Plasma arc torch with secondary starting circuit and electrode

A plasma arc torch comprising:

• a main power circuit for applying a voltage across an electrode disposed within the plasma arc torch, the electrode adapted for electrical connection to a cathodic side of a power supply;
• a tip positioned distally from the electrode and adapted for electrical connection to an anodic side of the power supply during piloting, a plasma chamber being formed between the electrode and the tip;
• a third element disposed near a proximal end of the plasma chamber, wherein the third element comprises:
• a plurality electrically of conductive extensions extending between a first electrically conductive ring and a second electrically conductive ring, the first electrically conductive ring disposed towards a distal end of the third element;
• and
• a secondary power circuit disposed proximate the plasma arc torch and in electrical communication with the third element, the secondary power circuit configured to generate a high voltage pulse on the third element using input to the secondary power circuit to initiate a first arc to start the plasma arc torch.