CN106068680B - The equipment that the component of the plasma arc torch of liquid cooling is sealed and is fastened and improved torch design - Google Patents

Abstract

A kind of plasma arc torch (100,400) includes cathode adaptor body (501), which has at least two sealant channels with multiple sealant rings.The welding torch (100,400) further includes cathodic body (505), which has at least two sealant channels with multiple sealant rings.The welding torch (100,400) further comprises arc maintenance connector (509), which has at least two sealant channels with multiple sealant rings.The welding torch (100,400) include extraly rear separator (513,513'), the rear separator includes at least two sealant channels with multiple sealant rings, it these sealant engagement of loops anode bodies (519) and is separated from each other with a distance, the distance is in percent 2 to percent 50 range of the total length of the rear separator (513,513').The rear separator (513,513') further include at least two sealant channels with multiple sealant rings, it these sealant engagement of loops ring separators (521) and is separated from each other with a distance, the distance is in percent 2 to percent 50 range of the total length of the rear separator (513,513').

Description

Equipment for sealing and securing components of liquid-cooled plasma arc torches and improved torch design

This application claims priority to Provisional Application 61/949,573, filed March 7, 2014, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, and which is originally U.S. Patent Application No. filed July 31, 2013 13/956,179 is a continuation-in-part application from which priority is claimed, the entire disclosure of which application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

technical field

This invention relates to plasma arc welding torches. Apparatuses, systems, and methods consistent with the present invention relate to cutting, and more particularly apparatus, systems, and methods for aligning and securing components of a liquid-cooled plasma arc torch and improved torch design.

Background technique

In many cutting operations, plasma arc torches are used. These torches operate at very high temperatures, which can damage many parts of these torches. As such, some torches use liquid cooling to transfer heat away from some cutting torch components. The cooling liquid passes through a variety of different fluid chambers and the like. However, the presence and need for these chambers and channels means that alignment of some parts of the torch assembly can be difficult, especially when replacing parts. When the mounting alignment is poor, cooling performance may be adversely affected, and thus the useful life of the torch and torch components may be greatly reduced. Some torches have added various stabilizing sections on some components that extend into the cooling fluid path, however, these stabilizing sections may interfere with fluid flow and thus compromise the cooling ability of the torch components. Further, existing welding torches have insufficient configurations to address coolant leakage or spillage to prevent coolant from contacting critical components or leaking out of the welding torch.

Further limitations and disadvantages of the conventional, conventional and proposed methods will become apparent to those skilled in the art by comparing this method with the embodiments of the invention set forth in the remainder of this application with reference to the accompanying drawings obvious.

Contents of the invention

To prevent coolant from contacting critical components or leaking out of the torch and to overcome further limitations and disadvantages, a plasma arc torch is described as follows. Preferred embodiments are also described below. An exemplary embodiment of the present invention is an arc welding torch assembly or subassembly having improved replacement and centering characteristics, wherein certain components of the torch head have specific characteristics that improve various Handling, use and re-replaceability of the various components. Further embodiments of the present invention also have enhanced leak-proof structures and components to prevent coolant from leaking out of the torch.

In another exemplary embodiment, a plasma arc torch includes a cathode adapter body having at least two first sealant channels formed on an outer surface of a first end of the cathode adapter body to correspondingly At least two first sealant rings are received. The at least two first sealant channels are spaced apart from each other by a first distance in the range of 2 percent to 90 percent of the overall length of the cathode adapter body. The torch also includes a cathode body coupled to a second end of the cathode adapter body, wherein the cathode body has at least two second sealant channels formed on an outer surface of the cathode body to respectively receive at least Two secondary sealant rings. The at least two second sealant channels are spaced apart from each other by a second distance in the range of 2 percent to 50 percent of the total length of the cathode body. The torch further includes an arc-dimming connector having at least two third sealant channels formed on an outer surface of the arc-dimensioning connector to correspondingly receive at least two third sealant rings. The at least two third sealant channels are spaced apart from each other by a third distance in the range of 2 percent to 90 percent of the overall length of the arc connector. The torch additionally includes a rear separator separating the cathode body from the anode body. The rear divider includes at least two fourth sealant channels formed on an outer surface of the rear divider to respectively receive at least two fourth sealant rings. The at least two fourth sealant rings are engaged with the inner surface of the anode body, and the at least two fourth sealant passages are spaced apart from each other by a fourth distance of 100% of the total length of the rear separator in the range of 2% to 50%. The rear divider also includes at least two fifth sealant channels formed on an outer surface of the rear divider to respectively receive at least two fifth sealant rings. The at least two fifth sealant rings are engaged with the inner surface of the ring divider, and the at least two fifth sealant channels are spaced apart from each other by a fifth distance, the fifth distance being 100% of the total length of the rear divider in the range of 2% to 50%.

