Plasma Torch Power Circuit and Cooling System

A plasma cutting system comprising:

• a power supply capable of generating a plasma arc, the power supply including
• (i) a plurality of semiconductor switches,
• (ii) a plurality of inductors electrically connected to the plurality of semiconductor switches, each semiconductor switch electrically connected to a distinct inductor of the plurality of inductors, the plurality of semiconductor switches configured to operate in an interleaved switching mode, and
• (iii) a multi-pulse transformer electrically connected to a plurality of rectifiers, the plurality of rectifiers connected in series and electrically connected to the plurality of semiconductor switches;
• and
• a liquid cooling system connected to the power supply and configured to thermally regulate the plurality of semiconductor switches, the liquid cooling system including a cold plate and a coolant channel formed within the cold plate.

A plasma cutting system comprising:

• means for providing power to a plasma cutting torch using at least two interleaved choppers, each of the interleaved choppers connected to a distinct inductor;
• and
• means for liquid cooling of the interleaved choppers,
• wherein the means for providing power is characterized by at least one of the following:
• (i) a weight to power ratio of approximately 22.4 pounds per kilowatt;
• (ii) a volume to power ratio of approximately 1366 cubic inches per kilowatt;
• (iii) an average chopper semiconductor device case temperature of approximately 100 degrees Centigrade during operation;
• (iv) a maximum transformer temperature of about 133 degrees Centigrade during a cutting operation.