Propane Torch Safety

[TallPaul]

I have used propane torches off an on over the years and never thought much about how to use them or safety. Anyway, I fired it up tonight and was starting to heat the outlet on a generator muffler in an attemp to remove the spark arrestor insert, which was very tight in the outlet.

Suddenly the torch flared and a large flame came out the back of the tip. I quickly closed the valve. Figured something was wrong with the tip, maybe the air passages were plugged.

Googled and found this interesting item,
Propane Torch Safety , which says

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CAUTION:
DO NOT use torch with the fuel cylinder tipped more than 60 degrees from its upright position as this may cause torch to flare. ...

WARNING:
1. The propane cylinder contains gaseous and liquid propane. If the torch is moved rapidly, tilted too far to the side or upside down, the liquid can enter the valve and cause the flame to flare or extinguish.

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Now I never knew that and never had one flare, and surely I have used them at the wrong angle before.

Anyway, this is a worthy read for anyone who ever uses one of these torches.

 

[Oldmoparguy1]

I've had that happen once or twice, but considering that I've used them since they were invented, maybe 50 years or so, It's been a rare occurance. Still, a little care can save a big embarrassment. Burning the house down can just ruin your day.

 

[Shannow]

I've had it happen a few times.

Scarier still is the kerosene blowtorches when they pop a fuse.

 

[Oldmoparguy1]

Quote:

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I've had it happen a few times.

Scarier still is the kerosene blowtorches when they pop a fuse.

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Them miserable things, I nearly burned down my dad's lumber shed one time.

 

[Shannow]

great for weeding the lawn 'though

 

[Oldmoparguy1]

Quote:

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great for weeding the lawn 'though

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There's that.

 

[benjamming]

You can get a torch that you can hold the propane tank upside down.
Bernzomatic

I recently bought the Bernzomatic TS4000T.

 

[Oldmoparguy1]

Quote:

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You can get a torch that you can hold the propane tank upside down.
Bernzomatic

I recently bought the Bernzomatic TS4000T.

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Bought one of those a year or so ago. Works really well.