A mains electricity-powered (AC-powered) component of an argon-enhanced electrosurgical system that serves as a source of argon (Ar) gas and generates a high frequency electrical current in selected radio-frequency (RF) bands between two electrodes to produce heat in tissues for cutting and coagulating during surgery. The argon is delivered via this device and through a connected handpiece unit that ensures that the argon is channelled around the cutting electrode; a process which lessens the charring of tissue and provides rapid, uniform coagulation over large bleeding surfaces.