Q&A for How to Use a Cutting Torch

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  • Question
    What type of safety precautions do you need to take with oxy fuel?
    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
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    Ryaan Tuttle
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Beyond the recommendations of the article, I'd say you definitely don't want to have any loose hair. So, if you have long hair, put it up in a ponytail or a bun. Also, make sure you don't have any loose clothes as well.
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  • Question
    When finished using the cutting torches, how do I shut everything off? When I am finishing using the torches, do I back the regulators off or leave them in at the operating pressure?
    Community Answer
    If you're going to be using them within the same day, it's fine to leave them at operating pressure, but it is best to shut everything off (tank valves off first) and purge your hoses and regulators. Once you're done for the day, just open the valves on the torch one at a time until you can't hear any gas flow, close them back up, then close up your regulators to prevent any regulator shock when you next open up the tanks.
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  • Question
    What is the correct way to shut down a cutting torch?
    Community Answer
    Most manufacturers recommend shutting off the the fuel torch valve first, then the oxygen torch valve. Then close both the oxygen and fuel tank valves. Next, open the acetylene torch valve to drain the fuel until the line and tank pressure gauges read zero, then close the valve. Repeat this step with the oxygen torch valve.
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  • Question
    What do you do if you are afraid to cut with a torch?
    Community Answer
    Have someone else do the cutting or ask for further instruction until you comfortable enough to try. It is not difficult with the proper training.
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    Not Helpful 4 Helpful 6
  • Question
    Will an oxygen regulator (that is connected to an opened cylinder but not with a hose) leak through to atmosphere, assuming the T handle is backed completely out?
    Community Answer
    They're not supposed to bypass, but sometimes do. You may need a new regulator.
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  • Question
    Why should cutting torch cylinders be kept well ventilated?
    Community Answer
    This is in case the cylinder has a leak, acetylene is one of the most volatile gases know to man.
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  • Question
    My torch tip fills with carbon. What is the problem?
    Community Answer
    You are holding the tip too close. Hold it no closer than the width of your blue flame at the tip. Also, if you're blowing a starting hole, hold the torch up and away from your work just before you hit the oxygen.
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  • Question
    Why can't I cut aluminium or stainless steel with a torch?
    Community Answer
    It works by oxidizing the work piece extremely fast to cut through it, if it doesn't rust you can't cut it.
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  • Question
    Contrary to pictures 3 and 4, shouldn't I adjust the O2 and fuel gas ratios for the desired flame with the torch valves, not the cylinder valves?
    Community Answer
    Yes, this is correct.
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