With Torch Mounting Means Patents (Class 266/77)
  • Patent number: 10549389
    Abstract: A processing apparatus for a stator bar of a generator according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may allow a worker to safely and easily perform welding on both ends of a plurality of stator bars to be installed in the generator, thereby improving workability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Doosan Heavy Industries Construction Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Dae Op Kim, Boung Won Kim, Ki Cheol Son, Bong Gyu Park
  • Patent number: 8911661
    Abstract: A cutting apparatus embodying the principles of the present invention includes first and second cutting torches which can be selectively operated, depending upon the nature and thickness of a workpiece which is being cut. The cutting apparatus includes a pivotally moveable torch mounting plate on which each of the first and second torches is mounted, with the mounting plate in turn being rotatably moveable about a vertical main axis of the apparatus. The present apparatus provides significant savings, in that two individual torches, such as an oxy-acetylene gas torch and a plasma torch, and can be mounted on the same mechanism for positioning to produce bevel and vertical cutting in materials having different thicknesses and/or cutting requirements at a significant savings in machine complexity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: Peddinghaus Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Magnuson
  • Publication number: 20140312010
    Abstract: A method of operating a plasma arc torch system includes placing a work piece to be cut on a table of the plasma arc torch system, wherein at least a portion of the work piece has a planer surface facing away from the table. A plasma arc torch is positioned adjacent the planer surface of the work piece using a positioning apparatus, wherein the positioning apparatus has at least five degrees of freedom about which it can move the plasma arc torch relative the work piece for cutting the work piece on the table. The method further includes angling the torch relative the planer surface of the work piece such that the torch is held at an angle of between about 1 and about 4 degrees from perpendicular with the planer surface to back burn a produced kerf such that a kerf edge is perpendicular relative the planer surface of the work piece. Additionally, the planer surface of the work piece is calculated by contacting the work piece with the torch at least three times.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventors: Dale C. Phillip, James P. Muckley
  • Patent number: 8765050
    Abstract: A portable fluid injector is a device that burns through and injects a fluid into a metal enclosure. A miniature cutting torch mounted to a magnetic frame. The cutting torch has a minimum of three cylinders, two for cutting gases like oxygen and acetylene, and one for an injection fluid, such as a sleep-inducing gas. The device can be started remotely after it is attached to the metal enclosure. The miniature cutting torch has a nozzle mounted to the end of a pivot arm. An igniter or spark generator is activated to ignite the cutting gases. A guide tube extends below the nozzle such that the guide tube can progress into a hole cut below the nozzle. The guide tube may serve as a means to tell when the hole is complete. The guide tube may also convey the injection fluid through the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Fluid injector Associates
    Inventor: S. Mill Calvert
  • Patent number: 8683900
    Abstract: A torch guide device for cutting target material is presented, the torch guide device including a torch cradle assembly coupled to a rail assembly. The torch cradle assembly is configured for holding a torch to align a torch tip of the torch to the target material. The torch cradle assembly is movable along the rail assembly for cutting the target material along a cutting path. The connector member couples the torch cradle assembly to the rail assembly. The connector member comprises a pivot for pivoting the torch cradle assembly relative to the rail assembly. The torch cradle assembly, in a first position, pivots about the pivot to engage at least a portion of the rail assembly to establish an orientation of the torch tip relative to the target material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventors: Netta Jewell Hurt, Mitchell Loyd Hurt
  • Patent number: 8624148
    Abstract: An anti-collision device for a plasma vertical cutting gun including a lifting frame of a plasma cutting machine; a connection mechanism; a fixing plate of a cutting gun fixed on the connection mechanism; a concave support plate connected with the lifting frame of the plasma cutting machine; and a proximity switch mounted on the concave support plate. The connection mechanism is mounted between the lifting frame of the plasma cutting machine and the fixing plate of the cutting gun. A contact surface between the connection mechanism and the concave support plate matches. One side of a joint plane between the connection mechanism and the concave support plate is of ferromagnetic materials and the other side is provided with a magnet, thereby attracting each other to realize a magnetic connection. The anti-collision device has comprehensive functions, convenient installation, reasonable structure, and short response time in case of impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Wuhan Farley Plasma Cutting Sys. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yanjun Xiong, Wei Gao, Songping Ye, Jie Dong, Lin Wang
  • Publication number: 20130264752
