffin, Michael E. Allen
  • Patent number: 7098422
    Abstract: An electrode element for plasma torches and a production method for such electrode elements. The electrode element for plasma torches includes at least one core made of a metal or a metal alloy having a smaller work function that forms the actual electrode connected as a cathode. This core is enclosed by a shell part, which is made of a metal or a metal alloy having a greater work function than the core and a greater thermal conductivity. Between the core surface and the shell part there is provided a boundary layer in a graded form, which is made up of solid solutions of the two metals or metal alloys, or an intermediate layer toward the core surface and toward the shell part, which is made of another metal or a metal alloy having a work function greater than that of the core material wherein the boundary layers of the intermediate layer form a graded transition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignees: Kjellberg Finsterwalde Elektroden & Maschinen GmbH, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Volker Krink, Frank Laurisch, Wolfram Möhler, Gerd Lotze, Helmut Löbl
  • Patent number: 7098421
    Abstract: The invention is a transferred or non-transferred plasma arc torch for use in a fuel gas generator system for generating electricity from waste, wherein the torch includes a torch housing, electrodes (one in a transferred torch, two in a non-transferred torch), a tubular sleeve member, a coolant flow path, a vortex mechanism, and a power supply circuit connected to the rear and front electrodes that generates an arc that is adapted to extend axially from the rear electrode through the vortical flow of gas and to an attachment located on the bore of the front electrode, and wherein the electrodes are metal coated in order to protect from wear during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Inventor: Joseph Frank Pierce, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7084367
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for indicating a temperature of a torch consumable is disclosed. The invention includes a shielding cup constructed to be attached to a torch having a coating which indicates a temperature of the shielding cup during a welding/cutting process. Preferably, the coating indicates to a user when the temperature of the torch is beyond a preferred operating range thereby preventing excessive wear of the consumables associated with overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Troy A. Sommerfeld, Joseph C. Schneider
  • Patent number: 7075030
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a plasma generator aligned with a beam generator for producing a plasma to shield an energized beam. An electrode is coaxially aligned with the plasma generator and followed in turn by a vortex generator coaxially aligned with the electrode. A target is spaced from the vortex generator inside a fluid environment. The electrode is electrically biased relative to the electrically grounded target for driving the plasma toward the target inside a vortex shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC
    Inventors: Ady Hershcovitch, Rory Dominick Montano
  • Patent number: 7071443
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a set of torch consumable components secured to a torch head, wherein a supply of cooling fluid flows coaxially through the torch to cool torch components and a supply of plasma gas and secondary gas flows through the torch to generate and stabilize a plasma stream for operations such as cutting workpieces. The torch consumable components, in part, comprise an electrode and a tip that include a variety of configurations for improved cooling, electrical contact, and attachment to adjacent torch components. Further, a consumables cartridge is provided for ease of use and replacement of the torch consumable components. Additionally, methods of operating the plasma arc torch at relatively high current levels are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Conway, Darrin H. MacKenzie, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson
  • Patent number: 7067762
    Abstract: A plasma cutting machine is provided in which a dross adhesion inhibitor is jetted from a plasma torch toward the cutting start position (piercing position) of the object material. A dross adhesion inhibitor supply flow path for feeding the dross adhesion inhibitor is connected to an assist gas feeding line in which an assist gas for assisting cutting of the object material with the plasma arc flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Komatsu Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Yamaguchi, Tetsuya Kabata, Kazuhiro Kuraoka, Takahiro Iriyama
  • Patent number: 7053333
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing a vacuum arc plasma source device using a low mass, compact inductive energy storage circuit powered by a low voltage DC supply acts as a vacuum arc plasma thruster. An inductor is charged through a switch, subsequently the switch is opened and a voltage spike of Ldi/dt is produced initiating plasma across a resistive path separating anode and cathode. The plasma is subsequently maintained by energy stored in the inductor. Plasma is produced from cathode material, which allows for any electrically conductive material to be used. A planar structure, a tubular structure, and a coaxial structure allow for consumption of cathode material feed and thereby long lifetime of the thruster for long durations of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Alameda Applied Sciences Corp.
