Air carbon arc (CAC-A) cutting and gouging removes layers of material from a metal workpiece without damaging the underlying material. This process is commonly used to cut metal, remove defective welds, and prepare surfaces for welding. An air carbon arc electrode is inserted in the jaws of a compatible arc-cutting torch, and the torch is connected to a power supply that provides current to the electrode. The operator uses the torch to bring the electrode near the workpiece to generate an arc that melts the metal. The torch is also connected to a compressed air supply that delivers a jet of air to blow away the molten material and gouge or cut the workpiece.