Which step follows lighting with striker in the acetylene torch start sequence?

Which step follows lighting with striker in the acetylene torch start sequence?

• A. Turn on oxygen
• B. Turn on acetylene
• C. Adjust flame
• D. Turn off acetylene

Answer: (A)

After lighting with the striker, the torch needs the oxidizer to complete combustion. Opening the oxygen valve introduces the oxidizer that mixes with the acetylene to form a stable, usable flame. This should be done gradually to avoid an overly hot or unstable flame, and then you can fine-tune to a neutral flame. Without introducing oxygen first, the flame remains inefficient or dangerous; turning on acetylene after lighting would increase fuel without enough oxidizer, and turning off acetylene would extinguish the flame.

After lighting with the striker, the torch needs the oxidizer to complete combustion. Opening the oxygen valve introduces the oxidizer that mixes with the acetylene to form a stable, usable flame. This should be done gradually to avoid an overly hot or unstable flame, and then you can fine-tune to a neutral flame. Without introducing oxygen first, the flame remains inefficient or dangerous; turning on acetylene after lighting would increase fuel without enough oxidizer, and turning off acetylene would extinguish the flame.