How to Set the Regulators for an Oxygen & Gas Torch

Move all flammable items out of the work space. Check the fire extinguisher to see if it is charged and within reach. A supply of sand is another good safety precaution for extinguishing flames. Observe if there are any unusual smells in the work space. Natural acetylene is odorless, but because it is a dangerous gas, it is odorized with a skunky scent when sold in tanks. Always work in a well-ventilated area.

Put on clean, nonflammable, oil- and grease-free clothing. Wear eye goggles, leather gloves and safety boots. Never wear loose, dirty clothing or dangling jewelry when using a torch. Pull back long, loose hair.

Check to see if the tanks are secured in place and that they will not tip. Loose tanks pose a severe safety risk. The hoses should be situated so you will not trip on them, out of path of direct flames.

Make sure that the torch, hoses and regulators are secure and snug. Do not over-tighten the regulators as this may cause damage to the threads or equipment.

Check the regulator valves. Make sure they are all the way out and the torch valves are closed. There should be no pressure registering on the regulator gauges at this point.

Slowly open the gas tank valve about a half turn in a clockwise direction and the oxygen tank valve all the way open until you cannot turn it further. To open the tank valves, you will need either to turn the handwheel on the tanks or use a gang or T-handle wrench. Keep the wrench in place on the tanks in case it is needed for quick closure.

Stand to the side of the regulators and slowly turn the valves clockwise. Watch each gauge to ensure the pressure is rising slowly. Stop turning the regulator when the acetylene reaches 5 psi and the oxygen reaches 10 psi. Do not let the acetylene rise above 15 psi, as it will explode. If you open the valves too far, turn them counterclockwise to correct the pressure.

Purge the lines by depressing the torch handle in a short burst and then releasing pressure. Do this before lighting, then light the torch with a striker. Adjust the torch valves until you reach the desired flame size and shape for your project.

Close the oxygen valve on the torch handle first and then the acetylene, when you are done. Close off the tank valves next. Turn on the torch valves and depress the torch handle to purge any residual gases. Turn the regulators until there is no pressure registering on them.