Richard L Dickman

US Patent:

58774718, Mar 2, 1999

Filed:

Jun 11, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/873259

Inventors:

William A. Huhn - Fairbanks AK
Richard D. Dickman - Two Rivers AK

Assignee:

The Regents of the University of California - Oakland CA

International Classification:

B23K 1000

US Classification:

21912149

Abstract:

A plasma torch assembly for receiving electrical energy from an electrical energy source and generating a plasma in a gas from a gas source includes an induction coil to receive electrical energy from the electrical energy source and provide energy to generate an electromagnetic field for the plasma and a shield assembly to shield against energy from the plasma and transfer energy from the induction coil to the plasma. The shield assembly includes a dielectric cylinder, ceramic encasement lining and a plurality of thin walled tubes arranged in a circular array. The tubes are encased by and partially embedded in an encasement lining made of thermal resistant ceramic material that is molded or potted upon the outside surface of and between the metal tubes. The dielectric cylinder, tightly disposed over the encasement lining, provides a water proof barrier for the tubes and supports the ability to draw a vacuum. A water coolant jacket envelope, discharge isolator and the coil surround the shield assembly.