Which flame type is used in all but special cutting applications?

The neutral flame is the correct choice because it is the preferred flame type for the majority of oxyfuel cutting applications. A neutral flame has an equal balance of oxygen and acetylene, which results in a stable and consistent heat source that produces no additional oxidation or carburization of the metal being cut. This characteristic makes it ideal for cutting most ferrous and non-ferrous metals without altering their chemical properties.

While the other flame types might have specific uses, such as carburizing flames for certain welding applications or oxidizing flames for welding aluminum, they are not generally recommended for standard cutting tasks. A carburizing flame could introduce excess carbon into the material, while an oxidizing flame can lead to oxidation, which is undesirable in most cutting scenarios. Goughing flames are primarily used for removing metal and not for straightforward cutting operations.

Thus, the neutral flame is versatile, efficient, and safe for use in routine cutting processes, which makes it the flame type used in all but special cutting applications.