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Checked and updated on November 10, 2020 by Aaron Barnett
The best oxygen-acetylene torch comes with two separate gauges one for the oxygen tank and one for the fuel tank. The best brazing kit will also come with a torch of course where the fuel and air will mix. A torch should have multiple nozzles for different jobs. Also, make sure you also have a decent case to include and store all your accessories.
Oxy-acetylene is the mix of Oxygen and acetylene, to braze, heat, and cut metal.
Best oxyacetylene torch kit [torch and gauges only]
#1 Best oxyacetylene torch kit with gauges
XtremePower US 12 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Comes with very good gauges that function efficiently.
Excellent for occasional use. - Value for money.
- Has all the tools fir for soldering, welding, metal heating, etc.
- The complete set comes with both oxygen and acetylene regulators.
- Goggles are a little too dark for indoor work.
- Not fit for 20-pound oxygen settling cylinders.
- Comes with very good gauges that function efficiently.
#2 Best Miller Smith kit with gauges
Miller Smith MB55A-510 9 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, silver torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This kit comes with one-way valves.
- It is excellent for brazing and welding purposes.
- Value for money and you get a 3-year warranty with purchase.
- Great build for this price.
- The striker could be of better quality.
- Some people may find the product small.
#3 Most affordable oxyacetylene torch kit with gauges
ZenStyle 14 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This high-quality torch is suitable for heavy-duty work.
- Excellent customer support from the manufacturing company
- Excellent gauge, sealing as well as operation.
- Value for money.
- Does not come with a flashback arrestor.
- Not compatible with B or MC tanks.
#4 Best brass torched kit with gauges
Firepower 0384-2682 11pcs, up to 1/2 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Lightweight and easy to move around.
- Supports alternative gas options such as Propane and Butane.
- You can cut 1/8 inch to 5 inches of metal and weld steel up to 1/2 inches.
- Made with highly durable alloys that add up to this kit’s durability.
- It’s very compact as it roughly weighs 12 pounds.
- You need a type T house to use multiple fuel options
- Striker is of sub-standard quality.
#5 Most versatile oxyacetylene torch kit with gauges
US Forge 00820 13 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This kit comes with double seals so you can have your connections extra tight.
Can be used in a variety of fields such as automobile, construction, crafting, etc.
- Can weld up to 3/8 inches of mild steel.
- Superior body build which is made from brass.
- Does not come with spark arrestors.
#6 Best in-tip gas mixing technology
Miller Smith MBA-30510 11 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Revolutionary in-tip gas mixing technology
- Made in the United States of America.
- Plastic case.
#7 Best hose set for oxyacetylene torch kit
Forney 1705 450 series 11pcs, up to 3/16 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- T-grade flexible 20 feet hose.
450 style regulators. - Kit comes with backflow check valves.
- No flashback arrestors.
- Limited vision with goggles in low lighting.
#8 Best comprehensive Forney oxyacetylene torch kit
Forney 1707 450 series 15 pcs, up to 3/16 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Comes with check valves for extra safety.
T-graded hose.
- Welds up to 3/8 inch and cut up to 6 inches.
- No flashback arrestors.
- Limited vision with goggles in low lighting.
#9 Most durable torches
Harris Ironworker Camo Kit 4400369 10 pcs, up to 1/2 inch, silver torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Solid forged heads that can resist heavy damage.
Teflon seats on regulators for added safety. - Hoses are a little stiff and prone to tangling.
#10 Best quick valve-replacement handle
Harris Ironworker 4400372 10 pcs, up to 1/2 inch, silver torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Torch handle comes with a replaceable flash guard check valve.
- Compatible with Victor.
- All gas in-tube mixers provided.
- Limited vision with goggles in low lighting.
#11 Best Victor oxyacetylene torch kit
Victor ESAB 0384-2130, 7 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, alloy torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Comes with oxygen and acetylene regulators.
- Built-in check valves and flashback arrestors.
- T-grade twin hose and striker included.
- A little more expensive than other torch kits.
Best oxyacetylene torch kit [without gauges]
#1 Top oxyacetylene torch kit without gauges
Miller Smith 16202 6 pcs up to 1/2 inch, silver torch, oxyacetylene torch kit (head and handle only)
- Excellent build quality especially the handles.
- Value for money.
- Somewhat short but still manageable.
