The Home Machinist!

I am using an oxy/acet setup for brazing a copper boiler. I had to get inside the boiler for a long session of heating and brazing. The tip got very hot while inside the boiler. I also had a few blowbacks where the torched popped off. When I went to change tips I noticed there was what appeared to be black soot between the two rubber gaskets on the tip and soot on the handle connection as well. This was on the inside of the handle tip connection area. Was this from the blowback or did I over heat the tip?

I'm far from being an authority on welding and welding devices, but it sounds to me that acetylene ignited inside the torch, likely due to the overheated components. I expect you were far from a meltdown, otherwise the carbon traces you found would not have been present.

It will be interesting to read comments from those that have experience in this issue.

Harold

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Wise people talk because they have something to say. Fools talk because they have to say something.

i would chaulk this up to blowback hope you got the preventers(flash back) at the base of the torch

Thanks for the quick feedback. I spoke to Victor and they said it was just blowback. The said to take the handle off and gently wash the area with soapy water and blow dry with compressed air. And fortunately I have the handle with the flashback preventers.

Could also be a sign that you are leaking some OX into the gas side. be sure the two seals are in good shape espically since the rubber seals may be cooked from overheating
Joe B

A bit of carbon is common. Ensure the seals are smooth and supple, not burnt and crispy.

Victor O-rings are inexpensive and you can swap them from one tip you aren't using if needed by gently removing them. I use a sewing needle to get behind then then pinch them between thumb and forefinger.

I use a brass or plastic toothbrush to remove loose carbon.