Abstract: Arc torch for plasma arc cutting or welding comprising an interchangeable cartridge comprising an electrode and a nozzle, and connecting elements between the cartridge and the body of the arc torch to axially insert and remove the cartridge by a purely rectilinear movement. The arc torch can be used as part of a machine comprising a station for extracting used cartridges and a station for loading new cartridges into the arc torch.

Abstract: A device permits fastening a tool (preferably an EDM tool) to a machining head in at least two different orientations. The tool is mounted on a tool holder, and a pair of portions alternately fix the holder to the head in two different orientations, for example, one in which the tool is positioned for machining operations, and another in which it is positioned for touching up. In a first embodiment the portions are formed as two studs provided on the holder each engageable with the machining head. The studs are positioned with respect to the tool so that engagement with the machining head presents the tool in the two different orientations. In a second embodiment one of the portions is formed on a first tool holder which carries the tool thereon, while the other portion is formed on a second holder mountable to the machining head, the first holder being being mountable either to the machining head directly or to the second holder.

Abstract: A coupling device for coupling, for example a shaft of a tool, to a coupling member anchored to a machine tool, comprises a take-up bushing formed with a conical recess receiving a substantially conical tapered sleeve which receives the shaft and is formed by at least two portions lying at two opposite sides relative to a central axis of the tapered sleeve. The sleeve is pressed into the bushing to retain the shaft in the coupling device.

Abstract: An apparatus for machining metal substrates such as honeycomb seals is provided. The apparatus includes a spindle unit including a motor and shaft. The motor is used for rotating the spindle shaft about its longitudinal axis. The spindle shaft is connected to a power source which converts it and a tool head secured thereto to an electrode. The electrode is positioned in close proximity to a rotating workpiece such that an arc is formed between it and the workpiece. Power to the electrode is adjustable to control the rate of metal removal from the workpiece. Circuitry is used to cut off power to the spindle shaft when the current from the power source exceeds a certain amperage for an extended period of time (such as three seconds to prevent nuisance cut off). The circuitry also allows arcing between the electrode and the workpiece without cutting off power to the spindle shaft.

Abstract: Apparatus for manufacturing a master rack which in turn is employed in the manufacturing of forging dies to form nonuniform tooth configuartion, which includes an EDM machine having upper and lower platens and mechanism for raising and lowering the upper platen, rack blank support mechanism arranged for longitudinal movement in the rack blank axis and mounted on the lower platen, an electrode in the form of a facsimile of a helical pinion rotatably mounted in bracket attached to the upper platen, mechanism for rotating the electrode intermittently, mechanism causing axial movement of the rack blank past the electrode in accordance with the rotational movement of the electrode, a cam coordinating the position of the electrode in relation to the axis of the rack blank, and a cam follower attached to the bracket and contacting the last-named cam.