    Abstract: A cutting apparatus embodying the principles of the present invention includes first and second cutting torches which can be selectively operated, depending upon the nature and thickness of a workpiece which is being cut. The cutting apparatus includes a pivotally moveable torch mounting plate on which each of the first and second torches is mounted, with the mounting plate in turn being rotatably moveable about a vertical main axis of the apparatus. The present apparatus provides significant savings, in that two individual torches, such as an oxy-acetylene gas torch and a plasma torch, and can be mounted on the same mechanism for positioning to produce bevel and vertical cutting in materials having different thicknesses and/or cutting requirements at a significant savings in machine complexity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: PEDDINGHAUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: James M. Magnuson
  • Patent number: 8536488
    Abstract: A cable management system for a welding-type system includes a support column extending in a first direction from a first end supported by a welding-type device to a second end arranged above the welding-type device. The cable management system also includes a cable support arranged on the second end of the support column that extends in a second direction substantially transverse to the first direction. Accordingly, a portion of the cable support extends away from the welding-type device to allow a cable supported thereon to extend below the cable support and proximate to the welding-type device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan R. Ertmer, Chris J. Roehl, John C. Breitbach, Thomas G. Yunk
  • Patent number: 8399796
    Abstract: A fence system capable of serving as a guide rail assembly for a cutting tool is provided. The system comprises a main beam with integrated or removable guide inserts interlocked by mechanical means that provide a spacing system for various handheld plasma torches. The inserts are customizable to fit the profile of various torch bodies and provide a precise preset gap for optimized cutting. The main beam can also incorporate storage of consumable parts for the torch as well as additional guide inserts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Shelby Starks
  • Publication number: 20120267352
    Abstract: An apparatus for the thermal processing of a workpiece with a thermal processing tool that is adjustable perpendicularly to the workpiece surface has a drive for adjusting the work distance. The drive is in operative communication with the processing tool or part of it, and is configured as a voice coil actuator, comprising a magnet producing a magnetic field, and a coil in the magnetic field. The magnet and coil are movable relative to each other along a movement axis in response to an electric current. To provide a drive for a thermal processing machine that affords a compact structural form and high machine dynamics, the magnet has a cavity, which has arranged therein the processing tool, or a part thereof, which is mechanically connected to the voice coil actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Applicant: Messer Cutting Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Tobias Wolf, Thomas Duenzkofer
  • Patent number: 8210843
    Abstract: A gas torch includes a torch head assembly including a coupled base and a connected portion coupled to an outer periphery of the coupled base. A joint assembly, which is coupled to the coupled base and adapted for connecting to a nozzle of a bottled gas tank, includes a first joint member and a second joint member communicating with the first joint member. Two fasteners are inserted through the first and second joint members and engaged with the coupled base of the torch head. The joint assembly enables the torch head assembly to connect to different kinds of gas tanks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Pro-Iroda Industreis, Inc.
    Inventor: Arlo Lin
  • Patent number: 8097204
    Abstract: A lightweight bevel head attachment for a torch cutting machine includes a horizontal support tray, a rotation assembly mounted under the support tray, a tilt assembly coupled to the rotation assembly for rotation therewith about a vertical axis, a torch holder carried and pivoted by the title assembly, and a rack-and-pinion lift assembly having a mounting plate for attachment to the cutting machine carriage. The tilt assembly includes a pair of link arms housing a pulley system for transmitting pivotal motion at an input shaft to an output shaft on which the torch holder is mounted. The bevel head attachment can provide bevel angles in a range of about +/?75 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Koike Aronson, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert T. Flaig, Garick J. Tischler
  • Publication number: 20110109022
    Abstract: A lightweight bevel head attachment for a torch cutting machine includes a horizontal support tray, a rotation assembly mounted under the support tray, a tilt assembly coupled to the rotation assembly for rotation therewith about a vertical axis, a torch holder carried and pivoted by the title assembly, and a rack-and-pinion lift assembly having a mounting plate for attachment to the cutting machine carriage. The tilt assembly includes a pair of link arms housing a pulley system for transmitting pivotal motion at an input shaft to an output shaft on which the torch holder is mounted. The bevel head attachment can provide bevel angles in a range of about ±75 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Applicant: KOIKE ARONSON, INC.
