Patent ID: 7375302

Claim:
An electrode for a plasma arc torch, the electrode comprising: a body having a first end and a second end in a spaced relationship relative to the first end, the body having an end face disposed at the second end, the end face defining an edge, wherein during operation a first gas flow flowing about the body, from the first end to the second end; an insert with an emission surface, the insert disposed in the second end of the body, the insert defining a perimeter, wherein during operation of the electrode a plasma arc emission is confined within the perimeter of the insert; and at least one passage extending through the body, the at least one passage dimensioned to divert a first portion of the first gas flow to create a second gas flow, the second gas flow flowing from a first opening adjacent the second end of the body and exiting a second opening in the end face of the second end of the body, the second opening being located between the perimeter and the edge, wherein during operation a second portion of the first gas flow flowing outside the edge.