Millwright Level 1 Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The CAC-A process, which stands for Carbon Arc Cutting with Air, relies heavily on the use of carbon-graphite electrodes. These electrodes facilitate efficient heat generation necessary for cutting through metals by using an electric arc created between the electrode and the workpiece.

Carbon-graphite electrodes provide excellent thermal conductivity, which allows for a stable arc and good cutting performance. They also have a higher melting point, making them suitable for high-temperature applications like cutting. Their composition helps maintain a strong arc, making them the preferred choice for this specific application in metalworking.

While the other types of electrodes mentioned have their applications, they do not provide the same balance of properties that carbon-graphite electrodes do within the context of the CAC-A process. For instance, mild steel and copper-coated electrodes are more suited for welding applications rather than cutting. Tungsten electrodes are primarily used for TIG welding, where precise control and cleanliness are paramount, rather than for the cutting process employed in CAC-A.