CA2887851C

CA2887851C - Plasma arc torch having multiple operation modes

Info

Publication number: CA2887851C
Application number: CA2887851A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Todd Foret
Original assignee: Foret Plasma Labs LLC
Current assignee: Foret Plasma Labs LLC
Priority date: 2012-10-01
Filing date: 2013-10-01
Publication date: 2017-11-28
Anticipated expiration: 2033-10-01
Also published as: CN104838730A; MX2015004150A; WO2014055574A1; HK1214462A1; CA2887851A1; WO2014055574A4; MX340051B; CN104838730B

Abstract

The present invention provides a multi-mode plasma arc torch that includes a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, and a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that the center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel. Adjusting a position of the electrode with respect to the hollow electrode causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode.

Description

PLASMA ARC TORCH HAVING MULTIPLE OPERATING MODES
Field of Invention The present invention relates generally to solid oxide electrolysis cells and plasma torches. More specifically, the present invention relates to a plasma torch having multiple operating modes.
Background Art Glow discharge and plasma systems are becoming every more present with the emphasis on renewable fuels, pollution prevention, clean water and more efficient processing methods.
Glow discharge is also referred to as electro-plasma, plasma electrolysis and high temperature electrolysis. In liquid glow discharge systems a plasma sheath is formed around the cathode located within an electrolysis cell.
U.S. Patent No. 6,228,266 discloses a water treatment apparatus using a plasma reactor and a method of water treatment. The apparatus includes a housing having a polluted water inlet and a polluted water outlet; a plurality of beads (e.g., nylon and other plastic type beads) filled into the interior of the housing; a pair of electrodes, one of the electrodes contacting with the bottom of the housing, another of the electrodes contacting an upper portion of the uppermost beads; and a pulse generator connected with the electrodes by a power cable for generating pulses. Some drawbacks of the '266 plasma reactor are the requirements of an extremely high voltage pulse generator (30 KW to 150 KW), a plurality of various beads in a web shape and operating the reactor full from top to bottom. Likewise, the plasma reactor is not designed for separating a gas from the bulk liquid, nor can it recover heat or generate hydrogen. In fact, the addition of air to the plasma reactor completely defeats the sole purpose of current research for generating hydrogen via electrolysis or plasma or a combination of both. If any hydrogen is generated within the plasma reactor, the addition of air will cause the hydrogen to react with oxygen and form water. Also, there is no mention of any means for generating heat by cooling the cathode. Likewise, there is no mention of cooking organics unto the beads, nor the ability to reboil and concentrate liquids (e.g., spent acids, black liquor, etc.), nor recovering caustic and sulfides from black liquor.
The following is a list of prior art similar to the '266 patent:
Patent No. Title 481,979 Apparatus for electrically purifying water 501,732 Method of an apparatus for purifying water 3,798,784 Process and apparatus for the treatment of moist materials 4,265,747 Disinfection and purification of fluids using focused laser radiation 4,624,765 Separation of dispersed liquid phase from continuous fluid phase 5,019,268 Method and apparatus for purifying waste water 5,048,404 High pulsed voltage systems for extending the shelf life of pumpable food products 5,326,530 High pulsed voltage systems for extending the shelf life of pumpable food products 5,348,629 Method and apparatus for electrolytic processing of materials 5,368,724 Apparatus for treating a confined liquid by means of a pulse electrical discharge 5,655,210 Corona source for producing corona discharge and fluid waste treatment with corona discharge 5,746,984 Exhaust system with emissions storage device and plasma reactor 5,879,555 Electrochemical treatment of materials 6,007,681 Apparatus and method for treating exhaust gas and pulse generator used therefor Plasma arc torches are commonly used by fabricators, machine shops, welders and semi-conductor plants for cutting, gouging, welding, plasma spraying coatings and manufacturing wafers. The plasma torch is operated in one of two modes ¨ transferred arc or non-transferred arc. The most common torch found in many welding shops in the transferred arc plasma torch.
It is operated very similar to a DC welder in that a grounding clamp is attached to a workpiece.
The operator, usually a welder, depresses a trigger on the plasma torch handle which forms a pilot arc between a centrally located cathode and an anode nozzle. When the operator brings the plasma torch pilot arc close to the workpiece the arc is transferred from the anode nozzle via the electrically conductive plasma to the workpiece. Hence the name transferred arc. The non-transferred arc plasma torch retains the arc within the torch. Quite simply the arc remains attached to the anode nozzle. This requires cooling the anode. Common non-transferred arc plasma torches have a heat rejection rate of 30%. In other words, 30% of the total torch power is rejected as heat.
A major drawback in using plasma torches is the cost of inert gases such as argon and hydrogen. There have been several attempts for forming the working or plasma gas within the

2 torch itself by using rejected heat from the electrodes to generate steam from water. The objective is to increase the total efficiency of the torch as well as reduce plasma gas cost.
However, there is not a single working example that can run continuous duty.
For example, the Multiplaz torch (U.S. Patent Nos. 6,087,616 and 6,156,994) is a small hand held torch that must be manually refilled with water. The Multiplaz torch is not a continuous use plasma torch.
Other prior art plasma torches are disclosed in the following patents.
Patent No. Title

3,567,898 Plasma cutting torch 3,830,428 Plasma torches

4,311,897 Plasma arc torch and nozzle assembly 4,531,043 Method of and apparatus for stabilization of low-temperature plasma of an arc burner

5,609,777 Electric-arc plasma steam torch 5,660,743 Plasma arc torch having water injection nozzle assembly U.S. Patent No. 4,791,268 discloses "an arc plasma torch includes a moveable cathode and a fixed anode which are automatically separated by the buildup of gas pressure within the torch after a current flow is established between the cathode and the anode.
The gas pressure draws a nontransferred pilot arc to produce a plasma jet. The torch is thus contact started, not through contact with an external workpiece, but through internal contact of the cathode and anode. Once the pilot arc is drawn, the torch may be used in the nontransferred mode, or the arc may be easily transferred to a workpiece. In a preferred embodiment, the cathode has a piston part which slidingly moves within a cylinder when sufficient gas pressure is supplied. In another embodiment, the torch is a hand-held unit and permits control of current and gas flow with a single control."
Typically, and as disclosed in the '268 patent, plasma torch gas flow is set upstream of the torch with a pressure regulator and flow regulator. In addition to transferred arc and non-transferred arc, plasma arc torches can be defined by arc starting method. The high voltage method starts by using a high voltage to jump the arc from the centered cathode electrode to the shield nozzle. The blow-back arc starting method is similar to stick welding.
For example, similar to a welder touching a grounded work-pieced then pulling back the electrode to form an arc, a blow-back torch uses the cutting gas to push the negative (-) cathode electrode away from the shield nozzle. Normally, in the blow-back torch a spring or compressed gas pushes the cathode towards the nozzle so that it resets to the start mode when not in operation.
The '268 plasma torch is a blow-back type torch that uses the contact starting method.
Likewise, by depressing a button and/or trigger a current is allowed to flow through the torch and thus the torch is in a dead-short mode. Immediately thereafter, gas flowing within a blow-back contact starting torch pushes upon a piston to move the cathode away from the anode thus forming an arc. Voltage is set based upon the maximum distance the cathode can be pushed back from the anode. There are no means for controlling voltage. Likewise, this type of torch can only be operated in one mode ¨ Plasma Arc. Backflowing material through the anode nozzle is not possible in the '268 plasma torch. Moreover, there is no disclosure of coupling this torch to a solid oxide glow discharge cell.
U.S. Patent No. 4,463,245 discloses "A plasma torch (40) comprises a handle (41) having an upper end (41B) which houses the components forming a torch body (43). Body (33) incorporates a rod electrode (10) having an end which cooperates with an annular tip electrode (13) to form a spark gap. An ionizable fuel gas is fed to the spark gap via tube (44) within the handle (41), the gas from tube (44) flowing axially along rod electrode (10) and being diverted radially through apertures (16) so as to impinge upon and act as a coolant for a thin-walled portion (14) of the annular tip electrode (13). With this arrangement the heat generated by the electrical arc in the inter-electrode gap is substantially confined to the annular tip portion (13A) of electrode (13) which is both consumable and replaceable in that portion (13A) is secured by screw threads to the adjoining portion (13B) of electrode (13) and which is integral with the thin-walled portion (14)." Once again there is no disclosure of coupling this torch to a solid oxide glow discharge cell.
The following is a list of prior art teachings with respect to starting a torch and modes of operation.
Patent No. Title 2,784,294 Welding torch 2,898,441 Arc torch push starting 2,923,809 Arc cutting of metals 3,004,189 Combination automatic-starting electrical plasma torch and gas shutoff valve 3,082,314 Plasma arc torch 3,131,288 Electric arc torch 3,242,305 Plasma retract arc torch 3,534,388 Arc torch cutting process 3,619,549 Arc torch cutting process 3,641,308 Plasma arc torch having liquid laminar flow jet for arc constriction 3,787,247 Water-scrubber cutting table 3,833,787 Plasma jet cutting torch having reduced noise generating characteristics 4,203,022 Method and apparatus for positioning a plasma arc cutting torch 4,463,245 Plasma cutting and welding torches with improved nozzle electrode cooling 4,567,346 Arc-striking method for a welding or cutting torch and a torch adapted to carry out said method High temperature steam electrolysis and glow discharge are two technologies that are currently being viewed as the future for the hydrogen economy. Likewise, coal gasification is being viewed as the technology of choice for reducing carbon, sulfur dioxide and mercury emissions from coal burning power plants. Renewables such as wind turbines, hydroelectric and biomass are being exploited in order to reduce global warming.
Water is one of our most valuable resources. Copious amounts of water are used in industrial processes with the end result of producing wastewater. Water treatment and wastewater treatment go hand in hand with the production of energy.
Therefore, a need exists for a plasma arc torch that can be operated in multiple modes.
Summary of the Invention The present invention provides a multi-mode plasma arc torch that includes a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, and a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that the center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel. Adjusting a position of the electrode with respect to the hollow electrode causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode.
In addition, the present invention provides a system that includes a plasma arc torch, a pump/compressor and three three-way valves. The multi-mode plasma arc torch includes a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, and a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the RI
cylindrical vessel such that the center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel. Adjusting a position of the electrode with respect to the hollow electrode causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode. A first three-way valve connected to the first tangential inlet/outlet and a discharge of the pump/compressor. A second three-way valve connected to the second tangential inlet/outlet and a discharge of the pump/compressor. A third three-way valve connected to an exterior end of the hollow electrode nozzle and a discharge of the pump/compressor.
The present invention also provides a method for operating the plasma arc torch and plasma arc torch system in the five operating modes.
The present invention is described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end;
a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end;
a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end;
an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel;
a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a

6 second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel; and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode.
According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-mode plasma arc torch system comprising:
a plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel, and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode;
a pump/compressor;
a first three-way valve connected to the first tangential inlet/outlet and a discharge of the pump/compressor;
a second three-way valve connected to the second tangential inlet/outlet and the discharge of the pump/compressor; and a third three-way valve connected to an exterior the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle and the discharge of the pump/compressor.
According to yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end;
a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end;
a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end;
6a an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel, the electrode housing having a first electrode aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, extending into the cylindrical vessel, moveable along the longitudinal axis, and electrically isolated from the cylindrical vessel;
a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel; and a linear actuator operably connected to the first electrode to adjust a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle and cause the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode based on the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle.
According to still another aspect of the invention, there is provided a multi-mode plasma arc torch reactor comprising:
a reactor vessel having a cylindrical interior and two or more inlets tangentially aligned with a cross section of the cylindrical interior; and two or more multi-mode plasma arc torches, each plasma multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel, and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode; and 6b the hollow electrode nozzle of each multi-mode plasma arc torch is connected to and aligned with one of the two or more inlets of the reactor vessel.
Brief Description of the Drawings The above and further advantages of the invention may be better understood by referring to the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIGURE I is a diagram of a plasma arc torch in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 2 is a cross-sectional view comparing and contrasting a solid oxide cell to a liquid electrolyte cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 3 is a graph showing an operating curve a glow discharge cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
6c FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view of a glow discharge cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 5 is a cross-sectional view of a glow discharge cell in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 6 is a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 7 is a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 8 is a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Transferred Arc Plasma Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 9 is a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Non-Transferred Arc Plasma Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 10 is a table showing the results of the tailings pond water and solids analysis treated with one embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 11 is a cross-sectional view of a Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 12 illustrates a second electrode for use with the Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURES 13A-13F are cross-sectional views of various shapes for the hollow electrode nozzle in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 14 is a cross-sectional view of an anode nozzle flange mounted assembly for the Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 15 is a cross-sectional view of dual first electrode configuration in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 16 illustrates a first electrode positions to operate a Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 17 is a block diagram of a system for operating the Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch in five different modes in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 18 is a diagram of a Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch with various attachment devices in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 19 is a diagram of a Multi-Mode Plasma Arc Torch with various attachment devices in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

