Since my mind never stops and I'm always looking at doing what most never think of, here is my next pitch for a possibly crazy idea. A torch that is an alternative to the common oxy/acetylene variety
So, I've used the oxy/acetylene for most my life. While arguably the best combo and has a wide support system for refills, valves, gauges, etc.
But... The fuel and especially the oxygen run out too quickly. At least they always seem to be empty when I need them most. For larger jobs you end up pushing around the big S/K/T/4K tanks that weight a ton. Very difficult to bring up to the roof to braze refrigerant lines or throw into your vehicle and take anywhere.
So... I've always wanted the smaller torch kit with the run time of the larger. I've enjoyed using propane (BBQ bottle) in place of the acetylene as it has drastically longer run time from each bottle. The only problem now is the oxygen. You could go through 100 oxygen bottles for each propane.
That leads me to... Nitrous oxide. It seems there have been little research or use of this in a torch. The only one I was able to find was a now discontinued Microflame torch. There are a number of videos from people who still use them with butane and the whipping cream recharge kits. Seem to produce a vigorous flame that should be able to at least braze and heat steel for bending with the right torch tips
Now... I have two of the E sized oxygen tanks. I was thinking about using one for the fuel and the other for nitrous oxide and modifying the valves to make refilling easier. Propane is easy. I could easily transfer some from a BBQ tank but I have zero experience in getting nitrous oxide. I know medical grade requires licensing or at least proper paperwork. Food grade is the same for similar quantity. That leaves me with auto/racing use.
What kind of connection or fittings will they accept? Will they take an AN connection? Do you think they would fill a type E oxygen bottle (even if I remove the paint or other "medical" markings)? Anyone see any major hurtles to getting it filled? How would you do it to reduce the chance of getting turned away?
If I go through with it I will definitely give you updates on the performance.
So, I've used the oxy/acetylene for most my life. While arguably the best combo and has a wide support system for refills, valves, gauges, etc.
But... The fuel and especially the oxygen run out too quickly. At least they always seem to be empty when I need them most. For larger jobs you end up pushing around the big S/K/T/4K tanks that weight a ton. Very difficult to bring up to the roof to braze refrigerant lines or throw into your vehicle and take anywhere.
So... I've always wanted the smaller torch kit with the run time of the larger. I've enjoyed using propane (BBQ bottle) in place of the acetylene as it has drastically longer run time from each bottle. The only problem now is the oxygen. You could go through 100 oxygen bottles for each propane.
That leads me to... Nitrous oxide. It seems there have been little research or use of this in a torch. The only one I was able to find was a now discontinued Microflame torch. There are a number of videos from people who still use them with butane and the whipping cream recharge kits. Seem to produce a vigorous flame that should be able to at least braze and heat steel for bending with the right torch tips
Now... I have two of the E sized oxygen tanks. I was thinking about using one for the fuel and the other for nitrous oxide and modifying the valves to make refilling easier. Propane is easy. I could easily transfer some from a BBQ tank but I have zero experience in getting nitrous oxide. I know medical grade requires licensing or at least proper paperwork. Food grade is the same for similar quantity. That leaves me with auto/racing use.
What kind of connection or fittings will they accept? Will they take an AN connection? Do you think they would fill a type E oxygen bottle (even if I remove the paint or other "medical" markings)? Anyone see any major hurtles to getting it filled? How would you do it to reduce the chance of getting turned away?
If I go through with it I will definitely give you updates on the performance.
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