An oxy-acetylene cutting torch is a versatile tool used for cutting, welding, brazing, and heating metals, utilizing a mixture of oxygen and acetylene gases to produce a high-temperature flame. Below is a comprehensive specification for a typical oxy-acetylene cutting torch setup, based on common industry standards and equipment details from various sources. Note that specific models (e.g., Victor, Harris, Miller, or Flame Tech) may vary slightly, so always refer to the manufacturer's documentation for precise specifications.

Oxy-Acetylene Cutting Torch Specifications

1. General Overview

• Purpose: Cutting, welding, brazing, soldering, and heating metals (primarily steel and iron).

• Fuel Type: Acetylene (combined with oxygen for combustion).

• Flame Temperature: Approximately 5,600–5,800°F (3,100–3,200°C) in a neutral flame.

• Cutting Capacity: Typically up to 6–12 inches (150–300 mm) of steel, depending on the tip size and torch model. Some heavy-duty models can cut thicker materials (e.g., up to 10–12 inches with larger tips).

• Welding Capacity: Up to 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) with appropriate welding tips.

• Applications: General maintenance, automotive repair, metal sculpture, fabrication, and industrial cutting/welding.

2. Torch Components

• Torch Handle:

  • Material: High-strength alloy, stainless steel, or brass for durability and corrosion resistance.

  • Design: Ergonomic with rear-mounted pressure handle switch for ease of operation.

  • Valves: Typically includes two valves (one for oxygen, one for acetylene) and a cutting oxygen lever for precise control.

  • Connections: Oxygen (green hose) and acetylene (red hose) with 9/16"-18 B fittings (standard).

• Cutting Attachment:

  • Compatible with multiple fuel gases (acetylene, propane, butane, natural gas).

  • Includes a cutting head (e.g., 90° or 75° angle) for directional cutting.

  • Length: Typically 18–20 inches (457–508 mm) for standard models; heavy-duty models like the Miller Gas Axe™ may be longer.

• Cutting Tips/Nozzles:

  • Material: Tellurium copper (one-piece) or two-piece (brass inner, copper outer) for durability and precision.

  • Types: Designed for cutting, gouging, heating, or brazing. Tip size varies based on metal thickness (e.g., 1-1-101 for 3/4-inch steel, 5-1-101 for up to 5-inch steel).

  • Orifice: Precision-swaged for consistent gas flow.

• Hoses:

  • Length: Typically 15–50 feet (4.5–15 meters), with 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch diameter.

  • Material: Flexible, kink-resistant, abrasion-resistant, weather-resistant rubber.

  • Color: Green (oxygen), red (acetylene).

  • Fittings: Left-hand threads for acetylene (notched), right-hand threads for oxygen to prevent cross-connection.

• Regulators:

  • Oxygen Regulator: CGA540 fitting, high-pressure gauge (measures tank pressure), low-pressure gauge (working pressure, typically 10–55 psi depending on tip size).

  • Acetylene Regulator: CGA510 or CGA300 fitting, pressure not to exceed 15 psi due to acetylene’s instability at higher pressures.

  • Material: Stainless steel and brass for durability.

• Flashback Arrestors:

  • Location: Installed at the regulator (European practice) or both regulator and torch (US practice) to prevent flame or oxygen-fuel mixture backflow.

  • Function: Stops detonation waves to protect cylinders from explosions.

• Check Valves: Non-return valves to prevent reverse gas flow, typically a spring-loaded ball mechanism.

• Accessories:

  • Welding goggles (shade 5 or higher for eye protection).

  • Spark lighter or flint igniter (matches are unsafe).

  • Tip cleaner, spanner/wrench, and storage case (often included in kits).

  • Optional: Cylinder cart for secure transport, protective clothing, welding blankets.

3. Pressure Settings

Pressure settings vary based on metal thickness, tip size, and manufacturer recommendations. Below is a general chart for oxy-acetylene cutting (always consult the manufacturer’s manual):

Metal Thickness (in) Oxygen Pressure (PSIG) Acetylene Pressure (PSIG) Tip Size

0.125 20–25 3–5 00 or 0

0.25–0.5 25–35 5–7 1 or 2

0.75–1 30–40 7–9 2 or 3

1.5–2 40–45 9–10 4 or 5

3–6 45–50 10–12 5 or 7

10–12 45–55 10–15 7 or 8

• Note: Acetylene pressure must not exceed 15 psi unless the torch is specifically designed for higher pressures, as acetylene becomes unstable and highly combustible above this threshold.

• Multi-hole Cutting: Oxygen at 40 psi, acetylene at 10 psi for steel <1.5 inches.

• Hose Size Consideration: Settings for 3/8-inch hoses may require higher pressures (e.g., 45–55 psi oxygen, 10–15 psi acetylene for thick cuts).

