Dual mode plasma arc torch

Abstract

A dual mode plasma arc torch and methods of operation thereof are provided, wherein the plasma arc torch is operable with both a high frequency power supply and a contact start power supply.

1 . A method of operating a plasma arc torch comprising disposing at least one dielectric standoff within the plasma arc torch such that the plasma arc torch is operable with both a high frequency power supply and a contact start power supply.  
     
     
         2 . The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the dielectric standoff is disposed within a group consisting of a torch head, a torch lead, a torch handle, consumable components, a connector, an adapter, and a power supply.  
     
     
         3 . A method of operating a plasma arc torch comprising disposing at least one component within the plasma arc torch, the component sized to provide additional voltage isolation such that the plasma arc torch is operable with both a high frequency power supply and a contact start power supply.  
     
     
         4 . The method according to  claim 3 , wherein the component is selected from a group consisting of a torch head, a torch lead, a torch handle, consumable components, a connector, an adapter, and a power supply.  
     
     
         5 . The method according to  claim 3 , wherein the component is a consumable component selected from the group consisting of an electrode, a start cartridge, a gas distributor, a tip, a spring, and a shield cup.  
     
     
         6 . A method of operating a plasma arc torch, wherein the plasma arc torch is operable with both a high frequency power supply and a contact start power supply.  
     
     
         7 . The method according to  claim 6  further comprising disposing a set of consumables within a plasma arc torch, the set of consumables being sized to provide additional voltage isolation such that the set of consumables are operable under both contact start and high frequency start modes of the plasma arc torches.  
     
     
         8 . The method according to  claim 7 , wherein the consumables are selected from the group consisting of an electrode, a start cartridge, a gas distributor, a tip, a spring, and a shield cup.  
     
     
         9 . A plasma arc torch that is operable with both a high frequency power supply and a contact start power supply.