In another exemplary embodiment, the first distance is in the range of 2 percent to 25 percent of the total length of the cathode adapter body, and/or the second distance is in the range of 2 percent to 25 percent of the total length of the cathode adapter body In the range of 2 percent to 12 percent, and/or the third distance is in the range of 2 percent to 50 percent of the total length of the dimension arc connector, and/or the fourth the distance is in the range of 2 percent to 16 percent of the total length of the rear divider, and/or the fifth distance is in the range of 2 percent to 16 percent of the total length of the rear divider middle.

In another exemplary embodiment, the at least two first sealant rings are O-rings, and/or the at least two second sealant rings are O-rings, and/or the at least two third sealant rings are O-rings. The sealant rings are O-rings, and/or the at least two fourth sealant rings are O-rings, and/or the at least two fifth sealant rings are O-rings.

In another exemplary embodiment, the at least two first sealant rings have at least one of the same size and the same composition, or wherein the at least two first sealant rings have at least one of different sizes and different compositions. one.

In another exemplary embodiment, the first end of the cathode adapter body is opposite to the second end of the cathode adapter body in the flow direction of the cooling fluid.

In another exemplary embodiment, the at least two second sealant rings have at least one of the same size and the same composition, or the at least two second sealant rings have at least one of different sizes and different compositions. By.

In another exemplary embodiment, the distance between the center of the second distance and the center of the total length of the cathode body is no greater than 10 percent of the total length of the cathode body.

In another exemplary embodiment, the at least two third sealant rings have at least one of the same size and the same composition, or the at least two third sealant rings have at least one of different sizes and different compositions. By.

In another exemplary embodiment, the distance between the center of the third distance and the center of the overall length of the dimension arc connector is no greater than 20 percent of the overall length of the dimension arc connector.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fourth distance is equal to the fifth distance, or the fourth distance is not equal to the fifth distance.

Description of drawings

The above and/or other aspects of the present invention will become more apparent by describing in detail exemplary embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the cutting torch coolant tube assembly of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows another view of the cutting torch coolant tube of Figure 1;

Figures 2A and 2B illustrate similar views to that shown in Figure 2, but different exemplary embodiments;

Figure 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a thread pattern that can be used with various components of the present invention;

Figure 4 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a torch assembly utilizing the assembly of Figure 1; and

5 and 6 illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a portion of a torch assembly.

Detailed ways

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The described exemplary embodiments are intended to facilitate the understanding of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way. Throughout, like reference numbers indicate like elements.

FIG. 1 depicts a diagrammatic representation of an exemplary embodiment of a cutting torch cooling tube electrode assembly 100 of the present invention. As is commonly understood, the assembly 100 is inserted into the torch body, which is not shown here for clarity (see FIG. 4 ). The assembly 100 includes a coolant tube 101 inserted into a channel 109 of a coolant tube holder 105 and a channel 104 of an electrode 107 . The distal end of the coolant tube holder 105 has an opening into which the electrode 107 is inserted. The proximal end of the holder 105 also has an opening into which the coolant tube 101 is inserted, as shown.

The coolant tube 101 has a proximal opening 103 which feeds into a channel 102 in the coolant tube. During operation, cooling liquid is directed towards the opening 103 and down through the channel 102 towards the distal end of the coolant tube 101 . The tube 101 has a length such that its distal end creates a gap 111 between the end of the tube 101 and the inner wall of the channel 104 of the electrode 107 . This gap 111 is important to the operation of the assembly 100, as the coolant flows down the channel 102, it passes through this gap 111 and into the channel 104 of the electrode 107 and then into the channel of the holder 105, thereby providing the desired cool down. Maintaining a consistent width of the gap 111 is important for proper coolant flow and is difficult to do in many known torch assemblies, especially when replacing the electrodes and/or coolant of a previous torch Tube time. Due to the construction of known torches, it is difficult to assemble these components to achieve the desired gap 111 size when any component is replaced. This results in reduced cooling performance. This embodiment provides very consistent insertion of tube 101 and gap 111 dimensions and centering of tube 101 in channels 109 and 104, as will be described in more detail below.

