Processes for using a plasma arc torch to operate upon an insulation-coated workpiece

Abstract

A process for using a plasma arc torch is provided that includes operating a power source of the plasma arc torch to initiate an electric arc between an electrode of the plasma arc torch and a nozzle of the plasma arc torch at a starting arc current. A flow of argon-containing gas can be provided through the nozzle while the arc exists between the electrode and the nozzle, and the power source operated to cause the arc to extend out from the nozzle to a coating of insulation on a workpiece. The arc may ionize at least part of the argon-containing gas so as to burn through the insulation of the workpiece and attach the arc to metal of the workpiece. Thereafter, the flow of argon-containing gas can be halted and a flow of a different gas can be provided while increasing the arc current above the starting arc current.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.