EP0973362B1 - Safety device for plasmatorch - Google Patents

Safety device for plasmatorch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0973362B1
EP0973362B1 EP99401701A EP99401701A EP0973362B1 EP 0973362 B1 EP0973362 B1 EP 0973362B1 EP 99401701 A EP99401701 A EP 99401701A EP 99401701 A EP99401701 A EP 99401701A EP 0973362 B1 EP0973362 B1 EP 0973362B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
torch
nozzle
protective shroud
head
shroud
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP99401701A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0973362A1 (en
Inventor
Gérard Marhic
Yannick Lepeule
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Lincoln Electric Co France SA
Original Assignee
La Soudure Autogene Francaise
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Publication of EP0973362A1 publication Critical patent/EP0973362A1/en
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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05H—PLASMA TECHNIQUE; PRODUCTION OF ACCELERATED ELECTRICALLY-CHARGED PARTICLES OR OF NEUTRONS; PRODUCTION OR ACCELERATION OF NEUTRAL MOLECULAR OR ATOMIC BEAMS
    • H05H1/00—Generating plasma; Handling plasma
    • H05H1/24—Generating plasma
    • H05H1/26—Plasma torches
    • H05H1/32—Plasma torches using an arc
    • H05H1/34—Details, e.g. electrodes, nozzles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • H05H—PLASMA TECHNIQUE; PRODUCTION OF ACCELERATED ELECTRICALLY-CHARGED PARTICLES OR OF NEUTRONS; PRODUCTION OR ACCELERATION OF NEUTRAL MOLECULAR OR ATOMIC BEAMS
    • H05H1/00—Generating plasma; Handling plasma
    • H05H1/24—Generating plasma
    • H05H1/26—Plasma torches
    • H05H1/32—Plasma torches using an arc
    • H05H1/34—Details, e.g. electrodes, nozzles
    • H05H1/3473—Safety means

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for safety for electric arc work torch, in especially for plasma cutting torch.
  • the electrode of a cutting torch plasma is carried, during use, at high voltages, commonly greater than 100 V, and sometimes up to 300 V.
  • the electrode is normally made inaccessible to the operator by the presence of the nozzle of the torch coming position around the electrode in a manner known in itself.
  • the electrode is then cleared, that is to say accessible to the operator.
  • the document EP-A-110,736 proposes a system of security based on presence control only an insulating protective skirt arranged around the torch nozzle.
  • this system does not support counts the presence of the nozzle and a distracted operator could reassemble this protective skirt by omitting replace the nozzle, which would allow access to the electrode by the operator and therefore would be susceptible to expose it to a significant risk of electric shock by contact with live parts, in particular the electrode.
  • document DE-A-3714995 describes a torch plasma equipped with a nozzle around which is arranged a protective cap and comprising a system safety switch including an electric switch be operated by a movable push rod shaped which is located in a dwelling located inside the torch body. According to this document, the push rod cooperates with the nozzle through a movable annular part. In addition, the headdress of protection is mounted on the torch body.
  • the aim of the present invention is therefore to solve the aforementioned problem by proposing a security system for electric arc work torches, especially for manual plasma cutting torch, allowing check for simultaneous presence, i.e. mounting correct, not only from the nozzle surrounding the electrode of the torch, but also of the protective skirt insulator surrounding said nozzle.
  • the present invention aims to improve known plasma torches.
  • the security system according to the invention must be easy to manufacture and inexpensive industrially acceptable.
  • the torch according to the invention can be used in any manual welding process or manual arc cutting plasma.
  • Figures 1 to 4 show diagrams, in section longitudinal and in side and partial view of a manual plasma cutting torch 1 according to a first mode of production in accordance with the present invention, comprising a torch head 1 'carrying a nozzle holder 10 and a nozzle 4, said nozzle 4 being fixed to the door nozzle 10 by means of fixing means 14, such as, for example, threading, tapping or the like.
  • the plasma torch 1 has a handle 2, partially shown here, within which are arranged electrical switch means 3 comprising a control member 9 for controlling supply and / or interruption of supply to said torch head 1 'in electric current.
  • a removable protective cap 5 preferably an insulating material, such as a polymer, is placed axially around at least part of the head torch 1 ', that is to say that this protective cap 5 surrounds part of the nozzle holder 10 and the nozzle 4 like a sleeve.
  • the removable protective cap 5 includes an actuating means 6, such as an extension axial of the peripheral wall of said cap according to the axis (x, x '), which means of actuation 6 or axial extension is likely to come to cooperate with the control member 9 for the electrical switch means to authorize the supply of the torch head 1 ' in electric current when using said torch 1.
  • actuating means 6 such as an extension axial of the peripheral wall of said cap according to the axis (x, x ')
  • the cap 5 of protection consists of three parts 8, 13 and 23 likely to cooperate with all or part of elements making up the torch head 1 ′, preferably with the nozzle 4, to allow fixing and maintaining said protective cap 5 on said head torch 1 '.
  • the three parts 8, 13 and 23, playing the role of holding means include a rod 8, a fixed part 23 and a mobile part 13 whose function is to compress the rod 8 by sliding along the substantially conical internal surface of the movable part 13 and / or the fixed part 23.
  • the rod 8 comes to cooperate with a recess 7 peripheral, like a circular groove, arranged in periphery of the upper part 12 of the nozzle 4, said rod 8 penetrating at least partially into said peripheral groove 7 when the cap 5 on the nozzle 4.
  • the nozzle 4 is positioned and fixed to the nozzle holder 10 by means of attachment 14, such as thread and internal thread, or all analogous means.
  • Correct positioning of the nozzle 4 in the nozzle holder 10 is obtained, for example, when the upper bearing surface 12 of the nozzle 4 comes in stop against the lower bearing surface 11 of the door nozzle 5, as shown in FIG. 1, where one sees that the nozzle 4 and the nozzle holder 5 are coaxial along the axis (x-x ').
  • the rod 8 located inside the protective cap 5 is located after correct positioning of the protective cap 5 on the torch head 1 ', opposite the groove 7 arranged in periphery of the nozzle and then it suffices, by a means suitable, such as a cone or the like, for tightening the rod 8 to force it to partially penetrate the groove 7 of the nozzle 4, so as to secure, in working position, the two parts, namely the nozzle 4 and the protective cap 5.
  • the extension or medium actuation of the cap 5 comes to cooperate with the control member 9 for the switching means electric to authorize the operation of the source power, i.e. the current generator or analogous, thus contributing to the feeding of the head torch 1 'in electric current.
  • the means actuation or extension 6 of the cap 5 can enter the internal space of the handle 2 of the torch 1 and thus activate the electric switch 3, in this configuration, the protective cap 5 does not cannot hold in place and is automatically ejected as soon as the operator releases it, since the nozzle 4 being absent, the protective cover 5 cannot be held on the end of the torch head 1 '.
  • the device according to the present invention has an important advantage from the point of view security, insofar as the functioning of the power generator delivering electric current can only be authorized when the nozzle 4 and the protective cap 5, at a time, are properly placed on the head 1 'of the torch.
  • Figures 5 to 8 show diagrams of a second embodiment of a torch 1 manual plasma cutting in accordance with this invention; this second embodiment being prefer.
  • the torch head 1 ′ comprises a holder nozzle 10 and a nozzle 4 fixed to the nozzle holder 10 by by means of fastening means 14, for example a threading, tapping or the like.
  • the electrical switch means 3 provided with a control member 9 for controlling supply and / or interruption of supply to the torch head 1 'in electric current are arranged in the handle 2 of the plasma torch 1.
  • the removable cover 5, placed axially around at least part of the head 1 ′ comprises a means actuator 6 which is an axial extension of the wall peripheral of said cap along the axis (x, x '), which actuating means 6 is likely to come to cooperate with the member 9 for controlling the switch means to allow power to the head of torch 1 'in electric current when using said torch 1.
  • the cap is formed of a single piece and not of several mobile sub-parts serving as means holding as in the first embodiment.
  • the cap for example made of polymer material hung on a metal ring, consists of a unique structure carrying the rod 8 permanently inserted in a recess or a groove arranged on its wall internal device.
  • the rod 8 penetrates at least partially in the peripheral groove 7 of the nozzle 4, during the fitting by clipping of the cover 5 on said nozzle 4, said rod 8 coming to be inserted in the circular groove 7.
  • the internal diameter of the rod 8 is substantially equal or slightly lower the outside diameter of the nozzle 4 measured in or at the bottom circular groove 7.
  • the internal diameter of the rod 8 can be about 17 mm and the outer diameter of the nozzle 4 measured at the bottom of the circular groove 7 can be a few tenths of a millimeter lower.
  • the protective cap 5 carries a ring 15 metallic integral with part of its internal wall, said ring 15 being associated with said rod 8, so as to allow better thermal and mechanical resistance of this part of the skirt.
  • the actuation means 6 formed of an axial extension of the cap 5 comes to cooperate with the control member 9 for the switching means electric to allow the supply of the head 1 ' in electric current. If the nozzle 4 is omitted, the risks of electric shock for the operator are greatly diminished because, as explained above, the protective cap 5 cannot hold in place and is automatically ejected as soon as the operator releases it and the torch head 1 'cannot be supplied with electric current continuously.
  • head 1 ' torch cannot be supplied with current electric because the actuating means 6, that is to say the axial extension of the cap 5, cannot come cooperate with the means control member 9 electrical switches to allow power from the head 1 'while running.
  • said cap protection 5 has a first support face comprising at least a first ramp, preferably two ramps 16 and 16 '.
  • the first ramps 16, 16 'of the protective cap 5 are worn by the axial extension 6 of the peripheral wall of the cap 5 and constitute the bearing faces of this axial extension 6.
  • the end of the torch head 1 ' has a second bearing face comprising at least a second ramp, preferably two ramps 14 and 14 '.
  • the ramps 16 and 16 ' have a shape, i.e. slopes, approximately equal or substantially complementary to that of ramps 14 and 14 ', respectively.
  • the ramp 14 may have a slope equal to or different from that of ramp 14 'and, from similarly, the ramp 16 can be of equal slope or different from that of the 16 'ramp.
  • the present invention improves significantly the safety of using a torch at plasma, in particular manual, which is equipped with it.

