All metals can be cut using the shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) process and oxygenless arc cutting electrodes. The electrode coating is formulated to react exothermically, concentrating the heat and force of the arc at the point of cut. They are designed to have a slow burn-off rate, so that maximum length of cut can be achieved with each electrode. They are capable of withstanding a higher range of cutting amperages. Oxygenless arc cutting is not limited to ferrous metals, since it does not depend on the heat generated by the oxidation of the iron to propagate the process.
Application technique is a factor to be considered when specifying electric arc cutting. Welding personnel proficient in the use of conventional electrodes are also able to use the specially designed oxygenless arc cutting electrodes.