Device for positioning a cutting torch aggregate

A device for positioning a cutting torch aggregate a predetermined distance from a workpiece comprising, in combination, a movable sled as part of said aggregate, torch means mounted to said sled for joint movement therewith, drive means for moving said sled up and down toward and away from the workpiece, said drive means including a spindle, means for rotating said spindle, a nut engaged with said spindle mounted for relative movement with respect thereto, said sled disposed for resting against said nut whereby the vertical positioning of said sled is determined by the relative movement of said nut, spacing means mounted to said sled and extending beyond said torch means for contacting the workpiece when said torch means is closer than the predetermined distance while said nut is being moved in its relative lowering direction, control means on said sled and said nut and connected to said spindle rotating means for reversing the direction of relative movement of said nut to its raising direction upon contact of said spacing means with the workpiece to thereby raise said sled until said torch means is at said predetermined distance, said control means including a movable control lever which activates said rotating means when said control lever is in a predetermined position, a stud connected with said nut for joint movement therewith, and said control lever being in the path of movement of stud whereby said control lever may be moved to said predetermined position upon contact by said study.