Which type of cutting tip is specifically designed for grooving metal in preparation for welding?

The type of cutting tip specifically designed for grooving metal in preparation for welding is the gouging tip. Gouging tools are engineered to create a controlled groove or channel in the metal, which is essential for proper welding preparation. This grooved surface allows for better penetration of the weld material and enhances the overall bond between the metal pieces being joined.

In contrast, flue cutting tips are typically used for making straight cuts rather than preparing surfaces for welding. Neutral tips are used primarily for cutting and welding with a balanced oxygen and acetylene mixture but are not specialized for grooving. Carburizing tips introduce excess fuel gas, which is beneficial for certain types of cutting and joining but does not provide the precise design needed for effective groove preparation. Hence, the gouging tip stands out as the appropriate choice for preparing metal surfaces for welding.