Plasma Cutting Torch, Nozzle And Shield Cap

摘要

A plasma torch assembly, and components thereof, is provided with optimized attributes to allow for improved torch durability add versatility. A torch nozzle is provided having a novel design, including exterior cooling channels running along a length of the nozzle. An improved inner retaining cap assembly is provided which imparts a swirl on shield gas flow. Additionally, a shield cap and outer retainer have optimized geometries to allow the torch to be made narrower to facilitate the cutting of complex 3-D shapes and bevel cuts not attainable with known mechanized plasma torches.

主权项

1. A plasma torch nozzle retaining cap assembly, comprising:
an inner retaining cap, said cap comprising:
a cylindrically shaped main portion which has a maximum outer diameter which is the maximum outer diameter of said inner retaining cap; andan angular transition portion coupled to said main portion which couples said cylindrical shaped main portion to a second cylindrical portion having an outer diameter which is smaller than said maximum outer diameter, said angular transition portion comprising a swirler engagement portion coupled to an outer surface of said angular transition portion; and a swirler having a ring shape with an inner diameter profile and an outer diameter profile and a radial center, where said inner diameter profile engages with said engagement portion and has at least one inner surface which does not make contact with said angular transition portion, wherein said swirler comprises a plurality of radially distributed channels, where each of said channels has an entrance in said outer diameter profile and an exit in said at least one inner surface, and wherein at least some of said channels are oriented such that the centerline of each of said at least some channels are offset from lines parallel to each of said centerlines, respectively, which pass through the radial center of said swirler by a distance.