Air carbon arc gouging is a process of removing metal by means of heat generated from a carbon arc. The process uses a carbon/graphite electrode, compressed air and a standard power source. The intense electric arc used between the tip of a carbon electrode and a metal work piece cuts and melts the work piece.

How does arc gouging work?

Air carbon arc gouging works as follows. An electric arc is generated between the tip of a carbon electrode and the workpiece. The metal becomes molten and a high velocity air jet streams down the electrode to blow it away, thus leaving a clean groove.

What do you need for arc gouging?

It strikes the molten metal immediately behind the arc. Required equipment includes an air compressor, welding power source, carbon electrode and a gouging torch. The air carbon arc process is shown in figure 10-75.