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Torch/gas compatibility: Oxy-Acetylene/Mapp/Propylene/....
(David Malicky) wrote in message . com...
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.
Thanks, David
You won't find cutting and welding kits with anything but oxyacetylene
tips. You can, however, get cutting and rosebud tips for your kit for
propane and MAPP from your local dealer. If you use those other fuel
gases, you'll have to get a different hose, the one supplied in those
kits is for acetylene only. Propane use will definitely degrade it.
You might want to check to see that the regulator diaphram will stand
up to other gases, too, some are elastomer, not stainless steel. You
might want to consider another regulator for the other gases anyway,
acetylene ones are limited to 15 lbs output for safety reasons.
As far as what tips you'll need, Victor supplies tip charts with
suggested cutting and welding thicknesses for each tip, these are also
available from your local welding supplier, gratis. You'll definitely
want different cutting tips, there's usually one supplied and that
will either be to large or too small for the job.
The tip info might be available on Victor's website, tip availability
definitely is. The welding suppliers have been known to cut deals if
you buy your whole outfit there, tanks included. They're depending on
your good will to keep coming back for refills. Doesn't hurt to ask
what kind of deal you can get for the whole works. Get the biggest
tanks you have room for and can transport, handling charges make up
most of the cost of refills.
Stan
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