    Inventors: Robert T. Flaig, Garick J. Tischler
  • Publication number: 20100072682
    Abstract: An exothermic mini torch includes a torch holder assembly for holding a consumable thermal torch. The torch holder assembly includes a body defining a recess into which the consumable thermal torch is inserted. A passage is defined in the body having a first end fluidly connected to the gas source and a second end fluidly connected to the recess for delivering gas from the gas source to the consumable thermal torch. A filter is optionally disposed between the gas source and the consumable thermal torch adjacent the second end of the passage for filtering the gas and preventing backflow of the gas into the body. A seal is received in the recess and is optionally annularly disposed between an outer circumferential surface of the consumable thermal torch and a portion of the body forming the recess to direct the gas into the consumable thermal torch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Inventors: Jonah Winfield, III, Patsie C. Campana, JR.
  • Patent number: 7611662
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fully rotatable swivel attachment tip for a cutting torch over a broad radius range. The tip comprises two selectable fixed angle members that, in combination allow orientation of the cutting tip precisely where the operator desires. In addition to the variability of the first and second angles of the first and second angle members, the length of the attachment between the first and second selectable angles may be variable and selectable by the operator to facilitate orientation of the cutting tip and the cutting flame supported and directed thereon. Thus, the cutting tip is thus rotatable along two axes and in two dimensions and is capable of circumscribing a partial sphere of varying diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Inventor: LeRoy M. Grangruth
  • Patent number: 7485192
    Abstract: A steel coil cutting apparatus that overcomes these and other problems has an automated arm having a free end. At least two cutting heads are attached to the free end of the automated arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Edw. C. Levy Co.
    Inventor: Julien Gofette
  • Patent number: 6787731
    Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for oxygen cutting pieces of steel. The cutter and trimmer members (5, 10) are positioned in such a manner that the cutting jet (6) is applied to the top face (1.1) of the piece (1) in a substantially vertical direction, while the trimming jet (12) is applied to the bottom face (1.2) of said piece in an oblique direction that remains pointed towards the outlet point (14) of the cutting jet (6), simultaneous cutting and trimming being performed by moving the cutter and trimmer members (5, 10) horizontally in synchronous manner. A sprayer member (11) is also provided for spraying fluid during the cutting process towards molten particles in order to reduce fume emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventors: Guy Prioretti, Véronique Prioretti, Françoise Prioretti-Hacking, Jean-Michel Prioretti
  • Patent number: 6764640
    Abstract: A torch cutting tool has a clamp that is attached to a workpiece with the clamp having a rotating platform with an attached first latch member. A second latch member is attached to a track with a moveable carriage on which is mounted a positioning arm with a torch holder. After the clamp is attached to the workpiece, the second latch member is quickly latched to the first latch member to effect quick and simple setup. A cam follower, a second rotating platform, a second positioning arm, a covered track, a rotating base plate and metered fuel and oxygen supplies make the tool simple and easy to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Edison Welding Institute
    Inventors: John Talkington, Andy Joseph, Dennis Duane Harwig
  • Patent number: 6720683
    Abstract: A machine tool has an operating unit that can be moved by at least one linear motor (24) along a first guide structure in the direction of a first axis of travel (z-axis) and by at least one second linear motor (21, 22) jointly with the first guide structure along a second guide structure in the direction of a second axis of travel (y-axis). Each linear motor (21, 22, 24) includes primary elements as well as secondary elements (15/1, 17; 15/2, 17; 23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Trumpf Werkzeugmaschinen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Stephan Bundschu, Jochen Feilhauer
  • Patent number: 6663824
    Abstract: A steel cutting apparatus includes a cutting torch that is moved in an arcuate path for guiding the cutting torch so that a cutting flame of the cutting torch is always aimed at a bottom corner of the steel at the side where the cutting process begins. Molten steel and iron oxide flow through a kerf in the steel toward the bottom corner, and drop away from the billet for collection and disposal. Only a very small amount of slag adheres to the bottom corner of the billet when cutting is complete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Assignee: Oxy-Arc International, Inc.