#2 Best pressure control kit
Thermadyne 0386-0335 X-3B 5 pcs, up to 5/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Excellent quality.
Good pressure control. - Lightweight and easy to use.
- It’s a little noisy during operation.
#3 Best brass torched kit without gauges
Victor ESAB 4pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Comes with built-in check valves.
- Value for money.
- Not as light-weighted as other torches on this list.
#4 Best hosed torch kit without gauges
Victor ESAB 9 pcs, up to 3/8 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Comes with built-in check valves and flashback arrestors.
- T-grade torch hose.
- Goggles are of poor quality.
#5 Most affordable torch kit without gauges
ABN 9 pcs, up to 1/2 inch, brass torch, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Heavy-duty impact-resistant plastic molded case.
- The durable kit that has been crafted with strong materials.
- Compatible with Victor setups.
- Does not come with spark arrestors.
Introduction
Oxyacetylene torches are used by professional welders who work on industrial sites as well as plumbers for copper pipe welding and by amateurs for various repairs around the house or their metal artwork projects.
Invented more than a hundred years ago by Edmond Fouche and Charles Picard in 1903, Oxyacetylene is still a very popular way of welding even for beginners.
One interesting fact about the oxy torch is that despite its age, millions of welders still use this tool in their every day, daily operations.
I should warn you that torches are serious hardware that can reach temperatures as high as 5791 F so it’s necessary to observe caution while wielding some safety tips can be found below, but make sure to get proper training from a professional.
Read on to find out all about how to find the best oxygen-acetylene torch and compatible gauges such as the different parts that you’ll need to set one up, and which torch is the best for you, etc.
Features to look for when buying an oxyacetylene torch kit
- Should be lightweight: The torch has to be portable and easy to move around.
- Should be UL tested & certified: That ensures you get the industry-standard torch.
- Decent tank capacity: To ensure you don’t run out of juice in the middle of a weld.
- Must be of good build quality: Torches are serious tools filled with flammable liquids which is why you need quality built torches.
- Should be durable: Since you may need to work for long periods non-stop, you will need a highly durable torch.
What an oxyacetylene torch kit do.
You can do pretty much any cutting, brazing job on different metals using an oxy-acetylene cutting torch. Compared to alternative combinations such as propane which burns at a maximum temperature of 5072 F, Oxyacetylene burns at approximately 5612 F which makes it an excellent choice for welding steel as it cleans its surface as it goes.
Acetylene burns quite efficiently when combined with oxygen as it has far less stoichiometric oxygen requirements which consequently allows the gasses to last longer.
This can be measured by the oxygen requirements of fuels such as propane which has a ratio of 4.3 to 1 as compared to the incredibly economic ratio of 1.2 to 1 of acetylene.
- Gas Welding: Acetylene burning in oxygen creates a reducing zone that automatically cleans the surface of the metal
- Cutting: They are an excellent tool for cutting off rusted bolts from old junk
- Metal Heating: To chemically or physically alter a metal
- Brazing: To join two or more metals using a filler metal which is also known as soldering
Must-have accessories in oxyacetylene torch kits
- Torch Body: This part of a cutting torch is usually designed to be a hybrid that accepts both cutting tips as well as welding attachments.
- Mixer Chamber: This component is required to ensure that the different gases being used for combustion are being mixed properly.
- Welding Tip: Your torch is not complete without this particular component.
- Gas Regulators: They are used to control the level of gas pressure during welding. You will commonly find oxygen and oxy-acetylene regulators in your kit.
- Separate Gas Tubes: Separate because you don’t want the highly flammable gases to mix and cause an explosion.
- Hammers: To smash and bash whatever chunks of metal you can. Consider using a specialized hammer like the best ball-peen hammers to assist in shaping your metalwork projects.
- Separate Control Valves: Since the gas tubes are separate, you will need separate control valves for them as well.
Different brazing tips
The term Brazing refers to the process of using numerous heat sources to join two or more metals together. To successfully join the two metals, a filler metal which has a lower melting point than the other metal flows into the joint and seals it shut.
There are many types of brazing techniques and tip types for different jobs such as torch brazing, resistance brazing, induction brazing, and many more.