Once the coolant passes through the gap 111 , it is directed toward the proximal end of the holder 105 through the channel 109 between the outer surface 110 of the tube 101 and the inner surface 108 of the holder 105 . In an embodiment of the present invention, holder 105 contains a plurality of outlet ports 106 that allow coolant to exit channels 109 and transfer heat away from assembly 100 . These ports 106 are positioned radially about the centerline of the holder 105 such that the coolant exits the holder 105 radially opposite from its proximal end. In an exemplary embodiment, holder 105 contains between 3 and 8 ports. The radial displacement of these ports is symmetrical to ensure uniform flow. The diameter of these ports is selected to ensure the desired coolant flow in operation. In some exemplary embodiments, all ports 106 have the same diameter. However, in other exemplary embodiments, the ports 106 may have different diameters. For example, half of the ports 106 may have a first diameter and the other half of the ports 106 may have a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. Once the coolant exits these ports 106, it is recycled through a heat exchange and/or cooling system, as is generally known and understood. Further, in some exemplary embodiments, the ports have circular openings, while in other exemplary embodiments, at least some of the ports 106 may have non-circular shapes like slots or the like. After cooling the electrodes, the coolant is recirculated through these ports to a heat exchanger (not shown for clarity).

FIG. 2 shows a close-up view of the coolant tube 101 and the proximal end of the coolant tube holder 105 , showing how the coolant tube 101 is stabilized and centered in the coolant tube holder 105 . As shown, the coolant tube 101 has a stabilizing portion 123 that extends radially around the tube 101 . The stabilizing portion 123 has an outer land surface 123A that engages the inner surface 108 of the holder 105 . There is a friction fit engagement between portion 123 and surface 108 when tube 101 and holder 105 are engaged with each other. This friction fit engagement between portion 123 and surface 108 keeps tube 101 centered in channel 109 and ensures that cooling tubes and other components are effortlessly repositioned into the centered state each time these components are replaced. In the exemplary embodiment, portion 123 is configured such that this friction fit engagement with retainer 105 is radially continuous around surface 108 . In other words, the engagement between portion 123 and surface 108 is such that no fluid (cooling fluid, etc.) can pass between portion 123 and surface 108 . Therefore, it is easier to replace these components, including the assembly 100 in the torch and provides more consistent accurate replacement.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , wherein the coolant tube 101 has a plurality of extensions 140 extending radially outward from the portion 123 as shown. These extensions 140 extend out of the portion 123 into the plurality of grooves 108A of the coolant tube holder 105 and help ensure proper insertion into the coolant tube holder 105 . In the exemplary embodiment, the extensions 140 have a friction fit with the grooves 108A. This engagement helps to center the coolant tube 101 and ensures that the coolant tube 101 is radially oriented in place. In the exemplary embodiment, these extensions 140 have a length that is less than the length L of portion 123 . Further, these extensions have surfaces 141 that engage adjacent surfaces 141A on the coolant tube holder 105 . The engagement of these two surfaces acts to again ensure proper placement of the coolant tube 101 in the coolant tube holder 105 and to ensure that it is not inserted too deep into the holder 105 . Although four sections 140 are shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B , other embodiments may use a different number of sections 140 .

Instead of the aspects of the invention described above, the coolant tube 101 will always be inserted in its holder 105 in a centered state. Improper insertion and reduced component life are thus prevented.

In addition, as shown, the tube 101 has a fastening portion 119 that is closer to the proximal end of the tube than the stabilizing portion 123 for engaging the third portion 119A to hold the O-ring 130 in place. bit. O-ring 130 is used to provide a seal for assembly 100 and tube 101 when installed in the torch assembly. The fastening portion 119 and the third portion 119A each extend radially around the tube 101 . The fastening portion 119 has a distal surface 122 that engages a proximal surface 120 of the holder 105 when installed in the holder 105 . Thanks to this engagement, the insertion of the tube 101 into the holder 105 will always take place in the proper position, ensuring that the gap 111 is the proper distance. In known torch assemblies, the depth of insertion is difficult to reproduce or perform consistently. These surfaces 122 and 120 thus ensure that the tube 101 is easily inserted to the proper distance and errors are virtually eliminated during replacement and assembly. Further, the combination of having a surface 122 that engages surface 120 at the proximal end of holder 105 and a portion 123 that engages surface 108 provides the coolant tube assembly 100 with a known welding torch during assembly and replacement of components. The above provides improved centering and improved reliability. The combination of these engagements adjacent to each other ensures that the tube 101 is inserted into the holder 105 at the proper depth for the gap 111 and is centered within the channel 109 . Further, this configuration allows the tube 101 to be configured without a positioning protrusion closer to the distal end of the tube 101 . In some known torch assemblies, the coolant tube has protrusions located closer to the distal end of the tube to help center the tube. However, these protrusions extend into the coolant flow path and thus interfere with coolant flow and coolant performance. Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may use locating tabs, but due to the advantages of the configurations described above, these tabs may be smaller and may not be necessary in many applications.