7 FIGURE 20 is a system, method and apparatus for continuously feeding electrodes within a cyclone reactor in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 21A discloses top injection of microwaves into a cyclone reactor while FIGURE 21B discloses side injection of microwaves into the cyclone in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 22 discloses a system, method and apparatus for co-injecting microwaves and filter cake directly into the whirling plasma in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;.
FIGURE 23 discloses the co-injected microwaves and filter cake may be fed directly in the plasma which then flows into the cyclone separator and allows for pretreating the filter coke prior to injection into cyclone separator in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 24 discloses a system, method and apparatus for injecting the plasma from the ArcWhir10 Torch 100 directly into the eye of a cyclone separator in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 25 discloses feed material such as filter cake or petroleum cake may be injected into the cyclone separator via a tangential entry in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 26 discloses a system, method and apparatus for continuous operation of the Plasma ArcWhir10 torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;.
FIGURE 27 discloses a means for adding additional EMR and heat to the gas stream exiting V3 by heating the anode nozzle with an induction coil in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 28 discloses two ArcWhirls0 in series to form a unique system for operating two identical multi-mode plasma torches in different modes in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 29 discloses another configuration using two ArcWhirls0 piped in series that can be operated in different modes based upon the application and desired end products in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

8 FIGURE 30 discloses a means for combusting and/or quenching the products produced from the multi-mode Plasma ArcWhirl Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 31 discloses a means for countercurrent flowing material to be treated via an auger and stinger electrode aligned along the longitudinal axis of the multi-mode ArcWhirl Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 32A discloses a unique configuration similar to the ArcWhir10 Torch of FIGURE 1 utilizing the electrode and piston configuration as shown in FIGURE
14 that can be operated as a blowback torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 32B discloses a system that can be powered with two separate power supplies by replacing the spring with a hydraulic/pneumatic port and electrically isolating the electrode piston from the electrode rod in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 33B allows for operation with alternating current("AC") by electrically connecting the three electrodes, electrode rod, electrode piston and electrode nozzle to Li, L2 and L3 respectively of a 3 wire power cable to an AC source located on the surface in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 35 discloses a liquid resistor using the multi-mode ArcWhir10 Torch 100 as a resistor within a series circuit in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 36 discloses a unique system, method and apparatus for enhanced oil recovery in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 37 discloses a 3 phase AC Plasma ArcWhirl downhole tool that may also be used for downhole steam generation for EOR or for plasma drilling in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 38 discloses a novel material treating system that uses Variable Plasma Resistors(VPR) wired in parallel with a large ArcWhir10 Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 39 discloses a system, method and apparatus for retrofitting and converting a carbon arc gouging torch into an ArcWhir10 Torch in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

9 FIGURE 40 discloses a unique system, method and apparatus for using the Coanda Effect to wrap plasma around a graphite electrode in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;
FIGURE 41 discloses another system, method and apparatus for using the Coanda Effect to transfer an electrical arc to a graphite electrode thus sustaining and confining the plasma in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;.
Detailed Description of the Invention While the making and using of various embodiments of the present invention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated that the present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts that can be embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways to make and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of the invention.
Now referring to FIGURE 1, a plasma arc torch 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The plasma arc torch 100 is a modified version of the ARC WHIRL device disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,422,695 that produces unexpected results.
More specifically, by attaching a discharge volute 102 to the bottom of the vessel 104, closing off the vortex finder, replacing the bottom electrode with a hollow electrode nozzle 106, an electrical arc can be maintained while discharging plasma 108 through the hollow electrode nozzle 106 regardless of how much gas (e.g., air), fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 is injected into plasma arc torch 100. In addition, when a valve (not shown) is connected to the discharge volute 102, the mass flow of plasma 108 discharged from the hollow electrode nozzle 106 can be controlled by throttling the valve (not shown) while adjusting the position of the first electrode 112 using the linear actuator 114.
As a result, plasma arc torch 100 includes a cylindrical vessel 104 having a first end 116 and a second end 118. A tangential inlet 120 is connected to or proximate to the first end 116 and a tangential outlet 136 (discharge volute) is connected to or proximate to the second end 118. An electrode housing 122 is connected to the first end 116 of the cylindrical vessel 104 such that a first electrode 112 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104, extends into the cylindrical vessel 104, and can be moved along the longitudinal axis 124.
Moreover, a linear actuator 114 is connected to the first electrode 112 to adjust the position of the first electrode 112 within the cylindrical vessel 104 along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel 124 as indicated by arrows 126. The hollow electrode nozzle 106 is connected to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104 such that the center line of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104. The shape of the hollow portion 128 of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 can be cylindrical or conical.
Moreover, the hollow electrode nozzle 106 can extend to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104 or extend into the cylindrical vessel 104 as shown. As shown in FIGURE 1, the tangential inlet 120 is volute attached to the first end 116 of the cylindrical vessel 104, the tangential outlet 136 is a volute attached to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104, the electrode housing 122 is connected to the inlet volute 120, and the hollow electrode nozzle 106 (cylindrical configuration) is connected to the discharge volute 102. Note that the plasma arc torch 100 is not shown to scale.
A power supply 130 is electrically connected to the plasma arc torch 100 such that the first electrode 112 serves as the cathode and the hollow electrode nozzle 106 serves as the anode.
The voltage, power and type of the power supply 130 is dependant upon the size, configuration and function of the plasma arc torch 100. A gas (e.g., air), fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 is introduced into the tangential inlet 120 to form a vortex 132 within the cylindrical vessel 104 and exit through the tangential outlet 136 as discharge 134. The vortex 132 confines the plasma 108 within in the vessel 104 by the inertia (inertial confinement as opposed to magnetic confinement) caused by the angular momentum of the vortex, whirling, cyclonic or swirling flow of the gas (e.g., air), fluid (e.g., water) or steam 110 around the interior of the cylindrical vessel 104. During startup, the linear actuator 114 moves the first electrode 112 into contact with the hollow electrode nozzle 106 and then draws the first electrode 112 back to create an electrical arc which forms the plasma 108 that is discharged through the hollow electrode nozzle 106. During operation, the linear actuator 114 can adjust the position of the first electrode 112 to change the plasma 108 discharge or account for extended use of the first electrode 112.
Referring now to FIGURE 2, a cross-sectional view comparing and contrasting a solid oxide cell 200 to a liquid electrolyte cell 250 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. An experiment was conducted using the Liquid Electrolyte Cell 250. A
carbon cathode 202 was connected a linear actuator 204 in order to raise and lower the cathode 202 into a carbon anode crucible 206. An ESAB ESP 150 DC power supply rated at 150 amps and an open circuit voltage ("OCV") of 370 VDC was used for the test. The power supply was "tricked out" in order to operate at OCV.

In order to determine the sheath glow discharge length on the cathode 202 as well as measure amps and volts the power supply was turned on and then the linear actuator 204 was used to lower the cathode 202 into an electrolyte solution of water and baking soda. Although a steady glow discharge could be obtained the voltage and amps were too erratic to record.
Likewise, the power supply constantly surged and pulsed due to erratic current flow. As soon as the cathode 202 was lowered too deep, the glow discharge ceased and the cell went into an electrolysis mode. In addition, since boiling would occur quite rapidly and the electrolyte would foam up and go over the sides of the carbon crucible 206, foundry sand was added reduce the foam in the crucible 206.
The 8" diameter anode crucible 206 was filled with sand and the electrolyte was added to the crucible. Power was turned on and the cathode 202 was lowered into the sand and electrolyte. Unexpectedly, a glow discharge was formed immediately, but this time it appeared to spread out laterally from the cathode 202. A large amount of steam was produced such that it could not be seen how far the glow discharge had extended through the sand.
Next, the sand was replaced with commonly available clear floral marbles. When the cathode 202 was lowered into the marbles and baking soda/water solution, the electrolyte began to slowly boil. As soon as the electrolyte began to boil a glow discharge spider web could be seen throughout the marbles as shown the Solid Oxide Cell 200. Although this was completely unexpected at a much lower voltage than what has been disclosed and published, what was completely unexpected is that the DC power supply did not surge, pulse or operate erratically in any way. A graph showing an operating curve for a glow discharge cell in accordance with the present invention is shown in FIGURE 3 based on various tests. The data is completely different from what is currently published with respect to glow discharge graphs and curves developed from currently known electro-plasma, plasma electrolysis or glow discharge reactors. Glow discharge cells can evaporate or concentrate liquids while generating steam.
Now referring to FIGURE 4, a cross-sectional view of a glow discharge cell 400 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The glow discharge cell 400 includes an electrically conductive cylindrical vessel 402 having a first end 404 and a second end 406, and at least one inlet 408 and one outlet 410. A hollow electrode 412 is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel 402 and extends at least from the first end 404 to the second end 406 of the cylindrical vessel 402. The hollow electrode 412 also has an inlet 414 and an outlet 416. A first insulator 418 seals the first end 404 of the cylindrical vessel 402 around the hollow electrode 412 and maintains a substantially equidistant gap 420 between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 412. A second insulator 422 seals the second end 406 of the cylindrical vessel 402 around the hollow electrode 412 and maintains the substantially equidistant gap 420 between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 412. A non-conductive granular material 424 is disposed within the gap 420, wherein the non-conductive granular material 424 (a) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 412, and (b) prevents electrical arcing between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 412 during a electric glow discharge. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the glow discharge cell 400 is connected to an electrical power source such that the cylindrical vessel 402 is an anode and the hollow electrode 412 is a cathode, and (b) the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap 420.
The vessel 402 can be made of stainless steel and the hollow electrode can be made of carbon. The non-conductive granular material 424 can be marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips. The electrical power supply can operate in a range from 50 to 500 volts DC, or a range of 200 to 400 volts DC. The cathode 412 can reach a temperature of at least 500 C, at least 1000 C, or at least 2000 C during the electric glow discharge. The electrically conductive fluid comprises water, produced water, wastewater, tailings pond water, or other suitable fluid.
The electrically conductive fluid can be created by adding an electrolyte, such as baking soda, Nahcolite, lime, sodium chloride, ammonium sulfate, sodium sulfate or carbonic acid, to a fluid.
Referring now to FIGURE 5, a cross-sectional view of a glow discharge cell 500 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The glow discharge cell 500 includes an electrically conductive cylindrical vessel 402 having a first end 404 and a closed second end 502, an inlet proximate 408 to the first end 404, and an outlet 410 centered in the closed second end 502. A hollow electrode 504 is aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel and extends at least from the first end 404 into the cylindrical vessel 402. The hollow electrode 504 has an inlet 414 and an outlet 416. A first insulator 418 seals the first end 404 of the cylindrical vessel 402 around the hollow electrode 504 and maintains a substantially equidistant gap 420 between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 504. A non-conductive granular material 424 is disposed within the gap 420, wherein the non-conductive granular material 424 (a) allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 504, and (b) prevents electrical arcing between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode 504 during a electric glow discharge. The electric glow discharge is created whenever: (a) the glow discharge cell 500 is connected to an electrical power source such that the cylindrical vessel 402 is an anode and the hollow electrode 504 is a cathode, and (b) the electrically conductive fluid is introduced into the gap 420.
The following examples will demonstrate the capabilities, usefulness and completely unobvious and unexpected results.