4. Flame Types

• Neutral Flame: Balanced oxygen and acetylene (1:1 ratio), used for most cutting and welding tasks. Produces a clean, stable flame with defined cones.

• Oxidizing Flame: Higher oxygen proportion, hotter, used for cutting or welding brass.

• Reducing Flame: Higher acetylene proportion, cooler, used for welding aluminum or high-carbon steels to minimize oxidation.

• Preheat Flame Adjustment: Preheat flames should be ~1/4 inch long, sharp, and not feathery. Adjust oxygen to ensure flames remain stable when the cutting lever is pressed.

5. Safety Features

• Flashback Arrestors: Prevent flame or oxygen-fuel mixture from traveling back into the cylinders.

• Check Valves: Ensure one-way gas flow to avoid backflow.

• Cylinder Safety: Cylinders must be stored upright, secured with chains or a cart, and cleaned of dust/debris before use.

• Hose Integrity: No tape or patches; replace damaged hoses. Use red (acetylene) and green (oxygen) hoses specific to welding.

• Pressure Limits: Acetylene must not exceed 15 psi; oxygen purity must be 99.9% for quality cuts.

• Prohibited Items: Worm-drive hose clips or Jubilee Clips are forbidden due to explosion risks.

• Protective Gear: Welding goggles, fire-resistant clothing, gloves, and welding blankets are recommended.

6. Performance Characteristics

• Cutting Speed: Nearly twice as fast as petrol-driven cut-off grinders for light steel sections.

• Exothermic Reaction: Cutting relies on rapid oxidation of iron, which is highly exothermic, allowing faster cuts than melting alone.

• Material Compatibility: Best for mild steel; less effective for aluminum, stainless steel, or cast iron due to higher oxide melting points.

• Portability: Electricity not required, making it suitable for remote locations.

• Cost: Entry-level kits cost $250–$350; cylinders can be rented to save money.

7. Common Brands and Models

• Victor Technologies: Heavy Duty Journeyman (CGA 300, #0384-2100), Contender (ESS3 EDGE Regulators, #0384-2131).

• Miller/Smith: Toughcut™ (CGA300, #MB55A-300), Gas Axe™ Extra-Heavy-Duty Torch.

• Flame Tech: Medium Duty Cutting Attachment.

• RIDGID: Portable Oxy-Acetylene Kit (RPT124, welds up to 1/2 inch, cuts up to 4 inches).

• Generic Kits: 17-piece kits (e.g., Amazon’s VEVOR, XtremepowerUS) include torch handle, cutting attachment, welding tips (#0, #2, #4), cutting nozzle (#1), hoses, regulators, goggles, and storage case.

8. Setup and Operation

• Setup Procedure:

  1. Secure cylinders upright with a chain or cart.

  2. Clean valve outlets by briefly opening (1/4 turn) and closing to remove dust.

  3. Attach regulators (CGA540 for oxygen, CGA510/CGA300 for acetylene).

  4. Connect hoses (green for oxygen, red for acetylene) with proper fittings.

  5. Install flashback arrestors and check valves.

  6. Set pressures (e.g., 40 psi oxygen, 10 psi acetylene for multi-hole cutting).

  7. Light acetylene first using a spark lighter, adjust to eliminate soot, then add oxygen for a neutral flame.

• Cutting Technique:

  • Preheat metal to cherry red (~1,600°F) using preheat flames.

  • Press cutting lever to release oxygen jet, which oxidizes and removes metal.

  • Maintain ~1/4-inch distance from the metal; tilt torch slightly toward the cut direction.

• Shutdown: Turn off oxygen first (for Victor torches), then acetylene to prevent flashback.

9. Limitations and Considerations

• Acetylene Instability: Becomes explosive above 15 psi or if drawn off too quickly (>1/7th tank per hour).

• Material Limitations: Less effective for non-ferrous metals like aluminum due to high oxide melting points.

• Safety Risks: Requires expert training to avoid explosions, flashbacks, or burns. Never use matches for lighting.

• Alternative Fuels: Propane or natural gas can be used with compatible tips, but acetylene provides the hottest flame.

10. Standards and Compliance

• ISO 5172: Conformance for safety and performance (e.g., Premium Cutting Torch).

• American Welding Society (AWS): Publishes Recommended Practices for Safe Oxy-Acetylene Torch Operation.

• ANSI Approved: Many torches meet ANSI standards for safety.

Notes

• Always consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific pressure settings, tip sizes, and safety instructions, as variations exist between brands and models.

• For detailed setup instructions, refer to resources like the American Torch Tip Company (ATTC) equipment manual or AWS guidelines.

• Prices for kits range from $139–$449 depending on brand and included accessories.

If you need specifications for a specific model or brand (e.g., Victor Journeyman, RIDGID RPT124), or if you’d like a comparison with other fuel types (e.g., oxy-propane), please let me know!