    Inventor: Claude Bissonnette
  • Patent number: 6620373
    Abstract: A cutting torch guide is described in which a block is formed with a torch tip stop flange that defines a torch tip abutment plane and that is shaped to abut with and angularly position a torch tip with respect to a workpiece plane. An angle iron edge receiving and guiding surface is formed in the block and defines a guide plane that intersects the torch tip abutment plane. The guide plane and torch tip abutment plane are oriented to angularly position a cutting torch tip at an acute angle with respect to the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Gene C. DeCamp
  • Patent number: 6596222
    Abstract: A carriage assembly is shown for moving equipment for testing or other functions along a wall surface. The carriage assembly includes a main frame for supporting the equipment in relationship to other equipment and to the wall surface, and a sub-frame that supports service lines such as wires and hoses, while isolating loads created by moving the service lines with the carriage from the main frame and the mounted equipment and providing an unobstructed field of view of the subject area under examination. Wheels mounted on the carriage assembly for providing the interface with the wall surface include fixed position wheels and adjustable wheels to compensate for irregularities along the wall surface. At least one of the fixed position wheels or the adjustable wheels are magnetic for holding the carriage against a ferrous or magnetic wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: ThermTech Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Reilly, A. Ronald Jacobstein
  • Publication number: 20030071398
    Abstract: A cutting torch guide is described in which a block is formed with a torch tip stop flange that defines a torch tip abutment plane and that is shaped to abut with and angularly position a torch tip with respect to a workpiece plane. An angle iron edge receiving and guiding surface is formed in the block and defines a guide plane that intersects the torch tip abutment plane. The guide plane and torch tip abutment plane are oriented to angularly position a cutting torch tip at an acute angle with respect to the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventor: Gene C. DeCamp
  • Publication number: 20030034592
    Abstract: A carriage assembly is shown for moving equipment for testing or other functions along a wall surface. The carriage assembly includes a main frame for supporting the equipment in relationship to other equipment and to the wall surface, and a sub-frame that supports service lines such as wires and hoses, while isolating loads created by moving the service lines with the carriage from the main frame and the mounted equipment and providing an unobstructed field of view of the subject area under examination. Wheels mounted on the carriage assembly for providing the interface with the wall surface include fixed position wheels and adjustable wheels to compensate for irregularities along the wall surface. At least one of the fixed position wheels or the adjustable wheels are magnetic for holding the carriage against a ferrous or magnetic wall surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Inventors: Thomas L. Reilly, A. Ronald Jacobstein
  • Patent number: 6451245
    Abstract: The invention relates to an oxy-fuel torch. The torch comprises a body (10) comprising a number of pipes for conveying at least two streams of gas between inlets (14, 15) and outlets; at least two valves (16, 20, 22) mounted in said body capable of adopting a closed rest position and an open active position; a single control (12) for said valves and mounted so that it can move on the body and able to be moved so that it collaborates with said valves, capable of adopting a first stable position in which all the valves are at rest and at least one second stable position in which at least one of the valves is in the active position; controllable means (40) of locking said control (12) so as to secure it, at rest, to said body; and at least one controllable delivery adjusting means (46, 48) mounted on said body for adjusting the delivery of at least one of said streams of gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignees: La Soudure Autogene Francaise, L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme a Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Philippe Pisot, Gilles Cannet, Gervais Lemesle
  • Patent number: 6372179
    Abstract: A machine for cutting metal plates by laser, plasma, water and/or oxygen cutting, comprising, on a supporting platform, at least two rails for longitudinal translatory sliding of a portal-like structure for slidingly supporting at least one cutting head which is associated with a control unit. The portal-like structure is mounted on a supporting assembly whose position can be adjusted along at least two axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Assignee: Promotec S.r.l.