Tricks and tips when it comes to brazing:
- Ensure that the torch is continuously moving
- Don’t directly heat the area that you want to braze
- Keep an eye on the flux to avoid uneven heating
- Deposit the filler metal only after the assembly is up to heating temperature
Welding alternatives to using acetylene
One of the best things about the modern world is that there is no shortage of alternatives when it comes to any tool or appliance. One of the common alternatives for oxyacetylene torches is either MAPP gas, propane, or propylene.
Of all of the above, MAPP gas is the most famous since it is a very stabilized mixture of propadiene and propyne. This particular fuel however is not suitable for large-scale welding or cutting operations because it does not burn as hot as acetylene.
Choosing the best oxyacetylene torch kit with gauges…
#1 Top comprehensive oxyacetylene torch kit
The XtremePower US 12-piece torch kit is a welding kit that is more than enough to handle a variety of tasks such as welding, cutting, heating, etc.
The kit weighs only around 11 pounds and it contains everything like goggles, tip cleaners, spark lighter, cutting attachments as well as a nozzle and other necessary making it the best oxy acetylene kits available.
I consider it an extremely good attachment to use for lightweight cutting and extracting rusted bolts from old or obsolete equipment.
Best value oxyacetylene torch kit
The Harris Ironworker Camo Kit 4400369 is also a prime set to keep in any workshop if you are looking for a cheaper option. The comprehensive set will leave you all the attachments needed for both welding, brazing, and cutting with oxy-acetylene.
I like how the brazing and cutting tips go with the durable silver-brazed tubes making it easy to replace the check valves with ease. Just one thing to note, the glasses aren’t that suitable considering you should be wearing goggles or a tinted face shield.
Best low-cost oxyacetylene with gauges
The ZenStyle cutting torch and welding kit is made from high quality and extremely durable materials which is a must for any welder who needs a reliable kit for heavy-duty work. when using the right tip, the ZenStyle torch can easily cut through inches of metal.
Although the kit does not come with a flashback arrestor and the goggles can be a little too dark which seems to be the only downside with the purchase.
Choosing the best oxyacetylene torch
Best oxyacetylene torch kit without gauges
The Miller Smith 16202 oxyacetylene torch is a 6-pieces set, you’ll get all the tips needed for brazing, cutting, and for heating. The torch works even on B-sized gauges and hoses.
When it comes to torches alone, go for the Miller Smith torch. I’m already aware of how great Smith torches are for cutting and brazing jobs, but the lifetime warranty is also a great backup.
If welding is your expertise and you get to work every day, you might as well go for the best.
Most affordable oxyacetylene torch kit without gauges
The 9-pc ABN oxyacetylene torch set is one comprehensive set at a cheaper price point it is well-packed in a heavy-duty hard plastic case with at a more reasonable price. It’s a great set for new welders. The brazing tips made of copper and fittings made of brass.
Perfect for light-duty jobs this is a good set for you to start with if you’re a beginner. Tubes work perfectly. With the valves fitting tightly, you can start your projects with peace of mind.
Reminders before you buy an oxyacetylene torch kit
Check all the attachments, parts, and accessories.
It is a no brainer that you are working with tools that run on highly flammable gasses. Ensuring that every part and attachment of your kit is properly fitted and not leaking any gas is very important for your safety.
Decide on the best brand.
Brands like Victor are old school and reliable but there are many other unknown brands that you’ll need to properly research before buying their products.
Make sure the seller is trustworthy.
Online stores like Amazon use local sellers to fulfill delivery. Always make sure the seller from which you are getting your kit has a good track record and no history of supplying damaged products.
Think about the price.
Think and compare alternate torch kits on different markets before committing. There are various online options where you can find oxygen and acetylene gauges for sale at much cheaper prices if you look.
Tips for using an oxyacetylene torch kit
We can all admit that losing small delicate parts of any tool amid all the chaos that happens at a site is very easy. This is the reason why welders need to be careful about safekeeping every component of our kit before and after every job.
Dos
- Always remember to stand to the side of the regulator
- Always use the correct tip size to cut through the metal thickness
- Conduct leak tests on all connections using leak test fluids to look for bubbles
- Always support your cutting hand with your free hand when using the torch
- Keep all combustive materials at least 20ft away once you’re done
- Keep a spotter ready with a fire extinguisher anyway
Don’ts
- Don’t allow unauthorized parties or untrained personnel near the vicinity
- Don’t operate with a loose connection
- Don’t use damaged equipment
- Don’t use bare electric cables for operations
- Don’t leave gas cylinders open during breaks
- Don’t allow anyone to smoke near the vicinity
- Don’t operate with combustive materials lying around
Wear personal protective equipment.
