An arc cutting process that uses a continuous consumable electrode and a shielding gas. This is an obsolete process.

Gas metal arc cutting was developed soon after the commercial introduction of the gas metal arc welding process. Gas metal arc cutting first occurred accidentally during a welding operation, when it was found that if the electrode feed rate was set too high, it would penetrate through the plate. When the torch was moved, a cut was made. GMAC is used to cut shapes in stainless steel and aluminum. Using gas metal arc

welding equipment and a 2.4 mm (3/32 in.) diameter electrode, stainless steel up to 38 mm (1-1/2 in.) thick, and aluminum up to 75 mm (3 in.) thick can be cut.

The chief limitations to GMAC are the high consumption of welding electrodes and the high currents (up to 2000 amperes) required for cutting.

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