As also shown in FIG. 2 , the exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes an undercut portion 133 positioned between portions 119 and 123 . This undercut serves to ensure proper seating between the surfaces 122 and 120 and thus of the coolant tube 101 in the coolant tube holder 105 . This undercut portion 133 has a length along the coolant tube that is less than the length L of the portion 123 .

As described above, the stabilizing portion 123 helps to stabilize the tube 101 when inserted into the holder 105 in a press-fit state. Accordingly, the length of portion 123 needs to be sufficient to provide the desired stability and ensure centering upon insertion. To achieve this, in an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the outermost flat surface 123A of the portion 123 has a length L at the length of the tube 101 inserted into the holder 105 (the tube is at the gap 111 from its in the range of 10% to 20% of the length of the distal end). Having a flat length in this range ensures adequate alignment and stability, while also allowing accurate and repeatable positioning. In other exemplary embodiments, the length of the flat portion 123A is in the range of 4% to 25% of the length of the tube 101 within the holder 105 . The above-mentioned flat portion length L is the length of the flat surface on the portion 123 that is in contact with the inner surface of the holder 105 when the tube is inserted into the holder 105 .

As also shown in FIG. 2 , portion 123 has an angled surface 123B that extends from the body of tube 101 to flat surface 123A. Angled surface 123B helps direct the flow of coolant fluid out of port 106 . This helps prevent stagnation in the fluid flow and increases the performance of the fluid flow. In some exemplary embodiments, the angle A between the body of the tube 101 and the surface 123B is in the range of 16 degrees to 60 degrees. In other exemplary embodiments, the angle is in the range of 40 degrees to 60 degrees. Further, as shown in FIG. 2 , the center of angle A is positioned so that it is aligned with the centerline of port 106 . If the angle A is a divergence angle A, as in some exemplary embodiments, the center A corresponds to the center of the circle defined by the radius of the angle A, and if the angle A is acute, the center of the angle A is the fold point. In some exemplary embodiments, the center of angle A is aligned with the centerline of port 106 . In other exemplary embodiments, the centerline of angle A is positioned such that it is close to but not necessarily aligned with the centerline of port 106 . In such an embodiment, the center of angle A is positioned within 10% of the diameter of port 106 relative to the centerline of port 106 . For example, if the diameter of the port 106 is 0.25", the center of the angle A is aligned to within ±0.025" of the centerline of the port. If the ports have varying diameters (as previously referenced), the average of the port diameters is used to determine the range of alignment as described above.

As shown in Figure 1, the electrode 107 is short and threaded into the coolant tube assembly. This configuration allows the electrodes 107 to be relatively smaller and easier to replace. Due to this configuration, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the electrode 107 may have a length (from its most distal end to its proximal most end) in the range of 4% to 20% of the coolant tube assembly 100, while cooling 5% to 20% of the length of the coolant pipe 101 and within a range of 5% to 20% of the length of the coolant holder 105 . Through these ratios, embodiments of the present invention provide superior cutting performance while allowing simple replacement and alignment of respective components, as described herein. That is, when a component such as electrode 107 needs to be replaced, the fit and construction of the assembly of holder 105 and tube 101 (which can be replaced as a single unit) ensures proper replacement. Further, when the electrode 105 needs to be replaced, it is not necessary to remove the coolant tube holder and thus risk misalignment of the coolant tube holder or the remainder of the assembly 100 . Furthermore, the coolant tube holder 105 and the coolant tube 101 can remain as one assembly that is replaced as needed, which ensures that the assembly remains aligned when removed or replaced.

Electrode 107 may be made of known materials for electrodes, including but not limited to copper, silver, and the like. Further, due to the reduced size of the electrodes 107, there is a significant cost reduction by merely replacing the electrodes 107 of the present invention.

FIG. 3 depicts another aspect of the invention that helps ensure proper alignment and centering during assembly and replacement of components of assembly 100 . Specifically, FIG. 3 depicts a quick-coupling multi-start thread configuration that is used on a number of different components of the torch assembly 100 and that may be used on other components of the torch. As described more fully below, the thread design employs multiple starts and a modified thread pitch to enhance alignment and fit during assembly and replacement.

