Abstract: A connector assembly for coupling a plasma arc torch or a welding torch to a power supply having a receiving mechanism. The connector assembly includes a connector body, a plug, and a locking key assembly. The connector body has distal and proximal ends, and the plasma arc torch is affixed to the distal end. The plug extends from the proximal end of the connector body and may include a keyseat. The locking key assembly includes an adapter key and a latch. The adapter key is disposed within the plug keyseat and is configured for receipt within a keyway of the receiving mechanism. The latch retains the locking key assembly to the connector body or connector assembly. The locking key assembly releasably couples the connector assembly to the receiving mechanism and the plasma arc torch to the power supply.

Abstract: A connector assembly for coupling a plasma arc torch or a welding torch to a power supply having a receiving mechanism. The connector assembly includes a connector body, a plug, and a locking key assembly. The connector body has distal and proximal ends, and the plasma arc torch is affixed to the distal end. The plug extends from the proximal end of the connector body and may include a keyseat. The locking key assembly includes an adapter key and a latch. The adapter key is disposed within the plug keyseat and is configured for receipt within a keyway of the receiving mechanism. The latch retains the locking key assembly to the connector body or connector assembly. The locking key assembly releasably couples the connector assembly to the receiving mechanism and the plasma arc torch to the power supply.

Abstract: A retaining cap for a plasma torch is provided that includes fast securing threads. The retaining cap includes internal threads that couple to external threads of a torch body of the plasma torch. The internal and external threads may be multiple start threads having a thread angle greater than 60°. Plasma torches and plasma cutting systems are also provided.

Abstract: A plasma torch is provided having an electrode with a frustoconical end portion. The electrode is received by a plunger during a contact start sequence of the plasma torch and is self-releasing from the torch. The electrode may include a shoulder portion that provides concentric alignment and centering of the electrode with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the components. Other components of the torch include a nozzle, a swirl ring, and retaining cup, such that the consumables of the torch may be toollessly removed and installed.

Abstract: A plasma torch is provided having an electrode with a frustoconical end portion. The electrode is received by a plunger during a contact start sequence of the plasma torch and is self-releasing from the torch. The electrode may include a shoulder portion that provides concentric alignment and centering of the electrode with respect to the central longitudinal axis of the components. Other components of the torch include a nozzle, a swirl ring, and retaining cup, such that the consumables of the torch may be toollessly removed and installed.

Abstract: A retaining cap for a plasma torch is provided that includes fast securing threads. The retaining cap includes internal threads that couple to external threads of a torch body of the plasma torch. The internal and external threads may be multiple start threads having a thread angle greater than 60°. Plasma torches and plasma cutting systems are also provided.