Controllable cut by a plasma arc torch

Abstract

Embodiments of methods of controlling the shape of a cut on a workpiece using a plasma arc torch are provided. The methods may control the resultant cut angle and the shape of a top of the cut. The top of the cut can have either a sharp edge, or have a rounded lip. The radius of the rounded lip can be adjusted. The standoff distance defined between the nozzle of the plasma arc torch and the top surface of the workpiece contributes to defining the resultant cut angle and the shape of the top of the cut. In particular, increasing the standoff results in a greater radius and increases the cut angle and decreasing the standoff distance does the opposite. Additionally, the angle of inclination of the plasma arc torch can be used to compensate for a resultant cut angle so as to produce a desired cut angle.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.