LOGO横白.jpg

What is Air Carbon Arc Gouging? How to Choose the Right Carbon Rod?

Created on 10.05

What is Air Carbon Arc Gouging?

Air Carbon Arc Gouging (CAC-A) is a highly efficient metal removal process that uses the intense heat of an electric arc between a carbon-graphite electrode and a workpiece to melt the metal. A stream of compressed air is then directed at the arc zone to blow away the molten metal, leaving a clean groove or cut. It is a portable, fast, and versatile method used extensively in welding and metal fabrication.
The process was developed during World War II to solve a critical problem: removing defective welds from the stainless steel armor plates of warships. Traditional methods like chipping and grinding were too slow and costly for the war effort, while carbon arc gouging is relatively fast and cost-effective.

Applications of Air Gouging

The versatility of air carbon arc gouging makes it suitable for a wide range of tasks across various industries.
  1. Back-Gouging:
  2. Weld Repair and Removal:
  3. Casting Work:
  4. Preparing Joints & Beveling:
  5. Equipment Maintenance and Repair:

What is Needed for Air Gouging? (Equipment & Setup)

To perform air carbon arc gouging, you need the following equipment:
  1. Carbon-Graphite Electrodes (Carbon Rods):
  2. Power Source:Constant Current (CC)
  3. Air Compressor:80 and 100 psi
  4. Gouging Torch:
0

The Procedure: How to Do Air Gouging

  1. Setup:80-100 psi
  2. Position the Electrode:uncoated end should point toward the workpiece7 inches
  3. Strike the Arc:Do not withdraw it
  4. Maintain the Correct Angle:35 to 45-degree angle
  5. Control Travel Speed and Depth:
  1. Focus on the Line:
  2. Use the Push Technique:

How to Choose the Right Carbon Rod

The choice of electrode is critical for achieving the desired gouging effect. Shape and diameter are the main factors that affect the process.
The diameter of carbon rod would determine current capacity, groove width, and removal rate. A larger diameter allows for higher amperage, deeper grooves, and faster removal. The electrode diameter should be about ****(3mm) larger than the desired groove depth. Your machine's amperage limits the maximum electrode size you can use.
This chart shows the relationship between carbon rod diameter, copper plating weight, and current range.
Size
Copper plating
Current range
5*355mm
1.4g
300A
6*355mm
1.3g
250A
7*355mm
2g
300A
8*355mm
2.3g
400A
10*355mm
3.4g
500A
12*355mm
6g
700A
The shape of carbon rod would determine the shape and profile of the gouged groove.
Round (Pointed): Most common. Good for all-purpose gouging, creating U-shaped grooves.
Flat (Rectangular): Used for creating wide, flat grooves, removing weld reinforcements, or flushing surfaces.
We hope this guide has equipped you with the fundamental knowledge to effectively perform air carbon arc gouging. With this understanding and some practice, you'll be able to tackle a wide range of tasks with efficiency and confidence.
Samantha
Zoe