[TheForge] Torch, Propane

[paul]

Lynn and Susan Lang wrote:
> Hello
> I am looking to purchase a torch set, for an occasional cutting task and
> for localized heating of objects.
> What options, attributes or other factors should I be considering?
> 
> Thank you
> lynn
Hi Lynn
While my personal favorite is the Smith brand, I would first visit your 
local welding gas supplier and find out what brands they carry. Smith 
carries a lifetime warranty, as I'm sure that others do also. I like th 
o-ring seals on the handle to torch joint.... not to mention the fact 
that it is nickel plated... preetty shiny things...

It's nice to get parts locally. If you have a choice of industrial gas 
suppliers, find out which one offers a 'life time lease' or other 
arrangement that allows for the exchange of gas cylinders without 
personal ownership of the cylinders. You just want to buy gas, not the 
responsibility of cylinder maintenance and ICC testing. Cylinder rental 
locally is about $3.50 per month per cylinder, which is sometimes waived 
if you are a large consumption customer. The lease plan is the great if 
offered. Check with your gas guy.

My torch has welding tips, a cutting torch attachment, and rose bud 
heating tips. I have a propane cutting tip and I can purchase 
oxy/propane-mapp-natural gas heating or cutting tips if I need them.
Oxy acetylene is the most universal fuel combination, you can cut 
ferrous metals and weld and braze with it. If you later find that your 
needs are more heavily in the heating side of things, then look at 
alternative fuels. Be aware that fuel hose must be compatible with the 
fuel gas! Check again with the local weld gas guy,(s)he will be more 
than happy top sell you more tips and accessories.

I prefer two stage cylinder regulators, but that is a bias that 
developed by using equipment supplied by contractors that I have worked 
for over the last 40+ years. They have better pressure regulation which 
means less fiddling with the torch adjustments as cylinder pressures 
drop. Not a deal breaker, and I have admitted to the bias of 'thats what 
I always use'. You might not even notice the difference in small volume 
home shop use. Your first toy after the torch and gases and all that 
might be a gas saver...not nickel plated though...

looks like this
http://www.amazon.com/Gas-Saver-for-Oxy-Acetylene-Welding/dp/B000ZI7O3I
or
http://enet.smithequipment.com/public/docs/BLCatalogue.asp?Catalog=Accessories&Reload=1&Country=&Show=0&Account=&Assortment=208
many other places to buy

To sum up:
Local gas
Local availability of parts and accessories

Have fun and play safely

-- 
Paul Sperbeck
WB9HCO
jadap

  "The difference between genius and stupidity is that
genius has its limits." -Albert Einstein