Equipment Maintenance To obtain the best use from equipment, it should be kept clean, in good condition and in safe working order. It should also be tested and checked at regular intervals, when any small fault can be quickly rectified before the need for extensive repairs becomes necessary. Failure to overhaul the equipment regularly may result in torches,hoses, gas connections, etc., being used in dangerous and wasteful conditions. Should any doubt exist as to the reliability of any item of equipment, will be pleased to conduct an equipment safety survey. Service Exchange SchemeTake advantage of our Exchange Scheme to ensure that equipment is kept constantly in good working order. Under this scheme, standard welding and cutting equipment that is not in good working order can be immediately exchanged for reconditioned equipment without waiting for repairs to be carried out. Never attempt to carry out internal repairs on regulators, flashback arrestors or torches as this can be extremely dangerous. Do not use 'pirate' repaired equipment as internal components are not available. These repairs utilise secondhand components to get equipment working which can be extremely dangerous. Faulty equipmentRubber Hose Hose may be tested for leaks by immersing in water under working pressure. Leaks may be repaired by cutting out the faulty portion and inserting a hose joiner. Worn ends should be cut back and the ends refixed with proper hose connectors and clips. If this is not sufficient, the hose must be replaced. NEVER use copper pipe to join acetylene hoses. Regulators If the regulator creeps, i.e. passes gas when the pressure regulator screw is released, or builds up pressure on the low pressure side when the torch valves are shut, it should be exchanged at once. If gauges do not return to zero when the pressure is released, the mechanism is faulty and new gauges should be fitted without delay. Torches Leaks can be detected by using the our Safetest Leak Detection Spray (item number 012045)sprayed directly onto all joints. Leaking valves should be cured by tightening the gland nut. Leaks at the head nut or welding nozzles should be remedied by cleaning the seatings with a soft cloth and retightening. If leaks still occur, the faulty equipment should be exchanged immediately. In the case of a sustained backfire, with gas burning inside the torch:
After a backfire the acetylene cylinder should always be checked for excess temperature. Cylinders Leaks around the valve spindle will be revealed by a hissing sound or a smell of gas .Tighten the gland nut and test with our Safetest Leak Detection Spray. If the cylinder continues to leak, return it to us with a note attached. Nozzles Do not maltreat nozzles. The correct pre-heat flame and cutting oxygen stream can only be maintained when the edge of the gas orifices are sharp. The orifices should be regularly cleaned with special nozzle cleaners. These are readily available and are recommended as standard equipment. The cleaner should be carefully worked up and down. Do not twist. Do not force oversize cleaners through the orifices, but start with a smaller size and work up to the correct one. Flashback Arrestors The bodies and connecction should be regularly tested for leaks. The arresting element will always function, however, non-return valves and flow rates can be checked on an annual basis if necessary. Contact us with regard to test procedures and test equipment. |