    Inventors: Jochen Schein, Andrew N. Gerhan, Robyn L. Woo, Michael Y. Au, Mahadevan Krishnan
  • Patent number: 7049540
    Abstract: A metal jet cutting system, which includes a jetting heat, a heater and a power source, is used for modifying a workpiece. The jetting head includes a crucible and an inlet for receiving a feed stock of a conductive material. The heater melts the conductive material in the crucible to provide a conductive fluid, which exits the jetting head via an outlet. The power source, which is in electrical communication with the conductive fluid, increases the temperature of the conductive fluid. The conductive fluid is applied to the workpiece to modify the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Hypertherm, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Sanders, Richard W. Couch, Jr., Yong Yang, Zhipeng Lu, Robert C. Dean, Charles M. Hackett
  • Patent number: 7049541
    Abstract: A guide that is used in conjunction with a plasma cutting torch includes a main circular ring having a small circular ring mounted on the outer periphery thereof. The small ring includes a bearing assembly and accommodates the plasma cutting torch. A guide bolt is mounted on the main circular ring and is attached to the workpiece and forms the center of a circular hole that will be cut with the plasma torch. Once the main ring is attached to the workpiece, the plasma torch is attached to the small ring. The torch and rings are then rotated about the bolt with the plasma torch activated to cut a hole that has a radius equal to the radius of the main circular ring plus the radius of the small ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Eric Q. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7041935
    Abstract: A torch lead extension is provided that comprises a conduit having a distal end and a proximal end. The torch lead extension further comprises a distal connector member disposed at the distal end of the conduit and a proximal connector member disposed at the proximal end of the conduit. The distal connector member is engageable with a torch lead connector member secured to a proximal end of a torch lead. The proximal connector member is engageable with a power supply connector member of a power supply. Generally, the distal connector member and the torch lead connector member comprise a distal quick disconnect, and the proximal connector member and the power supply connector member comprise a proximal quick disconnect. Accordingly, the torch lead extension may be quickly assembled between or disassembled from the torch lead and the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Terry N. Raymond, Fred A. Rogers, Christopher J. Conway, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson
  • Patent number: 7030979
    Abstract: A plasma source for a spectrometer includes a plasma torch (10) located within a waveguide or resonant cavity (40) for both the electric and the magnetic field components of a microwave electromagnetic field to excite a plasma (54). This produces a plasma (54) having a generally elliptical cross section into which sample is relatively easily injected but which still provides good thermal coupling between the plasma and the sample. The invention gives significantly improved limits of detection compared to prior art microwave induced plasma systems. The torch is preferably axially aligned with the direction of the magnetic field component and may be located within a resonant iris (32) within the waveguide or cavity (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Varian Austrailia PTY LTD
    Inventor: Michael R. Hammer
  • Patent number: 7026570
    Abstract: The invention is comprised of an apparatus in form of a single transportable unit, a chamber for the main treatment, with the necessary dimensions to fit the canister drum containing the waste which is to be eliminated, and with the capacity to create and manipulate the direction of the RF plasma flows at a temperature higher than 10.000° K so that it totally surrounds the container, in order to carry out its complete dissociation. The chamber has the capacity to individually collect and select the various materials by species resulting from the dissociation, transporting them by means of the plasma flow generated by an argon gas or other gasses which are injected into the chamber at the far end, where the gas conditioning/separator is situated. This chamber which carries out the main treatment process has embedded antennas which emit the radio frequency which produces and maintains the plasma core and is associated to: a) A robotic unit to load the waste drums/canisters into the main chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Aerospace Consulting Corporation Spain, S.L.
