AT13249U1 - Coupling device for connecting a welding device with a welding torch and first and second coupling part of such a device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, comprising a welder-side first coupling part (2), which is connected or connectable by means of first connecting means (4) with the welding device (100), and a second welding torch side Coupling part (12) which is connected or connectable by means of second connecting means (14) to the welding torch (200), wherein the two coupling parts (2, 12) are connectable to each other such that in the connected state a welding current and at least one welding means, how, for example, a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device (100) and the welding torch (200) are feasible, and wherein the first coupling part (2) has an electrically conductive first coupling body (6) and the second coupling part (12) an electrically conductive second Kupplungskör by (16), which are in the connected state of the coupling parts (2,12) for guiding the welding current in electrical conduction, wherein the two electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) in the connected state of the coupling parts (2,12) by means of at least one In addition, the invention relates to a first and a second coupling part of such a coupling device and a welding apparatus and a welding torch, each with such a coupling part.

Description

Austrian patsütarnt AT 13 249 U1 2013-09-15

Description: The present invention relates to a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, comprising a welding device side first coupling part, which is connected or connectable by means of first connection means with the welding device, and a welding torch side second coupling part by means of the second Connecting means connected to the welding torch or is connectable, wherein the two coupling parts are connected to each other such that in the connected state via a welding current and at least one welding agent, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device and the welding torch feasible are, and wherein the first coupling part has an electrically conductive first coupling body and the second coupling part has an electrically conductive second coupling body which in the connected state of the Coupling parts for guiding the welding current are in electrical conduction.

Moreover, the invention relates in each case separately first coupling parts and second coupling parts of such a coupling device and a welding device and in particular TIG welding device and a welding torch and in particular TIG welding torch with at least one coupling part according to the aforementioned type.

Couplings and in particular coupling devices for connecting a welding device with a welding torch are known from the prior art. On the one hand, they make it possible to connect different welding torches to one welding device in order, for example, to adapt the welding torch to the required welding conditions, but they also make it possible to connect a welding torch to different welding devices, whereby an adaptation to different welding requirements can likewise be made here.

Usually, however, the welding equipment available on the market and in particular welding equipment from the field of TIG welding are not provided with standardized coupling elements, so that the connection of different welding torch to different welding equipment is always a problem.

Here it is known to provide a coupling device having, for example, an individual welder-side first coupling part, which can be connected to a standardized second burner-side coupling part. In this way, a plurality of welding devices can be provided with a standardized connection terminal for connecting the welding torch.

Of course, the same applies to the different available on the market welding torches and associated cable sets, where it may sometimes be advantageous to provide them with a standardized terminal terminal to make them compatible with one or more welding equipment.

However, such solutions have led to problems in the field of electric welding equipment and in particular in the field of TIG welding equipment, in particular because very high welding currents must be transported here. An inexpensive and easy to manufacture, yet resistant coupling device is not known from the prior art.

The invention is therefore an object of the invention to provide both a cost-effective to produce, easy to connect and disconnect coupling device or its components as well as welding equipment and welding torch with such available.

This object is achieved by a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch and by a first coupling part of a coupling device or a second coupling part of a coupling device according to the independent claims. In addition, this object is achieved by a welding apparatus and a welding torch according to the corresponding dependent claims.

In particular, this object is achieved by a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, comprising a welder first coupling part, which is connected or connectable by means of first connection means with the welding device, and a welding torch side second coupling part, the by means of second connection means connected to the welding torch or is connectable, wherein the two coupling parts are connected to each other such that in the connected state a welding current and at least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device and the Welding torch are feasible, and wherein the first coupling part has an electrically conductive first coupling body and the second coupling part has an electrically conductive second coupling body which in the connected state d he coupling parts for guiding the welding current are in electrical conduction, wherein the two electrically conductive coupling body in the connected state of the coupling parts are biased by means of at least one force element against each other.

In addition, this object is achieved by a first coupling part of a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, the welder device side can be connected by means of connecting means to the welding device, and which is connectable to a welding torch side second coupling part, the by means of connecting means connected to the welding torch or is connectable, wherein the two coupling parts are connected to each other such that in the connected state, a welding current and at least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device and the welding torch are feasible , and wherein the first coupling part has an electrically conductive first coupling body, which in the connected state of the coupling parts with an electrically conductive second coupling part of the second coupling body to the F Guiding the welding current is in electrical conduction, wherein the two electrically conductive coupling body in the connected state of the coupling parts are biased by means of at least one force element against each other.

This object is also achieved by a second coupling part of a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, the welding torch side by means of connecting means connected to the welding torch or is connectable, wherein the second coupling part is connected to a first coupling part that is connectable or connected to the welder by means of connecting means, and wherein the second coupling part is connectable to the first coupling part such that in the connected state a welding current and at least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welder and the welding torch are feasible, and wherein the second coupling part has an electrically conductive second coupling body, in the connected state of the coupling parts with an electrically conductive first Coupling part of the first coupling body for guiding the welding current is in electrical conduction, wherein the two electrically conductive coupling body are biased in the connected state of the coupling parts by means of at least one force element against each other.

Finally, this object is achieved by a welding device and in particular a TIG welding machine with at least one of the coupling parts according to the aforementioned type and by a welding torch and in particular a TIG welding torch with at least one of the coupling parts according to the aforementioned type.

Welding means within the scope of the invention means any means that is necessary for welding and in particular TIG welding. Here, inter alia, any protective fluids used and in particular shielding gases are to be understood or possibly used cooling or cooling fluids, which are removed from the welding torch to and from this. In addition, welding agents are also understood to mean control signals from and to the 2/33

SsteroebiKhes AT 13 249 U1 2013-09-15

Welding torch are guided. Within the scope of the invention, welding torch means any device with which the welding operation is carried out on the object to be welded. So here are u.a. conventional welding torches, welding guns or the like devices comprises. Connection means subsumes the means which serve to connect the coupling parts to the welding device or to the welding torch. Such connection means are, for example, hoses, electrical cable sets or the like means, the connection means, as mentioned, in particular the supply and removal of the welding means, but also the said welding current serve. These connection means may consist of one or more parts, such as a main cable set with corresponding adapter cable sets, plugs, branching, etc. They preferably have connections individually adapted to the welding device or the welding torch in order to establish a connection between the welding device or the burner and the respective coupling parts of the coupling device. Such connections are basically known from the prior art.