Abstract

The welding head (1) includes a head cap (5) that is connected to a cutout mechanism (6,9). A relay switch (3) controls the cutout mechanism and the release of the welding head. The release of the switch is controlled by the operating handle, which must be in contact with the operators' hand to allow use of the welder. An Independent claim is included for a procedure of assembling the plasma welding head.

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de sécurité pour torche de travail à l'arc électrique, en particulier pour torche de coupage plasma.The present invention relates to a device for safety for electric arc work torch, in especially for plasma cutting torch.

Habituellement, l'électrode d'une torche de coupage plasma, en particulier une torche manuelle, est portée, pendant son utilisation, à des tensions élevées, couramment supérieures à 100 V, et parfois jusqu'à 300 V.Usually the electrode of a cutting torch plasma, in particular a manual torch, is carried, during use, at high voltages, commonly greater than 100 V, and sometimes up to 300 V.

Durant le fonctionnement de la torche, l'électrode est normalement rendue inaccessible à l'opérateur de par la présence de la tuyère de la torche venant se positionner autour de l'électrode de manière connue en soi.During the operation of the torch, the electrode is normally made inaccessible to the operator by the presence of the nozzle of the torch coming position around the electrode in a manner known in itself.

Toutefois, lorsqu'un démontage de la tuyère est nécessaire, par exemple lors d'une opération d'entretien de la torche, l'électrode se trouve alors dégagée, c'est-à-dire accessible à l'opérateur.However, when disassembly of the nozzle is necessary, for example during a maintenance operation of the torch, the electrode is then cleared, that is to say accessible to the operator.

Or, cette configuration présente alors un danger réel pour l'opérateur qui risque de s'électriser en cas d'actionnement involontaire de la gâchette de commande de la torche.However, this configuration then presents a danger real for the operator who risks being electrified in case unintentional actuation of the control trigger the torch.

