The Pros and Cons of Carbon Arc Gouging

There are several types of welding, and carbon arc gouging (also known as arc welding or carbon arc welding) is popular for heavy-duty projects because it involves minimal welding supplies in Phoenix, AZ.

Carbon arc welding is the term to describe joining metal elements together by using electricity. Whereas other methods use gas to heat the metal and fuse it together, carbon arc gouging relies only on electricity. An electric arc is formed between the electrode and the workpiece, which then melts the metal. As it is heated, a stream of air blows across the molten metal to create a smooth groove.

Arc welding can use both direct or alternating currents, and has the capacity to reach 6,500 degrees Fahrenheit. Arc welding is used in fusing steel, heavy equipment repair, pipeline projects and a whole host of other repair or construction projects.

Here’s a closer look at some of the benefits of carbon arc gouging:

• Cost-effective: Since carbon arc gouging doesn’t use gas, it’s more cost-effective on that level alone. The materials are usually more affordable, and on the whole, you use less equipment than with other welding methods.
• Easily portable: The materials for carbon arc welding are very easy to transport, particularly because they use less equipment.
• Can be used on dirty metal: Some types of welding require a pristine surface before the metals can be bonded. Arc welding doesn’t require cleanliness, and because it doesn’t rely on oxidation, it can be applied to a variety of different materials.
• No need for shielding gas: One of the most versatile features of carbon arc welding is the fact that it can be done in a variety of climates, including rain or wind, and the splatter is minimal.

While carbon arc gouging is an effective method in some cases, it does have some drawbacks you should be aware of, including:

• Comparatively lower efficiency: Arc welding typically puts out more waste product than other welding methods, which can be costly, depending on the materials used.
• Requires a high level of welding skill: Learning arc welding requires a high level of skill and proficiency, which not all welding professionals possess.
• Noisy: Because arc welding uses high currents and high air pressures, it can be very noisy (always wear hearing protection).
• Can be difficult to use on thin materials: Arc welding is not particularly suited for thin materials, but it can be used on a variety of thicker metals.

Ready to take your welding skills to the next level? Vern Lewis Welding Supply, Inc. can teach you the ins and outs of carbon arc gouging. Increase your versatility as a professional or casual welder when you learn with us.

Enroll in welding classes in Phoenix, AZ

Vern Lewis Welding Supply, Inc. offers welding classes in Phoenix, AZ. You will find the skills and products you need to get the job done not only right, but with the highest quality equipment possible. If you’re new to welding or want to improve your existing skills, we offer a variety of welding classes so that you can stay on the cutting edge of welding techniques. Stop by or call us today to find out more!