E essential point of the invention is the fact that the two electrically conductive coupling body in the connected state of the coupling parts by means of at least one force element are biased against each other. This bias guarantees the safe conductivity between the two coupling bodies, so that the usually very high welding current can be reliably transmitted from one coupling part to the other. It is possible to apply the bias on one or both electrically conductive coupling body and / or even bias the coupling parts themselves against each other to ensure the secure conductive connection between the two electrically conductive coupling bodies.

The force element is preferably designed as a spring element which transmits its biasing force to the component to be biased and in particular to at least one conductive coupling body. Preferably, the force element is designed as a pressure force element, so that it urges the component to be prestressed and in particular at least one electrically conductive coupling body in the direction of the other coupling part or its electrically conductive coupling body via a compressive force. A force element designed as a spring element can be, for example, at least one spiral spring and / or at least one leaf spring or a similar spring element or elastic element.

Preferably, the electrically conductive first coupling body and / or the electrically conductive second coupling body are mounted in a clutch housing axially or radially movable to a connecting axis of the two coupling body. In such an embodiment, therefore, the electrically conductive coupling body can be moved within the coupling housing to produce in the connected state, the bias voltage between the two electrically conductive coupling bodies. If the two coupling housings of the two coupling parts are stationary or connected to one another by mutual prestressing, a secure conductor connection with the other complementary electrically conductive coupling body can be produced via the at least one axially or radially movable coupling body, with the two bodies being forced towards one another. This guarantees a consistently reliable connection, especially with temperature-induced material strains.

In particular, in such a context, it is then possible to mount the force element on the coupling housing and so apply the bias on the electrically conductive coupling body. In an axially displaceably mounted in the clutch housing coupling body is moved in the connected state, the coupling body axially on the second coupling body or urged and brought into conduction therewith. In a radially movably mounted coupling body, the two adjacent electrically conductive coupling bodies move toward one another and are brought about by a rotation about the connection axis of the two coupling bodies, wherein the two coupling bodies preferably have complementary stop surfaces and in particular contact surface elements, regardless of the design of the bearing. to make the electrical conductivity. This fact will be discussed in more detail below

&Amp; ier ?? sfcische ;; paieiSitiat AT13 249U1 2013-09-15 gone.

Preferably, therefore, at least one force element is designed such that it urges axially or radially to the connecting axis of the two electrically conductive coupling body on the complementary other electrically conductive coupling body in the connected state of the two coupling parts at least one electrically conductive coupling body. In this way, the secure conductive connection between the two coupling bodies is ensured to a greater extent.

Preferably, at least one coupling body in a bearing element in the clutch housing is mounted axially and / or radially movable to a connecting axis of the two coupling body. In this way, the coupling body is movable independently of the coupling housing.

In particular, in this context, therefore, preferably, the bearing element is arranged stationarily in a bearing element receiving the clutch housing.

The bearing element may preferably have a bearing ring or a like least partially formed radial element, in which the electrically conductive coupling body is mounted with a bearing ring receptacle. The bearing element may be formed completely as a ring element or the like radial element but also as part thereof. The bearing element preferably provides a central bearing means, via which the relative displacement between the electrically conductive coupling body and the coupling housing is possible. Preferably, the clutch housing carries as further explained below, a main connection means or Hauptverbindungsgegenmittel, via which the corresponding coupling part with its complementary coupling part is connectable.

Preferably, the bearing element or the bearing ring or the like radial element is stationary fixed in or on the coupling housing, so that the electrically conductive coupling body is movable radially and / or axially relative to the coupling housing therein. This fixation can be done via friction and / or via appropriate fixing means such as grooves, extensions, locking elements, power means such as screws or rivets or adhesives, etc.

A bearing of the bearing element in the coupling housing can be achieved for example by a bearing element receptacle in the coupling housing, in which engages the bearing element and in particular a bearing ring or the like radial element by means of a groove or the like extension, or vice versa. It can also, optionally or simultaneously, at least one bearing extension, preferably at least partially radially circumferentially formed as a bearing element receiving, which engages in a bearing receptacle and in particular at least one groove on the bearing element. In principle, all engagement means and complementary counter-engagement means can find their application here and are provided for the components to be fixed together. These means and in particular a groove or the corresponding groove extension can, as mentioned, be designed to be completely radial or else only partially radially encircling. Also for fixing adhesives, power means, clamping seats, frictional elements, etc. are used. When assembling the coupling parts from their individual components then the bearing ring can be used together with its corresponding fastening means in the complementary bearing element receptacle on the coupling housing, so that the bearing element is provided for the electrically conductive coupling body. This can then be used in the bearing element and be biased with the corresponding force element relative to the coupling housing. It is most preferable to form the coupling housing at least in two parts and to fix it in the form of a clamping seat about the bearing element for fixing it or for holding the coupling housing on the bearing element. For connecting the individual components of the coupling housing, all known from the prior art connecting means and in particular releasable locking and clamping connectors can be used. It is also useful to secure the individual components by means of coupling rings or the like elements.

Preferably, the receptacle for the bearing element on the electrically conductive coupling body or the bearing ring receptacle on the electrically conductive coupling body has a recess and in particular a radial recess, in which the bearing element is arranged movable with axial and / or radial play. Such a bearing ring receptacle is preferably formed as at least partially formed radial recess in which the bearing element formed as a bearing ring with axial play and / or radial play is arranged. Preferably, the radial recess is formed parallel to the connecting axis of the two coupling body wider than the bearing ring mounted therein. In this way, limited by exception countries or the like stop elements of the radial recess in the electrically conductive coupling body, the electrically conductive coupling body axially and / or radially displaced in the bearing ring, wherein the respective displacement distances are limited by the game between bearing ring and radial recess.

By inserting the bearing ring or the like radial element in a radial recess on the coupling body, the reliable fit of the electrically conductive coupling body is ensured in the bearing element beyond.

In the above context, it is also possible to form the bearing ring or the like radial element fully circumferentially radially or only partially form radially. Such a design is then to be designated inter alia as a partial ring element. Of course, the same applies to the bearing ring receptacle in the electrically conductive coupling body and in particular the formation of a radial recess.