Now referring to FIGURE 6, a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System 600 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. A
plasma arc torch 100 is connected to the cell 500 via an eductor 602. Once again the cell 500 was filled with a baking soda and water solution. A pump was connected to the first volute 31 of the plasma arc torch 100 via a 3-way valve 604 and the eductor 602. The eductor 602 pulled a vacuum on the cell 500. The plasma exiting from the plasma arc torch 100 dramatically increased in size. Hence, a non-condensable gas B was produced within the cell 500. The color of the arc within the plasma arc torch 100 when viewed through the sightglass 33 changed colors due to the gases produced from the HiTemperTm cell 500. Next, the 3-way valve 604 was adjusted to allow air and water F to flow into the first volute 31 of plasma arc torch 100. The additional mass flow increased the plasma G exiting from the plasma arc torch 100. Several pieces of stainless steel round bar were placed at the tip of the plasma G and melted to demonstrate the systems capabilities. Likewise, wood was carbonized by placing it within the plasma stream G. Thereafter the plasma G exiting from the plasma torch 100 was directed into cyclone separator 610. The water and gases I exiting from the plasma arc torch 100 via second volute 34 flowed into a hydrocyclone 608 via a valve 606. This allowed for rapid mixing and scrubbing of gases with the water in order to reduce the discharge of any hazardous contaminants.
A sample of black liquor with 16% solids obtained from a pulp and paper mill was charged to the glow discharge cell 500 in a sufficient volume to cover the floral marbles 424. In contrast to other glow discharge or electro plasma systems the solid oxide glow discharge cell does not require preheating of the electrolyte. The ESAB ESP 150 power supply was turned on and the volts and amps were recorded by hand. Referring briefly to FIGURE 3, as soon as the power was turned on to the cell 500, the amp meter pegged out at 150. Hence, the name of the ESAB power supply - ESP 150. It is rated at 150 amps. The voltage was steady between 90 and 100 VDC. As soon as boiling occurred the voltage steadily climbed to OCV (370 VDC) while the amps dropped to 75.
The glow discharge cell 500 was operated until the amps fell almost to zero.
Even at very low amps of less than 10 the voltage appeared to be locked on at 370 VDC.
The cell 500 was allowed to cool and then opened to examine the marbles 424. It was surprising that there was no visible liquid left in the cell 500 but all of the marbles 424 were coated or coked with a black residue. The marbles 424 with the black residue were shipped off for analysis. The residue was in the bottom of the container and had come off of the marbles 424 during shipping.
The analysis is listed in the table below, which demonstrates a novel method for concentrating black liquor and coking organics. With a starting solids concentration of 16%, the solids were concentrated to 94.26% with only one evaporation step. Note that the sulfur ("S") stayed in the residue and did not exit the cell 500.
Total Solids % 94.26 Ash %/ODS 83.64 ICP metal scan: results are reported on ODS basis Metal Scan Unit F80015 Aluminum, Al mg/kg 3590*
Arsenic, As mg/kg <50 Barium, Ba mg/kg 2240*
Boron, B mg/kg 60 Cadmium, Cd mg/kg 2 Calcium, Ca mg/kg 29100*
Chromium, Cr mg/kg 31 Cobalt, Co mg/kg <5 Copper, Cu mg/kg 19 Iron, Fe mg/kg 686*
Lead, Pb mg/kg <20 Lithium, Li mg/kg 10 Magnesium, Mg mg/kg 1710*
Manganese, Mn mg/kg 46.2 Molybdenum, Mo mg/kg 40 Nickel, Ni mg/kg <100 Phosphorus, P mg/kg 35 Potassium, K mg/kg 7890 Silicon, Si mg/kg 157000*
Sodium, Na mg/kg 102000 Strontium, Sr mg/kg <20 Sulfur, S mg/kg 27200*
Titanium, Ti mg/kg 4 Vanadium, V mg/kg 1.7 Zinc, Zn mg/kg 20 Table - Black Liquor Results This method can be used for concentrating black liquor from pulp, paper and fiber mills for subsequent recaustizing.
As can be seen in FIGURE 3, if all of the liquid evaporates from the cell 500 and it is operated only with a solid electrolyte, electrical arc over from the cathode to anode may occur.
This has been tested in which case a hole was blown through the stainless steel vessel 402.
Electrical arc over can easily be prevented by (1) monitoring the liquid level in the cell and do not allow it to run dry, and (2) monitoring the amps (Low amps = Low liquid level). If electrical arc over is desirable or the cell must be designed to take an arc over, then the vessel 402 should be constructed of carbon.
EXAMPLE 2 ¨ ARCWHIRLO PLASMA TORCH ATTACHED TO SOLID OXIDE
CELL
Referring now to FIGURE 7, a cross-sectional view of a Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System 700 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. A
plasma arc torch 100 is connected to the cell 500 via an eductor 602. Once again the cell 500 was filled with a baking soda and water solution. Pump 23 recirculates the baking soda and water solution from the outlet 416 of the hollow electrode 504 to the inlet 408 of the cell 500. A
pump 22 was connected to the first volute 31 of the plasma arc torch 100 via a 3-way valve 604 and the eductor 602. An air compressor 21 was used to introduce air into the 3-way valve 604 along with water F from the pump 22. The pump 22 was turned on and water F
flowed into the first volute 31 of the plasma arc torch 100 and through a full view site glass 33 and exited the torch 30 via a second volute 34. The plasma arc torch 100 was started by pushing a carbon cathode rod (-NEG) 32 to touch and dead short to a positive carbon anode (+POS) 35. A very small plasma G exited out of the anode 35. Next, the High Temperature Plasma Electrolysis Reactor (Cell) 500 was started in order to produce a plasma gas B. Once again at the onset of boiling voltage climbed to OCV (370 VDC) and a gas began flowing to the plasma arc torch 100. The eductor 602 pulled a vacuum on the cell 500. The plasma G exiting from the plasma arc torch 100 dramatically increased in size. Hence, a non-condensable gas B
was produced within the cell 500. The color of the arc within the plasma arc torch 100 when viewed through the sightglass 33 changed colors due to the gases produced from the HiTemperTm cell 500.
Next, the 3-way valve 604 was adjusted to allow air from compressor 21 and water from pump 22 to flow into the plasma arc torch 100. The additional mass flow increased the plasma G
exiting from the plasma arc torch 100. Several pieces of stainless steel round bar were placed at the tip of the plasma G and melted to demonstrate the systems capabilities.
Likewise, wood was carbonized by placing it within the plasma stream G. The water and gases exiting from the plasma arc torch 100 via volute 34 flowed into a hydrocyclone 608. This allowed for rapid mixing and scrubbing of gases with the water in order to reduce the discharge of any hazardous contaminants.
Next, the system was shut down and a second cyclone separator 610 was attached to the plasma arc torch 100 as shown in FIGURE 5. Once again the Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System was turned on and a plasma G could be seen circulating within the cyclone separator 610. Within the eye or vortex of the whirling plasma G was a central core devoid of any visible plasma.
The cyclone separator 610 was removed to conduct another test. To determine the capabilities of the Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System as shown in FIGURE 6, the pump 22 was turned off and the system was operated only on air provided by compressor 21 and gases B
produced from the solid oxide cell 500. Next, 3-way valve 606 was slowly closed in order to force all of the gases through the arc to form a large plasma G exiting from the hollow carbon anode 35.
Next, the 3-way valve 604 was slowly closed to shut the flow of air to the plasma arc torch 100. What happened was completely unexpected. The intensity of the light from the sightglass 33 increased dramatically and a brilliant plasma was discharged from the plasma arc torch 100. When viewed with a welding shield the arc was blown out of the plasma arc torch 100 and wrapped back around to the anode 35. Thus, the Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System will produce a gas and a plasma suitable for welding, melting, cutting, spraying and chemical reactions such as pyrolysis, gasification and water gas shift reaction.

The phosphate industry has truly left a legacy in Florida, Louisiana and Texas that will take years to cleanup ¨ gypsum stacks and pond water. On top of every stack is a pond. Pond water is recirculated from the pond back down to the plant and slurried with gypsum to go up the stack and allow the gypsum to settle out in the pond. This cycle continues and the gypsum stack increases in height. The gypsum is produced as a byproduct from the ore extraction process.
There are two major environmental issues with every gyp stack. First, the pond water has a very low pH. It cannot be discharged without neutralization. Second, the phosphogypsum contains a slight amount of radon. Thus, it cannot be used or recycled to other industries. The excess water in combination with ammonia contamination produced during the production of P205 fertilizers such as diammonium phosphate ("DAP") and monammonium phosphate ("MAP") must be treated prior to discharge. The excess pond water contains about 2%
phosphate a valuable commodity.
A sample of pond water was obtained from a Houston phosphate fertilizer company. The pond water was charged to the solid oxide cell 500. The Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch System was configured as shown in FIGURE 6. The 3-way valve 606 was adjusted to flow only air into the plasma arc torch 100 while pulling a vacuum on cell 500 via eductor 602.
The hollow anode 35 was blocked in order to maximize the flow of gases I to hydrocyclone 608 that had a closed bottom with a small collection vessel. The hydrocyclone 608 was immersed in a tank in order to cool and recover condensable gases.
The results are disclosed in FIGURE 10 ¨ Tailings Pond Water Results. The goal of the test was to demonstrate that the Solid Oxide Glow Discharge Cell could concentrate up the tailings pond water. Turning now to cycles of concentration, the percent P2O5 was concentrated up by a factor of 4 for a final concentration of 8.72% in the bottom of the HiTemperTm cell 500.
The beginning sample as shown in the picture is a colorless, slightly cloudy liquid. The bottoms or concentrate recovered from the HiTemper cell 500 was a dark green liquid with sediment.
The sediment was filtered and are reported as SOLIDS (Retained on Whatmann #40 filter paper). The percent SO4 recovered as a solid increased from 3.35% to 13.6% for a cycles of concentration of 4. However, the percent Na recovered as a solid increased from 0.44% to 13.67% for a cycles of concentration of 31.
The solid oxide or solid electrolyte 424 used in the cell 500 were floral marbles (Sodium Oxide). Floral marbles are made of sodium glass. Not being bound by theory it is believed that the marbles were partially dissolved by the phosphoric acid in combination with the high temperature glow discharge. Chromate and Molydemun cycled up and remained in solution due to forming a sacrificial anode from the stainless steel vessel 402. Note: Due to the short height of the cell carryover occurred due to pulling a vacuum on the cell 500 with eductor 602. In the first run (row 1 HiTemper) of FIGURE 10 very little fluorine went overhead.
That had been a concern from the beginning that fluorine would go over head. Likewise about 38% of the ammonia went overhead. It was believed that all of the ammonia would flash and go overhead.
A method has been disclosed for concentrating P205 from tailings pond for subsequent recovery as a valuable commodity acid and fertilizer.
Now, returning back to the black liquor sample, not being bound by theory it is believed that the black liquor can be recaustisized by simply using CaO or limestone as the solid oxide electrolyte 424 within the cell 500. Those who are skilled in the art of producing pulp and paper will truly understand the benefits and cost savings of not having to run a lime kiln. However, if the concentrated black liquor must be gasified or thermally oxidized to remove all carbon species, the marbles 424 can be treated with the plasma arc torch 100.
Referring back to FIGURE 6, the marbles 424 coated with the concentrated black liquor or the concentrated black liquor only is injected between the plasma arc torch 100 and the cyclone separator 610. This will convert the black liquor into a green liquor or maybe a white liquor. The marbles 424 may be flowed into the plasma arc torch nozzle 31 and quenched in the whirling lime water and discharged via volute 34 into hydrocyclone 608 for separation and recovery of both white liquor and the marbles 424. The lime will react with the Na0 to form caustic and an insoluble calcium carbonate precipitate.
EXAMPLE 4 ¨ EVAPORATION, VAPOR COMPRESSION AND STEAM
GENERATION FOR EOR AND INDUSTRIAL STEAM USERS
Turning to FIGURE 4, several oilfield wastewaters were evaporated in the cell 400. In order to enhance evaporation the suction side of a vapor compressor (not shown) can be connected to upper outlet 410. The discharge of the vapor compressor would be connected to 416. Not being bound by theory, it is believed that alloys such as Kanthal0 manufactured by the Kanthal corporation may survive the intense effects of the cell as a tubular cathode 412, thus allowing for a novel steam generator with a superheater by flowing the discharge of the vapor compressor through the tubular cathode 412. Such an apparatus, method and process would be widely used throughout the upstream oil and gas industry in order to treat oilfield produced water and frac flowback.
Several different stainless steel tubulars were tested within the cell 500 as the cathode 12.
In comparison to the sheath glow discharge the tubulars did not melt. In fact, when the tubulars were pulled out, a marking was noticed at every point a marble was in contact with the tube.
This gives rise to a completely new method for using glow discharge to treat metals.
EXAMPLE 5¨ TREATING TUBES, BARS, RODS, PIPE OR WIRE.
There are many different companies applying glow discharge to treat metal.
However, many have companies have failed miserably due to arcing over and melting the material to be coated, treated or descaled. The problem with not being able to control voltage leads to spikes.
By simply adding sand or any solid oxide to the cell and feeding the tube cathode 12 through the cell 500 as configured in FIGURE 2, the tube, rod, pipe, bars or wire can be treated at a very high feedrate.
EXAMPLE 6¨ SOLID OXIDE PLASMA ARC TORCH
There truly exists a need for a very simple plasma torch that can be operated with dirty or highly polluted water such as sewage flushed directly from a toilet which may contain toilet paper, feminine napkins, fecal matter, pathogens, urine and pharmaceuticals. A
plasma torch system that could operate on the aforementioned waters could potentially dramatically affect the wastewater infrastructure and future costs of maintaining collection systems, lift stations and wastewater treatment facilities.
By converting the contaminated wastewater to a gas and using the gas as a plasma gas could also alleviate several other growing concerns ¨ municipal solid waste going to landfills, grass clippings and tree trimmings, medical waste, chemical waste, refinery tank bottoms, oilfield wastes such as drill cuttings and typical everyday household garbage.
A simple torch system which could handle both solid waste and liquids or that could heat a process fluid while gasifying biomass or coal or that could use a wastewater to produce a plasma cutting gas would change many industries overnight.
One industry in particular is the metals industry. The metals industry requires a tremendous amount of energy and exotic gases for heating, melting, welding, cutting and machining.

