What types of materials are most commonly cut using the transferred arc process of plasma arc cutting?

The transferred arc process of plasma arc cutting is particularly effective for materials that are electrically conductive, primarily metals. This method utilizes a plasma arc created between an electrode and the workpiece, where the arc transfers energy directly to the material being cut. The high temperatures generated can melt or vaporize the metal, allowing for a clean and precise cut.

Metals like steel, aluminum, brass, and copper are commonly used with this cutting method because they readily conduct electricity. The effectiveness of plasma arc cutting lies in its ability to handle various thicknesses of these metals efficiently, making it a preferred choice in industrial applications.

In contrast, materials such as wood, plastics, glass, ceramics, textiles, and composites either do not conduct electricity or may not withstand the extreme heat of plasma cutting. Therefore, while these materials can be cut using other methods, they are not suitable for the transferred arc process in plasma arc cutting. This specialization in cutting specific types of materials highlights the advantages of the process for metal fabrication and related industries.