Chapter 13: Carbon Arc Cutting (CAC)
Overview
Carbon arc cutting (CAC), also referred to as gouging, is an arc cutting process that allows varying amounts of metal to be removed from a metal area using a carbon electrode. It is now used in conjunction with compressed air, becoming CAC-A.
CAC-A requires very little to no surface preparation, but does require some post-cutting cleanup. When the machine and cutting parameters are set appropriately, it can be a very quick and effective process for cutting and beveling in a multitude of industrial situations, such as when you need to rectify a weld defect on a large pipe, back-gouge a full penetration weld, or remove extra metal from an 80,000 pound casting.
Objectives
After completing this chapter students will be able to:
- List the uses of CAC in industry.
- Identify equipment associated with this process.
- Recall techniques for using this process.
Key Terms
- Air arc cutting (AAC)
- Back-gouging
- Carbon arc cutting (CAC)
- Compressed air
- Scarfing
- Washing
Attributions
- Chapter opening image: Atlantic Ocean (Nov. 14, 2005) Hull Technician 3rd Class Jesse Delong of Bridgewater, Maine, practices cutting metal using a Carbon arc aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65). by Photographer’s Mate 3rd Class Josh Kinter in the Public Domain; United States government work
Carbon Arc Cutting and gouging is an arc cutting process that allows varying amounts of metal to be removed from a metal area using a carbon electrode. It is now used in conjunction with compressed air, but this has only been a relatively recent addition.
Compressed air is air that has been pressurized to a pressure greater than the atmosphere. Compressed air is made up of the same gasses in the atmosphere, so it shouldn't be confused with oxygen or other pressurized gasses.
