Development of the Hydroweld HYDRO-ARC GOUGING system began in the late eighties predominantly as an aid to the removal of weld metal from components underwater. The HYDRO-ARC GOUGING process, a variation of carbon-arc gouging, uses a jet of water to remove molten metal generated as a result of the initiation of an electric arc between the electrode and the metal. Its fine control and relatively precise cut/gouge not only lends itself to weld removal such as for the removal of doubler plates, but also to such applications as the removal of dog scars, pipe / plate stubs, and weld preparation. Whilst the HYDRO-ARC GOUGING system is not principally a cutting system it can be used to quite quickly cut through 6 mm - 8 mm plate, and with little effort, but more slowly, cut through thicker plate. HYDRO-ARC GOUGING has already proven its worth on numerous projects in all sectors of the industry including the offshore oil and gas, civil engineering shipping and nuclear industries.

• Metal removal up to 30 times faster than grinding. (30 cm³/min with 6 mm Ø electrode.)
• Consumables costs are low and readily available from Hydroweld
• Expensive gasses are not required
• Virtually no risk of serious accidental damage to the parent metals
• Can be used in all positions and in any depth of water
• Gouging carbons are easily changed and adjusted underwater
• Easy to use, requiring minimal training
• Minimal heat affected zone (generally < 0.5 mm)
• Does not cut by oxidising the metal
• Will gouge ferrous and non-ferrous metals
• Can be used in tight corners inaccessible to grinding equipment
• The gouging torch is easily manipulated underwater allowing fine control of the electrode
• Divers can work for longer periods unimpaired by the fatigue prevalent with grinding
• Systems are easily deployed and maintenance simple
• Full technical support available from Hydroweld