Electrode drive and nozzle system for an automatic air carbon-arc cutting and gouging torch.

摘要

An automatic air carbon-arc cutting and gouging torch 110) having a fixed drive wheel (34) for moving an electrode (35) through an insulated housing (12) and through a nozzle (120) adapted to conduct air in a semi-circular pattern along the electrode (35). Electrical current is supplied to the electrode (35) through an contact shoe (70) supported by and biased to the electrode (35) by a lever arm (82), the shoe (70) causing the electrode (35) to frictionally engage the drive wheel (34). Alternately idler rollers can be used in combination with the contact shoe to position the electrode for movement by the drive wheel. Means (116) are included to reposition the electrode in the event of electrode "stub-out".