    Inventor: Paolo Marcato
  • Publication number: 20010050452
    Abstract: The invention relates to an oxy-fuel torch. The torch comprises a body (10) comprising a number of pipes for conveying at least two streams of gas between inlets (14, 15) and outlets; at least two valves (16, 20, 22) mounted in said body capable of adopting a closed rest position and an open active position; a single control (12) for said valves and mounted so that it can move on the body and able to be moved so that it collaborates with said valves, capable of adopting a first stable position in which all the valves are at rest and at least one second stable position in which at least one of the valves is in the active position; controllable means (40) of locking said control (12) so as to secure it, at rest, to said body; and at least one controllable delivery adjusting means (46, 48) mounted on said body for adjusting the delivery of at least one of said streams of gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: Philippe Pisot, Gilles Cannet, Gervais Lemesle
  • Patent number: 6277323
    Abstract: A novel cutting nozzle assembly for a postmixed oxygen-fuel gas torch is disclosed. The nozzle assembly includes a cylindrical shroud which surrounds and extends away from the gas discharge orifices in the gas discharge end of the cutting nozzle. The cylindrical shroud has the advantage of producing a tighter gas stream and of promoting a more thorough mixing of the preheat oxygen and the fuel gas to provide a hotter, more compact flame which produces a more parallel-sided cut through metal workpieces. The cutting tip therefore conserves metal as well as cutting gases. It also cuts faster than prior art postmixed cutting nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Oxy-Arc International Inc.
    Inventor: Claude Bissonnette
  • Patent number: 6277322
    Abstract: An oxygen cutting machine (1) is designed for a billets, blooms, slabs or heavy plates in a pair of up and down arranged rails (3) having a novel heat protection plate (6) and no uncooled machine parts below the rails (3), which moves sideways with a drifting work-piece (2) being a clamping system, having a clamp down skid (10) to cover various thickness of work-piece (2) and can be used with so-called cutting push bars (24) for cutting against each other of two oxygen cutting burners (9). A new oxygen cutting burner (9) or nozzle quick exchange system improves use and maintenance. Cutting safety and cut quality are improved by the gas control for pressures and mass flow near the burners. A novel roll deburrer (32) to deburr just oxygen cut strand pieces (2) after the oxygen cutting machine (1) facilitates the to and fro deburring and the transport of extremely short pieces over the deburrer gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: Gega Corporation
    Inventor: Horst K. Lotz
  • Patent number: 6245284
    Abstract: A device for fabricating a tank head prior to attachment to a tank. A movable turntable of the invention holds the tank head horizontally on its rotatable top surface. The movable turntable travels on rails so that is can move the tank head under an overhead frame of the invention. The overhead frame is provided with frame rails on which a movable burner and a movable attachment holder independently travel so that they can be accurately positioned over the head. The movable burner can be lowered and raised in order to cut holes in the head at desired locations on the head. The movable attachment holder and an attachment that is removably secured to the attachment holder can also be lowered and raised in order to properly position the attachment relative to a hole in the head so that the attachment can be tack welded to the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Billy Ray Cooper, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6113845
    Abstract: A versatile torch assembly is provided including a base and a mounting arm coupled to the base. Also included is a plate rotatably mounted with respect to the mounting arm. A torch is mounted on the plate for cutting purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Manuel C. Contreras
  • Patent number: 6103183
    Abstract: A supporting guide for an oxyacetylene torch provides a body having spaced legs defining a recess therebetween to carry gas supply pipes of the torch for releasable attachment of the supporting guide to the supply pipes. A body portion distal from the recess pivotally carries a disk carrying a support arm extending spacedly therefrom for pivotal motion relative to the body to support the torch and guide it on a workpiece or a template. The support arm is carried by the disk for adjustable extension and angulation relative to the body to regulate the distance of a torch nozzle from a workpiece and the angulation of the torch nozzle relative to the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Richard I. Brown
  • Patent number: 6060679
