The process that uses a high temperature and a restricted stream of ionized gas is Plasma Arc Cutting. Here's why:
1. Plasma Arc Cutting:
- In Plasma Arc Cutting, a high-temperature plasma jet is created by passing an electric current through a gas (often a combination of argon, hydrogen, nitrogen, or oxygen) that is forced through a constricted opening.
- The intense heat of the plasma jet melts through the metal being cut, while the high-velocity stream of ionized gas blows the molten metal away, resulting in a clean cut.
- This process is used for cutting various metals, including steel, stainless steel, aluminum, copper, and other conductive materials.
2. Oxy-Fuel Cutting:
- Oxy-Fuel Cutting, on the other hand, uses a combination of fuel gas (such as acetylene) and oxygen to create a high-temperature flame that melts the metal.
- While effective for cutting thicker metals, oxy-fuel cutting does not use a restricted stream of ionized gas like Plasma Arc Cutting does.
- Oxy-Fuel Cutting is commonly used for cutting carbon steel and other ferrous metals.
In summary, when considering the use of a high temperature and a restricted stream of ionized gas, Plasma Arc Cutting fits this description more accurately than Oxy-Fuel Cutting.
