In article ,
says...


David Malicky wrote:
I'm looking to get a torch and tanks for brazing and cutting for home
shop use. Though it's all I've used before, I'd like to avoid
acetylene if possible--from what I've read in the archives, the
alternatives are safer, they cut cleaner, and I don't need to gas weld
(been there and prefer brazing). But I don't know what the
compatibility is as far as equipment goes. I can find dozens of
oxy-acet torch sets (best deal is the Victor Advantage II set thru
Sam's club for $132, I think), but little for oxy-mapp/propylene.
There is a Harris set specifically for oxy-propylene, but it's $200+.
I understand oxy-mapp/propylene may need larger and/or special
tips--what sizes would I need to braze 1/16" to 1/4", and cut 1/8" to
1/2" (the Victor set comes w/ 0s for each)? How about compatibility
of the rubber hoses, seals, regulators...? Any guidance appreciated.

I have used MAPP, and now get "Propylene" the generic substitute
from the local gas supplier. MAPP is a trademark.

MAPP/Propylene is much easier to handle, it is stored as a liquid,
instead of a gas adsorbed on Acetone-saturated packing. Some people
say you can't weld with MAPP, I think it is possible, and the gas
supplier has a flyer describing how to set the flame properly
(it does look a little different than Ox/Acetylene).

Hi, have you actually tried it? I have, and it's a very poor
substitute for acetylene. It works *very* well on brazing, heating and
cutting.



Although
the peak temperature is slightly lower, the caloric output per
gram of fuel/gas is quite a bit higher than Ox/Acetylene, so it is
supposed to actually provide more heat to the work.

The caloric output may be higher, but.. I've spent a lot of time
trying different pressures, tips, advice from my supplier (who doesn't
recommend this for welding). No luck.

Jim Kovar
Vulcan, Mi