As previously described, the wearing parts of the cutting torch often have to be removed and replaced. As parts need to be replaced, it is often desirable to speed up the process while ensuring proper installation and alignment of the replaced parts. Known torch assemblies use a standard single start thread design and some torch assemblies have used a bayonet thread design. However, these thread designs often require a large number of turns to complete the installation and increase the possibility of errors in the threading process, such as cross-threading. For example, in most applications, replacement of a threaded component may require anywhere from 5 to 10 full turns of the item. By having such a large number of turns for a component, the possibility of misthreading the component is increased, and/or the component is not fully tightened, which may cause leaks and/or poor component life. Embodiments of the present invention address these issues by using a multi-thread design that takes advantage of existing required installation torques and thread stresses, while maintaining an applied force corresponding to known thread systems to mate parts.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of an electrode 300 having the multi-thread design of the present invention. Specifically, the electrode 300 has a threaded portion 301 with a plurality of individual and distinct thread paths 303A, 303B and 303C. The illustrated embodiment has three different thread paths 303, but other embodiments of the invention may use more than three thread paths. For example, other exemplary embodiments may use 4 different thread paths, and still other exemplary embodiments may use up to 5 different thread paths. By using multiple thread paths, embodiments of the present invention can provide simple and accurate replacement of components, greatly minimizing misalignment and/or thread cross-threading of components, while providing the required and desired application connection force. Embodiments of the present invention also deliver the desired mating force by using significantly fewer full rotations of the components, thus enabling quicker and more consistent replacement of components. For example, embodiments of the present invention may provide complete installation of a component with only 1 to 2 full rotations of the component. In some exemplary embodiments, complete installation of the component may be achieved by 1.25 to 1.5 full rotations of the component. For example, in some applications, electrodes of the present invention can be installed with only 1.25 to 1.5 full rotations. By using these low number of rotations to complete the installation, the chances of an accurate and complete installation are greatly increased.

Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention may provide highly accurate installation by ensuring proper alignment, minimizing the chance of cross-threading or misalignment, and ensuring that components such as electrodes 107 are fully installed. Embodiments of the present invention facilitate installation by reducing the amount of rotation required to install the components, thereby ensuring a complete installation. Due to the advantages of the present invention, the multi-thread configuration can be used on all parts of the torch head assembly that utilize threads, and especially those threads on frequently changed parts. For example, threads 115, 117, and 127 shown in FIG. 1 may each have a multi-thread configuration as described above. Further, embodiments may use this thread configuration on other torch assembly components in addition to these components, such as quick release rings, inner and outer retention caps, electrodes, coolant tubes, Gripper etc. As shown in Figure 4, the torch attachment ring 401 connects the torch head to the torch base, the outer retention cap 403 helps to retain the torch shield cap, and the inner retention cap 405 helps To hold the torch nozzle in place.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a torch assembly 400 incorporating the assembly 100 of FIG. 1 . Because other components of torch assembly 400 are generally known, they will not be described in detail here. Of course, the various embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the configuration of the torch assembly 400 as depicted in FIG. 4, or the assembly 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, and these embodiments are intended to be examples sexual.

FIG. 5 depicts a close-up of a portion of the torch assembly 400 shown in FIG. 4 . As shown, torch 400 has cathode adapter body 501 , cathode body 505 , arc maintenance connector 509 and rear separator 513 among other components. Because these and other torch components are generally known to those skilled in the art, they will not be discussed in detail here. In general, except to the extent discussed below, the construction of the torch components may be consistent with known torch configurations, as aspects of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a variety of torch configurations. For example, as shown, the cooling tubes in FIG. 5 are of a different configuration than the cooling tubes in FIG. 4 . Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention and structural features as shown in FIG. 5 can be used with the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, and vice versa.

As explained briefly above, during operation or installation of the torch 400 and its components, liquid coolant may leak around some of the parts, which may be detrimental to the life and operation of the torch and its individual components. In addition, shielding gas leaks can also be caused during operation, which will cause a drop in shielding gas pressure - which can be harmful when cutting. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention utilize a variety of different seals and sealing mechanisms to greatly improve the sealing of the torch 400 and its components. This is explained in more detail with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6 .

