Patent attributes
A plasma arc torch is provided having a tubular member defining a bore extending axially between opposing ends, and nozzle engaged with one end. A movable member carries an electrode, moves axially along the bore, and is biased toward the one end axially outward of the bore. A piston member engaged with the movable member is configured to selectively move the electrode between a torch inoperable and a torch operable position within the bore. A fluid flow inlet is configured to channel a fluid flow into the bore. A sealing member operably engaged with the movable member is configured to allow the fluid flow to act upon the piston member to move the electrode to the torch operable position when the nozzle is operably engaged with the one end of the tubular member, and to prevent the fluid flow from such when the nozzle is not so operably engaged.
