When using oxyethylene torch equipment, what should be done with the acetylene regulator pressure?

When using oxyethylene torch equipment, what should be done with the acetylene regulator pressure?

• A. Do not adjust pressure
• B. Adjust acetylene regulator pressure below 15 psi
• C. Set above 30 psi
• D. Adjust to exactly 50 psi

Answer: (B)

Working with oxyacetylene gear requires keeping the acetylene at a low, safe pressure. Acetylene becomes unstable if its pressure is raised too high, and regulators are used to drop the cylinder’s high pressure down to a safe working level. Setting the acetylene regulator to a value below 15 psi minimizes the risk of decomposition, flashback, or an explosive condition, while still allowing proper flame control when mixed with the oxygen. Pushing the pressure higher (above about 15 psi or much higher numbers) creates dangerous conditions and can damage equipment. Not adjusting the pressure at all also leaves you with unsafe, unregulated flow. So you adjust the acetylene regulator to a pressure below 15 psi to keep the system safe and controllable.

Working with oxyacetylene gear requires keeping the acetylene at a low, safe pressure. Acetylene becomes unstable if its pressure is raised too high, and regulators are used to drop the cylinder’s high pressure down to a safe working level. Setting the acetylene regulator to a value below 15 psi minimizes the risk of decomposition, flashback, or an explosive condition, while still allowing proper flame control when mixed with the oxygen. Pushing the pressure higher (above about 15 psi or much higher numbers) creates dangerous conditions and can damage equipment. Not adjusting the pressure at all also leaves you with unsafe, unregulated flow. So you adjust the acetylene regulator to a pressure below 15 psi to keep the system safe and controllable.