Method for magnetic control of plasma arc

A method of controlling a plasma arc comprising:

• applying a current signal to a plurality of magnetic poles disposed around a plasma arc torch;
• controlling the current signal to change at least one of:
• a strength of a magnetic field produced by the magnetic poles,
• a polarity of the magnetic poles, and
• a movement of a magnetic force between the plurality of magnetic poles,
• such that a size and location of the plasma arc is controlled.

A plasma arc torch comprising:

• a torch head defining a proximal end portion and a distal end portion;
• a plurality of magnetic poles disposed around the distal end portion of the torch head;
• a plurality of electrical coils wound around a proximal end portion of each of the plurality of magnetic poles;
• a plurality of lead wires connected to the plurality of electrical coils;
• and
• a control system for controlling a current supplied to the plasma arc torch through the lead wires to change at least one of:
• a strength of a magnetic field produced by the magnetic poles,
• a polarity of the magnetic poles, and
• a movement of a magnetic force between the plurality of magnetic poles,
• such that a size and location of a plasma arc is controlled.