What gas is burned alongside the cutting rod in the PECU?

In the Plasma Energy Cutting Unit (PECU), oxygen is utilized as the gas that is burned alongside the cutting rod. The use of oxygen in this context is crucial because it enhances the combustion process and helps sustain a high-temperature flame that is necessary for effectively cutting through metals.

Oxygen supports a more efficient and hotter burn compared to other gases, allowing for cleaner cuts and faster operation. The combination of the cutting rod with a high-flow oxygen supply ensures that the metal can be cut quickly and with precision, which is vital in many engineering applications.

Other gases, like acetylene and propane, have their own uses in cutting and welding procedures but are not typically used in conjunction with the PECU cutting rods. Acetylene, for example, forms a different type of flame suited for oxy-acetylene welding but not specifically for the PECU's cutting needs. Thus, oxygen is the appropriate choice in this scenario.