Randolph R Howell

US Patent:

44107889, Oct 18, 1983

Filed:

Jun 2, 1981

Appl. No.:

6/269733

Inventors:

John E. Summers - Charlotte NC
Randolph F. Howell - Charlotte NC

International Classification:

B23K 910

US Classification:

2191301

Abstract:

A method and apparatus is disclosed for providing an improved power and fluid supply system which operates in a multiple functioning welding and cutting apparatus and which consists of a combination of a main power transformer which supplies the main welding current and a very high voltage transformer for supplying very high voltages above 200 volts required for plasma cutting. A transformer switching device provides for coupling between the main transformer and the very high voltage transformer in order to selectively connect the main transformer and the very high voltage transformer in parallel. The power supply including the main transformer, the very high voltage transformer and the transformer switching device are connected to a tool coupling device in order to selectively apply appropriate voltage and current levels to the tool coupling device through the use of a selector switch which is coupled to the fluid supply end of the power supply for selectively changing their respective outputs.