Why is deionized water recommended for cooling high-amperage plasma torches?

• A. Deionized water contains minerals that help lubricate the torch components.
• B. Deionized water reacts with plasma to produce a protective gas shield.
• C. Deionized water prevents electrical conductivity that could cause short circuits.
• D. Deionized water increases the thermal conductivity, improving cooling efficiency.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of water in cooling high-amperage plasma torches: water is used to absorb and carry away heat generated during operation to prevent overheating.
2. Recognize that ordinary tap water contains dissolved ions (minerals) which can conduct electricity, potentially causing electrical short circuits in the torch system.
3. Deionized water is water that has had its ions removed, significantly reducing its electrical conductivity.
4. By using deionized water, the risk of electrical current passing through the cooling water is minimized, preventing short circuits and ensuring safe operation of the plasma torch.
5. Therefore, the key reason deionized water is recommended is to prevent electrical conductivity in the cooling system, not because of lubrication, gas production, or enhanced thermal conductivity.