Preferably, at least the second coupling part comprises a main connecting means and the first coupling part to a main connection countermeasure, or vice versa, which are engageable with each other in a releasably locking force coupling, that the two coupling parts are inextricably coupled together in the locked state. Such a design with main connection means and main connection countermeasures, for example, be a bayonet closure, which is complementary to the two coupling parts or their two housings. Here, of course, other main connection means or antidote be formed. These main connection means or antidote guarantee the secure connection of the two coupling parts, so that they do not come apart, especially during operation of the welding machine.

Preferably, the main connection means and / or the main connection counter-means are arranged on the bearing element. In this way, the bearing element and in particular the previously discussed bearing ring form a central bearing means of the respective coupling part or a central support element, which preferably carries both the main connection means and the main connection counter and the coupling housing. If the electrically conductive coupling body arranged movably within this bearing element, it is possible to connect the two coupling parts by means of the main connection means or -gegenmittel each other, wherein the axial or radial displaceability of the electrically conductive coupling body within this arrangement very simply and reliably the bias on the complementary coupling part can be applied.

Also in the arrangement of the main connecting means or counter-centering on the bearing element and in particular on a bearing ring or radial element apply the same options as before in the arrangement of the coupling housing on the bearing element, with an extension or flange with corresponding complementary flange or extension shots her Application can find etc.

Preferably, the main connection means and the main connection counteracting means comprise at least one urging means urging both of them against each other when connecting the main connection means to the main connection antagonist. This facilitates u.a. the application of the bias voltage to the electrically conductive coupling body. Such an urging means may i.a. in the case of a bayonet catch or the like closure means, at least one clamping flange inclined to the orthogonal of the connecting axis of the two coupling parts, to the main connecting means which, when connecting the main connecting means to the main connecting counterpart, has an extension on the opposing main connecting counterpart means;

AT 13 249 U1 2013-09-15

Force coupling occurs, which is applied by a relative rotation of the two means about the connecting axis of the two coupling parts, an axial force on the extension and thus on the coupling parts.

Preferably, the electrically conductive first coupling body has at least a first welding agent supply, which is via the first connecting means with the welding device in Leitverbindung or can be brought, and the electrically conductive second coupling body at least one complementary second welding agent supply, via the second connection means with the welding torch is in Leitverbindung or can be brought, and are connected to each other in the connected state of the coupling parts with each other to guide at least one welding means between the welding device and the welding torch. The electrically conductive coupling body thus not only acts to transmit the welding current, but also has welding agent feeds, which enables the transmission of the other means necessary for welding. The connection means are preferably detachably connected to the coupling body, so that in particular an exchange of defective connection means or defective cables or hose sets is possible. Preferably, the connection means are designed as adapter means, so that they allow the connection of welding device-specific or standardized further connection means and in particular of suitable cable sets or hose sets.

Preferably, the at least one first Schweißmittelzuführung is at least partially integrally formed in the electrically conductive first coupling body and / or at least a second Schweißmittelzuführung at least partially integrally formed in the electrically conductive second coupling body, or vice versa. Preferably, such a welding agent supply of the first or second electrically conductive coupling body is at least partially formed as a channel or a similar recess in the electrically conductive coupling body. Thus, for example, the electrically conductive coupling body may be a volume element, for example a cylinder, which is traversed by corresponding channels or recesses in which the respective welding means, such as cooling water, welding gases or electrical cables and in particular control lines can be performed. These channels or similar recesses can serve directly as a welding agent supply, but it is also possible in it specifically hoses, cables, etc. to lead for this purpose.

Preferably, at least one first welding agent supply has a connecting means and at least one complementary second welding agent supply to a complementary anti-countermeasent communicating with each other in the connected state, or vice versa. In particular, the connecting means is formed as an extension, which protrudes in particular from the second coupling body, and the connecting counter-means formed as an extension receptacle, which is formed in the first coupling body, or vice versa. Such a design of connecting means and complementary countermeasures allows the safe and easy mutual connection of the complementary Schweißmittelzuführungen when connecting the two coupling parts. As mentioned, it is thus possible, for example, to form a connecting means of a welding agent supply as an extension which engages in a complementary extension receptacle on the corresponding welding agent supply.

In the above context, it is conceivable to provide suitable sealing means on the connecting means to allow the tight connection or the connection of the respective Schweißmittelzuführungen. Here, for example, earrings or the like sealing means may be provided on the connecting means and connection countermeasures. It is also possible to provide such sealing means separately from the connecting means and counter-means on the electrically conductive coupling body.

Preferably, at least one connection means and / or at least one connection counter-means are arranged or arrangeable as at least partially independent component in the electrically conductive first or second coupling body. In particular, at least 6/33 Austrian! föreütawt AT 13249 U1 2013-09-15 a connecting means formed as a screw extension, which is insertable and in particular screwed into the second coupling body, and at least one connection countermeasure as a Schraubfortsatzaufnahme formed in the first coupling body or can be used, or vice versa. The advantage of such an embodiment is that the connection means and the connection countermeasures can be very easily manufactured in a separate manufacturing process. In this process, it is then also possible to incorporate corresponding sealing elements, connecting elements, such as threads or the like. In addition, it is of particular importance that the electrically conductive coupling body is very easy to produce by the particular subsequent insertion of the connecting means and / or connection counterpart, which in particular gains in importance with the now following features.

[0037] Preferably, the electrically conductive first coupling body has at least one first contact surface element and the second coupling body has at least one second contact surface element which adjoin one another in the connected state of the coupling parts in a conductive manner. The contact surface elements may be formed integrally but also independently to the coupling body. In a preferred embodiment, the connection means and / or the connection counter means are formed or can be arranged in or on the respective contact surface element. The formation of a contact surface element on the coupling body guarantees the secure conductive connection between the two coupling bodies in the connected state. Moreover, if the connection means or connection countermeasures subsequently, i. Thus, after the production of the contact surface elements, can be arranged on the coupling body, this facilitates the production of the contact surface elements in particular dimensions, which can then be ground, for example, or the like milled.

In the manufacture of the coupling body as a cylinder or the like volume element, the contact surface elements are preferably end face elements of this volume body.

