| Please never connect a torch to
propane and oxygen tanks without installing a set of check valves and flashback
arrestors in the hoses as shown above. Without these two safety
devices, it is possible a flash can occur within the hose, and ultimately
follow back into the tanks, causing an explosion. This would be an extremely
rare occurrence, but the check valves and flashback arrestors will make it a
"never" occurrence. Check valves are only a first line of defense
and may not ultimately stop a flashback. Only the flashback arrestors will.
It doesn't matter if you use a premix or surface mix torch. Both can
flash back into the hoses, causing a danger of explosion to the tanks.
Regardless of the type of torch you use, both the check valves and flashback
arrestors are necessary.
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Some people prefer to use an oxygen generator
(concentrator) instead of an oxygen tank to operate their torch. If you
prefer to do this, you will NOT need an oxygen regulator or a
flashback arrestor on the oxygen hose. However, you will still need a
regulator, check valve and flashback arrestor on the propane hose and a
check valve on the oxygen hose at the torch. If you have any questions,
please don't hesitate to email us.
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For best results, if you will be using a
concentrator rather than an oxygen tank to run Devardi's Spartan
torch, we recommend at least a 10 LPM concentrator. Larger is even
better. The Spartan will run well on smaller concentrators, but for
boro and large pieces, it's handy to be able to turn the torch up
without a shortage of oxygen. It's sort of like having a large engine under
your car hood. You may never use all the power, but if you need it,
it's there. :) We have seen many people invest in a 5 LPM
concentrator to run their torch (of various brands), thinking that
will suffice. And, in many cases, it will. But that limits the user
to smaller pieces and slower work. Most people who do this
eventually add another concentrator. This, of course, can be costly. Keeping this in mind, we
prefer that people obtain an oxygen tank instead of a concentrator.
The tank can be a bit expensive, but oxygen is rather inexpensive.
This method gives you all the power you will ever need to run any
torch. You can also rent an oxygen tank at a nominal expense if you
prefer not to purchase one. (Check with your local welding supply
store.) In comparison, purchasing a 10, 15, or 20 LPM concentrator
is far more expensive initially than purchasing or renting an oxygen
tank.
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For propane, we recommend a BBQ style bulk
tank, or larger. These are rather inexpensive and can be
purchased at most hardware or department stores, or at your
local propane gas dealer. The regulator sold below will fit this
type of propane bulk tank. |
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