What can be used with a Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC) unit if compressed air is dry and free of oil?

Using shop air with a Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC) unit, if it is dry and free of oil, is appropriate because shop air is a common and effective source of plasma gas. The requirements for compressed air in PAC applications include being clean and dry to ensure optimal cutting performance and to prevent contamination that could lead to equipment damage or unreliable cuts.

In the context of plasma cutting, the compressed air serves as the ionizable gas that creates the plasma arc necessary for cutting metal. The availability of a pressurized source of clean air allows for a stable and efficient cutting process.

While other options might provide various forms of energy or fluid, they do not meet the specific needs of the PAC process. Electric power supplies are crucial for operating the arc but do not fulfill the role of providing the ionizable medium. Hydraulic fluid and gasoline also do not serve as substitutes for the plasma gas and would not create the necessary conditions for effective cutting. Thus, shop air that is adequately filtered and dry is the right choice for a successful plasma cutting operation.