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How to Torch Cut an Oxygen Valve

You can use the torch for cutting steel or cast iron into a desirable shape and size, but the torch should be used with caution. There are two types of cutting torches: the torch-mix and the tip-mix. The tip-mix mixes gases at the tip while the torch-mix has a gas mixer leading to the torch tip. Other than this difference, the two torches are basically the same.

Things You'll Need

  • Goggles, heat-resistant gloves and clothing
  • Gas pressure regulators
  • Oxygen and acetylene gas cylinders
  • Gas hoses fitting
  • Cutting torch
  • Gang wrench
  • Spark lighter
  • Chalk/soapstone
  • Metal
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Instructions

  1. Setting up the Equipment

    • 1

      Wear protective clothing such as goggles, heat-resistant gloves and cloths. Ensure your cloths are not hanging loosely.

    • 2

      Inspect the torch for any damages, dirt or dust. Dirt and dust can be removed with a clean cloth or by opening and closing the cylinder valve instantly to blow away accumulating dirt or dust in the valve. However, do not do this where there is another source of ignition. Damaged parts must be repaired first before using the torch.

    • 3

      Assemble all the parts and connect them together. Connect the fuel gas regulator to the fuel gas cylinder, then connect the red horse to the regulator. Similarly, connect the green hose to the oxygen regulator and the regulator to the oxygen cylinder. Connect the fuel gas (red) to the connection gland on the torch marked “Fuel,” and the oxygen hose (green) where it is marked “OXY” on the torch. Tighten all the connection nuts using a gang wrench to avoid any leakage.

    • 4

      Release the pressure-adjusting screw by turning the regulator to the left.

    • 5

      Select the correct cutting tip and attach it to the cutting torch head, then tighten it securely with the wrench. Adjust the regulator to the working pressure for the selected tip and close the torch needle valve.

    • 6

      Open the valve on top of the oxygen tank fully. (See reference 4)

    • 7

      Turn the torch-acetylene valve 1/8 and then use the spark lighter to light the torch while slightly opening the acetylene valve. To achieve the strongest flame, adjust the cutting torch oxygen and the acetylene valve until you have a bright blue flame at the torch tip. (See reference 2)

    Cutting

    • 8

      Use a piece of soapstone or chalk to mark the cuts that you are going to make on the metal.

    • 9

      Hold the torch in one hand so that you will have easy control of the cutting oxygen lever or trigger. Use the other hand to hold the torch steady. Hold the torch at the edge until the spot has been raised to a bright red heat before slowly opening the cutting oxygen valve. You will notice a shower of sparks.

    • 10

      Move the torch steadily along the line you marked on the metal. You should neither move too slowly nor too fast. Too slow, and you'll make the preheat flames melt the top edges of the metal; too fast, and you will loose the cut. Just ensure the oxygen stream is passing through the metal.

    • 11

      Shut off the torch when you are done cutting by closing the oxygen valve and the acetylene valve.

Tips & Warnings

  • Remove all combustible materials nearby that could easily be ignited by hot slag or sparks and post a fire watch.

  • Always have an extinguisher nearby in case a fire breaks out.

  • Avoid inhaling the smoke released during the cutting operation.

  • Never use oil or grease on the torch, as they are ignited easily and in the presence of oxygen under pressure, they burn violently.

  • Never leave the torch before checking if gas is being emitted from the tip, because the gas can accumulate and may cause fire if accidentally ignited.

  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when lighting the torch or adjusting the flame, as the procedures varies with different torch models.

  • Acetylene should not exceed 15 psi, as it is a very unstable gas.

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