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Last updated on February 18, 2021 by qualified builder Aaron Barnett
The best portable oxy acetylene torch kit, is of course light enough to be easily moved around, can hold enough fuel to get the job done, and built to provide years of reliable service with all the head-tip attachments, and gauges that are required for brazing, heating, and cutting
Consider adequate hose length and tanks that are DOT approved.
Best portable oxyacetylene torch kit
#1 Top performing portable oxyacetylene torch kit
Victor ESAB 0384-0948 15 pcs,G150 series, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Functional and ergonomic design allows for easy handling and storage.
- Comes with cutting attachments, weld goggles, a light torch handle & cutting attachment, and a hard plastic tote.
- The torch handle comes with pre-installed check valves.
- Versatility and efficiency are limited to small-scale jobs.
- Small (20/10 cu ft) bottles might need replacing or modification.
#2 Most comprehensive portable oxyacetylene torch kit
Thouroughbred GasPony4 12 pcs, FP 250 series 125 cu ft/ 154 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Biggest kit on the list with a massive (125/145 cu ft) tank.
- Includes Victor Firepower 250 torch with tip cleaner and gloves.
- Packaged with a heavy-duty, rolling steel trolley.
- Tanks are shipped empty and need to be hydro tested and filled at a local supply shop.
#3 Best portable kit for DIYers
Uniweld KC100PT Centurion 13 pcs, CGA540/ 200, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- A small, professional-grade kit that easily brazes up to 1-inch copper tubings and can weld up to ⅛ steel.
- Features stainless steel ballpoint valves, and a plastic tote.
- Flip-up safety goggles can accommodate prescription eyewear.
- Tanks need to be bought separately.
#4 Best medium-duty portable oxyacetylene torch set
Thoroughbred GasPony1 11 pcs, 80 cu ft/ 70 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- A medium-duty kit that allows you to easily work with steel and mild steel.
- Comes with a hard plastic tote and shade-5 goggles.
- Numerous and wide-ranging service locations.
- Low-pressure gauges are prone to breakage.
#5 Best oxyacetylene torch kit for ventilation and plumbing
Ameriflame TI350T 12 pcs, CGA 540/510, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This medium to heavy-duty kit does well for household applications such as ventilation and plumbing.
- Highly effective on copper material and can manage up to 11 gauge steel.
- Tanks are not DOT approved.
- Does not include a heating head.
#6 Best easy-to-install Victor oxyacetylene tote
Victor ESAB 0384-0946 15 pcs, CGA 540/540, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Similar to the Victor ESAB -0944 albeit with a few alterations.
- Is priced lower and is easier to set up and use than its predecessor.
- Includes goggles and a hard plastic tote.
- Does not include cutting tip and attachment.
#7 Best Victor oxyacetylene torch kit for HVAC use
Victor ESAB 0384-0944 12 pcs, G150 series, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This handy and portable kit is ideal for light fabrications and HVAC applications.
- Includes a plastic tote and comes equipped with G 150 series regulators.
- Old empty tanks are traded for new or used filled ones.
#8 Best portable oxyacetylene torch kit for automotive maintenance
Forney 1753 13 pcs, G150 series, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- Is a light-duty kit housed in a plastic tote that’s ideal for auto-repair, ironworks, and general industrial maintenance.
- Utilizes Victor G 50 series regulators.
- Acetylene regulators are sometimes faulty/defective.
#9 Best portable kit for workshop
Hobart 770500, 13 pcs, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- A durable and compact kit ideal for home and shop maintenance work.
- Easy-adjust performance settings.
- Includes a plastic carrying tote, flip safety goggles, tip cleaner, and features a brass cutter attachment with stainless steel tubes and lever.
- Does not include flashback arrestors.
#10 Most affordable oxyacetylene torch kit
9Trading 11 pcs, CGA500/ 200, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- The most affordable brazing torch kit on this list.
- Favored by those who work in general maintenance, metal sculpting, and cooling and refrigeration.
- Features a Polypropylene case.
- Tanks are often considered paperweight due to regulations.
#11 Best premium portable oxyacetylene torch kit
Harris 85601-200 13 pcs CGA500/ 200, 20 cu ft/ 10 cu ft tanks, oxyacetylene torch kit
- This portable, heavy-duty kit is capable of cutting up to 4-inches of steel with larger tips.
- Optimized for brazing.
- Comes with a heavy-duty brazing attachment and a deluxe hard-carrying tote.
- High output can burn through fuel fast.
Introduction
A portable oxy acetylene torch kit is a type of welding equipment that allows for brazing jobs outside of the workshop, on building sites, and in remote locations. A portable torch kit with oxygen and acetylene tanks is easily carried by either a trolley or just a plastic tote.
