Bipolar torch
A bipolar torch is a tool which was used to cut through material.
A handheld device, it works by generating a directed flow of plasma in the form of a beam.
The bipolar torch heats deuterium plasma using an oscillating positron beam. A strong magnetic field generated by nickel-rhombium ceramic electromagnets then compresses and shapes the plasma. This initial process imparts a charge on the plasma. A second set of electromagnets with the same polarity as the plasma compresses it further. The plasma is finally directed out of the torch’s ceramic-polymer nozzle as a beam. The beam of plasma is capable of maintaining its density for a considerable distance.
The main body of the bipolar torch is an elongated cylinder, which houses the deuterium, electromagnets, and power supply. The nozzle is split in two along the horizontal axis to mitigate thermal damage to the tool during use. Due to its larger size, the bipolar torch has two hand grips perpendicular to the main body, giving it a form closer to a phaser pistol. Controls for the torch are located on the end of the main body, above the rear grip.
By compressing the plasma into a beam, the bipolar torch is capable of a higher energy density than traditional plasma torches. The torch can easily cut through duranium and tritanium, and is one of the only tools capable of cutting through toranium. Unlike plasma torches, they are not typically used for other applications, such as welding or "plasma spraying." Due to the limited applications, the bipolar torch is considered specialized equipment and not found in a standard Engineering Kit.
Bipolar torches are unable to cleanly cut non-metallic or brittle materials. Their greater heat output and density can easily cause thermal deformation of the materials at the cut site. Though bipolar torches are more accurate and make cleaner cuts than plasma torches, they tend to be less precise than laser- or phaser-based torches. In light of the extended range of the device, the Starfleet Regulatory Agency requires appropriate safety measures to be put in place to prevent errant crewmen from straying into the cutting beam.
Fun fact: it is the only tool which can be used to cut through toranium inlay, which is used by the Cardassians.
This article written by Cornelius Hoekstra