    Abstract: An edge trimmed piece that is cut from a long metal slab with a cutting torch carried along the slab edge is automatically crosscut into short manageable length pieces with a secondary crosscutting torch. Both torches are mounted on the same carriage and the crosscutting torch is periodically activated to move along an acute angular path with respect to the edge trim cut, resulting in an effective crosscut transverse to the main trim cut. The crosscutting operation may be carried out without interruption of the edge trim torch, thereby enhancing productivity and trim cut quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: MG Systems & Welding, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert G. Ludwigson, John Alan Rowland
  • Patent number: 6051803
    Abstract: Plasma arc cutter apparatus for cutting large diameter pipe from within the pipe, a frame with adjustable legs, a locking device to secure the apparatus within the pipe, apparatus to adjust the spacing between the plasma arc and the inside wall of the pipe during cutting, a drive shaft to rotate the cutter apparatus around the circumference of the pipe during cutting, controls to change the elevation of the drive shaft to vary the angle of cut, and adjustment devices to center the drive shaft within the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Inventor: Dorr E. Hale, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5891266
    Abstract: A method and system for cutting hub bores in metal railroad wheels is disclosed. The system includes a lead and second torch for cutting the hub bores. In the method, the lead torch is moved to an initial position above the wheel. The lead torch is energized and moved to cut through a part of the wheel. The second torch is moved to an initial position above the wheel. The second torch is then energized and moved to cut through a part of the wheel. The entire hub bore is cut in the wheel. Additional torches may also be provided. A gantry system for supporting the lead and second torches is disclosed. The gantry system includes lead and second linear movement means arranged parallel to each other and a third linear movement means perpendicular to the lead and second linear movement means. The gantry system also includes a lead torch carriage means for supporting the lead torch and a second torch carriage means for supporting the second torch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Amsted Industries Incorporated
    Inventors: Neil E. Konrardy, C. Dale Christie, Daniel H. Gray, Brian L. VanLaar
  • Patent number: 5849243
    Abstract: A new Flexible Acetylene Cutting Torch Handle for offering an acetylene torch that is easier to use in tight and obstructed places. The inventive device includes a flexible hose, an anti-bend casing, and a clip. In use, the inventive device is useful when the work area is obstructed or other items or surfaces are close to the area where the torch must be applied. The flexible torch has a special flexible stainless steel neck which can be bent as needed to make it easier to apply the flame from the head of the torch exactly where it is needed in situations where close quarters or obstructions create problems. The inventive device has a special cover which holds the neck straight and rigid when the user needs a conventional configuration. The cover is easy to install and remove using simple wing screws. Under normal conditions, a user will leave this cover in place, enabling conventional use of the product. When a special situation arises, the cover is quickly and easily removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Charles C. Cononie
  • Patent number: 5792281
    Abstract: A post-mixed cutting torch selectively operable in a pilot mode and a cutting mode is provided by the present invention. The control body includes a fuel passage and an oxygen passage which is divided into a preheat oxygen supply branch and a cutting oxygen supply branch. A fuel flow valve is provided in the fuel passage and an oxygen flow valve is provided in the cutting oxygen supply branch of the oxygen passage. Advantageously, an interconnecting passage extends between the preheat oxygen supply branch and the cutting oxygen supply branch. Accordingly, the torch is operable in a preheat/cutting mode wherein oxygen is directed through both the preheat and cutting oxygen apertures of a cutting nozzle. In addition, each of the fuel and oxygen flow valves is associated with a bypass channel which allows the torch to be operable in a fuel saving pilot mode wherein oxygen is directed through both the preheat and cutting oxygen apertures of a cutting nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: The ESAB Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory William Diehl
  • Patent number: 5782445
    Abstract: A breakaway mechanism for supporting a non-contact tool to protect the tool in the event of an inadvertent collision includes a non-redundant locating system to establish precise tool repositioning and a magnetic holding device to retain the tool in its operative attached position. The non-redundant locating system assures initial mounting and relocating after breakaway which is immune from inaccuracies resulting from manufacturing tolerances and the magnetic mounting device permits breakaway separation free from any mechanical restraint. The invention is particularly suitable for use on an automatic metal cutting torch, but may be applied to many non-contact tools which are positioned and operated by computer or robotic control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: MG Systems & Welding, Inc.
