Posted by Mike Devour on October 11, 1997 at 13:01:26:

In Reply to: Oxyacetylene Set-up posted by Valerie on September 17, 1997 at 13:18:58:

Hi, Valerie, all,

I'm just learning this oxy-acetylene stuff, so the following is a sincere question:

You say:

: Extinguish the flame by turning off the acetylene torch valve first. Then turn off the oxygen torch valve. ... It is important to do the acetylene first and then the oxygen. If the reverse order is used, carbon deposits are left in the torch every time the torch is turned off. For very large torch tips, some people turn the torch off in the incorrect manner because of the loud pop the torch sometimes makes.

I'm looking at a free publication from Victor called Oxy-Fuel Welding, Cutting & Heating Guide that I picked up from the welding supply. On page 30 (and a couple of other places) it says:

'First, shut off the torch oxygen valve. Then, shut off the torch fuel valve. If this procedure is reversed, a "pop" may occur. The "pop" throws carbon soot back into the torch and may in time partially clog gas passages.'

It says the same thing in my owner's manual.

In Finch and Monroe's Welder's Handbook from HP Books, (c)1985, on page 48 I read:

"If you plan to light the torch again in a few minutes, simply close the torch valves -- acetylene first."

So it's two esteemed authorities against the manufacturer, and I don't know which to believe.

I'd be happy to kill the acetylene first, as it will cut down on the floating soot that's created after I shut off the oxygen and before I can close the fuel valve.

Which raises another question: the Finch and Monroe book also tells me to "crack" the oxygen valve, open the fuel valve a little more, and light it like that. I presume this serves to cut down on the soot and smoke, which I would again appreciate. I haven't tried it more than once, yet, since the instructions and the Victor guide both tell you to light the fuel first, increase it until the flame stops smoking, and then add oxygen.

What dost thou advise, oh wise and trusted guide?

Thank you!

Mike Devour

Follow Ups:

• Re: Oxyacetylene Set-up Valerie 10/14/97 (2)
  • Re: Oxyacetylene Set-up Gene Olson 10/15/97 (1)
    • Re: Oxyacetylene Set-up Valerie 10/15/97 (0)

Follow UpsPost FollowupBramblebush ForumsFAQ