Afin de limiter le risque pour l'opérateur, il convient alors soit d'interdire l'accès aux pièces sous tension lors du démontage de la torche, soit d'interdire le fonctionnement du générateur de courant si certaines pièces de la torche ne sont pas en place.In order to limit the risk for the operator, it then agree either to prohibit access to the parts under tension when disassembling the torch, either to prohibit the operation of the current generator if certain torch parts are not in place.

Pour ce faire, les dispositifs de sécurité ont déjà été proposés dans l'art antérieur, mais ceux-ci n'apportent qu'une réponse partielle au problème susmentionné.To do this, the safety devices have already have been proposed in the prior art, but these provide only a partial answer to the problem above.

Ainsi, le document EP-A-110736 propose un système de sécurité basé sur un contrôle de la présence uniquement d'une jupe de protection isolante agencée autour de la tuyère de la torche.Thus, the document EP-A-110,736 proposes a system of security based on presence control only an insulating protective skirt arranged around the torch nozzle.

En d'autres termes, ce système ne prend pas en compte la présence de la tuyère et un opérateur distrait pourrait remonter cette jupe de protection en omettant de replacer la tuyère, ce qui autoriserait l'accès à l'électrode par l'opérateur et donc serait susceptible d'exposer celui-ci à un risque important d'électrisation par contact avec les pièces sous tension, notamment l'électrode.In other words, this system does not support counts the presence of the nozzle and a distracted operator could reassemble this protective skirt by omitting replace the nozzle, which would allow access to the electrode by the operator and therefore would be susceptible to expose it to a significant risk of electric shock by contact with live parts, in particular the electrode.

D'autres systèmes de sécurité ont, par ailleurs, été proposés par les documents DE-A-4313830, GB-A-2192821, FR-A-275270, JP-A-01057982, FR-A-2450659, US-A-3,488,466 et US-A-3,632,951. Toutefois, ces agencements connus ne donnent pas entière satisfaction, notamment de par leur difficulté de réalisation, leur niveau sécuritaire insuffisant et/ou de leur coût élevé de fabrication.Other security systems have also been proposed by documents DE-A-4313830, GB-A-2192821, FR-A-275270, JP-A-01057982, FR-A-2450659, US-A-3,488,466 and US-A-3,632,951. However, these known arrangements do not not entirely satisfactory, in particular by their difficulty of realization, their security level insufficient and / or their high manufacturing cost.

En outre, le document DE-A-3714995 décrit une torche à plasma munie d'une tuyère autour de laquelle est agencée une coiffe de protection et comprenant un système de sécurité comprenant un interrupteur électrique pouvant être actionné par une tige-poussoir mobile de forme allongée, laquelle est aménagée dans un logement situé à l'intérieur du corps de torche. Selon ce document, la tige-poussoir coopère avec la tuyère par l'intermédiaire d'une pièce annulaire mobile. En outre, la coiffe de protection est montée sur le corps de la torche.In addition, document DE-A-3714995 describes a torch plasma equipped with a nozzle around which is arranged a protective cap and comprising a system safety switch including an electric switch be operated by a movable push rod shaped which is located in a dwelling located inside the torch body. According to this document, the push rod cooperates with the nozzle through a movable annular part. In addition, the headdress of protection is mounted on the torch body.

Le but de la présente invention est donc de résoudre le problème précité en proposant un système de sécurité pour torche de travail à l'arc électrique, notamment pour torche manuelle de coupage plasma, permettant de contrôler la présence simultanée, c'est-à-dire le montage correct, non seulement de la tuyère entourant l'électrode de la torche, mais aussi de la jupe de protection isolante entourant ladite tuyère.The aim of the present invention is therefore to solve the aforementioned problem by proposing a security system for electric arc work torches, especially for manual plasma cutting torch, allowing check for simultaneous presence, i.e. mounting correct, not only from the nozzle surrounding the electrode of the torch, but also of the protective skirt insulator surrounding said nozzle.

En d'autres termes, la présente invention vise à améliorer les torches à plasma connues.In other words, the present invention aims to improve known plasma torches.

En outre, le système de sécurité selon l'invention doit être de fabrication aisée et de coût industriellement acceptable.In addition, the security system according to the invention must be easy to manufacture and inexpensive industrially acceptable.

La présente invention concerne alors une torche à plasma manuelle comprenant :

  • une poignée de manipulation ;
  • une tête de torche comportant au moins un porte-tuyère et une tuyère, la tuyère venant se fixer audit porte-tuyère par l'intermédiaire de moyens de fixation;
  • des moyens interrupteurs électriques de sécurité commandant l'alimentation de la tête de torche en courant électrique, et
  • une coiffe de protection amovible entourant au moins une partie de la tête de torche, ladite coiffe de protection comprenant :
    • au moins un moyen d'actionnement susceptible de venir coopérer avec les moyens interrupteurs électriques de sécurité pour permettre d'alimenter la tête de torche en courant électrique, et
    • des moyens de maintien susceptibles de coopérer avec au moins la tuyère pour permettre la solidarisation de ladite coiffe de protection avec au moins ladite tuyère,
   caractérisée en ce que :
  • lesdits moyens interrupteurs électriques sont agencés dans la poignée de manipulation de la torche, et
  • ledit moyen d'actionnement est un prolongement axial de la paroi périphérique de la coiffe de protection pouvant pénétrer dans l'espace interne de la poignée et activer ainsi l'interrupteur électrique.
The present invention therefore relates to a manual plasma torch comprising:
  • a handle for manipulation;
  • a torch head comprising at least one nozzle holder and one nozzle, the nozzle coming to be fixed to said nozzle holder by means of fixing means;
  • electrical safety switch means controlling the supply of electrical power to the torch head, and
  • a removable protective cap surrounding at least part of the torch head, said protective cap comprising:
    • at least one actuation means capable of coming to cooperate with the electrical safety switch means to enable the torch head to be supplied with electric current, and
    • holding means capable of cooperating with at least the nozzle to allow the said protective cap to be secured to at least said nozzle,
characterized in that:
  • said electrical switch means are arranged in the handle for handling the torch, and
  • said actuating means is an axial extension of the peripheral wall of the protective cap which can penetrate into the internal space of the handle and thus activate the electrical switch.

