Torch/Concentrator/Propane HookUp Lynx Torch / O2 Concentrator /Propane Tank Set Up: Some More Details I run an extra long green hose (the one for 02) from the concentrator to the torch. At the concentrator end, I have a flashback arrestor/checkvalve but I don't know for sure if this is necessary. At the torch the hose is secured by a hose clamp - you buy them in Home Depot - they look like little bracelets of metal that you tighten with a screw driver. The 02 concentrator is connected at all times to the torch. Propane - I am lucky to have a door in my basement so I can keep the propane out side, A propane regulator attaches on to the propane tank. To that I have attached the female end of a "quick connect". At the torch I have connected a 12 foot red hose, secured with a hose clamp. At the other end of the hose I have connected a flashback arrestor / check valve and to that the male end of the Quick Connect. When I want to work, I open the door and connect the male and female ends of the Quick Connect - the propane tube now runs from the propane to my torch. I open the valve on the propane tank and adjust the pressure. Then I turn my oxygen concentrator on. I open the propane valve on the torch, light the propane and then open the O2 valve on the torch. When I stop working I close the valves on the torch and shut off the O2 concentrator. Then I go outside and shut off the propane - the propane bottle is closed and so is the regulator so that the pressure drops to zero. Then I go inside and open the propane valve on the torch and burn off the propane that is in the tubing and when the flame dies down I close the torch valve. Then I open the O2 valve on the torch to let extra 02 in the tubing escape. This reads much more complicated than it is to do - once you are used to it turning on and off the set up - propane, O2 concentrator, and torch it doesn't take more than 20 - 30 seconds. I am not an expert on this or versed in all aspects of safety, so I would suggest that if you can you check out James Kervin's book - "More that you ever wanted to know about Glass Beadmaking" or look on the ISGB forum archives for studio setup or safety discussions. I like the set up because when I am not working there is no pressurized gas containers in the house. I work in a very large basement and I keep the door open with a fan running. It seems to work for me but most beadmakers use a ventilation hood over their workspace and I do tend to stay away from powdered enamels, metals, because I don't have a hood. |