As shown in FIG. 5 , the torch 400 includes a cathode adapter body 501 to which a cathode body 505 is coupled and fastened. Because in some torch configurations the cathode adapter body 501 may be exposed to coolant during operation, it may be desirable to provide an adequate seal for this component. Embodiments of the present invention achieve this by providing at least two sealant rings 502, 503 (e.g. O-rings) at the connection end 501' of the cathode adapter body 501. The rings of sealant each rest in separate channels formed in the surface of the cathode adapter body 501 which allow for proper seating of the rings. The connecting end of the body 501 is the opposite end to which the cathode body 505 of the cathode adapter body 501 is coupled. Further, as shown in FIG. 6 , the at least two O-rings are spaced apart from each other by a distance D2 from centerline to centerline. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the distance D2 is in the range of 2% to 90% of the total length L2 of the cathode adapter body 501 . In other exemplary embodiments, the distance D2 is in the range of 2% to 25% of the total length L2. This dimension provides optimal positioning of the seal ring, ensuring proper sealing is maintained during operation and component failure. By maintaining this relationship, embodiments of the present invention may provide enhanced sealing to the cathode adapter body 501 in the torch assembly 400 . Specifically, when the cathode adapter body 501 is coupled to an appropriate connection (through which the coolant fluid passes), embodiments of the present invention provide an enhanced seal and can substantially resist pressures experienced in coolant fluid flow. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, sealant rings 502 and 503 are identical. However, in other exemplary embodiments, rings 502 and 503 may have different sizes/characteristics such that they provide different resistance to compression.

Further, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , the cathode body 505 has at least two sealant rings 506 , 507 (eg, O-rings) positioned near the center of its overall length L3 . These sealant rings 506, 507 again provide an enhanced seal and protect the components of the welding torch 400 in the event of a coolant leak or spill. Each of the sealant rings 506, 507 rests in a separate channel formed in the surface of the cathode body 505, which allows proper seating of the rings. As shown in FIG. 6, the rings 506, 507 are located from each other by a distance D3 from centerline to centerline. The distance D3 is in the range of 2% to 50% of the total length L3 of the cathode body. In other exemplary embodiments, the distance D3 is in the range of 2% to 12% of the total length of the cathode body. This dimension provides optimal positioning of the seal ring, ensuring proper sealing is maintained during operation and component failure. Furthermore, these rings 506, 507 are positioned in a central region 505' of the cathode body 505, as shown. Further, in the exemplary embodiment of the invention, these rings 506 and 507 are positioned such that the center of the distance D3 is positioned near the center of the total length L3 of the cathode body. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, these rings 506 and 507 are positioned such that the center of the distance D3 is positioned such that the center of the distance D3 is no more than the total length L3 of the cathode body 505 from the center of the length of the cathode body 505 10% of. For example, if cathode body 505 is 5" in length, the center of distance D3 would be located no more than 0.5" from the center of length L3 of cathode body 505. This positions the rings 506 , 507 at optimal locations within the torch 400 . In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, sealant rings 506 and 507 are identical. However, in other exemplary embodiments, rings 506 and 507 may have different sizes/characteristics such that they provide different resistance to compression.

Also, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 , embodiments of the present invention use at least two rings of sealant 510 and 511 on the dimension arc connector 509 . A maintenance arc connector 509 is used to assist in generating a maintenance arc during operation of the welding torch 400 . Because its use and operation is generally known, the details of the dimension arc connector will not be discussed in detail here. Each of the sealant rings 510, 511 rests in a separate channel formed in the surface of the dimension arc connector 509, which allows for proper seating of the rings. As shown, in the exemplary embodiment, the at least two rings 510 and 511 are positioned on the middle region 509' of the dimension arc connector 509, wherein the middle region 509' has the largest diameter of the dimension arc connector 509 . As shown in FIG. 6 , rings 510 and 511 are positioned a distance D1 from each other, where distance D1 is in the range of 2% to 90% of the overall length L1 of dimension arc connector 509 . In other exemplary embodiments, the distance D1 is in the range of 2% to 50% of the total length L1. This dimension provides optimal positioning of the seal ring, ensuring proper sealing is maintained during operation and component failure. Further, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the rings 510 and 511 are positioned such that the center of the distance D1 is positioned such that the center of the distance D1 is no more than the center C of the length of the dimension arc connector 509 away from the center C of the dimension arc connector 509. 20% of the total length L1 of the arc connector 509 . For example, if the dimension arc connector is 4" in length, the center of the distance D1 would be positioned no more than 0.8" from the center C of the length L1 of the dimension arc connector 509. This positions the rings 510 , 511 at optimal locations within the welding torch 400 . In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, sealant rings 510 and 511 are identical. However, in other exemplary embodiments, rings 510 and 511 may have different sizes/characteristics such that they provide different resistance to compression.

