In a nontransferred arc process, where is the entire arc established?

In a nontransferred arc process, the entire arc is established within the torch, specifically between the torch electrode and the torch nozzle. This differs from a transferred arc process, where the arc travels from the electrode to the workpiece. In the nontransferred arc setup, the ionized gas, or plasma, forms directly around the electrode within the confines of the torch. This allows for precise control of the arc characteristics, which is essential for effective cutting operations. The containment of the arc within the torch prevents energy loss to the surrounding environment and enhances the safety and efficiency of the cutting process.

Other choices reference concepts associated with different arc configurations or settings that do not accurately describe the characteristics of a nontransferred arc process; for example, an arc between the workpiece and ground pertains to a different arc type, while the other choices discuss locations that are not involved in the arc formation for the nontransferred method.