Turning now to FIGURES 8 and 9, a truly novel plasma torch 800 will be disclosed in accordance with the preferred embodiments of the present invention. First, the Solid Oxide Plasma Torch is constructed by coupling the plasma arc torch 100 to the cell 500. The plasma arc torch volute 31 and electrode 32 are detached from the eductor 602 and sightglass 33. The plasma arc torch volute 31 and electrode assembly 32 are attached to the cell 500 vessel 402.
The sightglass 33 is replaced with a concentric type reducer 33.
It is understood that the electrode 32 is electrically isolated from the volute 31 and vessel 402. The electrode 32 is connected to a linear actuator (not shown) in order to strike the arc.
Continuous Operation of the Solid Oxide Transferred Arc Plasma Torch 800 as shown in FIGURE 8 will now be disclosed for cutting or melting an electrically conductive workpiece. A
fluid is flowed into the suction side of the pump and into the cell 500. The pump is stopped. A
first power supply PS1 is turned on thus energizing the cell 500. As soon as the cell 500 goes into glow discharge and a gas is produced valve 16 opens allowing the gas to enter into the volute 31. The volute 31 imparts a whirl flow to the gas. A switch 60 is positioned such that a second power supply PS2 is connected to the workpiece and the ¨negative side of PS2 is connected to the ¨negative of PS1 which is connected to the centered cathode 504 of the cell 500. The entire torch is lowered so that an electrically conductive nozzle 13-C touches and is grounded to the workpiece. PS2 is now energized and the torch is raised from the workpiece.
An arc is formed between cathode 504 and the workpiece.
Centering the Arc ¨ If the arc must be centered for cutting purposes, then PS2's ¨
negative lead would be attached to the lead of switch 60 that goes to the electrode 32. Although a series of switches are not shown for this operation, it will be understood that in lieu of manually switching the negative lead from PS2 an electrical switch similar to 60 could be used for automation purposes. The +positive lead would simply go to the workpiece as shown. A
smaller electrode 32 would be used such that it could slide into and through the hollow cathode 504 in order to touch the workpiece and strike an arc. The electrically conductive nozzle 802 would be replaced with a non-conducting shield nozzle. This setup allows for precision cutting using just wastewater and no other gases.
Turning to FIGURE 9, the Solid Oxide Non-Transferred Arc Plasma Torch 800 is used primarily for melting, gasifying and heating materials while using a contaminated fluid as the plasma gas. Switch 60 is adjusted such that PS2 +lead feeds electrode 32. Once again electrode 32 is now operated as the anode. It must be electrically isolated from vessel 402. When gas begins to flow by opening valve 16 the volute 31 imparts a spin or whirl flow to the gas. The anode 32 is lowered to touch the centered cathode 504. An arc is formed between the cathode 32 and anode 504. The anode may be hollow and a wire may be fed through the anode 504 for plasma spraying, welding or initiating the arc.
The entire torch is regeneratively cooled with its own gases thus enhancing efficiency.
Likewise, a waste fluid is used as the plasma gas which reduces disposal and treatment costs.
Finally, the plasma may be used for gasifying coal, biomass or producing copious amounts of syngas by steam reforming natural gas with the hydrogen and steam plasma.
Both FIGURE 8 and 9 have clearly demonstrated a novel Solid Oxide Plasma Arc Torch that couples the efficiencies of high temperature electrolysis with the capabilities of both transferred and non-transferred arc plasma torches.
EXAMPLE 7¨ MULTI-MODE PLASMA ARC TORCH
Now referring to FIGURE 11, a multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 is a plasma arc torch 100 of FIGURE 1 that is modified to include some of the attributes of the glow discharge cell 500 of FIGURE 5. The multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 includes a cylindrical vessel 104 having a first end 116 and a second end 118. A tangential inlet 120 is connected to or proximate to the second end 118 and a tangential outlet 136 is connected to or proximate to the first end 116. An electrode housing 122 is connected to the first end 116 of the cylindrical vessel 104 such that a first electrode 112 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104, extends into the cylindrical vessel 104, and can be moved along the longitudinal axis 124. Moreover, a linear actuator 114 is connected to the first electrode 112 to adjust the position of the first electrode 112 within the cylindrical vessel 104 along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel 124 as indicated by arrows 126a.
The hollow electrode nozzle 106 is connected to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104 such that the centerline of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 is aligned with the longitudinal axis 124 of the cylindrical vessel 104. In the embodiment shown, the tangential inlet 120 is volute attached to the second end 118 of the cylindrical vessel 104, the tangential outlet 136 is a volute attached to the first end 116 of the cylindrical vessel 104, the electrode housing 122 is connected to the outlet volute 102, and the hollow electrode nozzle 106 (cylindrical configuration) is connected to the inlet volute 120. Note that the multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 is not shown to scale.

A substantially equidistant gap 420 is maintained between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode nozzle 106. In some embodiments, an optional non-conductive granular material 424 is disposed within the gap 420, wherein the non-conductive granular material 424 allows an electrically conductive fluid to flow between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode nozzle 106. In other embodiments, the non-conductive granular material 424 is not used. Note that using the non-conductive granular material 424 improves the efficiency of the device by increasing the contact surface area for the fluid, but is not required. If the cylindrical vessel 402 is metallic, the non-conductive granular material 424 can prevent electrical arcing between the cylindrical vessel 402 and the hollow electrode nozzle 106 during a electric glow discharge. The shape of the hollow portion 128 of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 can be varied as needed to provide the desired operational results as shown in FIGURES 13A-F
and 16. Other shapes can be used.
A power supply 130 is electrically connected to the multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 such that the first electrode 112 serves as the cathode and the hollow electrode nozzle 106 serves as the anode. The voltage, power and type of the power supply 130 are dependent upon the size, configuration and function of the multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100.
In some embodiments, a second electrode 1102 and second linear actuator 1110 can be added as an (+) anode, such as a graphite electrode, along the longitudinal axis 124 to dead short to the first electrode 112 (-) cathode. This configuration allows for continuous feed of electrodes 112 and 1102 for continuous duty operation and/or to increase the life of the anode nozzle 106.
Like the first electrode 112, the second electrode 1102 can be moved in either direction along the longitudinal axis 124 using the second linear actuator 1110 as shown by arrow 126b.
Furthermore, as shown in FIGURE 12, the second electrode 1102 allows for operating in a plasma arc mode by dead shorting the first electrode 112 and the second electrode 1102 together and then separating them to draw the arc.
Referring now to FIGURES 13A-13F, various examples of shapes for the hollow electrode nozzle 106 are shown. FIGURE 13A shows a straight hollow electrode nozzle 106a.
FIGURE 13B shows a straight hollow electrode nozzle flange 106b. FIGURE 13C
shows a tapered hollow electrode nozzle 106c. FIGURE 13D shows a tapered hollow electrode nozzle flange 106d. FIGURE 13E shows a hollow electrode nozzle counterbore flange 106e. FIGURE
13F shows a hollow electrode nozzle counterbore exterior tapered flange 106f.
Note that FIGURE 12 shows a hollow electrode nozzle counterbore 106. Other shapes can be used as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. FIGURE 14 shows a method for securing the (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 to the volute of plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 using flanges 1402a, 1402b as a coupling means. It will be understood that any type of coupler that will hold and secure the (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 will suffice for use in the present invention.
Likewise, using couplers or flanges on both sides of the (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 allows for it to be flipped and used as a protruding or reducer type coupling nozzle.
Now referring to FIGURE 15, a diagram of a dual first electrode 1500 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The dual first electrode 1500 is a combination of the first electrode 112 and a larger diameter, but shorter, third electrode 1502 that is either electrically connected to the first electrode 112 or the power supply 130 (same polarity as the first electrode 112). The third electrode 1502 can be moved up and down independently from the first electrode 112 as indicated by arrows 126c.
Moreover, the third electrode 1502 can be physically connected to the first electrode 112. The third electrode 1502 provides additional electrode surface area to enhance the process.
Referring now to FIGURES 11 and 16, a fluid, slurry, liquid/gas mixture or other pumpable material 1104 is introduced into the tangential inlet 120 to a desired fluid level 1106, which can vary based on the desired operational results, within the cylindrical vessel 104. Note that the actual level will typically fluctuate during operation. During startup, the linear actuator 114 moves the first electrode 112 into contact with the hollow electrode nozzle 106 or the second electrode 1102 and then either leaves the first electrode 112 there (dead short resistive heating mode 1600) or draws the first electrode 112 back a specified distance yet remains below the desired fluid level 1106. The linear actuator 114 can adjust the position of the first electrode 112 to operate the multi-mode plasma arc torch 1100 in a dead short resistive mode 1600, a submerged arc mode 1602, an electrolysis mode 1604 or a glow discharge mode 1606. As the fluid 1104 is heated in accordance with one of these four operating modes, gases or steam 1108 will rise and exit through tangential outlet 136. The fluid 1104 can be recirculated by allowing the fluid 1104 to flow through the hollow electrode nozzle 106 and reenter the cylindrical vessel 104 via tangential inlet 120. Note that the fifth operating mode is the plasma arc mode as described and shown in FIGURE 1.
Referring now to FIGURE 17, a diagram of a system 1700 to operate the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 in five operating modes in accordance with the present invention is show.
The system 1700 includes a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100, three three-way valves 1702a, 1702b, 1702c and a pump and/or compressor 1704. The first three-way valve 1702a is connected to the inlet/outlet (depends on the operating mode) located at the first end 116 of the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100, and has a first valve inlet/outlet (depends on the operating mode) 1708a. The second three-way valve 1702b is connected to the inlet/outlet (depends on the operating mode) located at the second end 118 of the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100, and has a second valve inlet/outlet (depends on the operating mode) 1708b. The third three-way valve 1702c is connected to the exterior end of the hollow electrode nozzle 106, and has a third valve inlet/outlet (depends on the operating mode) 1708c. Each of the three-way valves 1702a, 1702b, 1702c are connected to the discharge 1706 of the pump and/or compressor 1704.
The fluid, slurry, liquid/gas mixture or other pumpable/compressable material 1104 enters the suction 1710 of the pump and/or compressor 1704. The three-way valves 1702 are adjusted to operate the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 in the five modes, while adjusting the first electrode 112 with the linear actuator 114.
Operating Mode 1: Plasma Arc a. Compressed and/or pressurized fluid 1104 from a pump/compressor 1704 is flowed into three-way valve 1702a and then into plasma arc torch 100 or 1100.
b. Three-way valve 1702b is fully open to allow fluid to flow out of plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 and to outlet 1708b.
c. Three-way valve 1702c is fully open to flow to outlet 1708c.
d. Ensure (-) first electrode 112 is dead shorted to (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106.
e. Ensure whirl glow is established.
f. Turn power supply 130 ON.
g. Using linear Actuator 114 pull back the (-) first electrode 112 to establish and arc.
h. Arc is transferred from (-) to (+).
i. Whirling gas flowing through (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 forms a plasma.
j. Very small plasma may be discharged through outlet 1708c.
k. Three-way valve 1702b may be throttled to increase/decrease plasma flow through (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 and outlet 1708c.
1. Three-way valve 1702b may be shut to flow all fluid into (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 and outlet 1708c.
Operating Mode 2: Resistive Heating a. Compressed and/or pressurized fluid 1104 from a pump/compressor 1704 is flowed into three-way valve 1702b and then into plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 b. Three-way valve 1702a is fully open to flow out of plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 and to outlet 1708a.
c. Three-way valve 1702b is throttled to allow fluid to flow into plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 very slowly.
d. Three-way valve 1702c is shut.
e. The (-) first electrode 112 is dead shorted to (+) hollow electrode Nozzle 106.
f. Power supply 130 is turned ON.
g. Resistive mode begins.
h. Vapors exit through three-way valve 1702a and outlet 1708a Operating Mode 3: Submerged Arc a. Valves remain aligned as in Operating Mode 2 above.
b. Power supply 130 is still ON.
c. The (-) first electrode 112 is slowly within drawn from (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106.
d. The system shifts from resistive heating to submerged arc mode.
e. Three-way valve 1702c may be opened to allow pressurized fluid from pump/compressor 1704 to flow through (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 and into plasma arc torch 100 or 1100.
f. Vapors exit the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 through outlet 1708a.
Operating Mode 4: Electrolysis a. Valves remain aligned as in Operating Mode 2 above.
b. Power supply 130 is still ON.
c. The (-) first electrode 112 is slowly within drawn further from (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 using linear actuator 114.
d. The system shifts from submerged arc to electrolysis mode.
Operating Mode 5: Glow Discharge a. Valves remain aligned as in Operating Mode 2 above.
b. Power supply 130 is still ON.
c. The (-) first electrode 112 is slowly within drawn further from (+) hollow electrode nozzle 106 using linear actuator 114.