Preferably, at least one Schweißmittelzuführung and in particular a connecting means or anti-countervailing same at least one valve element in such a way that allows an interruption and / or production of the lead compound. This valve is advantageous, for example, in supplying the welding torch with a cooling fluid. Thus, a valve element can be arranged on the welding torch-side coupling part, so that it does not come to a leakage of the connection means or wiring set of the welding torch cooling fluid, as soon as it is released from the first welder device side coupling part. Depending on requirements, these valves can be adapted to the required conditions and in particular fluids to be sealed. Under valve is understood in this context, however, an element that allows isolation of a signal line or a similar current-carrying line. Again, it is possible to guarantee a safe separation of the coupling parts when disconnecting or manually such a " valve " is operable to isolate the cable routing. A valve may for example also be a ball valve, in which a ball is biased by a force element against a valve seat and is urged upon exposure to an opening force to release the lead from the seal seat. Such ball valves for sealing fluid paths for fluids are known in the art.

In principle, it is also possible to design the valve as a remote valve, so that signals are sent to a welding agent supply via the valve, which then interrupts the supply of welding agent, for example the delivery of cooling fluid or the electric current supply.

In particular, it is possible to design the valve so that it allows automatic production or interruption of the lead connection. Here are appropriate pressure elements, sliding elements or even electrical switching elements applicable.

Preferably, at least one welding agent supply and in particular a 7/33

Fairy AT13 249U1 2013-09-15

Connecting means or anti-countervailing same have at least one valve actuating element such that it allows actuation of the valve and in particular an actuation of the valve when connecting and / or separating the two coupling parts.

Such an actuating element can be, for example, a ring with an actuating extension which is inserted into the connecting means or the counter-counterpart means, and when the two means are connected opens a complementary valve and in particular a ball valve or closes again during separation.

In particular, in this connection, a corresponding receptacle is preferably provided in the connection means or connection counter-means, in which the pressure ring or the like pressure element or actuator can be used.

As already mentioned above, in addition to a coupling device, the present invention also relates to a first coupling part or a second coupling part of such a coupling device. The explicit design of these coupling parts is omitted here for reasons of redundancy, with explicit reference to the above features and their transferability to the respective coupling parts.

It is also encompassed by the scope of the invention that at least the first coupling part is arranged fixedly or detachably within a welding device and in particular on or in a housing of a welding device. In this way, an education with such a coupling part can already be made by the manufacturer to connect different welding torch or cable harnesses in a simple manner. The same naturally also applies to a welding torch or its cable set, on which also such a coupling part can be provided. In this respect, as mentioned, the invention also relates to a welding apparatus and in particular to a TIG welding apparatus or a welding torch or TIG welding torch with at least one of the coupling parts described here.

Further embodiments emerge from the subclaims.

In the following the invention will be described in more detail by means of embodiments, which are explained by the accompanying drawings. Shown schematically are: Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 Fig. 7 [0056] Figs Fig. 9 Fig. 10 Fig. 11 is an isometric view of a welder assembly having two embodiments of the inventive coupling device; an isometric view of the coupling devices of Figure 1 and associated connection means. an isometric view of the coupling devices of FIG. 1; a further isometric view of the coupling devices of FIG. 1; a plan view of the coupling devices of FIG. 1; an isometric detail of a first welder-side coupling part of the coupling devices of FIG. 1; isometric detailed representations of the coupling part according to FIG. 6 in different completion states; two embodiments electrically conductive first coupling body, the first coupling parts of the coupling device shown in Figure 1; an isometric view of an embodiment of a second welding torch-side coupling part of the coupling devices of FIG. 1; an isometric partial sectional view of the second coupling part of FIG. 10; 8/33

ÄsterreläsKises Patent Office [0060] FIG. 12 [0061] FIG. 13 [0063] FIG. 14 [0063] FIG. 15 [0064] FIG. 16 AT 13 249 U1 2013-09-15 isometric detailed representations of a Embodiment of an electrically conductive second coupling body of the second coupling part of FIG. 11; an isometric detail of the embodiments of the electrically conductive second coupling body of Figure 12 with mounted bearing element. an isometric detail of the second coupling part of FIG. 11; an isometric detailed representations of the first and second electrically conductive coupling body of the coupling device of Figure 1 in the connected state with attached bearing element a connection counter-means of the second coupling body of Figure 12 with valve element ..; a connection means of the first coupling body according to FIG. 9 for receiving the connection counter-means according to FIG. 15, with a valve actuating element; and FIGS. 17 to 19 show an embodiment of a coupling device installed in a welding device.

In the following, the same reference numerals are used for identical and functionally equivalent components, with high indices sometimes being used to distinguish them.

It should be noted that the drawings represent only schematic representations of preferred embodiments of the invention, which should not be construed as limiting embodiments.

Fig. 1 shows schematically a welder assembly with a welder 100 and a welding torch 200, which are connected to each other or connectable via a plurality of connection means 4, 14. The connection means, insofar as they can be connected to the welding apparatus 100, form first connection means 4 and, as far as they can be connected to the welding torch 200, second connection means 14. The first and second connection means 4, 14 can be connected to one another via an embodiment of the coupling device 1 according to the invention.

For connection to the welding apparatus 100, the first connection means 4 have a cable set 9 with connecting elements 5 which is individually adapted to the welding apparatus 100. On the other side of this cable set are adapted to the coupling device 1 connecting elements 3 are provided. In this context, connecting elements are understood to be any plug-in or connection element which allows the connection of the first connection means 4 to the welding apparatus 100 or the coupling device 1. Usually, the first connection means 4 are designed to be specific to the welding device, so that an adaptation of the coupling device to these first connection means 4 or the connection means 3 formed thereon is necessary. In this embodiment of the connection means 4 here, also connecting elements 10 are provided on the coupling device 1, which allow the connection of the cable set 9 via the connecting means 3.

The connection of the welding torch 200 to the coupling device 1 according to the invention takes place, as mentioned, via second connecting means 14, which can also be adapted specifically to the welding torch 200, in which case, of course, suitable connecting elements for connection to the coupling device 1 must be provided. However, it is preferred to provide the coupling device 1 on the welding torch side already with prefabricated second connection means 14 or a combination of such second connection means 14 and a welding torch. Basically, a training as in the welder-side connection means 4 is possible. 9/33

The first and second connection means 4, 14 shown here serve to transmit a welding current and welding means, for example protective gases or the like fluids, cooling liquids or control signals. Here, different embodiments are possible, of course, as will be explained in more detail below, the coupling device is then designed accordingly.