    Inventor: Alvin L. Cleek
  • Patent number: 5700421
    Abstract: A novel cutting nozzle assembly for a postmixed oxygen-fuel gas torch is disclosed. The nozzle assembly includes a cylindrical shroud which surrounds and extends away from the gas discharge orifices in the gas discharge end of the cutting nozzle. The cylindrical shroud has the advantage of producing a tighter gas stream and of promoting a more thorough mixing of the preheat oxygen and the fuel gas to provide a hotter, more compact flame which produces a more parallel-sided cut through metal workpieces. The cutting tip therefore conserves metal as well as cutting gases. It also cuts faster than prior art postmixed cutting nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1997
    Inventor: Claude Bissonnette
  • Patent number: 5560843
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a frame construction which comprises frames wherein a machining tool and functional devices for making the tool operate are mounted on separate frames, and the respective frames can run independently. The present invention also provides a machining device which utilizes the aforementioned frame construction so that machining accuracy can be maintained irrespective of the weight of the functional devices mounted on the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Assignee: Koike Sanso Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuo Koike, Kumeo Iida, Takehiko Karukome, Fukuyoshi Kurosawa
  • Patent number: 5443199
    Abstract: An apparatus for performance of cutting and welding operations includes an enclosure which encloses a drive motor and which supports a drive wheel and an idler wheel for driving the enclosure along a track. A first support rod projects from the enclosure and a second support rod is adjustably mounted on the first support rod. A torch for cutting and welding is adjustably mounted on the second support rod and a variety of linear and curved tracks are provided, thereby facilitating performances of cutting and welding operations on a range of workpiece configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventors: Luba M. Krumszyn, Zinovi Khabal
  • Patent number: 5286006
    Abstract: A bevel cutting device for cutting a bevel in a workpiece includes a frame and a vertical cutting torch, disposed on the frame, for cutting a root face of the workpiece. At least one bevel cutting torch is provided for cutting a bevel in the workpiece. The bevel cutting torch is disposed in parallel with the vertical cutting torch in a plate-cutting direction. An inclining section is coupled to the frame and inclines the bevel cutting torch about an axis parallel to the plate-cutting direction. The inclining section includes a motor gear disposed inside a casing and a link mechanism driven by the motor gear. The link mechanism is coupled to the bevel cutting torch. A shifting section is coupled to the frame and shifts the inclining section in a direction perpendicular to the plate-cutting direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Koike Sanso Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Susumu Ogura
  • Patent number: 5286005
    Abstract: By means of an extended nozzle head having several excentrical nozzle receptions although the cutting oxygen is in line with the cutting jet bores, rotation of the nozzle head or of the total lower part of the burner can bring the working cutting nozzle into correspondence with a determined cutting line; being manifold equipped the thickness of a sample slice can be between two cutting nozzles selected by rotation or a spare nozzle can be put into operation quickly in case of breakdown. The nozzles for sample cutting or replacement are covered behind a protection plate against splash and flames. The protection plate can serve as well as a guide for a save pilot flame. The flexible connection of the adjustable burner and its gas supply is performed by metallic piping accordingly shaped and dimensioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: GeGa Corporation
    Inventors: Horst K. Lotz, Mattias Lotz
  • Patent number: 5265849
    Abstract: A plate cutting device having a cutting member for cutting a workpiece vertically or aslant comprises a stand and the cutting member coupled with a hose or a cord, an end of the hose or cord being connected to a part of said stand. An inclining device for inclining the cutting member about an axis parallel to a cutting direction is provided with the plate cutting device. A swinging device is coupled with the inclining device for changing the pointing direction of the cutting member with respect to the plate cutting direction. A cutting member holder is attached to the inclining device, for holding said cutting member so as to allow it to revolve with respect to the inclining device. Therefore, when the cutting member is swung and the hose or cord begins to twist, the holder will revolve and allow the hose or cord to untwist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1993
    Assignee: Koike Sanso Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masao Yamashita
  • Patent number: 5256212