    Inventor: Roger Remy
  • Patent number: 7022936
    Abstract: A trigger system for operating a plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a selector that operates between at least a first operating position and a second operating position, wherein the first operating position operates the plasma arc torch in a first mode to deliver gas to the plasma arc torch, and the second operating position operates the plasma arc torch in a second mode to deliver the gas and electric power to the plasma arc torch. Further, the selector comprises a neutral position that selects a neutral mode in which delivery of gas and electric power to the plasma arc torch is inhibited. The selector is preferably disposed within a housing of the plasma arc torch and is slidably operable between the first operating position, the second operating position, and the neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph P. Jones, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson, Kevin J. Kinnerson
  • Patent number: 7019254
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a set of torch consumable components secured to a torch head, wherein a supply of cooling fluid flows coaxially through the torch to cool torch components and a supply of plasma gas and secondary gas flows through the torch to generate and stabilize a plasma stream for operations such as cutting workpieces. The torch consumable components, in part, comprise an electrode and a tip that include a variety of configurations for improved cooling, electrical contact, and attachment to adjacent torch components. Further, a consumables cartridge is provided for ease of use and replacement of the torch consumable components. Additionally, methods of operating the plasma arc torch at relatively high current levels are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Darrin H. MacKenzie, Christopher J. Conway, Kevin J. Kinerson, Mark Gugliotta
  • Patent number: 7005600
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a set of torch consumable components secured to a torch head, wherein a supply of cooling fluid flows coaxially through the torch to cool torch components and a supply of plasma gas and secondary gas flows through the torch to generate and stabilize a plasma stream for operations such as cutting workpieces. The torch consumable components, in part, comprise an electrode and a tip that include a variety of configurations for improved cooling, electrical contact, and attachment to adjacent torch components. Further, a consumables cartridge is provided for ease of use and replacement of the torch consumable components. Additionally, methods of operating the plasma arc torch at relatively high current levels are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Conway, Kevin J. Kinerson, Mark Gugliotta, Darrin H. MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 7002097
    Abstract: The present invention obtains an automatic mode switching of DC plasma torches through, which easily switches DC plasma torches to be run between a transmitting mode and a non-transmitting mode and put the switching device under the monitor and the control of a current sensor and a current level controller; the heat generated by the current passing through can be transferred by a non-combustible liquid driven by a pump and be cooled down through a heat exchanger; and, electric arcs is prevented from happening between two electrodes by the non-combustible liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Atomic Energy Council-Institute of Nuclear Energy
    Inventor: Chin-Ching Tzeng
  • Patent number: 6998566
    Abstract: A variety of electrodes for use in a plasma arc torch are provided that improve cooling between the electrode and an adjacent cathodic element such as a cathode. At least one passageway is formed between the electrode and the cathode for the flow of a fluid, e.g. cooling fluid, wherein the flow of the fluid is proximate, or through an adjacent vicinity of, electrical contact between the cathode and the electrode. The passageway is formed through the electrode, through the cathode, between the electrode and the cathode, and through a third element in the various forms of the present invention. Further, methods of operating a plasma arc torch using the electrodes according to the various forms of the invention are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher J. Conway, Kevin J. Kinerson, Mark Gugliotta, Darrin H. MacKenzie
  • Patent number: 6992262
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for a plasma cutting system including a plasma cutting power source and a plasma torch operationally connected to the plasma cutting power source. A processing unit is disposed within the plasma torch and is configured to control the plasma cutting power source during a plasma cutting process based on operational feedback gathered of the plasma cutting process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Tim A. Matus, David Lambert, Joseph C. Schneider, James F. Ulrich
  • Patent number: 6989505
    Abstract: A consumables cartridge for use in a plasma arc torch is provided that comprises a cartridge body and at least one other consumable component such as a tip or an electrode, for example. The consumables cartridge provides for ease of use and replacement of the torch consumable components by replacing the consumables cartridge when consumable components require replacement rather than replacing consumable components individually or one at a time. Further, methods of installing, removing, and replacing the consumables cartridge are also provided by the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Darrin H. MacKenzie, Christopher J. Conway, Kevin J. Kinerson, Mark Gugliotta
  • Patent number: 6987237
    Abstract: Electrode and nozzle that seat within a retaining member and in two different seating locations relative to retaining member. The electrode and nozzle each include an interwoven-double-start thread having two thread cuts, which start 180 degrees from one another as measured around the circumference of the electrode or nozzle. Further, the electrode, nozzle, and retaining member include mating frustum surfaces, which are configured and dimensioned so that the electrode and nozzle seat within the retaining member with less than one turn of the electrode and nozzle relative to the retaining member. Therefore, the electrode and nozzle may be quickly inserted in, and removed from, the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: American Torch Tip
    Inventor: Jeffrey Walters
  • Patent number: 6979796
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch includes at least one consumable component in coaxial relationship with another component of the torch. At least two compressible components are disposed between longitudinally extending coaxial surfaces of the consumable component and the second component. A pressurized medium flow path is directed to a longitudinal location between the compressible components. Upon supply of a pressurized medium through the flow path, the compressible components are caused to deform radially outward thereby centering the consumable component relative to the other component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: InnerLogic, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven F. Hardwick
  • Patent number: 6974929
    Abstract: Electrode and nozzle that seat within a retaining member and in two different seating locations relative to retaining member. The electrode and nozzle each include an interwoven-double-start thread having two thread cuts, which start 180 degrees from one another as measured around the circumference of the electrode or nozzle. Further, the electrode, nozzle, and retaining member include mating frustum surfaces, which are configured and dimensioned so that the electrode and nozzle seat within the retaining member with less than one turn of the electrode and nozzle relative to the retaining member. Therefore, the electrode and nozzle may be quickly inserted in, and removed from, the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Inventor: Jeffrey Walters
  • Patent number: 6969819
    Abstract: A plasma torch is provided having a tubular member defining a bore extending axially between first and second ends, and nozzle engaged with the first end. A movable member is engaged in the tubular member bore, and includes a first end disposed toward the nozzle and a second end, with a piston member engaged therewith away from the first end. An electrode has a first portion defining a bore and is received by the movable member first end. The electrode has a second portion extending outwardly from the movable member first end toward the nozzle, and a radially outward-extending medial flange between the first and second portions axially outward of the movable member first end. The electrode is movable between an inoperable position in contact with the nozzle and an operable position separated from the nozzle and the medial flange in contact with the tubular member first end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.
