Abstract: A plasma stream generator with a closed-configuration arc for achieving a stream comprising a central area at a uniform or very low temperature. The generator comprises a higher or even much higher number of electrode pairs than is usual, whereby rows may be formed and, in particular, an elongate stream, i.e. a curtain, may be achieved. The orientation problems resulting from the closeness of the jets and the increased attraction/repulsion therebetween are solved by means of magnetic devices (coils) of which there are generally three for a pair of electrode chambers.