13.4 Chapter Conclusion
Stephanie Oostman
Summary
In summary, CAC-A can be used in the AC or DCEP polarity. The process is not limited to just cutting, but the welder can implore a variety of techniques to remove superficial material, gouge out a crack, or create bevels in the field. Carbon arc air cutting can be utilized for cutting a range of material and does not require the metal to react to the carbon electrode such as in OAC (oxyfuel cutting). CAC-A leaves carbon mineral deposits behind, so care should be taken to post-clean the area if more welding is needed.
And as always, follow proper PPE and manufacturer’s guidelines for proper safety.
Review Questions
- What polarity can be used with CAC-A?
- What metals should not be cut using carbon arc air cutting?
- What safety precautions should be in place prior to using CAC-A?
- What was the struggle with carbon arc cutting prior to the addition of using compressed air?
- What gas is used to “blow away” the molten dross?
- Does the metal being used in conjunction with CAC-A have to react to the electrode to be cut of gouged?
- Is CAC-A considered a electric or gas thermal cutting process?
- How much preparation is needed for the CAC-A process?
- How is AAC different than CAC-A?
- True or False: Carbon arc air cutting is relatively quiet and does not require PPE for the ears such as ear plugs or over the ear muffs.
