GAS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR A PLASMA ARC TORCH

摘要

A plasma arc torch is provided that includes a torch head, a pre-flow gas conduit for directing a pre-flow gas through the plasma arc torch, at least one plasma gas conduit for directing a plasma gas through the plasma arc torch, and a gas control device. The pre-flow gas conduit and the plasma gas conduit extend into a proximal end portion of the torch head. The gas control device is disposed proximate the torch head and extends between a distal end portion of the pre-flow gas conduit and a distal end portion of the plasma gas conduit. The gas control device is operatively connected to each of the pre-flow gas conduit and the plasma gas conduit. The gas control device selectively allows one of the pilot gas and the plasma gas to flow through the plasma arc torch.