Are you getting the most out of your EX-TRAFIRE® HD plasma cutting unit? The gouging mode is one feature that can take your cutting game to the next level. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of gouging, exploring its benefits, applications, and tips for mastering this powerful technique.

What is Gouging Mode?

So, you’re probably wondering what gouging mode is. It is a specialized setting on your plasma cutter that allows for the removal of material, rather than just cutting through it. By adjusting the plasma arc to a wider, more forceful beam, gouging mode enables you to:

• ● Remove old welds, rust, or corrosion. An example of this is the removal of Hardbanding material on oil field piping.
• ● Create bevels or chanfers on the edges
• ● Enlarge holes or cutoutsRemove old welds, rust, or corrosion. An example of this is the removal of Hardbanding material on oil field piping.
• ● Scrape off coatings or paint

Hardbanding is a weld overlay coating applied to drill pipe tool joints, designed to protect the pipe from wear and tear, increasing its lifespan.

Benefits of Gouging Mode

• Increased versatility:
  • Gouging mode expands the capabilities of your plasma cutter, making it a more valuable asset in your workshop.
• Time saving:
  • Increases productivity and reduces labor costs by delivering high-speed removal rates, making it a game-changer for large-scale projects and high-volume tasks.
• Improved surface preparation:
  • By removing rust, corrosion, or old welds, gouging mode helps ensure a clean surface for welding or other applications.

Tips for Mastering Gouging Mode

• Adjust your technique:
  • Gouging requires a slower, more deliberate motion than cutting. Experiment with different speeds and angles to find what works best.
• Choose the right consumables:
  • Use gouging-specific consumables, like a gouging shield and nozzle, to optimize performance.
• Experiment with settings:
  • Fine-tune your plasma cutter’s settings, such as amperage and air pressure, to achieve the desired effect.
• Practice makes perfect:
  • Gouging takes practice, so start with scrap material to develop your skills.

Common Applications for Gouging Mode

• Weld preparation:
  • Remove rust, corrosion, or old welds to ensure a clean surface for welding.
• Surface cleaning:
  • Scrape off coatings, paint, or grime to prepare surfaces for painting or other finishes.
• Edge beveling:
  • Create smooth bevels or chamfers on edges for improved weld quality or aesthetics.

Conclusion

Gouging mode is a powerful feature on your EX-TRAFIRE® HD plasma cutting unit, offering a range of benefits and applications. By understanding how to harness this capability, you can expand your workshop’s versatility, save time, and achieve better results. Remember to experiment with settings, practice your technique, and choose the right consumables to get the most out of gouging mode.

Watch a video: FHT-EX® torches used for gouging.

We hope this blog has inspired you to explore the possibilities of gouging mode on your plasma cutter. Happy cutting!

Related article: Plasma gouging for protective coatings

Text: Thermacut, k.s.
Photos: archive of Thermacut, k. s.