Air-arc Cutting

Air-arc cutting is molten metal through an electric arc cutting and forced removal of compressed air produced by the action of the arc melt. Diagram of air-arc cutting is shown in figure.

Air-arc cutting and clamps the electrode (right)

Air is supplied along with non-consumable electrode (usually carbon or graphite) and a special electrode holder. The arc is usually lit on the DC reverse polarity. For optimum performance, air-arc cutting is achieved with a diameter of 6-12 mm of the electrode, the strength of welding current 300-1500A, arc voltage 30-40V, air pressure 4-7 kg / cm 2 , air flow rate of 20-30 m 3 / h The arc has a low resistance, frequent breakages.

Air-arc cutting more efficient, less wear rate of the electrode. It is therefore advisable to use electrodes coated with protective layer unloading of copper or aluminum-based compositions.

The quality of the cut surface and the adjacent metal is low. In the surface layer and on the edges of the depth of 0.1-0.3 mm can be observed increase in carbon content, in connection with what may appear cracked. To reduce the possibility of carburization should not touch the hot metal electrode. After air-arc cutting is necessary to perform a thorough cleaning of surfaces with a brush to metallic luster and conduct the inspection to establish the absence of surface defects.

Air-arc cutting is commonly used for surface treatment (gouging) or as a dividing cut in scrap steel, aluminum, copper and titanium.

Cutting technology:

Oxygen Cutting Oxygen Flux Cutting Oxygen Lance Cutting Air-arc cutting

Oxy-arc Cutting Plasma Cutting Laser Cutting Waterjet Cutting