Patent ID: 6888091

Claim:
An automatic plasma arc tube cutter/welder which comprises (a) a flexible metal cable (wand) having an insulated outer jacket and an inner gas passage, manufactured in lengths according to the desired axis of rotation of the plasma arc; and (b) a stop collar secured to the cable (wand) for more accurate adjustment of the axis of rotation of the plasma arc; and (c) a threaded metal bushing attaching the cable (wand) to a round ceramic head, and providing an electrical connection to a tungsten electrode which arcs from its circumference through an orifice in the ceramic head, and providing a seal for the passage of gas and/or metal powder; and (d) a compression fitting securing the cable (wand) to a rotating housing; and (e) a swivel connection securing the rotating housing to a stationary power and gas lead; and (f) a rotating housing enclosing the swivel connection; and (g) a gear set connecting the rotating housing to a stationary housing; and (h) A stationary housing enclosing power and gas leads, switch leads, motor power leads, with an attached junction box enclosing an electric motor attached to the gear set in which the speed is controlled by a rheostat and a double pole momentary contact switch, which also starts the arc.