The coupling device 1 shown in Fig. 1 consists essentially of two basic components, namely a welder first coupling part 2 and a welding torch side second coupling part 12. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 are in addition to the coupling device 1 in its connected representation, the means the first and second coupling parts 2,12 are connected to each other, also a further embodiment of a first coupling part 2 'shown, inter alia the connection to other connection means or to another welding device (not shown), is used. It is also possible to use the different embodiments of the coupling parts to restrict the welding device and the welding process to certain methods or to expand, so with cooling, without cooling, etc.

The coupling device according to the invention according to FIG. 1 together with the cable set 9 of the connection means for connection to the welding apparatus 100 is also shown in FIG. 2 and without this cable set 9 in FIGS. 3 to 5.

As mentioned, the clutch device 1 comprises a first welder-side coupling part 2 and a welding-torch-side second coupling part 12, which in this embodiment are connected to one another via a main connection means 18 and a main connection counter-means 8. In this embodiment, the main connection means 18 is arranged as a bayonet lock ring which is arranged rotatably on the second coupling part 12 about the connection axis A-A. The complementarily formed main connection counteracting means 8 is formed complementarily on the first coupling part 2 (see in the representations here on the second embodiment of the first coupling part, designated by the reference numeral 2 '.) In the likewise illustrated other embodiment, denoted by the reference numeral 2, is likewise a provided such main connection counter 8, which is naturally hidden here).

Here, the main connection counteracting means 8 and the main connection counteracting means 18 have an urging means 67 which pulls the two coupling parts against each other during connection.

This facilitates i.a. the application of the bias voltage to the later-described electrically conductive coupling body 6, 16 of the two coupling parts 2, 12. Such an urging means may i.a. as in the case of a bayonet closure or similar closure means, at least one clamping flange 64 inclined to the orthogonal of the connecting axis of the two coupling parts on the main connecting means 8 which, when connecting the main connecting means 8 to the main connecting counteracting means 18, is provided with an extension or locking cam 19 on the opposing main connection counteracting means 18 (see FIG ) occurs in power coupling, wherein by a relative rotation of the two means about the connecting axis AA of the two coupling parts 2, 12 an axial force on the extension 19 and thus a relative movement of the coupling parts 2, 12 is applied, which contracts these two.

A part of this urging means 67 is provided in this embodiment (see FIGS. 4 and 5) on the first coupling part, namely as an inlet region 60, which merges into a clamping region 62. This chucking portion 62 is formed by the clamping surface 64 formed inclined to the orthogonal about the axis AA, which is formed such that the projection 19 (see FIG. 10) formed on the main connecting means 18 of the second welding-torch-side coupling portion 12, can be inserted over the inlet portion 60 and clamped by a rotation about the connecting axis AA in the axial direction. The inclined clamping surface merges into a non-inclined bearing surface or element 69, which is designed to be orthogonal to the axis A-A (see FIG. 5). By the rotation of the extension or of the main connecting means 18, the two first and second coupling parts 2, 12 move 10/33

AT13 249U1 2013-09-15 to ensure a reliable interference fit.

In order to prevent unintentional release of these main connection means or Gegenmittel, the main connection means 18 on a locking means 66 which is mounted in the form of a locking extension parallel to the connecting axis A-A in the main connecting means 18 slidably. In a locking position, the locking means 66 engages in a Arretierungsmittelaufnahme 68 on the first welder-side coupling part 2, whereby rotation of the main connecting means 18 is prevented. In order to ensure a secure fit of the locking means, in addition, a spring element is provided which urges the locking means 66 in its locking position.

With constant reference to the coupling device according to FIGS. 1 to 5, the individual components of the coupling device 1 will now be explained in more detail in the following figures.

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the first welder-side coupling part 2 according to the coupling device shown in Fig. 4 1. It can be used if required but also welding torch side of this coupling part 2. As mentioned, this first coupling part comprises connection means 4 which serve for connection to a welding apparatus 100 or to a corresponding cable set 9 of the welding apparatus 100 (see FIG. 1). By means of these connection means 4, a welding current and welding means, as already described above, can then be supplied to the complementary second coupling part 12 (see FIG. 4) and from there to the welding torch 200 (see FIG. 1).

According to the invention, the power supply and the welding agent guide via an electrically conductive first coupling body 6, which is arranged in this embodiment of the first coupling part 2 stationary in a multi-part coupling housing 22 of the first coupling part 2. The respective connection means 4 are in this case with this first coupling body 6 in lead connection, so that the welding current or the respectively required welding means can be supplied and removed.

For this purpose, the electrically conductive coupling body has a plurality of welding agent feeders 34, which can be brought into line connection with the welding device via the first connecting means 4. This Schweißmittelzuführungen are formed here on the one hand as at least partially integrally formed in the electrically conductive first coupling body 6 channels 36, and provided with a recess 37 into which an independent Schweißmittelzuführung, so for example a control signal cable 39 can be inserted. In this embodiment, this control signal cable 39, as shown in particular in Figures 7 and 8, connected to the connection means 4. Of course, instead of such a control signal cable 39, any other connection means can also be arranged in a recess 37 provided in the coupling body 6 and, in particular, arranged detachably.

In order to ensure a reliable insulation between the electrically conductive coupling element 6 and the control signal cable 39, in this embodiment (see FIGS. 7 and 8) an insulation element and in particular an insulation grommet 41 is provided, which in the interior of the welding agent supply or the recess 37 is arranged. This spout 41 is formed so as to surround the control signal cable 39 in an insulating manner.

An essential point of the invention is that the electrically conductive first coupling body 6 is connected or connectable to a supply of the welding apparatus 100 in such a way that the usually very high welding current can be passed through it. Serve the aforementioned Schweißmittelzuführungen 34 so the supply of welding agent such as cooling fluid, protective fluid or signal currents, the electrically conductive coupling body 6 itself serves as a means of transmission for the welding current.

