The welding process that produces coalescence of metals through heat generated by a constricted arc created between a continuous consumable electrode and the work product, or the continuous consumable electrode and a constricted nozzle. The gas used for shielding during the welding process is provided by the hot ionized gas discharging from the torch and may be supplemented by additional pure inert gas or a mixture of inert gases. Plasma arc welding may or may not use pressure in creating the weld, and the electrode provides the filler metal.