d. Monitor the power supply 130 voltage.
e. When the voltage increases to open circuit voltage ("OCV"), the system is operating in glow discharge mode.
f. The amps will decrease.
g. Three-way valve 1702b and three-way valve 1702c may be adjusted to allow pressurized flow to enter plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 either through three-way valve 1702b or three-way valve 1702c, and/or three-way valve 1702b and three-way valve 1702c aligned for fluid flow recirculation using pump/compressor 1704.
h. Vapors exit from plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 and out of outlet 1708a.
As shown in FIGURE 18 and 19, the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 can be adapted for use in many applications by attaching various devices 1802 to the exterior of the hollow electrode nozzle 106 or the three-way valve 1702c. For example, a partial list of attachments 1802 include a cyclone separator 1802a (inlet, vortex collector, overflow or underflow), volute 1802b, pump/compressor 1802c, filter screen 1802d, ejector/eductor 1802e, cross 1802f, screw feeder 1802g, valve 1802h, tee 1802i, electrode & linear actuator 1802j, wave guide 1802k or RF coil 18021 that may be attached alone or in any combination thereof to the (+) anode nozzle 106. Other devices 1802 may include, but is not limited to a vessel, flange, cover, hatch, electrode stinger, injector, screw press, auger, ram feeder, mixer, extruder, T-fired boiler, coker drum, gasifier, pipe, conduit, tubing, submerged melting furnace, rotary kiln, rocket nozzle, thermal oxidizer, cyclone combustor, precombustion chamber, ice screw-in cylinder, turbine combustor, pulse detonation engine, combustion exhaust pipe/stack, thermal oxidizer, flare, water tank, raw sewage pipe, wastewater influent/effluent piping/conduit, anaerobic digester influent/effluent piping, sludge press/centrifuge inlet/outlet piping, potable water piping point of use or point of entry, water storage tank, CNC cutting/welding table, direct contact water heater, wet gas chlorine line/pipe, O&G wellhead, O&G produced water piping, ship ballast water line, engine fuel line, froth flotation inlet/outlet, conduit extending inside tank/vessel, submerged inside tank/vessel, porous tube, wedge wire screen, well screen, filter, activated carbon filter, ceramic filter, cat cracker catalyst recycle line, hospital vacuum suction pump, cooling tower piping, steam separator, superheater, boiler water feedwater piping, RO reject piping, vacuum chamber inlet/outlet, graywater discharge piping, ship ballast water inlet/outlet piping, bilge water inlet/outlet piping, toilet discharge piping, grinder/shredder/macerator discharge piping, and/or kitchen sink garbage disposer outlet piping, nuclear reactor containment building for hydrogen mitigation (hydrogen igniter), infrared heating element/piping, charge heater, furnace and/or coke calciner. It will be understood that the coupling means to attach the device 1802 to the hollow anode nozzle 106 may be selected from any type of coupling device know in the art, ranging from flanges, quick connectors, welding in addition to using the cyclone separator with quick connectors such as sanitary type clamps.
FIGURE 19 demonstrates how some of the devices 1802 may be connected to the plasma arc torch 100. System 1900 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having a cyclone separator 1802a attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106 and a volute 1802b attached to the cyclone separator 1802a. System 1902 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having a filter screen 1802d attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106. System 1904 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having an ejector/eductor 1802e attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106. System 1906 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having a tee 1802i attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106 and a screw feeder 1802g attached to the tee 1802i.
System 1908 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having a tee 1802i attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106, and an auger 1914 and a cyclone separator 1802a attached to the tee 1802i. System 1910 is a plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 having a tee 1802i attached to the exterior of the hollow anode nozzle 106 and an anode electrode with linear actuator 1802j attached to the tee 1802i. As also referred to in FIGURE 12, the anode electrode 1102 with linear actuator 1802j in combination with the anode nozzle 106 form a stopper valve that allows the flow in/out of the (+) anode nozzle to be controlled.
The present invention's plasma arc torch 100 has been tested in the five modes and operated with various attachments coupled to the (+) anode nozzle. The results of these tests will now be described.
Steam Plasma Arc Mode Referring to FIGURE 17, three-way valves 1702a and 11702b were connected to the tangential inlet 118 and tangential outlet 136 of the plasma arc torch 100 disclosed in FIGURE
1. During testing with the three-way valve 1702b attached as shown, when the valve 1702b is fully closed, the plasma 108 of FIGURE 1 was discharged from the plasma arc torch 100 and was measured with an optical pyrometer. With the gases produced from the cell 500 as shown in FIGURES 6 and 7, the plasma 108 temperature was measured at +3,000 C (+5,400 F). With only air, the plasma 108 was measured at +2,100 C (+3,800 F). The system was operated with a ceramic tee 1802i attached to the plasma arc torch 100. Likewise, a filter screen 1802d was attached to the plasma arc torch 100. Wood pellets produced with a pelletizer were placed in the filter screen 1802d prior to attaching to the plasma arc torch 100. The steam plasma fully carbonized the wood pellets. The plasma arc torch 100 with an attached filter screen 1802d is particularly useful for remote and/or stand alone water treatment and black water (raw sewage) applications.
Resistive Heating/Dead Short Mode The plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 is started by dead-shorting the cathode 112 to the anode nozzle 106 with power supply 130 in the off position. Next, the vessel 104 is partially filled by jogging the pump 1704. Next the power supply 130 is turned on allowing the system to operate in a resistive heating mode. The benefit to this system is preventing the formation of gases such as chlorine if sodium chloride is present within the water and/or wastewater. The fluid, water and/or wastewater is heat treated which is commonly referred to as pasteurization.
Submerged Arc Oxidation And Combustion Mode If the system is to be operated in a submerged arc mode, the cathode 112 is simply withdrawn from the anode nozzle 106. A submerged arc will be formed instantly.
This will produce non-condensible gases such as hydrogen and oxygen by splitting water.
In order to aid in forming a gas vortex around the arc gases such as but not limited to methane, butane, propane, air, oxygen, nitrogen, argon, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, argon, biogas and/or ozone or any combination thereof can be added between the pump and inlet 1702a or 1702b with an injector (not shown). However, it is well known that hydrogen peroxide will convert to oxygen and water when irradiated with UV light. Thus, the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 will convert hydrogen peroxide to free radicals and oxygen for operation as an advanced oxidation system.
On the other hand, the present invention's submerged arc mode is ideally suited for submerged combustion. It is well known that submerged combustion is very efficient for heating fluids. Likewise, it is well known and understood that gases and condensates are produced along with heavy oil from oil and gas wells. In addition, the oil sands froth flotation process produces tailings and wastewater with residual solvent and bitumen.
The remaining fossil fuels left in produced water and/or froth flotation processes can be advantageously used in the present invention. Since the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 is a cyclone separator then the lighter hydrocarbons will report to the plasma center. Consequently by sparging air into the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 it can be operated as a submerged arc combustor.