As described in more detail below, for the safe transmission of the welding current from the first coupling body 6 to a correspondingly formed second coupling body 16 on the second coupling part (see FIG. 10), as shown in Fig. 6, the first coupling body 6 a Contact surface element 7, which in the connected state 11/33

isterrelchiseiei jafsüfeMt AT 13 249 U1 2013-09-15 flat against a contact surface element 17 of the second coupling body 16 (see Fig. 10) is present.

The electrically conductive coupling body 6 of the first coupling part 2 is shown in detail in FIG. 9, the two differently shaped coupling bodies 6 of the first and second embodiment of the first coupling part 2 shown in FIG. With respect to the connection region with the second coupling part, however, these two embodiments of the electrically conductive coupling body 6 are identical, they differ only in the formation of the connection means 4. As mentioned, the electrically conductive coupling body 6 on Schweißmittelzuführungen 34 or channels 36, over the above the connection means 4 shown in FIG. 1 can be supplied to welding means. In addition, the electrically conductive coupling body 6 has a recess 37 formed as a welding agent supply 34 into which a control signal cable 39 or in other embodiments further connection means can be inserted (see FIGS. 7 and 8). This facilitates the replacement of possibly defective connection means 4.

Shown in Fig. 9 and in Figs. 7 and 8 further comprises a flange member 40 which is complementary to a flange member receptacle 42 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) is formed and so the stationary fixation of the electrically conductive coupling body. 6 allowed in the clutch housing 22 of the first coupling part 2.

FIGS. 10 and 11 now show the second welding torch-side coupling part 12 complementary to the first coupling part 2, which, as already mentioned above, is formed with the main connecting means 18 designed as a bayonet closure. As with the first coupling part 2, an electrically conductive second coupling body 16 is mounted in a multi-part coupling housing 22 in the second coupling part 12.

As shown in FIGS. 10 to 13, the second coupling body 16 also includes welding agent supplies 44, which serve to supply and discharge of welding agent. In principle, these Schweißmittelzuführungen 44 are identical to the Schweißmittelzuführungen the first coupling body 6 is formed. Again, there are Schweißmittelzuführungen 44, which are formed as partially integrally disposed in the coupling body 16 channels 46, and there is a Schweißmittelzuführung which serves as a recess 47 of the insert a control signal cable (not shown) or any other connection means. In this embodiment, a control signal cable corresponding to the control signal cable 39 (see FIG. 6), which serves to transmit control pulses to and from the welding torch 200, is inserted into this recess 47.

On its side facing the welding torch 200, the second electrically conductive coupling body 16 has formed as connection extensions 35 Schweißmittelzuführungen 44, which serve in this embodiment, for example, the connection of coolant hoses. The supply of the welding current is again via the electrically conductive coupling body 16, which (not shown) is connected to the welding torch 200 with a main welding current.

As shown in FIGS. 11, 12 and 12a, the electrically conductive second coupling body 16 also has a contact surface element 17 which, in the connected state of the two coupling parts 2, 12, is substantially planar on the contact surface element 7 of the first electrically conductive coupling body 6 (FIG. see Fig. 6). Over this plane Leitverbindung can be transported in a safe way, the welding current.

Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, as shown in FIG. 4, the first and second coupling parts 2, 12 and their first and second coupling bodies 6, 16 and the welding agent supplies 34, 44 formed therein are securely connected to each other , the welding agent feeds 44 of the second coupling body 16 have connection countermeasures which, in the connected state, can be conductively connected to connecting means 38 on the first electrically conductive coupling body 6 (see FIGS. 6 and 9). In this embodiment, the connecting means 38 are formed as extension receptacles, which in the first coupling 12/33

AT13 249U1 2013-09-15 are formed and the connection counter means 48 designed as complementary projections, which protrude in particular from the second coupling body 16. If necessary, of course, such an arrangement can also be reversed.

In order to ensure a reliable tight connection of the connection countermeans 48 of the second coupling body 16 with the connecting means 38 of the first coupling body 6, in this embodiment, at least one connection counter 48 has sealing elements 45, here in the form of O-rings in corresponding grooves 43rd are arranged (see FIGS. 12 and 12a). When inserting the connection countermeans 48 in the connecting means 38 on the first coupling body 6, these sealing elements 45 are sealingly on the inner wall of the connecting means 38, which are formed in this embodiment as extension mounts.

Essentially, E is shown in FIG. 13 with reference to FIGS. 11 to 12a. Visible is the second electrically conductive coupling body 16, which, as already mentioned, is mounted in the multi-part coupling housing 22 of the second coupling part 12. In order to ensure a reliable conductive connection between the contact surface elements 7, 17 of the two electrically conductive coupling body 6, 16 after connecting the two coupling parts 2, 12 or the coupling body 6, 16, even at very high currents and in fluctuating temperatures, the two coupling bodies 6, 16 biased in this embodiment in the connected state shown in FIG. 4 via at least one force element 20 against each other. The power element 20 is formed in this embodiment as a leaf spring, which is received in corresponding power element receptacles or here specifically spring mounts 21 on the clutch housing 22 and the second clutch body 16 along the connecting axis AA least in the connected state in the direction of the first coupling part 2 and its electrically conductive coupling body 6 urges. The mobility of the coupling body 16 is shown here as an arrow B.

In particular, in conjunction with the above-described embodiment of the main connection means 18 or main connection counter 8 as exciting connection means results from the mutual bias of the two electrically conductive coupling body 6, 16 a safe investment of each associated contact surface elements 7, 17 and thus a secure line between these two live components.

In order to ensure the axial displaceability of the second electrically conductive coupling body 16 within the coupling housing 22 of the second coupling part 12, a bearing element 24 is provided, which is formed in this embodiment as a bearing ring 26. This bearing ring 26 is fixedly fixed in the coupling housing 22 and designed such that it serves as a receiving bearing for the second coupling body 16. The coupling body 16 has a Lagerelement- or bearing ring receptacle 30 into which the bearing element or the bearing ring 26 can be inserted. This bearing ring receptacle 30 is formed as a partial radial recess 32 which is formed in its width b parallel to the connecting axis AA wider than the bearing ring 26 mounted therein by the thus formed axial play 31 is a movement of the second coupling body 16 in its storage within the bearing ring 26th possible. The axial play 31 is thereby limited by stop or flange elements 33 of the bearing ring receptacle 30 of the second coupling body 16.