Selon le cas, la torche de travail à l'arc électrique selon l'invention peut comprendre l'une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes:

  • le moyen d'actionnement est un prolongement axial, selon l'axe (x-x'), de la paroi périphérique de la coiffe de protection.
  • les moyens de maintien comportent au moins un jonc agencé à l'intérieur de la coiffe de protection.
  • le jonc est logé dans un évidemment, par exemple une gorge annulaire, pratiqué dans la paroi périphérique interne de la coiffe.
  • le jonc agencé à l'intérieur de la coiffe de protection est susceptible de coopérer avec au moins un évidement aménagé périphériquement à la tuyère, de manière à permettre une solidarisation de ladite coiffe de protection avec au moins ladite tuyère.
  • au moins un évidement est sensiblement circulaire et aménagé sur la paroi périphérique externe de la tuyère, de préférence l'évidement est une gorge annulaire.
  • la solidarisation de ladite coiffe de protection avec au moins ladite tuyère est réalisée par clipsage dudit jonc dans ledit évidemment aménagé périphériquement à la tuyère ; le clipsage étant l'action de monter, à force, un organe élastique (ici le jonc) sur un support muni d'une force de maintien (ici la tuyère et sa gorge).
  • ladite coiffe de protection est réalisée en un matériau électriquement isolant, tel un matériau polymère, associé à une bague, de préférence métallique, solidaire d'au moins une partie de sa paroi interne, portant le logement du jonc.
  • la coiffe de protection est réalisée en une pièce ou structure unique en matériau électriquement isolant, de préférence en au moins un polymère moulé ou thermodurcissable.
Depending on the case, the electric arc work torch according to the invention may include one or more of the following characteristics:
  • the actuating means is an axial extension, along the axis (x-x '), of the peripheral wall of the protective cap.
  • the holding means comprise at least one rod arranged inside the protective cap.
  • the rod is housed in a recess, for example an annular groove, formed in the internal peripheral wall of the cap.
  • the rod arranged inside the protective cap is capable of cooperating with at least one recess arranged peripherally to the nozzle, so as to allow the said protective cap to be secured to at least said nozzle.
  • at least one recess is substantially circular and arranged on the external peripheral wall of the nozzle, preferably the recess is an annular groove.
  • the attachment of said protective cap with at least said nozzle is carried out by clipping said rod into said recess arranged peripherally to the nozzle; the clipping being the action of mounting, by force, an elastic member (here the rod) on a support provided with a holding force (here the nozzle and its groove).
  • said protective cap is made of an electrically insulating material, such as a polymer material, associated with a ring, preferably metallic, secured to at least part of its internal wall, carrying the housing of the rod.
  • the protective cap is made of a single piece or structure of electrically insulating material, preferably in at least one molded or thermosetting polymer.

La torche selon l'invention peut être utilisée dans tout procédé de soudage manuel ou coupage manuel à l'arc plasma.The torch according to the invention can be used in any manual welding process or manual arc cutting plasma.

L'invention va maintenant être décrite plus en détail à l'aide des figures annexées de deux modes de réalisation possibles de l'invention, donnés à titre illustratif mais non limitatif.The invention will now be described in more detail. detail using the appended figures of two modes of possible embodiments of the invention, given as illustrative but not limiting.

Les figures 1 à 4 représentent des schémas, en coupe longitudinale et en vue latérale et partielle, d'une torche 1 manuelle de coupage plasma selon un premier mode de réalisation conforme à la présente invention, comprenant une tête de torche 1' portant un porte tuyère 10 et une tuyère 4, ladite tuyère 4 étant fixée au porte tuyère 10 par l'intermédiaire de moyens de fixation 14, tel par exemple un filetage, un taraudage ou analogue.Figures 1 to 4 show diagrams, in section longitudinal and in side and partial view of a manual plasma cutting torch 1 according to a first mode of production in accordance with the present invention, comprising a torch head 1 'carrying a nozzle holder 10 and a nozzle 4, said nozzle 4 being fixed to the door nozzle 10 by means of fixing means 14, such as, for example, threading, tapping or the like.

Il est à noter que la figure 1 s'applique aussi au deuxième mode de réalisation donné ci-après.Note that Figure 1 also applies to second embodiment given below.

La torche à plasma 1 comporte une poignée 2, partiellement représentée ici, au sein de laquelle sont agencés des moyens interrupteur électrique 3 comprenant un organe de commande 9 permettant de commander l'alimentation et/ou l'interruption de l'alimentation de ladite tête de torche 1' en courant électrique. The plasma torch 1 has a handle 2, partially shown here, within which are arranged electrical switch means 3 comprising a control member 9 for controlling supply and / or interruption of supply to said torch head 1 'in electric current.

Afin de limiter les risques d'électrisation de l'opérateur, une coiffe de protection 5 amovible, de préférence en un matériau isolant, tel un polymère, est placée axialement autour d'au moins une partie de la tête de torche 1', c'est-à-dire que cette coiffe de protection 5 entoure une partie du porte tuyère 10 et de la tuyère 4 à la manière d'un manchon.In order to limit the risk of electric shock from the operator, a removable protective cap 5, preferably an insulating material, such as a polymer, is placed axially around at least part of the head torch 1 ', that is to say that this protective cap 5 surrounds part of the nozzle holder 10 and the nozzle 4 like a sleeve.

Plus précisément, la coiffe de protection 5 amovible comporte un moyen d'actionnement 6, tel un prolongement axial de la paroi périphérique de ladite coiffe selon l'axe (x,x'), lequel moyen d'actionnement 6 ou prolongement axial est susceptible de venir coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteur électrique afin d'autoriser l'alimentation de la tête de torche 1' en courant électrique lors de l'utilisation de ladite torche 1.More specifically, the removable protective cap 5 includes an actuating means 6, such as an extension axial of the peripheral wall of said cap according to the axis (x, x '), which means of actuation 6 or axial extension is likely to come to cooperate with the control member 9 for the electrical switch means to authorize the supply of the torch head 1 ' in electric current when using said torch 1.

