Abstract: A rod billet is melted by using a low-temperature plasma jet generator built into a lid of a melting chamber. The plasma jet generator can be oriented at different angles .theta. from 0.degree. to 70.degree.. The plasma jet's axis can be displaced, parallel to its original position at the center of the end face of the billet being melted, towards the periphery of that end face along its radius. These features account for an increased output and a better uniformity of granules.

Abstract: In the body of a plasma arc torch head coolant inlet ducts extend normally to the portions of the nozzle surface subject to maximum heating. The rate of cooling and a permissible power of the plasma arc torch are markedly increased by directing the flow of incoming coolant directly against the surface being cooled. Where the nozzle lateral surface is exposed to the effect of a plasma-forming arc, the coolant inlet ducts are arranged so as to open radially into said lateral surfaces. If electromagnetic coils are provided to allow control over the plasma jet, a coolant is supplied to effect intensive cooling of the nozzle end face.