MMA GougingMMA gouging is a process used for cutting, grooving, gouging, and removing weld metal. The heat for cutting is provided by an electric arc struck between the gouging electrode and the workpiece. The power supply may be DCEN, DCEP, or AC depending on the electrode design, but equipment with a high open circuit voltage is required. The main feature of the process is a forceful and very concentrated arc capable of cutting up to 25mm thick steel. The electrodes used are similar in construction to those used for MMA welding in that they comprise a steel core wire surrounded by a flux covering. However, cutting and grooving electrodes operate at much higher currents than mild steel welding electrodes. This cutting process is generally used for grooving and back gouging welds in carbon and alloy steels and may also be used for stainless steel alloys where carbon pick-up is not important. The main problems with MMA gouging and cutting are spatter, control of the cut, and oxidation of the cut surfaces. The main safety issues are electrical, noise, arc radiation, and welding fume.
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