Abstract: The plasma torch of this disclosure provides a shielded plasma arc using an external powder feed and an inert gas shield. The torch of this disclosure has a smaller outside diameter than prior art torches and allows better orientation of the torch with respect to a substrate to be hard faced. A method of hard surfacing an article, preferably using the torch of this invention, is also disclosed. The rotation of the article, a valve body, is controlled during hard facing to prevent deflects.

Abstract: In a construction toy set, a connector unit or spider member has a central disk-shaped portion with a plurality of arms extending radially therefrom with each arm having a bulbous portion formed at the end thereof, the bulbous portion being slightly elongated in cross section in a direction transverse to the arm. A deformable plastic tube is received thereover in a manner which permits pivotal motion of the tube about the bulbous portion. The spider member has an aperture of slightly oval configuration formed in the central portion thereof for receiving a deformable plastic tube therein in frictional engagement therewith. The connector may also have a shoulder portion formed at the root of each arm for engaging the end of the plastic tube when assembled over the bulbous portion for restricting pivotal movement of the tube about the arm.