The bearing element 24 and the bearing ring 24 in turn has a bearing receptacle 29, which is designed in particular as a radial groove. In this bearing receptacle 29 engages a bearing extension 27 of the coupling housing 22 such that the bearing element 24 is held stationary in the coupling housing.

In this embodiment, the bearing element 24 acts as a main retaining element, since not only the connection between the bearing extension 27 and bearing receptacle 29, the multi-part coupling housing 22 can be held in a clamped fit, but also via a correspondingly formed on the bearing element 24 mounting flange 25 shown in Fig. 10 main connecting means 18, so the bayonet lock is held. About the formation of the bearing element 24 as a central connecting means between Hauptverbin- 13/33

(SterrecNes pitesiasfit AT13 249U1 2013-09-15 tion medium 18 and coupling housing 22 and as its training as a bearing means for the axial displaceability of the second coupling body 16 is a very simple way a second coupling member 12 is provided, which under guarantee the management of electricity and welding agents with can be connected to the first coupling part 2.

Fig. 14 shows the connected arrangement of the two coupling bodies, namely the first coupling body 6 and the second coupling body 16, again in an isometric view. Visible again is the bearing element 24, which is mounted as a bearing ring 26 in a bearing ring receptacle 30 and a radial groove 32 on the second coupling body 16. In its width, the bearing element 24 in the axial direction A-A is slightly narrower than the bearing ring receptacle 30, so that an axial clearance 31 results that allows the free mobility of the second coupling body 16 within its bearing in the bearing element 24.

15 and 16 show particular embodiments of the connection means 38 on the first electrically conductive coupling body 6 and the connection counter means 48 on the second coupling body 16. As shown in Fig. 15, the connection counter-agent 48 is formed as a screw extension, which via a thread 54 can be screwed into the welding agent supply 44 of the second electrically conductive coupling body 16 (see, inter alia, Figs. 12 and 12a). The formed as a channel 46 Schweißmittelzuführung 44 of the second electrically conductive coupling body 16 is thus formed with a complementary thread (not shown), so that a screwing in of the connection counter-48 or here the extension 48 is possible. The extension 48 is in its dimensions complementary to the extension receptacle or the connecting means 38 in the first electrically conductive coupling body 6 is formed.

In particular, in the use of cooling fluids or the like welding means, it is advantageous if after disconnecting the two coupling parts 2, 12, the fluid located in the welding torch-side connecting means does not escape unhindered. For this reason, a valve 50 is provided on the connection counter-means 48, which allows a closure of the welding agent-carrying channel 51, which communicates via the welding agent supply 44 of the second electrically conductive coupling body 16 and the connection means 4 with the welding torch 200 (see Fig. 1) ,

The valve 50 is known in principle from the prior art. It comprises a valve seat 53, against which a valve ball or a similar element 55 is sealingly urged. The safe completion of the ball 55 against the valve seat 53 is ensured in this embodiment via spring elements 56 which are present at corresponding spring element receptacles in the interior of the connection counter 48. A pressure force in the direction of the axis Z-Z against the spring force of the springs 56, the valve can be opened and closed in the opposite direction.

In order to ensure an automatic opening of this valve 50 when connecting the two coupling parts 2 and 12, has the corresponding welding agent supply 34 and the connecting means 38 in the first electrically conductive coupling body 6, a valve operating member 52 which in suitable element receptacles 59 on the inner wall 61 is held. In this embodiment, the valve operating member 52 is formed as a disc with at least one flow opening 63, wherein an actuating projection 65 is provided which is formed so that it pushes against the valve ball 55 and the valve 50 during insertion of the connection counter 48 in the connecting means 38 and so the sealing seat opens. When removing the opposite connection means 48 from the connecting means 38, so when separating the two coupling parts 2, 12, the valve 56 is then closed again via the springs.

Fig. 17-19 show a further embodiment of the coupling device 1 according to the invention, which is here in a housing 102 of a welding machine, similar to the welding apparatus 100 as shown in Fig. 1, installed. In detail here a first coupling part 2 is shown, which corresponds to the coupling part 2 according to FIGS. 1-16 in its basic principles of action and execution principles. For this reason, here is fully 14/33

Ssterreid & ciRS AT13 249U1 2013-09-15. The first coupling part 2 has with its welding burner side coupling side of the housing outside 104 of the housing 102 to the outside, so that it (in this embodiment, again via a bayonet with main connection means 18 and main connection countermeasure), a second complementary trained coupling part, as he also has already been explained, are connected can. Housing inside 106 corresponding connection means 4 (shown here as extensions of welding agent supply 34) are provided, which can be connected to the respective devices in the welding machine.

To protect the Schweißmittelzuführungen 34 a protective cap 70 is further provided in this embodiment, which also has a complementary to the main connection means 18 main connection antagonist 8 and can be securely attached to the first coupling part 2. As soon as a welding torch is to be connected, this protective cap 70 can be removed and the correspondingly formed second welding torch-side coupling part 12 can be fastened. 15/33

Claims (23)

