DC plasma arc generator with erosion control and method of operation.

摘要

A DC plasma arc generator comprises a cylindrical anode with coaxial arc constricting and exit portions. The constricting portion has a refractory metal liner on the distal end and a cathode positioned adjacent to the proximal end. The proximal end of the exit portion has a refractory metal liner. Critical dimensions and spacings are met to allow the introduction of two streams of vortex-generating gas. Two arcs are generated and share a common connection point which is rotated by the second stream of gas to reduce erosion. A power supply is connected between the cathode and the exit portion of the anode. The refractory metal liner is tungsten, molybdenum, tantalum, niobium or zirconium doped with a minor amount of and emissive material such as thoria or yttria.