How to Cut With a BC Torch

If you have a large piece of metal that needs to be cut into smaller, workable pieces to allow you to move it easier and make it more compact, you are going to need a cutting torch. There are plenty of oxygen and acetylene torches from which to choose, including the BC torch. It is vital that you understand how to properly use the torch and follow all safety precautions while using a cutting torch.

Workbench or sawhorses, if desired
ABC fire extinguisher
Protective, non-flammable clothing, leather gloves, work boots and eye protection
Acetylene tank with regulator
Oxygen tank with regulator
BC torch
Striker

Instructions

- 1
  Place the metal that you are going to cut in a place that doesn't have flammable items present and is well-ventilated. If you are working on a workbench or sawhorses, make sure the section you will be cutting is not situated right on top of them.
- 2
  Check your torch hoses to make sure they are straight, not kinked and positioned where you will not trip over them. Check all the hose connections so they are all tight. Also check to see if your torch adjustment valves are completely closed with no pressure registering on them and the regulator screws should not have tension down.
- 3
  Rotate the valves on your acetylene and oxygen tanks very slowly to open them up. Continue to turn them until they are all the way open, then readjust them. Your acetylene regulator should register 7 lbs. of pressure and your oxygen regulator should be at 20 lbs. of pressure.
- 4
  Pick your BC torch up and hold it firmly in one hand. With your other hand, grab your striker and ignite the tip of the torch. As the striker sparks, simultaneously depress the acetylene adjustment valve on the torch handle. This should light the torch.
- 5
  Adjust the acetylene valve until you have a soft, yellow flame about 16 inches long. Adjust the oxygen adjustment until your flame gets more defined and turns a light blue color on the outside with a darker blue middle. Stop the oxygen adjustment when the entire flame measures approximately 6 inches in length.
- 6
  Position the inside darker blue part of the flame near your metal piece where you want to cut it. Keep the flame there until the metal starts to turn orange. When this happens, gently press down on the oxygen lever on the torch to start cutting the metal. Keep this gentle pressure on the lever as you bring the flame down along the area you want to cut. Keep your feet back as you finalize cutting the piece as it may drop and cause damage.
- 7
  Make additional cuts in the same manner, if needed.
- 8
  Turn the oxygen valve off when you are done. After the oxygen is completely off, turn off the acetylene valve. Make sure both valves are turned off completely. Also loosen the regulator screws so they have no tension and are not getting a reading.
- 9
  Open the adjustment valves on the torch handle to drain any residual acetylene or oxygen from the device and hoses.

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