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for cutting an elongate workpiece. A conveyor is provided for supporting the workpiece lengthwise along an X-axis in a mutually orthogonal X, Y, and Z-axis coordinate system. An X-axis positioner is provided for moving the workpiece along the X-axis on the support conveyor. A torch is mounted on a guide ring with the flame in an orientation to impinge upon the workpiece along the cutting path. The torch revolves on, or with, the guide ring at least partially around the workpiece to position the torch in a selected orientation. The guide ring is also movable along the Z-axis and along the Y-axis by means of linear positioning tables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Peddinghaus Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Magnuson
  • Patent number: 5198039
    Abstract: Multiple cutting torches are automatically spaced along a torch bar operating parallel to a main beam spanning a cutting table with an apparatus and method allowing one or all of the cutting torches to be stored completely outside the cutting table when not in use, thereby retaining the entire cutting table width for effective access by the remaining operative cutting torches. This eliminates the need to have an extended main beam length simply to accommodate cutting torch storage. The torch bar provides primary support for the torch carriages and includes an end storage portion which can be moved laterally beyond the end of the main beam from which one or all of the cutting torches may be retrieved for subsequent programmed spacing and cutting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Messer Griesheim Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas W. Rogers
  • Patent number: 5160549
    Abstract: A tube fin trimming machine adapted for clamping and cutting elongated finned structures, such as finned tubes. The trimming machine includes an elongated main frame having at least one guideway, support means attached to the baseplate and adapted for supporting the finned structure a carriage unit longitudinally movable relative to the main frame and guideway, and at least one cutting torch unit movably mounted on the carriage unit. Each cutting torch is mounted above an elongated fin and is moved both longitudinally and laterally relative to the fin, so as to provide a desired elongated tapered shape for the fin. This invention also includes a method for operation of the fin trimming machine to perform desired trimming operations on elongated finned structures, such as finned tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1992
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation
    Inventor: John Q. Murphy
  • Patent number: 5120026
    Abstract: A fluid cooled cutting torch includes a hollow handle, a torch butt assembly, a torch head, supply tubes for preheat gas, preheat oxygen and cutting oxygen and cooling fluid supply and drainage conduits. The torch head is adapted to interchangeably receive a premix or postmix cutting torch nozzle. The cooling supply conduit extends through the torch butt assembly and within the torch handle to a point adjacent the torch head. The cooling system provides effective cooling of the torch head and even cooling of the torch handle. The torch is easily manufactured at low cost. The torch may be readily converted from a premix torch to a postmix torch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Inventor: Claude Bissonnette
  • Patent number: 5018705
    Abstract: Automatic cutting machines carry flame cutting torches in close proximity of a work piece and can force the torch into contact with an upturned cut away piece from the work piece, causing considerable damage to the cutting apparatus. The subject apparatus provides a break away torch holder having a housing surrounding a torch tube which is mounted in an adaptor. The adaptor has a pilot that matches a pilot seat in the housing. The pilot is held in the pilot seat by resilient means that allows the torch tube to move with respect to the housing when the torch strikes an upturned cut away piece. A switch means is provided to shut the cutting machine down when the torch tube means is in the housing. Sealing means is also provided to protect the piloting apparatus and switch means from the debris of the cutting action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1991
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Baldwin, David R. Draper
  • Patent number: 4947535
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method which provides for the placement of a bit point of a bit at a predetermined position with respect to a rotatable member. The method includes the steps of burning into a holder a surface which corresponds to a portion of the surface of the member; and fixing the holder on the member such that the surface burned into the holder is adjacent the portion of the surface of the member, and the bit point of the bit is capable of being held by the holder at the predetermined position. The present invention also pertains to an apparatus which provides for the placement of a bit point of a bit at a predetermined position with respect to a rotatable member. The apparatus includes a holder for holding a bit, and a device for burning into the holder a surface which corresponds to a portion of the surface of the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Joy Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis Cowles