For example, to ensure that the arc is not extinguished a second electrode 1102 can be added to the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 as shown in system 1910 (FIGURE 19).
Air and/or an air/fuel mixture can be flowed into the tee 1802i and converted into a rotating plasma arc flame. The fluid to be heated will enter into one volute while exiting the other volute in combination with hot combusted gases. On the other hand, the air/fuel may be added to the fluid entering into the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100. Three-way valve 1702b would be shut. Thus, the mixture of combusted gases and water would flow through the anode nozzle and exit out of the tee 1802i. A volute 1802b or cyclone separator 1802a may be used in lieu of the tee 1802i.
If a cyclone separator 1802a is used, then the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 can be operated as a torch while shooting a plasma into the vortex of the whirlpool of water within the cyclone separator 1802a. The benefit of the second (+) electrode 1102 is to ensure that the arc remains centered and is not blown out. The discharge from the tee 1802i, volute 1802b or cyclone separator 1802a would be flowed into a tank (not shown) or stand pipe thus allowing complete mixture and transfer of heat from the non-condensible gas bubbles to the water/fluid.
Electrolysis Mode In order to transition to an electrolysis mode the electrode 112 is withdrawn a predetermined distance from the anode nozzle 106 or anode electrode 1102. This distance is easily determined by recording the amps and volts of the power supply as shown by the GRAPH
in FIGURE 3. The liquid level 1106 is held constant by flowing liquid into the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 by jogging the pump 1704 or using a variable speed drive pump to maintain a constant liquid level.
Although not shown, a grounding clamp can be secured to the vessel 104 in order to maintain an equidistant gap 420 between the vessel 104 and cathode 112, provided the vessel is constructed of an electrically conducted material. However, the equidistant gap 420 can be maintained between the anode nozzle 106 and cathode 112 and electrically isolating the vessel 104 for safety purposes. Glass and/or ceramic lined vessels and piping are common throughout many industries.
By operating in an electrolysis mode this allows for the production of oxidants in particularly sodium hypochlorite (bleach), if sodium chloride is present or added to the water.
Bleach is commonly used on offshore production platforms for disinfecting sponsoon water, potable water and raw sewage. Since electrolysis is occurring between and within the equidistance gap 420 between the (+) anode nozzle 106 and (-) cathode electrode 112 the present invention overcomes the problems associated with electrolyzers used on production platforms as well as ships for ballast water disinfection.
By installing two or more plasma arc torches 100 or 1100, one can be operated in a submerged arc combustion mode, while the other is operated in an electrolysis mode. The submerged plasma arc combustor 1910 would be configured as shown in FIGURE 19 with a tee 1802i and electrode 1802j and an air ejector would siphon the hydrogen generated from the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100. Another benefit for using the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 in a combustion mode is that the Ultraviolet ("UV") Light produced from the plasma arc and the electrodes will dechlorinate the water thus eliminating adding a reducing agent to the water.
A simple but effective raw sewage system can be constructed by attaching the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 to a common filter vessel in which the filter screen would be coupled directly to the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100. Referring to FIGURE 19 the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 is coupled to the filter screen 1802d in system 1902. The filter screen 1802d is then inserted into a common filter vessel up to the filter screen 1802d flange. The plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 is operated in an electrolysis mode allowing the raw sewage to flow through the anode nozzle and into the filter screen. Solids would be trapped in the filter screen.
The filter screen can be cleaned by several methods. First the screen can simply be backwashed. Second the screen can be cleaned by simply placing the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 in a plasma arc mode and either steam reforming the solids or incinerating the solids using an air plasma. However, a third mode can be used which allows for a combination of back washing and glow discharge.
Glow Discharge Mode To transition to glow discharge mode, the liquid level 1106 is decreased by throttling three-way valve 1702b until the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 goes into glow discharge. This is easily determined by watching volts and amps. When in glow discharge the power supply voltage will be at or near open circuit voltage. However, to rapidly transition from electrolysis to glow discharge the cathode electrode is extracted until the power supply is at OCV. This can be determined by viewing the glow discharge thru a sight glass or watching the voltage meter.
This novel feature also allows for fail safe operation. If the pump 1704 is turned off or fluid flow is stopped then all of the water will be blown down through the anode nozzle 106 of the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100. Electrical flow will stop and thus the system will not produce any gases such as hydrogen.

To control the liquid level a variable speed drive pump in combination with three-way valve 1702c may be used to control the liquid level to maintain and operate in a glow discharge mode. Another fail safe feature, such as a spring, can be added to the linear actuator such that the system fails with the cathode fully withdrawn.
The mode of operation can be reversed from glow discharge to electrolysis to arc and then to resistive heating. By simply starting with the cathode 112 above the water level 1106 within the vessel 104, then slowly lowering the cathode 112 to touch the surface of the liquid, the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 will immediately go into glow discharge mode.
Continually lowering the cathode 112 will shift the system to electrolysis then to arc then to resistive heating.
Now to operate the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 as a plasma torch, water/liquid flow may be reversed and blowdown three-way valve 1702c is fully opened to allow the plasma to discharge from the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100. Adding an anode electrode 1102 will aid in maintaining an arc. However, if a sufficient amount of gas in entrained in the water and a gas vortex is formed, the water/liquid can be flowed through the plasma arc torch 100 or 1100 in a plasma arc mode.
Although no granular media is needed for this configuration it will be understood that granular media may be added to enhance performance. Likewise, what has not been previously disclosed is that this configuration always for purging the vessel and removing the granular media by reversing the flow through the system. Referring to FIGURE 1 outlet 136 is used as the inlet and inlet 120 is used as the outlet. This configuration will work for any fluid whether it is more dense or less dense than water and/or the liquid flowing through the system. If the material density is greater than the liquid the granular material will flow through 120. If the material is less dense then the liquid then it will flow through the nozzle.
In particularly, remote applications that are in dire need of a solution are potable water treatment and black water (raw sewage) treatment. For example, remote water and wastewater applications can be found on offshore drilling rigs, offshore production platforms, ships, cabins, base camps, military posts/camps, small villages in desert and/or arid environments and many developing countries that do not have centralized water and wastewater treatment facilities.
Another remote application is electricity produced from wind and solar farms.
Likewise, oil and gas wells that are not placed in production such as stranded gas can be considered a remote application. Also, after a natural disaster, such as a hurricane or tsunami basic services such as garbage/trash collection, water treatment and wastewater treatment facilities may be destroyed, thus there is a dire need for water disinfection as well as raw sewage treatment in addition to handling the buildup of trash.
The inventor of the present invention has tested this configuration with an ESAB EPW
360 power supply. The EPW 360 is a "Chopper" type DC power supply operating at a frequency of 18,000 Hertz. The above described configuration held voltage at an extremely steady state. The discharge 134 was throttled with a valve. Whether the valve was open, shut or throttled the voltage remained rock steady. Likewise, the EPW 360 current control potentiometer was turned down to less than 30 amps and the electrodes were positioned to hold 80 volts. This equates to a power rating of about 2,400 watts. The EPW 360 is rated at 360 amps with an open circuit voltage of 360 VDC. At a maximum power rating of 129,600 watts DC, then: 129,600 2,400 = 54.
Consequently, the plasma arc torch 100 of the present invention clearly demonstrated a turn down rate of 54 without any additional electronic controls, such as a secondary high frequency power supply. That is virtually unheard of within the plasma torch world. For example, Pyrogensis markets a 25 kw torch operated in the range of 8- 25kW (A
3:1 turn down ratio). Furthermore the present invention's plasma arc torch 100 does not require any cooling water. The Pyrogensis torch requires cooling with deionized water. Deionized ("DI") water is used because the DI water is flowed first into one electrode then into the shield or another part of the torch. Consequently, DI water is used to avoid conducting electricity from the cathode to the anode via the cooling media. In addition, heat rejection is another impediment for using an indirectly cooled plasma torch. An indirectly cooled plasma torch may reject upwards of 30% of the total input power into the cooling fluid.
The plasma arc torch 100 as disclosed in FIGURES 1, 6, 7 is a liquid/gas separator and extreme steam superheater forming an ionized steam/hydrogen plasma when coupled to the glow discharge cell 500 and/or any steam source. As disclosed in FIGURES 6 and 7, the plasma arc torch 100 can easily be controlled by manipulating valves 604 and 606.
Moreover, the plasma arc torch 100 as shown in FIGURE 1 is similar to a blow-back torch. For example the (-) negative electrode 112 will dead short and shut flow through the (+) anode nozzle 106 by adjusting the linear actuator 114. However, by adding control valve 604 to the discharge 134, this allows for the plasma arc torch 100 to be operated in a resistive heating mode.
Now referring to FIGURE 20, a system, method and apparatus for continuously feeding electrodes within a cyclone reactor is shown. For example, electrode feeder A
feeds in-line and countercurrent to the first electrode along the longitudinal axis of ArcWhirl 100. On the other hand, electrodes may be fed perpendicular to one another as shown by Electrode Feeder B. It will be understood that only one multi-mode torch 100 may be necessary for processing feed material which has been pretreated such as quenched filter cake from a heavy oil, bitumen or petroleum coke gasifier. Likewise, petroleum coke from a delayed coker can easily be plasma steam reformed with the system, method and apparatus of the present invention.
A preferred method for pretreating high moisture filter cake from an oil sands gasifier is with Electromagnetic Radiation (EMR). Specifically, the preferred EMR is within the Radio Frequency spectrum and more specifically within the microwave range. In particular, the ideal frequencies range from 915 MHz to 2.45 GHz.
It is well known and well understood that polar material will absorb microwaves as well as ionized gases, for example plasma. An ideal reactor for enhancing plasma and/or coupling to plasma and material to be treated is disclosed in FIGURE 22. FIGURE 21A
discloses top injection of microwaves into a cyclone reactor while FIGURE 21B discloses side injection of microwaves into the cyclone.
Returning to FIGURE 6, the ideal cyclone separator 606 for the present invention is disclosed in FIGURE 20 and FIGURE 21. In particular FIGURE 21 discloses a multi-entry or multi-exit cyclone that incorporates 4 inlets/outlets to stabilize the rotating WHIRL of fluid.
In addition, referring to the tangential entry volutes disclosed as the first end 116 and second end 118 of FIGURE 1, an ideal whirl generator, commonly referred to as a vortex generator or cyclone separator, is disclosed in FIGURES 21A and 21B. The multiple inlets/outlets allow for stabilizing the whirl without forming a pressure gradient typical on single entry cyclones. In addition, many cyclones utilize an involute for enhancing separation of matter. However, the involute feed housing is prone to erosion at the wall fluid curve interface.
On the other hand, the present invention uses the velocity of fluid jets impinging on one another to prevent wall erosion while also eliminating a pressure gradient. A single entry cyclone separator produces a pressure gradient with a whipping tail of less dense fluid exiting and whipping 180 out from the inlet of the cyclone separator. In many applications the pressure gradient may not affect the operation of the cyclone.
However, when stabilizing and centering an arc is critical then producing a pressure gradient can lead to destabilizing the whirling center of plasma.
Consequently, the arc may be extinguished or in a worse case scenario the arc may be pushed away from the anode nozzle and transferred to the wall or vessel. This could result in melting the reactor vessel. Hence, a ceramic electrical insulator is used as shown in FIGURES 20 and 21.
When the multiple inlet/outlet ceramic cyclone shown in FIGURE 21 is used as the cyclone 601 as shown in the FIGURE 6, the plasma injected into the cyclone can be enhanced and coupled to with RF energy. However, it is critical that the ceramic be permeable or transparent to EMR within microwave frequency range from 915 Mhz to 2450 Mhz (2.45 GHz).
It will be understood that the microwaves may be injected directly into the eye of the whirling fluid or through the side of the ceramic that is transparent to microwaves.
The shell of the vessel should be made of microwave blocking or opaque material.
FIGURE 22 discloses a system, method and apparatus for co-injecting microwaves and filter cake directly into the whirling plasma. The microwaves will pretreat the material prior to entering into the eye of the whirling fluid. A waveguide directs the microwaves perpendicular to the travel of the filter cake. A screw feeder pushes the material directly into the eye of the plasma.
Turning now to FIGURE 23, the co-injected microwaves and filter cake may be fed directly in the plasma which then flows into the cyclone separator and allows for pretreating the filter coke prior to injection into cyclone separator 100.
FIGURE 24 discloses a system, method and apparatus for injecting the plasma from the ArcWhir10 Torch 100 directly into the eye of a cyclone separator. Feed material, such as filter cake, is pretreated first with EMR within the radio frequency range specifically within the microwave frequency range, then injected directly into the hot ionized plasma gas stream using a conveyance means such as a screw feeder. A quench fluid may be used for quenching the reaction between plasma and the feed material.
Turning now to FIGURE 25 while referring to FIGURE 21, feed material such as filter cake or petroleum cake may be injected into the cyclone separator via a tangential entry.
Likewise, feed material may be pretreated with microwaves prior to injection into the plasma.
FIGURE 26 discloses a system, method and apparatus for continuous operation of the Plasma ArcWhir10 torch. By installing a 2nd anode electrode and linear actuator the arc can be transferred from the first electrode of 100 to anode nozzle and then to the anode electrode. This allows for an extremely high turn down rate.

