Low voltage electrical based parts-in-place (PIP) system for contact start torch

A detection system for a cutting torch for use in connection with a workpiece comprising:

• an electrode;
• a tip;
• a housing supporting the tip and the electrode for providing relative movement therebetween and allowing for electrical contact between the tip and the electrode;
• a sensor circuit for sensing when the electrode and the tip are in electrical contact, said sensor circuit generating a switch control signal indicative of electrical contact between the electrode and tip;
• a power supply for providing a first voltage and a second voltage such that a potential voltage difference is established between the electrode and the tip or between the electrode and the workpiece, wherein a magnitude of the first voltage is less than a magnitude of the second voltage;
• and
• a first switch circuit connected to the sensor circuit, said first switch circuit applying the first voltage to the electrode when the switch control signal indicates that the electrode and the tip are not in electrical contact and said first switch circuit applying the second voltage to the electrode when the switch control signal indicates that the electrode and tip are in electrical contact.