Dans ce premier mode de réalisation, la coiffe 5 de protection se compose de trois parties 8, 13 et 23 susceptibles de coopérer avec toute ou partie des éléments composant la tête de torche 1', de préférence avec la tuyère 4, pour permettre la fixation et le maintien de ladite coiffe de protection 5 sur ladite tête de torche 1'.In this first embodiment, the cap 5 of protection consists of three parts 8, 13 and 23 likely to cooperate with all or part of elements making up the torch head 1 ′, preferably with the nozzle 4, to allow fixing and maintaining said protective cap 5 on said head torch 1 '.

En fait, les trois parties 8, 13 et 23, jouant le rôle de moyens de maintien, comprennent un jonc 8, une partie fixe 23 et une partie mobile 13 dont la fonction est de comprimer le jonc 8 par glissement le long de la surface interne sensiblement conique de la partie mobile 13 et/ou de la partie fixe 23.In fact, the three parts 8, 13 and 23, playing the role of holding means, include a rod 8, a fixed part 23 and a mobile part 13 whose function is to compress the rod 8 by sliding along the substantially conical internal surface of the movable part 13 and / or the fixed part 23.

Ainsi, le jonc 8 vient coopérer avec un évidement 7 périphérique, telle une gorge circulaire, aménagée en périphérie de la partie supérieure 12 de la tuyère 4, ledit jonc 8 pénétrant au moins partiellement dans ladite gorge périphérique 7 lors de la mise en place de la coiffe 5 sur la tuyère 4. Thus, the rod 8 comes to cooperate with a recess 7 peripheral, like a circular groove, arranged in periphery of the upper part 12 of the nozzle 4, said rod 8 penetrating at least partially into said peripheral groove 7 when the cap 5 on the nozzle 4.

De manière détaillée, l'assemblage de la tuyère 4 et de la coiffe 5, respectivement, sur la tête de torche 1' de la torche à plasma manuelle 1 est réalisé de la manière suivante.In detail, the assembly of the nozzle 4 and of the cap 5, respectively, on the torch head 1 ' of the manual plasma torch 1 is produced from the next way.

On positionne et on fixe tout d'abord la tuyère 4 au porte-tuyère 10 par l'intermédiaire de moyens de fixation 14, tel un filetage et un taraudage, ou tous moyens analogues.Firstly, the nozzle 4 is positioned and fixed to the nozzle holder 10 by means of attachment 14, such as thread and internal thread, or all analogous means.

Un positionnement correct de la tuyère 4 dans le porte tuyère 10 est obtenu, par exemple, lorsque la surface supérieure d'appui 12 de la tuyère 4 vient en butée contre la surface d'appui inférieure 11 du porte tuyère 5, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 1, où l'on voit que la tuyère 4 et le porte tuyère 5 sont coaxiaux selon l'axe (x-x').Correct positioning of the nozzle 4 in the nozzle holder 10 is obtained, for example, when the upper bearing surface 12 of the nozzle 4 comes in stop against the lower bearing surface 11 of the door nozzle 5, as shown in FIG. 1, where one sees that the nozzle 4 and the nozzle holder 5 are coaxial along the axis (x-x ').

Ensuite, on procède au positionnement et à la fixation de la coiffe de protection 5 sur la tête de torche 1', de manière à ce que le moyen d'actionnement 6 de la coiffe 5 vienne coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteurs électriques 3 pour permettre d'alimenter la tête de torche 1' en courant électrique. La coiffe de protection 5 est alors maintenue en position sur la tête de torche 1' grâce aux parties 8, 13 et 23, faisant office de moyens de maintien, en particulier grâce au jonc 8 venant coopérer avec l'évidement 7, telle une gorge, porté par la paroi périphérique externe de la tuyère 4, ainsi que représenté sur les figures 3 et 4.Then we proceed to positioning and fixing the protective cap 5 on the head of torch 1 ', so that the actuating means 6 of the cap 5 comes to cooperate with the member 9 of control of electrical switch means 3 for allow the torch head 1 'to be supplied with current electric. The protective cap 5 is then maintained in position on the torch head 1 ′ thanks to the parts 8, 13 and 23, acting as holding means, in particular thanks to the rod 8 coming to cooperate with the recess 7, like a groove, carried by the wall external device of the nozzle 4, as shown in Figures 3 and 4.

En d'autres termes, le jonc 8 situé à l'intérieur de la coiffe de protection 5, se trouve, après positionnement correct de la coiffe 5 de protection sur la tête de torche 1', en regard de la gorge 7 aménagée en périphérie de la tuyère et il suffit alors, par un moyen approprié, tel un cône ou analogue, de resserrer le jonc 8 pour le contraindre à pénétrer partiellement dans la gorge 7 de la tuyère 4, de manière à solidariser, en position de travail, les deux pièces, à savoir la tuyère 4 et la coiffe 5 de protection.In other words, the rod 8 located inside the protective cap 5 is located after correct positioning of the protective cap 5 on the torch head 1 ', opposite the groove 7 arranged in periphery of the nozzle and then it suffices, by a means suitable, such as a cone or the like, for tightening the rod 8 to force it to partially penetrate the groove 7 of the nozzle 4, so as to secure, in working position, the two parts, namely the nozzle 4 and the protective cap 5.

Lorsque la coiffe de protection 5 est correctement montée sur la tête de torche 1', le prolongement ou moyen d'actionnement 6 de la coiffe 5 vient coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteurs électriques pour autoriser le fonctionnement de la source de puissance, c'est-à-dire le générateur de courant ou analogue, et contribuer ainsi à l'alimentation de la tête de torche 1' en courant électrique.When the protective cap 5 is correctly mounted on the torch head 1 ', the extension or medium actuation of the cap 5 comes to cooperate with the control member 9 for the switching means electric to authorize the operation of the source power, i.e. the current generator or analogous, thus contributing to the feeding of the head torch 1 'in electric current.

Par contre, ainsi que représenté sur la figure 2, en cas d'omission de la tuyère 4, le montage de la coiffe de protection 5 seulement, minimise considérablement les risques d'électrisation pour l'opérateur.By cons, as shown in Figure 2, in if the nozzle 4 is omitted, the fitting of the cover protection 5 only, considerably minimizes risk of electric shock for the operator.

