Abstract: A consumable component for a thermal processing torch is provided. The consumable component includes a consumable component body and a signal device located on or within the consumable component body for transmitting a signal associated with the consumable component. The signal can be independent of a detectable physical characteristic of the consumable component.

Abstract: The invention features, in one aspect, a computerized method for measuring or improving performance of a cutting head of an automated cutting system by evaluating motor control processing of an automated motion control of the cutting head of the automated cutting system. The method includes generating one or more motor outputs for the automated cutting system for any of a cut, a trace, or a motion, the one or more motor outputs corresponding to at least a portion of a set of motor output commands. A characteristic is measured of the one or more motor outputs for the plurality of axes of the automated cutting system. The characteristic is compared with the at least a portion of the set of motor output commands to determine a performance measurement of the automated cutting system.

Abstract: A consumable component for a thermal processing torch is provided. The consumable component includes a consumable component body and a signal device located on or within the consumable component body for transmitting a signal associated with the consumable component. The signal can be independent of a detectable physical characteristic of the consumable component.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a gas supply to a plasma arc torch uses a proportional control solenoid valve positioned adjacent the torch to manipulate the gas flow to the torch, thereby extending electrode life during arc transfer and shutdown. Swirl ring design can be simplified and gas supply and distribution systems become less complicated. The invention also allows manipulation of shield gas flow to reduce divot formation when making interior cuts. The system can be controlled with a digital signal processor utilizing a feedback loop from a sensor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a gas supply to a plasma arc torch uses a proportional control solenoid valve positioned adjacent the torch to manipulate the gas flow to the torch, thereby extending electrode life during arc transfer and shutdown. Swirl ring design can be simplified and gas supply and distribution systems become less complicated. The invention also allows manipulation of shield gas flow to reduce divot formation when making interior cuts. The system can be controlled with a digital signal processor utilizing a feedback loop from a sensor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a gas supply to a plasma arc torch uses a proportional control solenoid valve positioned adjacent the torch to manipulate the gas flow to the torch, thereby extending electrode life during arc transfer and shutdown. Swirl ring design can be simplified and gas supply and distribution systems become less complicated. The invention also allows manipulation of shield gas flow to reduce divot formation when making interior cuts. The system can be controlled with a digital signal processor utilizing a feedback loop from a sensor.