Bottled Oxygen for Welding
Oxygen is an essential component in many welding processes. It is used to create the heat necessary for welding and cutting metal. Bottled oxygen is a common way to supply this gas to welding machines, torches, and other equipment.
This article will provide an overview of bottled oxygen for welding, including the different types of cylinders, how to handle and store them safely, and some common uses in welding applications.
Types of Cylinders
Bottled oxygen is stored in high-pressure cylinders made of either aluminum or steel. The two types of cylinders have different properties that can affect their use in welding applications.
Aluminum Cylinders
Aluminum cylinders are lightweight and easy to transport, making them a popular choice for portable welding applications. They are also resistant to corrosion, making them a good choice for outdoor work or welding in humid environments. However, aluminum cylinders have a lower pressure rating than steel cylinders, which means they may not be suitable for some high-demand welding processes.
Steel Cylinders
Steel cylinders are stronger and have a higher pressure rating than aluminum cylinders. This makes them ideal for use in high-demand welding processes that require a constant supply of oxygen. However, they are heavier and more difficult to transport than aluminum cylinders, making them less suitable for portable welding applications. Steel cylinders are also more susceptible to corrosion than aluminum cylinders, so they may require more maintenance to keep them in good condition.
Handling and Storage
Handling and storing bottled oxygen requires special precautions to ensure safety. Oxygen is a highly reactive gas and can cause combustion or explosion if not handled properly.
Transportation
When transporting oxygen cylinders, they should always be secured in an upright position and stored in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources, flammable materials, and direct sunlight. Cylinders should never be dropped or struck, and the valve cap should always be securely in place to prevent leaks.
Storage
Cylinders should be stored in a dry, cool, and well-ventilated area that is free from flammable materials. They should be stored away from corrosive materials, such as acids, and should never be placed near electrical equipment or outlets. The storage area should be marked with warning signs indicating the presence of compressed gas cylinders.
Uses in Welding Applications
Bottled oxygen is used in a variety of welding applications, including:
Oxy-Fuel Welding and Cutting
Oxygen is used with fuel gases, such as acetylene, to create a flame that is used to heat and melt metal. This process is commonly used in welding and cutting applications, including brazing, soldering, and flame-cutting.
Oxygen-Enriched Air Welding
Oxygen-enriched air welding is a process that uses a mixture of oxygen and compressed air to create a high-temperature flame that is used to melt metal. This process is commonly used in high-demand welding applications, such as shipbuilding, pipeline welding, and heavy equipment repair.
Plasma Cutting
Bottled oxygen is also used in plasma cutting applications, where a high-velocity jet of ionized gas is used to cut through metal. The oxygen is used to create a high-temperature plasma arc that melts the metal and blows away the molten material.
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