Gouging with a PowerArc 300

[Shield Arc]

Is there a right and a wrong way to use carbon rods, so you don't put stress on the machine?

Not that I'm aware of, other than using small rods, and stay well within the welders specs. But to get any production you'll need at least a 400-amp machine, and 150-PSI of air. Carbon arcing is just plain hard on welding machines.
Like I said most welders wouldn't know the difference in the quality of arcs to start with.

http://weldingweb.com/showthread.php...uging-Question