PlasmaCAM torch holder

Metal Shop
#1

I’d like to commission a group composed of Metal and Machine people to solve the torch holder issue on the PlasmaCAM. Right now, it’s a bit of a clampy hack, and it is not very user friendly to the mechanically inexperienced user.

I propose milling a contoured torch holder which is bolted to the existing gantry, using existing mounting holes. The torch would then be placed into this holder, which grabs it on both top and bottom in a very secure manner, with an easy-to-operate clamping mechanism.

Who’s on board? Any thoughts on how we’d start?

2 Likes
#2

I agree. It’s a pain. There is a guy that machines then out of aluminum so the torch head drops right in. It’s 60.00. I measured yesterday evening the diameter of the cup which is right at 1".

Here is the link. http://www.ebay.com/itm/like/112020455566?lpid=82&chn=ps&ul_ref=http%3A%2F%2Frover.ebay.com%2Frover%2F1%2F711-117182-37290-0%2F2%3Fmtid%3D1588%26kwid%3D1%26crlp%3D53601919689_324272%26itemid%3D112020455566%26targetid%3D186358908489%26rpc%3D0.19%26rpc_upld_id%3D94758%26device%3Dm%26mpre%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.ebay.com%252Fulk%252Fitm%252Flike%252F112020455566%253Flpid%253D82%2526chn%253Dps%26adtype%3Dpla%26googleloc%3D1026339%26poi%3D9029049%26campaignid%3D239125209%26adgroupid%3D14978428809%26rlsatarget%3Dpla-186358908489%26gclid%3DCNf5wYXv59ACFQgGaQod6D4PEA%26srcrot%3D711-117182-37290-0%26rvr_id%3D1137041828266&ul_noapp=true

1 Like
#3

Nice! I would modify this basic design to support part of the torch handle, too. The design in that link puts a lot of leverage on the ceramic retaining cup, and I worry about what would happen if the torch contacts the material.

I was thinking some sort of spring-retained block, which would allow the torch head to move up/down and front/back if enough force was applied to it. Kinda like servo-savers for RC vehicles.

#4

I was thinking about making one out of steel. Say 1" pipe as long as the internal dimensions are close enough to 1" & it’s not too sloppy.

#5

How about a modified version as you say. Then add neodymium magnets to hold it. We could the use say ball bearings to hold position of the torch.

#6

Potentially bad idea around plasma (which is affected by electromagnetic fields)

I am in with helping make the holder if I can.

1 Like
#7

I’d love to help, but I’ll be honest.
I’ll just watch you guys work and hope to learn something…

5 Likes
#8

That’s what this company uses to mount the machine style torch.
http://www.snapncut.com/#2648

1 Like
#9

This will fix the funky torch holder. :grinning:

http://forestscientific.com/hs-cnc-plasma-cutter/

#10

Are we to take it that we can put this on the next BoD agenda and get it approved?!?!

If so, sign me up! :smiley:

Do we have handheld plasma cutter?
#11

That sounds good, and we could avoid the magnets by using a bolt with washer/spring/washer/nut arrangement. That would let the torch holder ride up the bolt if excessive pressure were applied.

#12

As much as I would have liked to make a holder that would spring/break away, I would be difficult to do without major modifications. The holder I came up with just required me to drill 4 holes & tap them. The torch needs to bottom out on the new holder, it is a real close fit to the Z-axis. While it is not perfect it will work. My welds were not the greatest as I was worried about the heat distortion. There could be better adjustment by opening the holes a little bit more for better adjustment.

IMG_8812.JPG4032×3024 2.2 MB

5 Likes
#13

Nice! How well does it work?

1 Like
#14

So far, pretty damn good. Sure as hell beats trying to fumble trying to get the torch straight. We may have to replace the thumb screw as it is getting a little more snug to move.

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#15

If anyone is wondering where the 7/16" wrench went, it rode home with me in my pocket last night. I will return it this evening after work. Sorry :frowning:

2 Likes
#16

Zach & everyone that took the PlasmaCam course last night - Thanks! ! !

Tim - when are the new toys going to be operational ? Need help?

1 Like
#17

I am giving a class on the morning of the 15th for the brake, shear & slip roll. Should be on the calendar tomorrow evening.

1 Like