Apparatus for Straightening a Cylindrical Member

Author:  Gray
Source:  US Patent 5,737,957
Doc ID:  1997038
Year of Publication:  1997
Abstract:  
An apparatus for straightening a cylindrical member having an imperfection. An imperfection detector is used to lacate the imperfecton. A plasma torcy is used to heat a portion of the cylindrical member in the vicinity of the imperfection. The plasma arc torch has an arc extending between an anode and an electrode. Gas flows past the arc and is heated, thus expanding into a plasma jet. The plasma arc torch directs the plasma jet toward the cylindrical member, thus alleviating the imperfection. A control system automates the straightening process by monitoring the detector and controlling the heating and quenching based on information within a database. Peening or brushing may be employed in lieu of the plasma arc torch.