How to Set an Oxyacetylene Flame

2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-09 13:41

An oxyacetylene flame is a tool that is used to weld two pieces of metal with the use of extreme heat. In addition, thanks to a "cutting spout", it turns into a tool for cutting metal blocks.

Steps

Step 1. Clean the nozzle of the spout

This should be done with a round, fine-grained metal blade. Make sure the nozzle is not clogged, otherwise you will need a specific tool for cleaning the hole.

Step 2. Securely fix the "nozzle" of the blowtorch at the end of the pipes

It should attach itself to a cavity where both the oxygen and acetylene pipes reach. Usually the junction is made of brass.

Step 3. Attach both valves to the "spout" you just connected to the brass joint

The valves must be completely closed otherwise the air / gas mixture starts to come out.

Step 4. Open the valves located on the tanks

The acetylene pressure should be open for ½ turn and the pressure gauge should indicate 5-7 PSI (if the acetylene pressure is too high, the gas becomes unstable). If you have to weld, the oxygen should be adjusted to 7-10 PSI. To cut, set the oxygen pressure between 15 and 25 PSI.

Step 5. Now we need to evaluate the differences between a cutting and a welding nozzle

The one for soldering is simple and has two valves near the base. To use this spout:

1. Open the acetylene valve until you hear the hiss of gas coming out of the nozzle.
2. Grab a lighter and light the flame.
3. You should see a dark red-orange flame that produces a very black smoke that stinks.

4. Now slowly open the oxygen valve until you notice a change in the flame. Warning: too much oxygen could "suffocate" the flame, ie make it go out. If this happens, close the oxygen valve and try again.

5. Now the flame should be blue with a white tip inside. The latter should be about 7.5-20 cm long.

   

   Step 6. The cutting tip is different

   It is equipped with a trigger and three tubes that reach the nozzle.

   1. First of all, open the oxygen that is released by the trigger.
   2. Open the acetylene valve until you hear the hiss of gas coming out of the nozzle.
   3. Take the lighter and turn on the flashlight.
   4. This should produce a dark red / orange flame that emits a very black smoke that stinks.

   5. Now, slowly open the oxygen valve (on the cutting spout there are two oxygen valves: one blocked and controlled by the trigger and one free). The flame should change. Warning: too much oxygen could "suffocate" the flame, ie make it go out. If this happens, close the oxygen valve and try again.

   6. The flame, when the trigger is not pressed, should be blue and measure approximately 5 cm. Inside there should be a 1.2 cm blue-yellow flame.
   7. When the trigger is pulled, the flame becomes shorter, faster and louder.

   8. When cutting, heat the metal until it becomes hot and then press the trigger for oxygen. Warning: sparks will be released, work carefully and safely.

      Advice

      • Always wear appropriate protection:

        • Welding helmet with UV protection.
        • Leather welder gloves.
        • Safety shoes.
        • Long pants.
        • A long-sleeved shirt. With this clothing you will surely be warm but you will be safer.

      • To weld or cut different materials, different temperatures are required. Adjust the mix, temperature and spouts according to the type of metal.

        • Cast iron is the densest metal, so it requires more heat.
        • Steel and stainless steel is the second in order of density, so it needs a little less heat.
        • Aluminum is the least dense, so it needs a lower temperature.

        Warnings

        • Recognize the smell of acetylene, in this way you notice any leaks.
        • Never weld or cut alone. In the event of an injury or accident, someone is required to help you or call for help.