Plasma gouging was developed as a tool for weld removal and weld preparation. Back gouging was used to remove metal from the reverse side of arc-welded joints to eliminate defects and improve strength. Weld defects such as cracks, porosity, and lack of fusion could be gouged out using a plasma torch and then repaired with a new, sound weld.

Today plasma arc gouging has wider industrial applications, from shipbuilding and maintenance, to heavy equipment manufacturing and repair, to manufacturing of truck bodies, tanks, and steel structures. Plasma gouging removes strong backs, lifting lugs, temporary brackets, tack welds, and rivets. It is also suitable for demolition or salvage operations to disassemble welded structures. In foundries, it removes excess material from castings. Anywhere surplus metal, excess weld, or defects need to be removed, plasma gouging can be used.