Oxy/Propane cutting outfits

[91bronc300]

Hey guys, I'm a newbie and I'm in the market for a cutting torch. The only thing I'll be using the torch for is cutting (anywhere from sheet metal to probably never thicker than 1/2") and heating tubing for bending with the sand method, and possibly other random heating. I don't want acetylene because I will never weld with the torch and I don't want to have to manifold tanks together when I use rosebud tips.

During research on propane torches it seems to be that low pressure 'injector' type torches that use a fuel gas pressure on 1PSI or less is what you need (or is at least ideal anyway) for propane. However, I can't find propane regulators that regulate in this very low range, and I'm also having trouble finding an injector style torch. Anybody know what gives?

I'm thinking that the Smith model MD-510LPT outfit might be a good choice, even though it does not appear to be the very low pressure fuel gas style that is best for propane. Anybody offer any thoughts on this? Or maybe some personal experience with this specific torch? Thanks a bunch!

[OAdoctor]

The Harris 62-5 is the best injector torch on the market, it is not as rugged as the Victor Bulldog, but if you are the only one using it, the Harris will serve you for a long time.

The regulator needs to be 15 psi max delivery. You will have not problem setting a 0-15 fuel regulator at 1 psi.

I do sell rebuilt regulators and torches, so if you can't find a deal on a new unit, send me a PM or and give me a call.

Jim

[ESABREP]

Are you planning on using a propane tank? If so, you do not need to worry about the low pressure injector models. They are typically only used in shops that are getting natural gas from a pipeline and then the injector pulls the gas from the line to give it the needed delivery pressure to operate correctly. If you are using a propane tank you will need a typical fuel gas regulator and put a delivery of around 5psi working pressure. Good luck.

[denrep]

ESABREP has already said it, but since I have it typed, you get a free second opinion:

I'd recommend going with the positive pressure mixer.
Mostly because you can really crank ‘em up.

You'll have 25 to 250psi of tank pressure on tap.
Why *****foot around with siphon flow and 1psi settings?

Good Luck

Edit - What I can''t type ***** foot?
Okay then: Why mess around with siphon flow and 1psi settings?

[91bronc300]

Thanks guys! I will be using a propane tank. Just a BBQ bottle actually. So what I've gathered is, by using an injector style torch I will get marginally better performance with propane, but using an equal pressure style torch will still work fine.

So my options are either buy an LPG kit from say Smith or Victor which seems to come with the standard torch and only different tips for LPG and set the regulators like I'm using Acetylene. Or get a Harris 62-5F style torch, a normal O2 regulator, a 0-15 PSIG LP regulator, "T" hose, the tips I need, basically build the torch myself. Then regulate the LPG to 1PSI and get a little better performance.

I'm kind of leaning towards just buying a kit from a major manufacturer. Even though I would like to have the better performance of an injector style torch. It's just that I haven't touched a torch in probably a decade and I don't really know if I trust myself to piece one together from scratch. Thanks for the responses!

[oldwino]

I've used a Harris 62-2 for years and it has served me well...

[zapster]

Just make sure you get the hoses rated for T-7 abuse.
Good for all gas fuels.

..zap!