Plasma Cutting and Gouging Course details

Purpose: Provides welder training in plasma cutting and gouging, delivered by a CWI, in 4-hour blocks (up to 8 hours/day) for industries like fabrication, construction, and metal repair.

Duration: Short courses (e.g., 1-4 days, ~8-32 hours) or part of welding programs.

Target Audience: Businesses, Welding Professionals, or individuals seeking plasma cutting and gouging skills for specialized metal preparation roles.

Key Learning Objectives

1. Understanding Plasma Cutting and Gouging:
   
   

   • Learn plasma cutting basics: high-temperature plasma arc process to cut conductive metals using a constricted nozzle and gas.

   • Learn plasma gouging basics: process to remove metal or create grooves using a plasma arc.

   • Explore applications for steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other conductive materials in shop or field settings.

2. Equipment and Setup:
   
   

   • Master plasma cutting/gouging equipment: plasma power supply, torch, air compressor, ground clamp, and gas delivery system.

   • Select consumables (e.g., electrodes, nozzles) and adjust amperage, gas pressure (e.g., compressed air, nitrogen), and travel speed for clean cuts or gouges.

3. Cutting and Gouging Techniques:
   
   

   • Perform straight, curved, and bevel cuts on various metal thicknesses in all positions.

   • Execute gouging for weld preparation, defect removal, or back-gouging with controlled depth and width.

   • Practice torch handling (45° angle for cutting, 35-45° for gouging, 1/8-1/4-inch standoff) for precision and efficiency.

4. Safety and PPE:
   
   

   • Use PPE (helmets with shaded lenses, gloves, leather jackets, steel-toe boots, glasses) to protect against UV, sparks, and molten metal.

   • Manage fumes, noise, and fire hazards per safety protocols.

5. Cut and Gouge Quality and Inspection:
   
   

   • Achieve clean, accurate cuts and gouges with minimal dross, guided by CWI expertise.

   • Address issues (excessive dross, irregular cuts, electrode wear, arc instability).

   • Practice surface cleaning and edge preparation for quality results.

Course Structure

• Theory: Plasma cutting/gouging principles, equipment, setup, and quality standards, taught by CWI.

• Hands-On: Lab-based cutting and gouging with CWI feedback on technique and quality.

• Assessments: Cut/gouge tests and evaluations per industry criteria.

Prerequisites

• Basic metalworking knowledge or introductory safety training.

• Minimum age (e.g., 18) and physical ability to handle equipment.

Outcomes

• Skills Gained: Plasma cutting and gouging proficiency for precise metal preparation.

• Certifications: Prepares for industry-recognized cutting certifications.

• Career Paths: Roles in fabrication, construction, or metal repair.

Advantages

• CWI-led training ensures high-quality plasma cutting/gouging skills.

• Suits fast, versatile metal cutting and preparation in diverse settings.

Challenges Covered

• Managing fume and noise in work environments.

• Ensuring proper consumable maintenance and cut cleanup.

• Troubleshooting issues (e.g., arc instability, dross buildup).

Note: Contact Marc Conner for course scheduling.