Further, as shown and discussed above, torch 400 utilizes rear separator 513 which separates cathode body 505 from anode body 519 . The anode body 519 acts as a housing for the nozzle of the torch, and the rear separator 513 helps direct fluid (eg, coolant) and houses the cathode body of the torch. As shown, rear divider 513 has at least four separate rings of sealant 514 , 515 , 516 , and 517 positioned on an outer surface of rear divider 513 in an exemplary embodiment of the invention. Each of the sealant rings 514, 515, 516, and 517 rests in a separate channel formed in the surface of the rear divider 513, which allows for proper seating of the rings. As shown, these rings are divided into two sets of rings 514/515 and 516/517, wherein a first set 514/515 engages the inner surface of the anode body 519 and a second set 516/517 engages the threaded ring divider 521 inner surface joint. Threaded ring divider 521 helps separate the shield and outer covers of the torch from the anode body and nozzle. Further, as shown in FIG. 6 , these rings are positioned on the upstream end 513 ′ of the rear divider 513 having the smallest outside diameter of the rear divider 513 . Further, in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, each set of corresponding rings (centerline to centerline) is separated by a distance D4, which is 2 times the total length L4 of the rear divider 513. % to 50% range. In other exemplary embodiments, the distance D4 is in the range of 2% to 16% of the total length L4. This dimension provides optimal positioning of the seal ring, ensuring proper sealing is maintained during operation and component failure. That is, each set of rings 514/515 and 516/517 is separated by the same distance D4 (the distance between the corresponding rings of each pair). However, in other exemplary embodiments, the separation distances need not be the same. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, sealant rings 514, 515, 516, and 517 are identical. However, in other exemplary embodiments, rings 514, 515, 516, and 517 may have different sizes/characteristics such that they provide different resistance to compression.

While the subject matter of the present application has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the subject matter. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teaching of the subject matter without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that subject matter not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but that subject matter will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the application.

Reference No

100 components 141 surfaces

101 coolant pipe 141A surface

102 channels 300 electrodes

103 End Opening 303 Thread Path

104 channels 303A path

105 Coolant Tube Holder 303B Path

106 exit port 303C path

107 electrode 400 (torch) assembly

108 inner surface 401 ring

108A groove 403 cover

109 channels 501 adapter body

110 outer surface 501' connection end

111 gap 502 ring

115 thread 503 ring

117 thread 505 cathode body

119 fastening part 505' area

Part 119A Ring 506

120 end surface 507 ring

122 Distal Surface 509 Dimensional Arc Connector

123 stable part 509' middle area

123A outer welding area surface 510 ring

123B Angled Surface 511 Ring

127 thread 513 rear divider

130 O-ring 513' rear splitter

133 undercut part 514 ring

140 Extension 515 Ring

516 ring D3 distance

517 ring D4 distance

519 anode body L length

521 Ring Divider L1 Length

A Angle/Center L2 Length

C center L3 length

D1 distance L4 length

D2 distance

Claims (32)

1. a kind of plasma arc torch (100,400), including：

One cathode adaptor body (501), the cathode adaptor body have be formed on the cathode adaptor body the At least two first sealant channels on the outer surface of one end are accordingly to receive at least two first sealant rings, this is extremely Few two the first sealant channels are separated from each other with the first distance, and first distance is in the cathode adaptor body (501) In percent the 2 of total length to percent 90 range；

A cathodic body (505) being coupled in the second end of the cathode adaptor body (501), the cathodic body (505) have at least two second sealant channels being formed on the outer surface of the cathodic body (505) accordingly to connect Receive at least two second sealant rings, which is separated from each other with second distance, this second away from In range from percent 2 to percent 50 of the total length in the cathodic body (505)；

One arc maintenance connector (509), which, which has, is formed on the outer surface of the arc maintenance connector (509) Accordingly to receive at least two third sealant rings, at least two thirds sealant is logical at least two third sealant channels Road is separated from each other with third distance, the third distance the arc maintenance connector (509) total length 2 to percent percent In 90 range；And

Separator (513,513') after one, the rear separator separate the cathodic body (505) and an anode body (519) It opens, which has

At least two the 4th sealant channels, at least two the 4th sealant channel are formed on the outer surface of the rear separator On accordingly to receive at least two the 4th sealant rings, at least two the 4th sealant ring and the anode body (518) Inner surface engages, and at least two the 4th sealant channel is separated from each other with the 4th distance, and the 4th distance is after this In percent the 2 of the total length of separator (513,513') to percent 50 range, and

At least two the 5th sealant channels, at least two the 5th sealant channel be formed on the rear separator (513, Accordingly to receive at least two the 5th sealant rings on outer surface 513'), at least two the 5th sealant ring and one The inner surface of ring separator (521) engages, and at least two the 5th sealant channel is separated from each other with the 5th distance, should 5th distance is in percent 2 to percent 50 range of the total length of the rear separator (513,513').

