This industrial tool uses a compressed air jet combined with an electric arc to melt and expel metal, creating a clean groove. Similar to a cutting torch, but relying on an electric arc and pneumatic force rather than a chemical reaction, this process is often used to remove welds, defects, or excess material from metal workpieces. For instance, imperfections in a large steel fabrication can be efficiently removed using this method prior to final welding or finishing.
The controlled metal removal offered by this technology provides significant advantages in various industries, including shipbuilding, construction, and heavy equipment repair. It allows for precise gouging with minimal heat input, reducing the risk of distortion or damage to the surrounding metal. Faster and often more economical than grinding, it has become an essential tool for enhancing efficiency and quality in metalworking operations. Its development has contributed significantly to streamlining processes that were previously labor-intensive and time-consuming.