996342 - ESAB PT-15 Plasma Torch Insulator Clamp

Technical Overview of the ESAB 996342 Insulator Clamp

The ESAB 996342 Insulator Clamp is a precision-engineered component designed exclusively for the PT-15 plasma cutting torch system. As a critical element within the torch head assembly, this insulator clamp serves a dual purpose: it provides essential mechanical clamping force to secure internal components and establishes a high-dielectric barrier to prevent electrical shorting between the electrode and the nozzle or torch body.

Manufactured from advanced high-temperature composite materials, the 996342 is built to withstand the extreme thermal cycles and high-voltage environments characteristic of mechanized plasma cutting. The PT-15 torch is often utilized in high-duty cycle industrial applications, where component degradation due to heat and ozone exposure can compromise performance. This insulator clamp resists carbon tracking and thermal deformation, ensuring that the concentricity of the consumables is maintained. Proper alignment is paramount for achieving a focused plasma arc and high-quality cut edges.

Failure to replace a compromised insulator clamp can lead to internal arcing, which may permanently damage the torch head and necessitate expensive repairs. This genuine ESAB part ensures full compatibility with the PT-15's water-cooled architecture, maintaining the manufacturer's specifications for safety and performance. It is an indispensable spare part for maintenance teams managing automated cutting tables or heavy industrial plasma systems.