2. plasma arc torch (100,400) as described in claim 1, wherein first distance are in the cathode adapter sheet In percent the 2 of the total length of body to percent 25 range, and/or

The wherein second distance in percent 2 to percent 12 range of the total length of the cathode adaptor body, and/or

The wherein third distance in percent 2 to percent 50 range of the total length of the arc maintenance connector, and/or

Wherein the 4th distance in percent 2 to percent 16 range of the total length of the rear separator, and/or

Wherein the 5th distance is in percent 2 to percent 16 range of the total length of the rear separator.

3. plasma arc torch (100,400) as described in claim 1, wherein at least two first sealant ring is O Shape ring, and/or

Wherein at least two second sealant ring is O-ring, and/or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring is O-ring, and/or

Wherein at least two the 4th sealant ring is O-ring and/or at least two the 5th sealant ring is O-ring.

4. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 2, wherein at least two first sealant ring is O Shape ring, and/or

Wherein at least two second sealant ring is O-ring, and/or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring is O-ring, and/or

Wherein at least two the 4th sealant ring is O-ring and/or at least two the 5th sealant ring is O-ring.

5. plasma arc torch (100,400) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein this at least two first Sealant ring has at least one of identical size and identical component, or wherein at least two first sealant ring has At least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

6. plasma arc torch (100,400) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cathode adapter sheet The first end of body (501) is opposite with the second end of the cathode adaptor body (501) on the flow direction of cooling fluid.

7. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the of the cathode adaptor body (501) One end is opposite with the second end of the cathode adaptor body (501) on the flow direction of cooling fluid.

8. the plasma arc torch (100,400) as described in Claims 1-4, any one of 7, wherein this at least two Two sealant rings have at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two second sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

9. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, the wherein at least two second sealant ring have At least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two second sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

10. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 6, the wherein at least two second sealant ring have There are at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two second sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

11. the plasma arc torch (100,400) as described in Claims 1-4,7, any one of 9 to 10, wherein this The center of two distances, the cathodic body (505) the distance between the center of total length be not more than the overall length of cathodic body (505) Percent the 10 of degree.

12. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the center of the second distance, the cathode The distance between center of total length of ontology (505) no more than cathodic body (505) total length percent 10.

13. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 6, wherein in the center of the second distance, the cathode The distance between center of total length of ontology (505) no more than cathodic body (505) total length percent 10.

14. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein in the center of the second distance, the cathode The distance between center of total length of ontology (505) no more than cathodic body (505) total length percent 10.

15. the plasma arc torch (100,400) as described in Claims 1-4,7,9 to 10, any one of 12 to 14, In at least two thirds sealant ring there is at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

16. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, the wherein at least two thirds sealant ring have There are at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

17. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 6, the wherein at least two thirds sealant ring have There are at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

18. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 8, the wherein at least two thirds sealant ring have There are at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

19. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 11, the wherein at least two thirds sealant ring have There are at least one of identical size and identical component, or

Wherein at least two thirds sealant ring has at least one of different sizes and heterogeneity.

20. as described in Claims 1-4,7,9 to 10,12 to 14, any one of 16 to 19 plasma arc torch (100, 400), wherein being not more than dimension at the distance between the center of total length of the center of the third distance, the arc maintenance connector (509) Percent the 20 of the total length of arc connector (509).

21. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, wherein in the center of the third distance, the arc maintenance The distance between center of total length of connector (509) no more than arc maintenance connector (509) total length percent 20.

22. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 6, wherein in the center of the third distance, the arc maintenance The distance between center of total length of connector (509) no more than arc maintenance connector (509) total length percent 20.

23. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 8, wherein in the center of the third distance, the arc maintenance The distance between center of total length of connector (509) no more than arc maintenance connector (509) total length percent 20.

24. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 11, wherein in the center of the third distance, the dimension The distance between center of total length of arc connector (509) no more than arc maintenance connector (509) total length percent 20.

25. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 15, wherein in the center of the third distance, the dimension The distance between center of total length of arc connector (509) no more than arc maintenance connector (509) total length percent 20.

26. the plasma arc welding as described in Claims 1-4,7,9 to 10,12 to 14,16 to 19, any one of 21 to 25 Torch (100,400), the wherein the 4th distance are equal to the 5th distance, or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

27. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 5, the wherein the 4th distance is equal to the 5th distance, Or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

28. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 6, the wherein the 4th distance is equal to the 5th distance, Or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

29. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 8, the wherein the 4th distance is equal to the 5th distance, Or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

30. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 11, the wherein the 4th distance be equal to the 5th away from From, or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

31. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 15, the wherein the 4th distance be equal to the 5th away from From, or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.

32. plasma arc torch (100,400) as claimed in claim 20, the wherein the 4th distance be equal to the 5th away from From, or

Wherein the 4th distance is not equal to the 5th distance.