Which type of arc is typically used in plasma cutting of stainless steel?

In plasma cutting, especially when working with stainless steel, the transferred arc is the most commonly used type. This method involves creating an electrically conductive plasma arc that transfers through the plasma gas to the workpiece, which is crucial for efficiently cutting through conductive materials like stainless steel.

The transferred arc allows for better control over the cut quality and speed. It generates a high temperature and ionizes the gas, which enhances the cutting process and increases the penetration into the metal. This makes it particularly useful for thicker sections of stainless steel compared to other methods.

Understanding the characteristics of the plasma arc types can clarify why the transferred arc is preferred. For instance, high-frequency arcs are often used in TIG welding but can introduce complications in plasma cutting due to risk of electrical interference. Low-current arcs might limit effectiveness in cutting thicker or harder materials like stainless steel. Non-transferred arcs do not reach the necessary intensity and focus to achieve effective cutting, as they lack the energy required to penetrate the material. This highlights why the transferred arc stands out as the optimal choice in the plasma cutting of stainless steel.