Flame Adjustment:

Flame adjustment is a significant factor in attaining satisfactory torch operation. The amount of heat generated by the flame based on the intensity and type of flame utilized. Three types of flames might be set by properly adjusting the torch valves.

A carburising flame with acetylene, MPS, or propylene is mention by trailing feathers on the primary flame cone or by long yellow-orange streamers in the secondary flame envelope. Propylene-based fuels, natural gas, and propane have a long, rounded primary flame cone. A carburising flame is often used for the best finish and for stack cutting of thin material.

A neutral flame with MPS, acetylene or propylene is defined by dark primary flame cone sharply defined, and a pale blue secondary flame envelope. Propane and propylene base fuels and natural gas contains a sharply and short defined cone. This flame is attained by adding oxygen to a carburising flame. It is the flame most often used for cutting.

An oxidising flame for acetylene or MPS contains a light colour primary cone and a smaller secondary flame shroud. Generally this also burns with a harsh whistling sound. With propylene and propane base fuels and natural gas, the primary flame cones are longer, less sharply indicated, and have a lighter colour. This flame is attained by adding some oxygen to the neutral flame. This type of flame is often used for fast, low-quality cutting, & selectively in piercing & quality bevelling.

While operating OFC equipment a corrective action must be taken to extinguish flashback that is the burning of the flame in or behind the torch mixing chamber. This is a serious condition, and corrective action should be taken to extinguish it. The torch oxygen valve must be turned off immediately and after that the fuel gas valve. Causes of flashback might be failure to purge the hose lines before lighting the torch or overheating of the torch tip.

A backfire is the temporary recession of the flame into the torch tip followed by instant reappearance or full extinguishing of the flame. After this condition, the torch is yet workable. If backfiring continues, the tips or torch, or both, must be removed from service for cleaning and possible repair.