1. It’s officially a safe fuel gas
We now know cylinders of oxy-acetylene are no more disruptive than any other gas cylinders when involved in a fire. Acetylene is also lighter than air, so it doesn’t accumulate at low levels, making it safe to use underground. The BCGA (British Compressed Gas Association) provide a great resource on how to handle acetylene cylinders and provide downloadable risk assessment forms.
2. Acetylene users can get insurance
Your insurance company should be aware that the 2012 procedure is now in place, but if they refuse insurance, refer them to our informative guide.
3. Nothing beats oxy-acetylene for welding quality
Acetylene is the hottest and most efficient of all fuel gases for all types of welding. Its highest heat transfer rate is 3,160oC versus propane’s 2,828oC. The propane flame is too oxidising to produce high quality welds in carbon steel… but you can with acetylene.
4. Using oxy-acetylene could save you time and money
Oxy-acetylene is unbeatable for its flexibility and is cost-effective in multiple fabrication applications. Watch our video to see how acetylene and propane perform in a cutting time test.
5. It’s easy to source acetylene
The difficulties users once faced in sourcing acetylene have been alleviated since BOC opened a new £30m state-of-the-art dissolved acetylene plant in Immingham at the end of 2015 which is capable of producing 300kg of acetylene per hour.