MC13-3 - Smith MC13-3 Medium Duty Acetylene Gouging Tip Size 3

Smith MC13-3 Acetylene Gouging Tip Overview

The Smith MC13-3 Acetylene Gouging Tip is a specialized medium-duty consumable designed for precision metal removal applications. Engineered by Smith Equipment (a division of Miller Electric), this tip is essential for professionals engaged in edge preparation, the removal of old welds, and the gouging of defects in steel. Unlike standard cutting tips, the MC13-3 is geometrically optimized to wash away molten metal rather than severing it, creating a clean groove suitable for re-welding or surface correction.

Technical Specifications and Performance

This size 3 tip delivers a specific gouging profile, capable of producing a groove approximately 3/8 inch (10 mm) wide and 1/4 inch (6 mm) deep. These dimensions make it ideal for medium-duty applications where control and precision are paramount. The tip utilizes acetylene gas, known for its high flame temperature, to rapidly bring the base metal to kindling temperature before the oxygen stream washes the metal away. It is compatible with a range of Smith medium-duty cutting attachments, including the AC309, MC505, MC509, CC509P, and DG109A.

Advanced Design Features

The MC13-3 features a concave-shaped tip end, a critical safety and performance design element. This recession helps protect the tip orifices from damage if the tip accidentally touches the work surface and, more importantly, creates a gas envelope that significantly reduces the risk of backfire and resists flameout during aggressive gouging operations. Additionally, the tip is fully swaged, meaning the internal bore is smoothed to minimize turbulence. This results in faster preheat starts and drastically reduces slag build-up inside the tip, ensuring a longer service life and less downtime for cleaning.

Application Suitability

Industrial maintenance and repair operations (MRO) rely on the MC13-3 for its consistency. Whether correcting a structural weld or preparing a plate edge for a bevel, this tip provides the operator with the visibility and control needed to remove metal without damaging the surrounding area. Its one-piece copper construction ensures excellent heat dissipation, further contributing to its durability in high-heat environments.