"pressure/flow issue"

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In another thread, Sandy mentions the "pressure/flow issue" .Am I correct that he's refering to the fact that I can have a high working pressure and control the flow at the tip?Could someone describe the issue in more detail? I've wondered about what I'm gaining with a high working pressure, if I'm cutting down the flow at the handle. There is some variable I'm missing - Mike
Reply:On a oxy./acet. cutting torch,you can cut the world in half with 4to 5 psi of acet. working pressure and 40 psi of oxy.psi.I work with a bunch of guys that swear by the 7 to 10 psi of acet.working psi. and it is not needed.Check out a Victor torch tip booklet.They list lower pressures than i use.I dont think you can accurately control pressure at the tip,that is why i think you will be wasteing gas with a high working pressure.Now when i cut steel thicker than 1 inch i bump up the oxy.to 45 to 50 but the acet.psi nevers goes above 5 psi.with thin stuff 3/16 and less i dial the oxy.down to the 30 to 35 range.again the acet.stays around 4 to 5 psi.You get plenty of heat with that working pressure.Tip size is another factor,i use a size 0 tip for everthing upto 1/2 inch and a #1 tip for anything up to 1 1/2 inches.Using to large a tip wastes gas also.I am no expert on anything but have cut a little steel and melted it back together.
Reply:Originally Posted by mhorowitIn another thread, Sandy mentions the "pressure/flow issue" .Am I correct that he's refering to the fact that I can have a high working pressure and control the flow at the tip?Could someone describe the issue in more detail? I've wondered about what I'm gaining with a high working pressure, if I'm cutting down the flow at the handle. There is some variable I'm missing - Mike
Reply:Originally Posted by SandyFor cutting running high acet pressure allows quicker pre-heat, higher temps and allows for blowing through rust, dirty metals and aids in varrying tip to piece standoffs. Good for demolition type work. Pretty messy cuts overall. For cut to fit projects low pressures and properly sized tips can be quite rewarding. Slightly longer pre-heats, slower cuts but an end product that'll make you smile.