How to Use a Gas Cutting Torch
Cutting metal with an oxyacetylene torch takes some care and attention, but once you are cutting the process is easy and rewarding. Gas cutting torches use the combustion of acetylene to jump-start the melting of metal. Oxygen is then introduced in a pressurized jet that acts to combust the steel, melting and cutting it easily. Because of the volatile nature of the gases used, safety is of high concern when using a gas cutting torch. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Acetylene tank
- Oxygen tank
- Hoses with regulators
- Cutting torch
- Spark lighter
- Safety goggles or welder's helmet
- Thick-soled work boots
- Heavy leather gloves
Instructions
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Set up your welding equipment in a clear area away from any flammable objects such as scrap wood, sawdust and paper. Working on concrete or bare earth will prevent jumping sparks from spreading and causing fire damage. Make sure all hoses are untangled and connected to the correct valves and regulators, out of the way of any open flames.
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Check that both the oxygen and acetylene regulators are turned all the way down, and that the valves on both gas tanks are closed.
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Open both tank valves slowly to prevent damage to the regulators caused by high gas pressures. At this point, vent any gasses left in the hoses by opening the valves on the torch.
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4
Turn the regulator until you achieve a pressure of 5 to 8 PSI in your acetylene line. Vent the acetylene valve on the torch to test the gas pressure. Close the valve and recheck your pressure gauge to make sure the regulator is holding pressure.
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Turn the oxygen regulator until you achieve a pressure between 25 to 40 PSI. Vent the oxygen valve on the torch and check to make sure the line is holding pressure. Close the oxygen valve.
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Open the acetylene valve slightly and light the torch with a spark lighter. Adjust the valve until you the flame is eight to 10 inches long and has stopped smoking.
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Open the oxygen valve on the torch. When adequate oxygen is introduced the center of the flame will turn blue. Open the valve until the blue flame begins to shrink back towards the opening of the torch.
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Adjust the acetylene valve to alter the length of the flame so that it is properly sized for the material you are cutting. You want it to be slightly longer than your material is thick.
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Bring the flame to the edge of your metal and hold until molten metal begins to pool. Squeeze the cutting valve to release an oxygen jet that will ignite the steel. You can now begin cutting.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure all hose fittings, regulators and valves are free from leaks. Gas welding relies on a constant gas pressure, and leaks will hamper your welding and cause safety concerns.
Never pressurize your acetylene to over 15 PSI. It could self-combust in a violent explosion.
Wear all proper safety gear and work carefully. A welding torch that is hot enough to melt steel can certainly cause serious injury to the user.
