Evolution of Plasmit

Some 25 years ago, ESAB (L-TEC) introduced plasma gouging to the metal working industry. The process was an instant success, displacing carbon arc gouging in many applications.

Carbon Arc Gouging

Carbon arc gouging is a noisy, messy process. The high airflow creates large amounts of smoke, and it is very difficult and costly to effectively capture the smoke and fumes. In addition, carbon arc gouging leaves carbon on the gouged surface. If the gouged surface is to be welded, it must be cleaned with a grinder, adding even more dust to the worker’s environment.

Plasma Gouging

Plasma gouging offers an incredible reduction of smoke and fume compared to carbon arc gouging. Because the gas flow with plasma is much lower than carbon arc, the small amount of smoke that is generated is much easier to capture. Plasma offers productivity improvements as well. Plasma gouging can be a continuous operation, (no carbon electrodes to replace), the travel speed can be quite high, and the gouged groove is clean and ready to weld. The noise level of plasma is much lower than with carbon arc, which makes the workplace more comfortable for all workers.

The Problem with Plasma Gouging

Plasma torches cannot withstand the extreme environment with plasma gouging. Since plasma cutting torches operate at relatively high voltages, the torches must be built using an insulating material on the outside of the torch, to protect the operator. In normal cutting use, the torches stay cool, because the hot metal and gases are ejected below the plate. In plasma Gouging, the heat stays on the top of the plate, exposing the torch to intense heat and metal splashback. The result is unacceptably short torch body life.