EXAMPLE 8 - ARCWHIRLO TORCH WITH ANODE ELECTRODE, LINEAR
ACTUATOR
The following example with unexpected results will clearly demonstrate a novel and unobvious multi-mode plasma torch. The ArcWhirl Torch as shown in FIGURE 1 and FIGURE 11 was electrically connected to an ESAB ESP150 plasma arc power supply("PS").
The ESP150 PS was modified to operate in a load bank mode similar to a dead short. The ArcWhirl Torch of FIGURE 1 operated with voltage spikes which is typical of non-transferred arc torches due to the arc dancing around the anode nozzle. The minimum amps required to sustain an arc was 50 amps.
However, when an additional anode electrode 1102 was added as disclosed in FIGURE
lithe current potentiometer was rotated to its minimum position at a current load of less than 30 amps. With a welders helmet with a #13 shield the arc was visibly seen and was indeed transferred between the carbon gouging electrodes. The arc was maintained in a steady state.
Once again this allows for an unlimited flowrate of fluid through the anode nozzle without extinguishing the arc.

FOR CALCINING AND STEAM REFORMING PETROLEUM COKE
Petroleum coke in the form of a pressed filter cake with a moisture content of 85%
produced from an oil sands gasifier was fired with an air ArcWhir10 plasma torch as shown in FIGURE 6 utilizing the multi-inlet/outlet cyclone of FIGURE 20 and 21. The coke glowed to red heat within seconds but acted as a thermal insulator. However, as the pet coke particles broke off from the large piece, particle to particle collision comminuted the large piece. The smaller particles glowed red hot instantly when exposed to the air plasma.
Thus, this gives rise to a system, method and apparatus for treating pet coke produced with delayed cokers in refineries and filter cake produced from quenching syngas produced from gasifying oil sand bitumen.
Next, the pet coke was placed inside an induction coil powered by an Ambrel EKOHEATO Induction Power Supply. The EKOHEAT PS is rated at:
Max Power (kW) 50 Frequency (kHz) 15-45 Line Voltage (Vac) 360 - 520, 3 ph Input Max (kVA) 58 The RF within the above frequency range did not couple to the pet coke. The pet coke was transparent to EMR within the 15-45 kHz frequency range.
Next, a sample from the same pet coke batch containing vanadium and nickel was placed in a standard microwave oven operating at a frequency of 2.45 GHz. Within seconds of energizing the microwave oven, arcs and sparks flashed within the oven producing bright white flashes of light. The oven was operated for 15 seconds. After opening the door the pet coke was fluctuating and flickering with red hot spots.
The sample was then crushed and placed back into the microwave oven. What occurred next was completely unexpected when compared and contrasted to the first sample. The pet coke began to turn red hot then burst into an orange flame. Within seconds the orange flame transitioned to a blue flame.
Another test was performed by placing a Pyrex cover over the sample to eliminate air.
The pet coke sample with the cover was placed back in the microwave oven and irradiated for 15 seconds. An initial orange flame was observed for only a few seconds then extinguished and the pet coke began to glow red hot in the absence of oxygen.
The sample was taken out of the microwave and allowed to air cool for 2 hours.

However, after 2 hours, particles were still glowing red hot within the crushed pet coke sample.
This microwave pretreatment process step prior to injection into a plasma torch gives rise to an entirely new system, method and apparatus for calcining, oxidizing and steam reforming.
Quite simply by coupling microwaves to pet coke and allowing any leakage of microwaves to irradiate the plasma arc allows for a highly efficient and nearly leak free Hyrbrid Microwave Plasma Torch. In its simplest explanation any form of pet coke including coal may be used as a susceptor to ignite and sustain plasma. The addition of steam plasma to the pretreated red hot pet coke allows for a system for producing copious amounts of hydrogen and/or syngas.

STEAM/HYDROGEN WATER GAS SYSTEM
As previously disclosed the pet coke was heated to red hot with only microwaves.
Likewise, copious amounts of steam/hydrogen can be generated with the solid oxide high temperature glow discharge cell as disclosed in FIGURES 4 and 5. Consequently, this gives rise to an entirely unobvious and unique system for processing petroleum coke based upon the desired end product.
Returning back to FIGURES 22-26 steam and hydrogen can be produced with the ArcWhirl when operated in a Glow Discharge Mode. The steam/H2 mixture exits nozzle V3 and immediately comes into contact with red hot coke irradiated with microwaves. Thus, this novel process is a unique way for producing Water Gas, for example:
H20 + C ¨> H2 + CO (AH = +131 kJ/mol) In the event a steam plasma is required then the Multi-Mode ArcWhirl Torch is switched to the plasma arc mode. Another multi-mode ArcWhirl Torch operated in a glow discharge mode would be placed upstream to produce steam/H2 for the ArcWhirl operated in a plasma arc mode.
This configuration is disclosed in FIGURE 6 wherein ArcWhirl 100 and Cyclone are replaced with any one of the configurations disclosed in FIGURES 20 thru 27. The attachment devices selected from FIGURE 18 would be the microwave waveguide, screw feeder(auger) and cyclone as retrofits to FIGURE 6 in order to carry out the present invention.
FIGURE 27 discloses a means for adding additional EMR and heat to the gas stream exiting V3 by heating the anode nozzle with an induction coil. This allows for preserving the anode nozzle and simply using RF energy to heat the graphite nozzle.
FIGURE 28 discloses two ArcWhirls in series to form a unique system for operating two identical multi-mode plasma torches in different modes.
FIGURE 29 discloses another configuration using two ArcWhirls piped in series that can be operated in different modes based upon the application and desired end products.
FIGURE 30 discloses a means for combusting and/or quenching the products produced from the multi-mode Plasma ArcWhirl Torch. By attaching the ArcWhirl Torch 100 to a peripheral jet eductor/ejector, products may be quenched when a quench fluid is flowed into the 2nd compressor and/or pump. However, the syngas can be thermally oxidized or combusted by flowing air into the peripheral jet eductor/ejector via the 2nd compressor. An extremely hot flame will exit the peripheral jet eductor at a very high velocity that can be used for thrust, heating and rotational energy.
FIGURE 31 discloses a means for countercurrent flowing material to be treated via an auger and stinger electrode aligned along the longitudinal axis of the multi-mode ArcWhirl Torch. Returning to FIGURE 11 and Example 8, the additional stinger electrode allows for high turn down rates. The peripheral jet eductor/ejector allows for rapid quenching or thermal oxidation based upon the desired solution. Once again, although not shown, microwaves can be introduced into the stinger tube to pretreat material, for example pet coke, prior to injection into the steam plasma or just steam if operated in a Glow Discharge Cell ("GDC") GDC mode.

FIGURE 32A discloses a unique configuration similar to the ArcWhirl Torch 100 of FIGURE 1 utilizing the electrode and piston configuration as shown in FIGURE
15 that can be operated as a blowback torch. Blowback plasma torches are well known and well understood.
By including a spring behind the piston, this keeps the electrode piston in contact with the electrode nozzle for operating in a dead short. Although not shown, the electrode rod may be controlled separately with a linear actuator. When it is necessary to operate in another mode, the valve on the tangential exit is throttled, thus forcing the electrode piston to move away from the electrode nozzle. If for example, air or steam is flowed into the torch, then a plasma arc will be formed between the electrode rod, electrode nozzle and electrode plasma.
As previously disclosed, the major problem with blowback torches and all other plasma torches is a lack of throttling the plasma gas. The gas is regulated prior to entry into the torch.
However, the present invention's blowback torch regulates the gas on the discharge tangential exit. Consequently, this allows for high turn down rates. Likewise, the electrode piston allows for operating in any mode previously described ¨ resistance heating, plasma arc, glow discharge, electrolysis and submerged arc.
Referring now to FIGURE 32B, by replacing the spring with a hydraulic/pneumatic port and electrically isolating the electrode piston from the electrode rod, the system can be powered with two separate power supplies. Thus, this allows the same system to be operated in separate multi-modes. For example, by adding another electrode rod 1102 as shown in FIGURE 11 to the discharge of the electrode nozzle, then the electrode nozzle and electrode piston can be operated in a glow discharge mode by utilizing an electrolyte while the two electrode rods can be operated in a plasma arc mode to convert the steam/H2 mixture into a steam/H2 plasma. This configuration does not require a solid oxide between the equidistant gap.

Thus far the present invention has been disclosed with the use of a DC power supply.
However, the invention as disclosed in FIGURE 33B allows for operation with alternating current("AC") by electrically connecting the three electrodes, electrode rod, electrode piston and electrode nozzle to Li, L2 and L3 respectively of a 3 wire power cable to an AC source located on the surface.

FIGURE 34 discloses a novel and unobvious liquid resistor using the multi-mode ArcWhirl Torch 100 as a resistor within a series circuit. Liquid resistors are well known and well understood. Likewise, resistive wire type resistors are well known and well understood.
Wire Resistors typically produce waste heat. Likewise, liquid resistors produce steam and/or hot water as waste heat. Power supplies incorporating resistors normally are not designed to make use of the waste heat. However, the present invention has clearly shown that the multi-mode torch can make steam/H2 from an electrolyte. Likewise, when the ArcWhir10 Torch 100 is operated in a glow discharge mode it operates in a very predictable manner.
For example, an ESAB ESP 150 has been operated with ArcWhir10 Torch 100 and the device shown in FIGURES 4 and 5. When operated as a Glow Discharge Cell ("GDC") the only necessary control parameter is a pump or a linear actuator or combination of both.
Referring to the graph in FIGURE 3, liquid level determines current flow (amps).
Likewise, electrode depth for the ArcWhir10 Configuration as shown in FIGURE
12 would determine current flow and voltage. Controlling liquid level and electrode depth would give precise control for varying resistance, by varying voltage and current. Hence, the use of the present invention as a variable resistor with the ability to recover heat by using the steam/H2 mixture as the plasma gas in a separate ArcWhir10 Torch 100 or for general heating purposes.
EXAMPLE 14 - VARIABLE PLASMA RESISTOR FOR HEAT, HYDROGEN AND

An exemplary use for the present invention's Variable Plasma Resistor("VPR") is for rectifying 3 phase AC to 380 VDC. Turning now to FIGURE 35, the Variable Plasma Resistor can be placed in parallel with a load in particular a 380 VDC load. By allowing the water to run at a low level within the VPR when operating in a steady state as a GDC only a small of amount of current is used, thus producing a small amount of heat for hotel services while providing full current load to a building. When more heat is required water is added to the VPR, thus increasing steam/H2 production but reducing the available current to the 380 VDC Building.

PLASMA RESISTOR HEATER
FIGURE 36 discloses a unique system, method and apparatus for enhanced oil recovery.
Returning back to Example 4 the GDC of FIGURE 4 and 5 discloses a surface method for generating steam for enhanced oil recovery ("EOR"). The device is well suited for surface production of steam using DC power. DC electrical leads from the power supply to the ArcWhirl Torch are limited in length due to voltage drop.
However, when diodes (rectifier) are packaged with the GDC of the present invention the downhole heating tool may be small enough in diameter to insert within the well bore. Thus, widely available downhole power cable available from GE, Boret and Schlumberger can be used to provide AC power to the integrated Rectifier Variable Resistor Plasma Heater. Likewise, by selecting the appropriate electrolyte for the formation, hydrogen, steam and CO2 can be produced for maintaining pressure within the formation by producing a non-condensible gas.