En effet, dans ce cas, bien que le moyen d'actionnement ou prolongement 6 de la coiffe 5 puisse pénétrer dans l'espace interne de la poignée 2 de la torche 1 et activer ainsi l'interrupteur électrique 3, dans cette configuration, la coiffe de protection 5 ne peut pas tenir en place et est automatiquement éjectée dès que l'opérateur la relâche, étant donné que, la tuyère 4 étant absente, la coiffe 5 de protection ne peut être maintenue sur l'extrémité de la tête de torche 1'.Indeed, in this case, although the means actuation or extension 6 of the cap 5 can enter the internal space of the handle 2 of the torch 1 and thus activate the electric switch 3, in this configuration, the protective cap 5 does not cannot hold in place and is automatically ejected as soon as the operator releases it, since the nozzle 4 being absent, the protective cover 5 cannot be held on the end of the torch head 1 '.

En d'autres termes, le dispositif selon la présente invention présente un avantage important du point de vue de la sécurité, dans la mesure où le fonctionnement du générateur de puissance délivrant le courant électrique ne peut être autorisé que lorsque la tuyère 4 et la coiffe de protection 5, à la fois, sont correctement mises en place sur la tête 1' de torche.In other words, the device according to the present invention has an important advantage from the point of view security, insofar as the functioning of the power generator delivering electric current can only be authorized when the nozzle 4 and the protective cap 5, at a time, are properly placed on the head 1 'of the torch.

Il s'ensuit, que si la tuyère 4 est montée, mais pas la coiffe 5 de protection, alors l'interrupteur électrique 3 n'est pas activé et la tête 1' de torche ne peut pas être alimentée en courant électrique.It follows that if the nozzle 4 is mounted, but not the protective cap 5, then the switch 3 is not activated and the 1 'torch head does not cannot be supplied with electric current.

A l'inverse, si seule la coiffe de protection est montée, alors celle-ci ne peut pas tenir en place sur la tête 1' de torche et est automatiquement éjectée dès que l'opérateur la relâche.Conversely, if only the protective cap is mounted, then it cannot hold in place on the 1 'torch head and is automatically ejected as soon as the operator releases it.

Ainsi, le risque d'électrisation est grandement diminué.Thus, the risk of electric shock is greatly decreases.

Par ailleurs, les figures 5 à 8 représentent des schémas d'un deuxième mode de réalisation d'une torche 1 manuelle de coupage plasma conforme à la présente invention ; ce deuxième mode de réalisation étant préféré.Furthermore, Figures 5 to 8 show diagrams of a second embodiment of a torch 1 manual plasma cutting in accordance with this invention; this second embodiment being prefer.

Plus précisément, on voit sur la figure 5 que, comme précédemment, la tête de torche 1' comprend un porte tuyère 10 et une tuyère 4 fixée au porte tuyère 10 par l'intermédiaire de moyens de fixation 14, par exemple un filetage, un taraudage ou analogue.More specifically, we see in Figure 5 that, as previously, the torch head 1 ′ comprises a holder nozzle 10 and a nozzle 4 fixed to the nozzle holder 10 by by means of fastening means 14, for example a threading, tapping or the like.

Là encore, les moyens interrupteur électrique 3 dotés d'un organe de commande 9 permettant de commander l'alimentation et/ou l'interruption de l'alimentation de la tête de torche 1' en courant électrique sont aménagés dans la poignée 2 de la torche à plasma 1.Again, the electrical switch means 3 provided with a control member 9 for controlling supply and / or interruption of supply to the torch head 1 'in electric current are arranged in the handle 2 of the plasma torch 1.

De même, selon ce deuxième mode de réalisation, la coiffe 5 amovible, placée axialement autour d'au moins une partie de la tête 1', comporte un moyen d'actionnement 6 qui est un prolongement axial de la paroi périphérique de ladite coiffe selon l'axe (x, x'), lequel moyen d'actionnement 6 est susceptible de venir coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteur électrique afin d'autoriser l'alimentation de la tête de torche 1' en courant électrique lors de l'utilisation de ladite torche 1.Similarly, according to this second embodiment, the removable cover 5, placed axially around at least part of the head 1 ′, comprises a means actuator 6 which is an axial extension of the wall peripheral of said cap along the axis (x, x '), which actuating means 6 is likely to come to cooperate with the member 9 for controlling the switch means to allow power to the head of torch 1 'in electric current when using said torch 1.

L'assemblage de la tuyère 4 et de la coiffe 5, respectivement, sur la tête de torche 1' de la torche à plasma manuelle 1 est réalisé de la façon exposée ci-dessus, à l'exception du fait que, selon ce deuxième mode de réalisation, le maintien de la coiffe de protection 5 en position sur la tête de torche 1' se fait directement grâce au jonc 8 qui vient coopérer avec l'évidement 7, par exemple une gorge, porté par la paroi périphérique externe de la tuyère 4, lors du clipsage de la coiffe 5 sur la tuyère 4, comme déductible des figures 5 et 6.The assembly of the nozzle 4 and the cap 5, respectively, on the torch head 1 'of the torch to manual plasma 1 is produced as described above, except for the fact that, according to this second mode embodiment, maintaining the protective cap 5 in position on the torch head 1 'is done directly thanks to the rod 8 which cooperates with the recess 7, for example a groove, carried by the peripheral wall outside of the nozzle 4, when the cap 5 is clipped on the nozzle 4, as deductible from FIGS. 5 and 6.

En effet, dans ce deuxième mode de réalisation, la coiffe est formée d'une pièce monobloc et non pas de plusieurs sous-parties mobiles faisant office de moyens de maintien comme dans le premier mode de réalisation.Indeed, in this second embodiment, the cap is formed of a single piece and not of several mobile sub-parts serving as means holding as in the first embodiment.

Comme on peut le voir sur les figures 5 et 6, la coiffe 5, par exemple réalisée en matériau polymère accroché sur une bague métallique, est constituée par une structure unique portant le jonc 8 inséré à demeure dans un évidemment ou une gorge aménagée sur sa paroi périphérique interne.As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, the cap 5, for example made of polymer material hung on a metal ring, consists of a unique structure carrying the rod 8 permanently inserted in a recess or a groove arranged on its wall internal device.

