What two sources of power are required for the plasma arc cutting process?

In the plasma arc cutting process, the two essential sources of power are an electrical power supply and a cutting gas. The electrical power supply generates the high-voltage arc required to ionize the gas, turning it into plasma. This plasma is then directed through a nozzle, which constricts and accelerates it, effectively turning it into a focused cutting stream.

The cutting gas, often air or inert gas, serves to both assist in the cutting action and cool the components involved. The combination of the electrical energy and the thermal energy from the cutting gas facilitates the melting and removal of the material being cut. This synergy between the electrical power and the cutting gas is crucial to the effectiveness and efficiency of the plasma cutting process.

Other options such as a generator with compressed air or a battery with a hydraulic press do not align with the operational requirements of plasma arc cutting, as they either lack the necessary ionization or are not suited for the specific cutting mechanism involved in this process.