    Inventor: David Charles Griffin
  • Patent number: 6963045
    Abstract: A nozzle for a plasma arc cutting torch is provided with an electrically conductive, heat resistant insert, preferably tungsten or a tungsten alloy. As an alternative to the insert, the material can be coated on the entire inner surface of the nozzle. In either embodiment, the material also can be coated on the outer surface of the nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Tatras, Inc.
    Inventors: Jiri Zapletal, Richard Marc Mann, Sr., Frantisek Krystof
  • Patent number: 6963043
    Abstract: An asymmetrical focus ring varies the flow-field, which aids in normalizing pressure gradients across the wafer being processed, thereby improving the process. Embodiments of the present invention utilize a focus ring that either (1) contains a pattern of through holes that enhances pumping, or (2) does not contain any such pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Steven T. Fink
  • Patent number: 6936786
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Roger W. Hewett, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson, Joseph P. Jones, Shiyu Chen, Fred Rogers
  • Patent number: 6933462
    Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus capable of making an accurate lifetime assessment for each of plural consumable parts (the definition of “the consumable part” is an electrode and/or a nozzle) so that effective use of the consumable parts becomes possible leading to reduced running cost. In the plasma processing apparatus, a plasma arc is generated from a plasma torch composed of an electrode and a nozzle to perform plasma work on a workpiece. Such a plasma processing apparatus includes a plurality of consumable parts, each consumable part being an electrode and/or a nozzle, and further comprises a memory for storing consumption data on every consumable part, the consumption data being used for calculation of consumption; and a display unit for displaying consumption calculated by a CPU for selecting the consumption data corresponding to a consumable part in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Komatsu Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Takahiro Iriyama, Yoshihiro Yamaguchi, Tetsuya Kabata
  • Patent number: 6933461
    Abstract: A tip for a plasma arc torch includes a ridge for improved electrical contact with a starting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Horner-Richardson, David A. Small, Joseph P. Jones, Roger W. Hewitt
  • Patent number: 6927358
    Abstract: In one aspect of the invention is a method to create a vacuum seal with extended lifetime to form a dielectric break in a vacuum chamber. The method includes the use of an elastic dielectric seal to form a high vacuum seal. It also includes the use of different means to protect the vacuum seal from direct exposure to the plasma and to reactive gases present inside the plasma chamber. Furthermore, it includes the use of elements to ensure a proper compression of the elastic seal, and to avoid its expansion or contraction when the pressures on both sides of the seal are different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Juan Jose Gonzalez, Steve Dillon, Andrew Shabalin, Fernando Gustavo Tomasel
  • Patent number: 6924455
    Abstract: A material processing apparatus having an integrated toroidal plasma source is described. The material processing apparatus includes a plasma chamber that comprises a portion of an outer surface of a process chamber. A transformer having a magnetic core surrounds a portion of the plasma chamber. The transformer has a primary winding. A solid state AC switching power supply comprising one or more switching semiconductor devices is coupled to a voltage supply and has an output that is coupled to the primary winding. The solid state AC switching power supply drives an AC current in the primary winding that induces an AC potential inside the chamber that directly forms a toroidal plasma that completes a secondary circuit of the transformer and dissociates the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Applied Science & Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Xing Chen, Donald K. Smith, William M. Holber
  • Patent number: 6914211
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Brasseur, Kevin D. Horner-Richardson, Roger W. Hewett
  • Patent number: 6914209
    Abstract: Not only damage to a nozzle caused by spatter generated during piercing is prevented but also the deterioration of the nozzle owing to a pilot arc is restrained, whereby the service life of the nozzle is significantly increased. To this end, the plasma torch is positioned at an initial level which is the distance between the plasma torch and a steel plate when generating a plasma arc to start piercing operation and which has been set equal to a cutting level which is the distance between the plasma torch and the steel plate when carrying out cutting operation. After generation of the plasma arc, the plasma torch is immediately raised to a piercing level which is more distant from the steel plate W than the initial level and piercing operation is performed at the piercing level. After completion of the piercing operation, the plasma torch is lowered to the cutting level to start cutting operation. Just after transfer from a pilot arc into a main arc, a pilot current is cut off by turning a transistor off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Komatsu Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Yamaguchi, Tetsuya Kabata, Takahiro Iriyama
