Patent ID: 7582844

Claim:
A plasma arc torch comprising: a torch handle having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; a torch head disposed within the distal end portion of the torch handle, the torch head adapted for receiving an electrode of the plasma arc torch; a torch lead operable with the torch head and extending from the proximal end portion of the torch handle; a solenoid disposed within the torch head and operable with the torch lead and the torch head to control a supply of gas; and an activation member operable with the solenoid, wherein the activation member activates the solenoid such that gas flow is supplied from a power supply through the torch lead and to the torch head for supply to a plasma arc chamber of the plasma arc torch, proximate the electrode, and the activation member deactivates the solenoid such that the gas flow is terminated, such that operational pressure adjacent the torch head is maintained by the solenoid.