- Eyes and face: Welding helmet, hand shield, goggles
- Breathing: Respirators
- Skin: Apron or flame-resistant items of clothing
- Ears: Earmuffs
- Feet and hands: Boots and flame-resistant gloves
Steps for prepping up the oxyacetylene torch kit
These are the steps I always follow whenever I’m prepping my oxyacetylene torch kit.
- Attach the oxygen and acetylene cylinders and make sure they’re standing upright
- Make sure that the valves are dirt-free. Clean them with a file or small pins if necessary
- Join both the oxygen as well as the acetylene regulators to the correct cylinders
- Use a wrench to securely tighten the nuts of the regulators
- Turn the screw that controls the pressure to the left-most position
- Very cautiously, open up both the oxygen and the acetylene valves
- To shut the torch off once done, simply close both the oxygen valve as well as the fuel valve
Comparing oxyacetylene torch kit s[Torches and gauges]
Xtremepower US | Miller Smith MB55A-510 | ZenStyle | Firepower 0384-2682 | US Forge 00820 | Miller Smith MBA-30510 | Forney 1705 450 series | Forney 1707 450 series | Harris Ironworker Camo Kit 4400369 | Harris Ironworker 4400372 | Victor ESAB 0384-2130 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Verdict: | Top oxyacetylene torch kit | Most affordable kit | Best value kit | ||||||||
Pieces: | 12 pcs | 9 pcs | 14 pcs | 11 pcs | 13 pcs | 11 pcs | 11 pcs | 15 pcs | 10 pcs | 10 pcs | 7 pcs |
Welding/ brazing: | up to 3/8 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 1/2 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up tp 3/16 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 1/2 inch | up to 1/2 inch | up to 3/8 inch |
Torch handle: | Brass | Silver | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass | Silver | Silver | Alloy |
Hose size: | (2) 1/4 inches diameter x 15 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 20 ft | (2) 1/4 inches diameter x 15 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | (2) 1/4 inch diameter x 25 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 20 ft | (2) 1/4 inch diameter x 20 ft | (2) 1/4 inch diameter x 25 ft |
Comparing oxyacetylene torch kit [Without gauges]
MIller Smith 16202 | Thermadyne 0386-0335 X-3B | Victor ESAB 4-pc | Victor ESAB 9-pc | ABN | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Verdict: | Best kit without gauges | Most affordable kit | |||
Quantity: | 6 pcs | 5 pcs | 4 pcs | 9 pcs | 9 pcs |
Welding/ brazing: | up to 1/2 inch | up to 1/2 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 3/8 inch | up to 1/2 inch |
Torch handle: | Silver | Brass | Brass | Brass | Brass |
Hose size: | None | (1) 3/16 inch diameter x 12 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 ft | None |
Conclusion
If you are someone who likes to abuse his gear then you probably will have to go for the best acetylene torch kit that is made from durable materials and can take the beatings you might give it.
I would recommend the XtremePower US oxyacetylene torch kit for such heavy-duty users as this torch kit is made from highly durable materials.
Considering the price and it also weighs only a modest 11 pounds which I think is an ideal choice for work that is taking place indoors or in tight spaces where heavier equipment is difficult to carry to and from.
Speaking of tight spaces, the Miller Smith 16202 oxyacetylene torch set without gauges is also not a bad choice considering the quality you will get with its purchase.
Lastly, if you need to do any grinding work at your workbench to tidy up any of your metalwork consider also getting a decent bench grinder first, have a look at the options.
XtremePower US oxyacetylene torch kit review
Pros:
- Gauges work accurately.
- It has a comprehensive set of attachments and tools for different cutting and brazing jobs.
- It comes with both oxygen and acetylene regulators.
Cons:
- Goggles may come too shady.
- Not for use of 20 lbs. cylinders.
#1 Best oxyacetylene torch kit with gauges
Miller Smith 16202 review
Pros:
- Handles are of great quality and top of the line.
- Worth the investment.
Cons:
- The short handles are bearable.
#1 Best oxyacetylene torch kit without gauges
References:
- History, retrieved from, https://www.weldingsuppliesfromioc.com/blog/how-did-oxy-acetylene-happen/
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