The configuration as shown is FIGURE 36 can be used to produce a true plasma arc downhole. First, steam would be produced on the surface with a separate GDC
and then the steam would be flowed downhole into the Plasma ArcWhir10 Tool for plasma drilling. This allows for eliminating the entire mud system commonly found on drilling rigs by melting the formation and producing a slag that results in 90% volume reduction from original hole volume.
In previous testing, the inventor of the present invention melted drill cuttings and achieved a 90% volume reduction. Consequently, the molten slag would form a ceramic type casing. The ideal ArcWhir10 design may be the blowback piston or pneumatic/hydraulic piston as shown in FIGURES 32 and 33.
FIGURE 37 discloses a 3 phase AC Plasma ArcWhirl downhole tool that may also be used for downhole steam generation for EOR or for plasma drilling. The ArcWhir10 shown in FIGURE 33B can operate with 3 phase AC power. Likewise, FIGURE 11 can be configured to be operated with 3 phase AC power.
FIGURE 38 discloses a novel material treating system that uses Variable Plasma Resistors(VPR) wired in parallel with a large ArcWhir10 Torch. The bulk of the DC current would flow into the carbon electrode 112 and carbon electrode nozzle(not shown) while VPR-1 through VPR-4 are wired in parallel with the carbon electrode 112 and nozzle butoperated individually to produce steam, hydrogen, disinfected water, ozone, air plasma, oxygen plasma and hot water that may be discharged into the large ArcWhirl Torch are discharged through their respective outlets.

GOUGING TORCH INTO PLASMA TORCH/WELDER
FIGURE 39 discloses a system, method and apparatus for retrofitting and converting a carbon arc gouging torch into an ArcWhirl Torch. The carbon arc gouging torch with the Plasma ArcWhirl Retrofit kit can now be operated in multi-modes for carbon arc gouging, plasma gouging, plasma welding, plasma marking, plasma spraying, plasma coating and plasma cutting applications.
Turning now to FIGURE 39, a carbon arc gouging torch such as an Arcair0 N7500 System is coupled to the ArcWhirl First End 116 via the Arcair0 torch head nozzle.
Consequently, the Arcair0 Gouging Torch then becomes both the electrode housing 122 and the linear actuator 114 for the ArcWhirl 100.
The Plasma ArcWhirl conversion kit now allows for a standard off-the-shelf carbon arc gouging torch to be operated as a non-transferred plasma arc torch, plasma welder, plasma sprayer, plasma cutter and plasma marker. When attached to an identical Plasma ArcWhirl that is operated in a glow discharge mode, then the system can be operated with a steam/hydrogen plasma. This opens the door for reducing the costs for cutting risers off castings, plasma steam/hydrogen cutting thick plate steel and aluminum, steam plasma preheating ladles, steam plasma heat treating and steam plasma reforming.
In addition, the Plasma ArcWhirl Gouging and Welding Torch can be operated as an inert Steam/Hydrogen Plasma Welder. For example, the carbon electrode would be replaced with a tungsten electrode. The plasma arc would be constricted with the steam/hydrogen gas.
The Plasma ArcWhirl torch differs from all other plasma torches by using the discharge valve to throttle the gas going through the nozzle. This allows for an extremely high turn down rate while also allowing for welding or cutting based upon the velocity of the plasma gas exiting from the nozzle. Quite simply, to weld the throttling valve would be fully open thus allowing for a low velocity plasma jet exiting from the nozzle. To plasma cut, the throttle would be shut thus forcing all of the gas through the nozzle to produce an extremely high velocity plasma jet for severing and blowing slag out of the way.

FIGURE 40 discloses a unique system, method and apparatus for using the Coanda Effect to wrap plasma around a graphite electrode. The Coanda Effect is the tendency of a fluid jet to be attracted to a nearby surface. The principle was named after Romanian aerodynamics pioneer Henri Coanda, who was the first to recognize the practical application of the phenomenon in aircraft development. Dual ArcWhirls Torches 100 couple the arc to a graphite electrode thus allowing for 24/7 operation with an extremely steady voltage. The plasma wraps around the graphite electrode and enters into the coanda plasma gap 39108.
Material to be treated is fed directly into the plasma gap 39108.
FIGURE 41 discloses another system, method and apparatus for using the Coanda Effect to transfer an electrical arc to a graphite electrode thus sustaining and confining the plasma.
Although two ArcWhirl torches are shown it will be understood that only one torch is necessary to operate as a Coanda Effect Plasma System. The ArcWhirl Torch arc attaches itself to the central graphite electrode while the plasma wraps around the electrode. Thus, this allows for feeding a large central electrode and smaller electrodes within the torch for continuous duty operation.
The foregoing description of the apparatus and methods of the invention in preferred and alternative embodiments and variations, and the foregoing examples of processes for which the invention may be beneficially used, are intended to be illustrative and not for purpose of limitation. The invention is susceptible to still further variations and alternative embodiments within the full scope of the invention, recited in the following claims.

Claims

1. A multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end;
a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end;
a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end;
an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel;
a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel;
and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode.

2. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, further comprising a non-conductive granular material disposed between the hollow electrode nozzle and the cylindrical vessel.

3. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 2, wherein the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips.

4. A multi-mode plasma arc torch system comprising:
a plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel, and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode;
a pump/compressor;
a first three-way valve connected to the first tangential inlet/outlet and a discharge of the pump/compressor;
a second three-way valve connected to the second tangential inlet/outlet and the discharge of the pump/compressor; and a third three-way valve connected to an exterior the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle and the discharge of the pump/compressor.

5. The multi-mode plasma arc torch system as recited in claim 4, further comprising a non-conductive granular material disposed between the hollow electrode nozzle and the cylindrical vessel.

6. The multi-mode plasma arc torch system as recited in claim 5, wherein the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips.

7. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, further comprising a linear actuator operably connected to the first electrode to adjust the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle.

8. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle having a first inner diameter that is larger than a second inner diameter of the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

9. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 8, the first inner diameter and the second inner diameter forming a counterbore.

10. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 8, further comprising a first tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to the second inner diameter.

11. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 8, further comprising a second tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to a third inner diameter at the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle wherein the third inner diameter is larger than the first inner diameter.

12. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the hollow electrode nozzle having an external flange.

13. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the dead short resistive mode comprising the first electrode contacting the hollow electrode nozzle.

14. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the submerged arc mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

15. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the electrolysis mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

16. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the glow discharge mode comprising the first electrode proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

17. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the plasma arc mode comprising the first electrode spaced apart from the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

18. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, further comprising a third electrode disposed around a portion of the first electrode and having a same polarity as the first electrode.

19. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, further comprising a power supply electrically connected to the first electrode and the hollow electrode nozzle.

20. A multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end;
a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end;
a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end;
an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel, the electrode housing having a first electrode aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, extending into the cylindrical vessel, moveable along the longitudinal axis, and electrically isolated from the cylindrical vessel;
a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel;
and a linear actuator operably connected to the first electrode to adjust a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle and cause the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode based on the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle.

21. The multi-mode plasma arc torch system as recited in claim 20, further comprising a non-conductive granular material disposed between the hollow electrode nozzle and the cylindrical vessel.

22. The multi-mode plasma arc torch system as recited in claim 21, wherein the non-conductive granular material comprises marbles, ceramic beads, molecular sieve media, sand, limestone, activated carbon, zeolite, zirconium, alumina, rock salt, nut shell or wood chips.

23. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle having a first inner diameter that is larger than a second inner diameter of the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

24. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 23, the first inner diameter and the second inner diameter forming a counterbore.

25. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 23, further comprising a first tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to the second inner diameter.

26. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 23, further comprising a second tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to a third inner diameter at the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle wherein the third inner diameter is larger than the first inner diameter.

27. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the hollow electrode nozzle having an external flange.

28. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the dead short resistive mode comprising the first electrode contacting the hollow electrode nozzle.

29. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the submerged arc mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

30. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the electrolysis mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

31. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the glow discharge mode comprising the first electrode proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

32. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the plasma arc mode comprising the first electrode spaced apart from the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

33. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, further comprising a second electrode disposed outside of the cylindrical vessel proximate to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

34. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 33, the second electrode aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel and sized to pass through the hollow electrode nozzle and contact the first electrode.

35. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, further comprising a third electrode disposed around a portion of the first electrode and having a same polarity as the first electrode.

36. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, further comprising a power supply electrically connected to the first electrode and the hollow electrode nozzle.

37. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, further comprising:
a first three-way valve connected to the first tangential inlet/outlet; and a second three-way valve connected to the second tangential inlet/outlet.

38. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 37, further comprising a third three-way valve connected to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

39. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 37, further comprising a pump/compressor having a discharge connected to the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve.

40. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 20, further comprising a cyclone separator, a volute, a pump compressor, a filter screen, an ejector, an eductor, a cross connector, a screw feeder, a valve, a tee connector, an linear actuator having an anode electrode, a wave guide or an RF coil connected to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

41. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle having a first inner diameter that is larger than a second inner diameter of the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

42. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 41, the first inner diameter and the second inner diameter forming a counterbore.

43. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 41, further comprising a first tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to the second inner diameter.

44. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 41, further comprising a second tapered portion within the hollow electrode nozzle that transitions from the first inner diameter to a third inner diameter at the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle wherein the third inner diameter is larger than the first inner diameter.

45. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the hollow electrode nozzle having an external flange.

46. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the dead short resistive mode comprising the first electrode contacting the hollow electrode nozzle.

47. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the submerged arc mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

48. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the electrolysis mode comprising the first electrode extending into the hollow electrode nozzle proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

49. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the glow discharge mode comprising the first electrode proximate to the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

50. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, the position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle in the plasma arc mode comprising the first electrode spaced apart from the first end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

51. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, further comprising a second electrode disposed outside of the cylindrical vessel proximate to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

52. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 51, the second electrode aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel and sized to pass through the hollow electrode nozzle and contact the first electrode.

53. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, further comprising a third electrode disposed around a portion of the first electrode and having a same polarity as the first electrode.

54. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, further comprising a power supply electrically connected to the first electrode and the hollow electrode nozzle.

55. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

a first three-way valve connected to the first tangential inlet/outlet; and a second three-way valve connected to the second tangential inlet/outlet.

56. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 55, further comprising a third three-way valve connected to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

57. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 55, further comprising a pump/compressor having a discharge connected to the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve.

58. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim I, further comprising a cyclone separator, a volute, a pump compressor, a filter screen, an ejector, an eductor, a cross connector, a screw feeder, a valve, a tee connector, an linear actuator having an anode electrode, a wave guide or an RF coil connected to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle.

59. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, wherein the first electrode comprises an electrode piston.

60. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 1, wherein the first electrode comprises a gouging electrode of a gouging torch connected to the electrode housing.

61. The multi-mode plasma arc torch as recited in claim 4, wherein the first electrode comprises an electrode piston.

62. A multi-mode plasma arc torch reactor comprising:
a reactor vessel having a cylindrical interior and two or more inlets tangentially aligned with a cross section of the cylindrical interior; and two or more multi-mode plasma arc torches, each plasma multi-mode plasma arc torch comprising:
a cylindrical vessel having a first end and a second end, a first tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the first end, a second tangential inlet/outlet connected to or proximate to the second end, an electrode housing connected to the first end of the cylindrical vessel such that a first electrode is (a) aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, and (b) extends into the cylindrical vessel, a hollow electrode nozzle connected to the second end of the cylindrical vessel such that a center line of the hollow electrode nozzle is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical vessel, the hollow electrode nozzle having a first end disposed within the cylindrical vessel and a second end disposed outside the cylindrical vessel, and wherein adjusting a position of the first electrode with respect to the hollow electrode nozzle causes the multi-mode plasma arc torch to operate in a dead short resistive mode, a submerged arc mode, an electrolysis mode, a glow discharge mode or a plasma arc mode; and the hollow electrode nozzle of each multi-mode plasma arc torch is connected to and aligned with one of the two or more inlets of the reactor vessel.

63. The multi-mode plasma arc torch reactor as recited in claim 62, wherein the reactor vessel is transparent to a electromagnetic radiation, and further comprising one or more electromagnetic radiation sources coupled to the reactor vessel to direct the electromagnetic radiation into the cylindrical interior of the reactor vessel.

64. The multi-mode plasma arc torch reactor as recited in claim 62, further comprising a cyclone separator, a volute, a pump compressor, a filter screen, an ejector, an eductor, a cross connector, a screw feeder, a valve, a tee connector, an linear actuator having an anode electrode, a wave guide or an RF coil connected to the second end of the hollow electrode nozzle or one of the two or more inlets of the reactor vessel.