How to Use Oxy-Acetylene Torch?

Oxy-acetylene torches use the basic mixture of oxygen and acetylene gases to create heat. The major advantage of it is that you can perform metalworks on pretty thick metals without much effort. This torch has benefits that are absent in other types of torches. It can make your work faster too.

Especially, the torch only works in four steps- lighting up the torch, setting it up, using it, and turning it off. Today we will show you how to use an oxy-acetylene torch with ease. No matter what workpiece you are working on, the work will be a breeze with the perfect instruments and following some tips.

Advantages of an Oxy Acetylene Torch

At first, we want to give you some reasons why you should go for an oxy-acetylene torch. It comes with many benefits. Among them, here are some.

It does not cost much to get the instruments or gases compared to many other torches. It’s a great way to save some cash.
Since it is not dependent on electricity and uses gases, you can use the torch wherever you want. It also makes it safer to use in damp areas.
It is pretty easy to get used to this type of torches. You only need to use it once or twice to get the hang of it.
The torch is suitable for thick metals or welding at an odd angle.

The Set Up

Let us first show you the layout of a basic oxy-acetylene torch system. It has two hoses with valves to attach to gas cylinders of two gases. You may also notice a mixing valve on your cutting torch that helps both gases to reach the mixing chamber.

Before you use the torch, the gases need to be mixed properly. In this case, the oxygen goes through two sections. One is the mixing valve for oxygen, and the other is the mixing chamber where the oxygen mixes with acetylene.

Adjustment Process

Open both the gas valves and carefully up to a ½ or 1 turn.
Turn the regulator based on the size of the cutting tip. This requirement should be mentioned in the cutting tip package.
For a basic cutting, go for 5 psi for acetylene and 20 psi for oxygen.
Slowly turn the acetylene valve a bit. Light the torch with a striker. Even slight movement of the acetylene valve means high changes in the flame height, so move carefully.
Observe the flame. It should be small. If it is big, close the acetylene valve and reopen slowly so that the fire appears small. Only go for a large flame if you want to cut thin metal.
As the acetylene valve is set, use the mixing valve to mix both gases. Mix them when the valves are properly closed.
Open the mixing valve gradually and totally to get a medium flame height. The torch is now ready for use.

How to Cut with an Oxy-acetylene Torch

Honestly, the cutting process is pretty simple. All you got to do is follow these steps

Make sure that the lever of the torch stays off after you are done adjusting the flame.
You must place everything at the correct angle and position to avoid any accidents.
As you place the flame on the metal, it will start to preheat. Preheating is when the flame heats the metal first before cutting through it.
Begin from an edge and go towards the middle.
You should start cutting only when a spot turns orange or red.
Let the oxygen flow properly. You may need to turn the lever for it.
When it starts to cut the metal, start moving the torch in the right direction.
Once you are done cutting, shut all the valves off to close the torch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I Do After the Cutting Process with an Oxy-acetylene Torch Is Complete?

Here are what you should do after the cutting session..

Close all the valves.
Turn the regulator to 0.
Disconnect both the hoses separately.
Back out all the screws for regulator pressure adjustment.

What Safety Measurements Should I Follow Before Cutting with an Oxy-acetylene Torch?

Before cutting, make sure to follow these steps

Read the instruction manuals of the torch and gas cylinders.
Make sure that there are no leaks in the hoses, valves, or any part.
Do not keep any flammable objects near the system.
Tighten the valve properly when you are closing them.
Wear safety goggles and gloves.

Final Note

Oxy-acetylene torch is one of the easiest torches to weld or cuts any metal. But no matter what, you must still be sure to know everything necessary before using it. We also suggest you make sure the surrounding is okay and there is enough air circulation. You mostly can’t and shouldn’t focus on anything else during the cutting process.

We added all the useful information you need to know to cut metals using an oxy-acetylene torch. But you should also read the instruction manual carefully as some torches may be built differently from the traditional ones.

Last Updated on 2 years by Richard Boyer

Richard Boyer

Richard Boyer has been a professional welder for over 27 years of his life, and now he is a trainer and blogger providing critical information to anyone interested in welding. He is helping out both hobbyists, novice and professional welders to learn newer and better techniques. Read more about me

Click Here to Leave a Comment Below 0 comments