Claims 1. A coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, comprising a welder-side first coupling part (2) by means of first connection means (4) the welder (100) is connected or connectable, and a welding torch side second coupling part (12) by means of second connection means (14) connected to the welding torch (200) or connectable, wherein the two coupling parts (2, 12) are connectable to each other in that in the connected state, a welding current and at least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device (100) and the welding torch (200) are feasible, and wherein the first coupling part (2) electrically conductive first coupling body (6) and the second coupling part (12) an electrically leitfä Hien second coupling body (16), which are in the connected state of the coupling parts (2, 12) for guiding the welding current in electrical conduction, characterized in that the two electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) in the connected state of the coupling parts (2, 12) by means of at least one force element (20) are biased against each other. 2. Coupling device according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrically conductive first coupling body (6) and / or the electrically conductive second coupling body (16) in a coupling housing (22) axially or radially to a connecting axis (AA) of the two coupling body (6 , 16) is movably mounted. 3. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one force element (20) is designed such that it in the connected state of the coupling body (6, 16) at least one electrically conductive coupling body (16) axially or radially to the connecting axis (AA ) of the two electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) on the complementary other electrically conductive coupling body (6) urges. 4. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one coupling body (16) in a bearing element (24) in the coupling housing (22) axially or radially to a connecting axis (AA) of the two coupling body (6-16) is movably mounted , 5. Coupling device according to claim 4, characterized in that the bearing element (24) in a bearing element receptacle (28) on the clutch housing (22) is arranged stationary. 6. Coupling device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the bearing element (24) has a bearing ring (26) or the like at least partially formed radial element, in which the electrically conductive coupling body (16) with a bearing ring receptacle (30) is mounted. 7. Coupling device according to claim 6, characterized in that the bearing ring receptacle (30) on the coupling body (16) has a radial recess (32), in which the bearing ring (26) is arranged with axial clearance, wherein the radial recess (32) parallel to the connecting axis ( AA) of the two coupling bodies (6, 16) is wider than the bearing ring (26) mounted therein. 16/33 ihteirelchisdiei pitwtot AT 13249 U1 2013-09-15 8. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the second coupling part (12) has a main connection means (18) and the first coupling part (2) has a main connection counter-means (8), or vice versa, which together in a releasably locking force coupling can be brought that the two coupling parts (2, 12) in the locked state are inextricably linked with each other. A clutch device according to claim 8, characterized in that said main connection means (18) and said main connection counteracting means (8) comprise at least one urging means (67) urging both of them against each other when connecting said main connection means (18) to said main connection counteracting means. 10. Coupling device according to claim 9, characterized in that the main connection means (18) and / or the main connection counter-means (8) on the bearing element (24) are arranged. 11. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrically conductive first coupling body (6) has at least one first welding agent supply (34) via the first connecting means (4) with the welding device (100) in lead connection or can be brought , and the electrically conductive second coupling body (16) has at least one complementary second welding agent supply (44) which is or can be brought into contact with the welding torch (200) via the second connecting means (14) and which in the connected state of the coupling parts (2 , 12) are in conductive communication with each other to guide at least one welding agent between the welding apparatus (100) and the welding torch (200). 12. Coupling device according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one first welding agent supply (34) is at least partially integrally formed in the electrically conductive first coupling body (6) and / or at least one second welding agent supply (44) at least partially integrally in the electrically conductive second coupling body ( 16) is formed. 13. Coupling device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that at least one welding agent supply (34, 44) of the first and / or second electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) at least partially as a channel (36, 46) or a similar recess in the Coupling body (6, 16) is formed. 14. Coupling device according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that at least one first welding agent supply (34) has a connecting means (38) and at least one complementary second welding agent supply (44) has a complementary anti-countermeasure means (48) in the connected state are connected to each other in a conductive connection, or vice versa, and in particular the connecting means (38) is formed as an extension receptacle, which is formed in the first coupling body (6), and the connection counter means (48) is designed as a complementary extension, in particular from the second Coupling body (16) protrudes, or vice versa. 15. Coupling device according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that at least one connecting means (38) and / or at least one connection counter-means (48) as at least partially independent component in the electrically conductive first or 17/33 iisteirelchiscsei pitwiarot second coupling body (6, 16) are arranged or can be arranged, and in particular at least one connection counter-means (48) is designed as a screw extension, which can be inserted into the first and / or second coupling body (16) and in particular screwed, and / or at least one connecting means (38) is designed as a Schraubfortsatzaufnahme, which is formed or insertable in the first and / or second coupling body (6). 16. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrically conductive first coupling body (6) at least a first contact surface element (7) and the second coupling body (16) at least a second contact surface element (17), in the connected state of the coupling body ( 6, 16) are conductively flat against each other. 17. A coupling device according to claim 16, characterized in that at least one connecting means (38) and / or at least one connection counter-means (48) in or on the respective contact surface element (7,17) are formed or arranged. 18. Coupling device according to one of claims 11 or 17, characterized in that at least one welding agent supply (34, 44) and in particular a connecting means (38) or counter-connection means (48) thereof at least one valve element (50) such that there is a break and / or production of the lead compound allowed. 19. A coupling device according to claim 18, characterized in that at least one welding agent supply (34, 44) and in particular a connecting means (38) or counter-counter-means (48) thereof at least one valve actuating element (52) such that it actuation of the valve (50) allows and in particular an actuation of the valve (50) when connecting and / or separating the two coupling parts (2, 12) allowed. 20. First coupling part of a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, the welder device side by means of connection means (4) to the welding device (100) can be connected, and with a welding torch side second coupling part (12) is connectable which is connected or connectable by means of connecting means (14) to the welding torch (200), wherein the two coupling parts (2, 12) are connectable to each other such that in the connected state a welding current and at least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device and the welding torch are feasible, and wherein the first coupling part (2) has an electrically conductive first coupling body (6) which in the connected state of the coupling parts (2, 12) with an electrically conductive second coupling body ( 16) of the second coupling part (12 ) is in electrical lead connection for guiding the welding current, characterized in that the two electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) in the connected state of the coupling parts (2, 12) by means of at least one force element (20) are biased against each other. 21. Second coupling part of a coupling device for connecting a welding device and in particular a TIG welding device with a welding torch, the welding torch side by means of connecting means (14) connected to the welding torch (200) or connectable, and wherein the second coupling part (12) with a first coupling part (2) which can be connected to the welding apparatus (100) by means of connection means (4), and wherein the second coupling part (12) can be connected to the first coupling part (2) in such a way that a welding current and no At least one welding means, such as a cooling fluid, a protective fluid and / or a control signal between the welding device and the welding torch are feasible, and wherein the second coupling part (12) is an electrically conductive second coupling body (16) which in the connected state of the K Connecting parts (2, 12) with an electrically conductive first coupling body (6, 16) of the first coupling part (2) for guiding the welding current is in electrical conduction, characterized in that the two electrically conductive coupling body (6, 16) in the connected state of Coupling parts (2, 12) by means of at least one force element (20) are biased against each other. 22. Welding apparatus and in particular TIG welding apparatus with at least one coupling part (2, 12) according to one of claims 20 or 21. 23. Welding torch and in particular TIG welding torch with at least one coupling part (2, 12) according to any one of claims 20 or 21. See 14 sheets drawings 19/33