  • Patent number: 6897402
    Abstract: The invention recites a plasma-arc spray gun comprising a cathode and an anode defining a longitudinal axis. The anode further includes an external surface and an internal chamber, the internal chamber extending from a first end to a second end. At least a portion of the internal chamber is defined by revolving a non-linear curve about the longitudinal axis. The plasma-arc spray gun also includes a gun body supporting the cathode and the anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Thermal Spray Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Daryl E. Crawmer
  • Patent number: 6888093
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch includes a first consumable component having a longitudinally extending connection end. A second component in a coaxial relationship with the first consumable component has a bore defined therein into which the connection end of the first component extends. The bore includes a contact surface defined substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the torch. The connection end of the first component includes a contact shoulder defined substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the torch, a locking engagement section configured to engage with a corresponding section of the second component, and an alignment section extending longitudinally from the engagement section. The alignment section has a diameter closely matching that of the bore such so as to minimize axial misalignment between the first consumable component and the second component. The first consumable component may be an electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: Innerlogic, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven F. Hardwick
  • Patent number: 6888092
    Abstract: Electrode and nozzle that seat within a retaining member and in two different seating locations relative to retaining member. The electrode and nozzle each include an interwoven-double-start thread having two thread cuts, which start 180 degrees from one another as measured around the circumference of the electrode or nozzle. Further, the electrode, nozzle, and retaining member include mating frustum surfaces, which are configured and dimensioned so that the electrode and nozzle seat within the retaining member with less than one turn of the electrode and nozzle relative to the retaining member. Therefore, the electrode and nozzle may be quickly inserted in, and removed from, the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: American Torch Tip
    Inventor: Jeffrey Walters
  • Patent number: 6888091
    Abstract: A device for allowing a rotating plasma arc to perform cutting or welding operations inside tubes with small inside diameters by being attached to existing plasma arc power sources where in the speed and axis of rotation of the arc are controlled by the device, and the components of the device in proximity to the plasma arc itself are protected by the ceramic composition of the device and an inert gas shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: Joseph Donald Krause, Jessie Morgan
  • Patent number: 6881921
    Abstract: A plasma arc torch has a threadless electrode-cathode locking assembly, a one-piece tip assembly, and a rotational contact starting mechanism. The cathode and electrode of the locking assembly are configured such that relative rotation of the electrode with respect to the cathode causes the electrode to move in an axial direction relative to the cathode for locking the electrode in fixed axial and rotational position with respect to the cathode. The inner wall of the one-piece tip assembly is configured to receive the forward end of the electrode in a non-contact position. Rotation of the electrode with respect to the tip causes an arcing formation on the electrode to contact an arcing chamber within the cavity. Rotation of the electrode away from the tip generatesa pilot arc in the arcing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Thermal Dynamics Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin D. Horner-Richardson, Pearl A. Grant, Roger W. Hewett, Gene V. Hewes, Howard H. Horn
  • Patent number: 6867387
    Abstract: A device to place an incision into matter with a harmonious plasma cloud. A radiofrequency generator system produces pulsed or continuous electromagnetic waveform which is transmitted by an active transmitter incising electrode tip. This generated electromagnetic wave is utilized to initiate a plasma cloud with processes such as thermal ionization and a photoelectric effect which then trigger an Avalanche Effect for charged atomic particles at the surface of the active transmitter incising electrode tip. This electromagnetic wave is impedance matched, frequency matched, power matched and tuned to the plasma cloud in order to sustain and control a harmonious plasma cloud with reduced atomic particle turbulence and chaos. This harmonious plasma cloud forms a coating over the surface of the active transmitter electrode tip as well as acts to reduce the energy needed from the power amplifier of our plasma cutting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventors: Richard J. Fugo, Damian Coccio