Il s'ensuit alors que le jonc 8 situé à l'intérieur de la coiffe 5 se retrouve, après positionnement correct et clipsage de la coiffe 5 sur la tête 1', dans la gorge 7 aménagée en périphérie de la tuyère 4, ce qui permet de solidariser, c'est-à-dire de fixer fermement, la tuyère 4 et la coiffe 5.It follows then that the rod 8 located inside of cap 5 is found, after correct positioning and clipping of the cap 5 on the head 1 ', in the groove 7 arranged at the periphery of the nozzle 4, which allows join, that is to say firmly fix, the nozzle 4 and the cap 5.

En d'autres termes, le jonc 8 pénètre au moins partiellement dans la gorge 7 périphérique de la tuyère 4, lors de la mise en place par clipsage de la coiffe 5 sur ladite tuyère 4, ledit jonc 8 venant s'insérer dans la gorge circulaire 7.In other words, the rod 8 penetrates at least partially in the peripheral groove 7 of the nozzle 4, during the fitting by clipping of the cover 5 on said nozzle 4, said rod 8 coming to be inserted in the circular groove 7.

Pour une meilleure efficacité, la diamètre interne du jonc 8 est sensiblement égal ou légèrement inférieur au diamètre externe de la tuyère 4 mesuré dans ou au fond de la gorge circulaire 7.For better efficiency, the internal diameter of the rod 8 is substantially equal or slightly lower the outside diameter of the nozzle 4 measured in or at the bottom circular groove 7.

A titre d'exemple, le diamètre de interne du jonc 8 peut être égal à environ 17 mm et le diamètre externe de la tuyère 4 mesuré au fond de la gorge circulaire 7 peut lui être inférieur de quelques dixièmes de mm.As an example, the internal diameter of the rod 8 can be about 17 mm and the outer diameter of the nozzle 4 measured at the bottom of the circular groove 7 can be a few tenths of a millimeter lower.

En outre, la coiffe de protection 5 porte une bague 15 métallique solidaire d'une partie de sa paroi interne, ladite bague 15 étant associée audit jonc 8, de manière à permettre une meilleure tenue thermique et mécanique de cette partie de la jupe.In addition, the protective cap 5 carries a ring 15 metallic integral with part of its internal wall, said ring 15 being associated with said rod 8, so as to allow better thermal and mechanical resistance of this part of the skirt.

Comme précédemment, le moyen d'actionnement 6 formé d'un prolongement axial de la coiffe 5 vient coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteurs électriques pour autoriser l'alimentation de la tête 1' en courant électrique. En cas d'omission de la tuyère 4, les risques d'électrisation pour l'opérateur sont grandement diminués car, comme expliqué ci-dessus, la coiffe de protection 5 ne peut pas tenir en place et est automatiquement éjectée, dès que l'opérateur la relâche et la tête 1' de torche ne peut pas être alimentée en courant électrique de façon continue. Par analogie, en cas d'omission de la coiffe 5 de protection, la tête 1' de torche ne peut pas être alimentée en courant électrique car le moyen d'actionnement 6, c'est-à-dire le prolongement axial de la coiffe 5, ne peut pas venir coopérer avec l'organe 9 de commande des moyens interrupteurs électriques pour autoriser l'alimentation de la tête 1' en courant.As before, the actuation means 6 formed of an axial extension of the cap 5 comes to cooperate with the control member 9 for the switching means electric to allow the supply of the head 1 ' in electric current. If the nozzle 4 is omitted, the risks of electric shock for the operator are greatly diminished because, as explained above, the protective cap 5 cannot hold in place and is automatically ejected as soon as the operator releases it and the torch head 1 'cannot be supplied with electric current continuously. By analogy, in case of protection cap 5, head 1 ' torch cannot be supplied with current electric because the actuating means 6, that is to say the axial extension of the cap 5, cannot come cooperate with the means control member 9 electrical switches to allow power from the head 1 'while running.

En outre, comme montré sur les figures 7 et 8, pour faciliter le démontage de la coiffe 5, ladite coiffe de protection 5 comporte une première face d'appui comprenant au moins une première rampe, de préférence deux rampes 16 et 16'. Avantageusement, les premières rampes 16, 16' de la coiffe de protection 5 sont portées par le prolongement axial 6 de la paroi périphérique de la coiffe 5 et constituent les faces d'appui de ce prolongement axial 6.In addition, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, for facilitate disassembly of the cap 5, said cap protection 5 has a first support face comprising at least a first ramp, preferably two ramps 16 and 16 '. Advantageously, the first ramps 16, 16 'of the protective cap 5 are worn by the axial extension 6 of the peripheral wall of the cap 5 and constitute the bearing faces of this axial extension 6.

De même, l'extrémité de la tête de torche 1' comporte une deuxième face d'appui comprenant au moins une deuxième rampe, de préférence deux rampes 14 et 14'.Similarly, the end of the torch head 1 ' has a second bearing face comprising at least a second ramp, preferably two ramps 14 and 14 '.

Les rampes 16 et 16' ont une forme, c'est-à-dire des pentes, approximativement égale ou sensiblement complémentaire de celle des rampes 14 et 14', respectivement. The ramps 16 and 16 'have a shape, i.e. slopes, approximately equal or substantially complementary to that of ramps 14 and 14 ', respectively.

Il est à noter que la rampe 14 peut être de pente égale ou différente de celle de la rampe 14' et, de manière analogue, la rampe 16 peut être de pente égale ou différente de celle de la rampe 16'.It should be noted that the ramp 14 may have a slope equal to or different from that of ramp 14 'and, from similarly, the ramp 16 can be of equal slope or different from that of the 16 'ramp.

En position de fonctionnement (voir fig. 7), c'est-à-dire lorsque la coiffe de protection 5 est montée solidairement sur la tête de torche 1', les première et deuxième faces d'appui, et donc aussi lesdites rampes 16, 16' et rampes 14, 14' viennent, respectivement, au contact les unes des autres ; le jonc 8 de la coiffe 5 étant alors inséré par clipsage dans la gorge annulaire 7 portée par la tuyère 4, comme expliqué ci-avant.In the operating position (see fig. 7), i.e. when the protective cap 5 is fitted jointly on the torch head 1 ', the first and second bearing faces, and therefore also said ramps 16, 16 'and ramps 14, 14' come, respectively, to the contact with each other; the rod 8 of the cap 5 then being inserted by clipping into the annular groove 7 carried by the nozzle 4, as explained above.

