Oxy-acetylene welding/cutting is also called Oxy-fuel welding/cutting. It is a process that uses oxygen and fuel gases to weld and cut steel or metallic components. In this type of welding acetylene gas and oxygen are mixed in a torch to attain the high temperatures that are required for the welding process.
This process like any other process has risks that should be managed. This article will highlight Oxy-Acetylene welding/Cutting safety precautions.
Oxy-Acetylene Welding/Cutting Safety Precautions to Follow
- Oxy-acetylene welding/cutting safety procedure should not be carried out in a crowded area; the job area should be segregated.
- All the combustible materials must be removed, be they liquid solid, or gaseous. As far as it is not needed for the activity at hand.
- The combustible materials which are unable to be removed from their place must be covered with any kind of insulating materials.
- Flame-resistant sheets may be used.
- Fire extinguishers must be available and workable, and placed in a strategic position.
- Always use an approved friction striker, and never use
matches or a cigarette lighter. - All gas cylinders must be properly labeled.
- Never point the flame toward the regulators and another person.
- If the gauge doesn’t return to zero when pressure is released, have it repaired?
- Keep tight connections between the regulator and the cylinder.
- Extinguish the torch flame by closing the acetylene valve first and then the oxygen.
- When finished welding shut off the main valves, bleed the lines and loosen the regulator adjusting screws.
- Wind up the hoses when finished shutting everything off.
- Do not turn the acetylene valve for more than 1 ½ turns.
- Make sure the lines are purged before and after
use. - Only a qualified technician should repair a regulator.
- Store the cylinders in a well-ventilated area, preferably in the open air.
- Never allow hoses to become coated with oil, grease, or dirt, since such coatings could conceal damaged areas.
- The storage area for cylinders should be well away from sources of heat, sparks, and fire risk.
- If cuts, burns, or damaged fittings are found, replace
the hose. - Hoses should be examined before attaching to the torch handle.
- Cylinders should be stored upright and well-secured
- Oxygen cylinders should be stored at least 3m away from fuel gas cylinders (Acetylene gas cylinders) or separated by a 30-minute fire-resisting barrier.
- Cylinder valves or valve guards should never be loosened
- Ensure that the regulator is rated for the pressure in the cylinder.
- When attaching the regulator to the cylinder the joints must be clean and sealant must not be used.
- Always make sure your equipment is rated for the size tip you
have selected. - A tip with too much capacity for the equipment can starve or
choke the tip. This causes overheating of the head and a flashback may result. - Should a flashback occur (flame disappears and/or a hissing
sound is heard, the flame is burning inside the nozzle), immediately turn off the oxygen valve on the torch handle. Then, turn off the fuel valve, and allow the nozzle to cool before using. - When cleaning the cylinder threads, connecting the regulator, and purging the hoses, protect the face and eyes by wearing the appropriate head shield
- Ensure the cylinder is not heated by the flame or by stray arcs from adjacent electrical equipment.
- Joints and hoses should be checked for leaks before any welding is attempted.
- Ensure that flashback arrestors are in place. The flashback arrestor is an automatic flame trap device designed not only to quench the flame but also to prevent the flame from reaching the regulator.
- Do not attempt to interchange oxygen and acetylene regulators.
- Always use proper PPE (shield, goggles, gloves,
clothing, etc.)
Following the Oxy-Acetylene welding/cutting safety precautions is the only way to ensure the safety of the process.
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