A l'inverse, lorsque l'on souhaite démonter la coiffe de protection 5, c'est-à-dire la désolidariser de la tête de torche 1', il suffit, comme schématisé sur la figure 8, que l'opérateur exerce une force de rotation (flèche R) sur la coiffe 5, de manière à engendrer un glissement de la rampe 16 sur la rampe 14, ou de la rampe 16' sur la rampe 14', ce qui va alors se traduire par un mouvement en éloignement forcé de la coiffe 5 relativement au corps 1' de torche ; les première et deuxième faces d'appui se séparant l'une de l'autre. Cet éloignement forcé de la coiffe 5 par rapport au corps 1' engendre alors parallèlement un éloignement forcé de la coiffe 5 par rapport à la tuyère 4 qui est fixée audit corps 1', ce qui tend à dégager le jonc 8 de la gorge annulaire 7 portée par la tuyère 4, c'est-à-dire un déclipsage dudit jonc 8 permettant alors la désolidarisation de la coiffe 5 de la tuyère 4 et donc du corps 1'.Conversely, when one wishes to dismantle the protective cap 5, that is to say separate it from the torch head 1 ', it suffices, as shown schematically on the Figure 8, that the operator exerts a rotational force (arrow R) on the cover 5, so as to generate a sliding of the ramp 16 onto the ramp 14, or of the ramp 16 'on the ramp 14', which will then result in a movement of the cap 5 relative to the body 1 'of the torch; the first and second bearing faces separating from one another. This forced distance of the cap 5 relative to the body 1 ' then generates in parallel a forced distance from the cap 5 relative to the nozzle 4 which is fixed to said body 1 ', which tends to release the rod 8 from the throat annular 7 carried by the nozzle 4, that is to say a unclipping said rod 8 then allowing the separation of the cap 5 from the nozzle 4 and therefore from the body 1 '.

On comprend que la présence de telles rampes 14, 14', 16 et 16', est particulièrement avantageux par facilitant considérablement les opérations de démontage.We understand that the presence of such ramps 14, 14 ', 16 and 16', is particularly advantageous by considerably facilitating disassembly operations.

De manière générale, la présente invention améliore de façon notable la sécurité d'utilisation d'une torche à plasma, en particulier manuelle, qui en est équipée.In general, the present invention improves significantly the safety of using a torch at plasma, in particular manual, which is equipped with it.

Claims (10)

  1. Manual plasma torch (1) comprising:
    a handgrip (2);
    a torch head (1') including at least one nozzle holder (10) and a nozzle (4), the nozzle (4) being fixed to the said nozzle holder (10) by the use of fixing means (14);
    safety electrical switch means (3) controlling the supply of electric current to the torch head (1'); and
    a removable protective shroud (5) surrounding at least a part of the torch head (1'), the said protective shroud (5) including:
    at least one actuating means (6) capable of interacting with the safety electrical switch means (3) in order to make it possible to supply the torch head (1') with electric current; and
    retaining means capable of interacting with at least the nozzle (4) so as to allow the said protective shroud (5) to be integrated with at least the said nozzle (4)
    characterized in that:
    the said electrical switch means (3) are arranged in the handgrip (2) of the torch (1); and
    the said actuating means (6) is an axial extension of the peripheral wall of the protective shroud (5) that can penetrate into the internal space of the handgrip (2) and thus actuate the electrical switch (3).
  2. Torch according to Claim 1, characterized in that the retaining means include at least one spring clip (8) arranged within the protective shroud (5).
  3. Torch according to either of Claims 1 and 2, characterized in that the spring clip (8) is arranged within the shroud (5) and is capable of interacting with a recess (7) formed peripherally to the nozzle (4), in such a way as to allow the said protective shroud (5) to be integrated with at least the said nozzle (4).
  4. Torch according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the protective shroud (5) is integrated with the said nozzle (4) by clipping the spring clip (8) into the recess (7).
  5. Torch according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the said protective shroud (5) is produced from a least one electrically insulating material, such as a polymer; the protective shroud is preferably produced as a single electrically insulating piece.
  6. Torch according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the protective shroud (5) moreover carries a metal ring (15) integral with at least one part of its inner wall.
  7. Torch according to Claim 6, characterized in that the metal ring (15) is associated with the spring clip (8).
  8. Torch according to one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the protective shroud (5) includes a first bearing face comprising at least one first ramp (16, 16'), and the end of the torch head (1') includes a second bearing face comprising at least one second ramp (14, 14'), at least a part of the said first and second bearing faces, and at least the said first (16, 16') and second (14, 14') ramps coming, respectively, into contact with one another when the protective shroud (5) is mounted firmly on the torch head (1').
  9. Torch according to Claim 8, characterized in that at least one first ramp (16, 16') of the protective shroud (5) is carried by the axial extension (6) of the peripheral wall of the shroud (5).
  10. Method of plasma-arc welding or cutting, in which a plasma torch (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 9 is used.
EP99401701A 1998-07-15 1999-07-07 Safety device for plasmatorch Expired - Lifetime EP0973362B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9809038A FR2781328B1 (en) 1998-07-15 1998-07-15 SAFETY DEVICE FOR A PLASMA TORCH
FR9809038 1998-07-15
CA002281394A CA2281394A1 (en) 1998-07-15 1999-09-02 Safety device for a plasma torch

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EP0973362A1 EP0973362A1 (en) 2000-01-19
EP0973362B1 true EP0973362B1 (en) 2004-09-22

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US (1) US6096993A (en)
EP (1) EP0973362B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE277496T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2281394A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69920343T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2229644T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2781328B1 (en)

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US6096993A (en) 2000-08-01
ATE277496T1 (en) 2004-10-15
DE69920343T2 (en) 2005-11-17
CA2281394A1 (en) 2001-03-02
ES2229644T3 (en) 2005-04-16
EP0973362A1 (en) 2000-01-19
FR2781328B1 (en) 2000-08-18
DE69920343D1 (en) 2004-10-28
FR2781328A1 (en) 2000-01-21

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