Oxyacetylene works by combining oxygen and acetylene to either cut or join together various kinds of solid metal materials most commonly copper pipes, or copper artwork. If you want to know what’s possible with copper art, have a look at these examples.
Though most uses of oxyacetylene kits involve a range of metals other than copper, they are usually used for lighter applications such as metal-forming, heating, and brazing. Because oxy acetylene torch kit is low-cost and the majority of the kits are portable, making them ideal for use in small shops and at home.
On the other hand, because of their utility, oxy-acetylene torch kits see optimum use by highly mobile professionals like plumbers and gas fitters.
The oxyacetylene welding process was discovered by French engineers Edmond Fouche and Charles Picard in 1903 and, to this day, remains one of the best heat-induced tools for cutting steel.
By 1910, oxy acetylene welding had amassed much prominence and led to the founding of brands like Harris and Victor who aimed to bring the main industrial and stationary application of oxyacetylene down to commercial use and in a more “dynamic” form.
Modern oxy-acetylene torch kits are versatile and travel-ready, making them a must-have for builders, engineers, maintenance crews, and even iron artists who are constantly on-the-go.
While it can be difficult to make a perfect choice, a user should decide on a dedicated portable kit like what’s here. Or considering a less portable but bigger kit by purchasing the best oxygen acetylene torch kit and pairing it with larger tanks.
But for portability, we have identified the options in this guide.
Features to consider when buying a portable oxyacetylene torch kit
- Storage & safety. Oxygen and Acetylene should never mix. An oxy-acetylene torch kit should always come with 2 different tanks, each with the proper valves and required safety features.
- Capacity. Capacity determines how long you can use the torch kit. Usually measured in cubic feet (cu ft), this can also indicate how often you need to refill or how many spares you should have ready for a particular job.
- Weight. Portable kits should be light enough to carry around. While they will have some heft, especially on full tanks, you should pick a weight you’re comfortable working with. The kits listed here weigh anywhere between 30 to 40lbs.
- Output. Working with bigger pieces of metal requires a greater mix of oxyacetylene; measure this in terms of capacity since a greater flow would likely deplete your supply quicker.
- Attachments & accessories. Attachments and accessories offer you versatility and can allow you to work on a range of jobs. These include different kinds of nozzles, gauges, tips, and cleaners.
Why do you need a portable oxyacetylene torch kit?
- Ease of use. Portable oxyacetylene kits are lighter and easier to carry around compared to a standard sized kit. Although they have the same fundamental function and can get the job done without making you feel cumbersome, the tanks are just smaller.
- Convenience. You can bring them with you and increase your range of work without needing to go back and forth. Portability makes work a little bit faster and easier.
- Flexibility. Respond to clients or go out and do work at any practical time. With a portable kit, you are not limited by a schedule on heavy lifting equipment or help.
When should you weld with oxyacetylene?
While oxy acetylene does have large-scale industrial applications, it is more favored by hundreds of skilled workers handling copper brazing and smaller steel cutting jobs.
Being low-cost, oxyacetylene is more accessible, making it easily acquirable especially if you are a sole proprietor or the owner of a small business.
Oxyacetylene is relatively safe compared to other welding fuel compounds and burns the hottest, making it more effective and better-suited for manual use on small to medium-sized jobs such as customizing a car’s chassis or building a custom animal cage.
Paired with a decent finger sander you can polish of imperfections left by welding, have a look also at my best file belt sander recommendation.
Portable kit vs a workshop oxyacetylene kit
Function-wise, there is little to no difference between working with a portable oxyacetylene kit and its workshop counterpart. For a start, both still need you to manually work the hose in order to weld or cut.
Using a portable kit is easier for beginners as they are lighter, cheaper, and don’t require much to maneuver. For those who have to be mobile for their job, like plumbers, and gas fitters using a portable kit is also more beneficial as it allows time to move from one job to the next without as much hassle as bigger tanks.
Experienced users also appreciate a portable kit simply because of the convenience, although we have to admit that they do lose out to the workshop counterpart in terms of overall tank capacity.
What you need to know about the tanks
These kits always come with 2 tanks, 1 for oxygen, and 1 for acetylene. Both tanks are usually made of steel, with the acetylene tank often including porous material like crushed firebrick and has acetone-lined interiors to better stabilize the gas.
These tanks should always come pre-assembled with valves and regulators. Valves and regulators are safety measures and help you watch, control, and adjust pressure and gas flow. If any of these appear faulty or have visible damage, replace or have them repaired immediately.
The same goes for hoses and attachments – faulty or damaged hoses and the incorrect use of attachments can lead to gas leaks or pressure building up in the tanks; both of which are extremely dangerous, but avoidable with keen vigilance.
Never interchange regulators and hoses as they are designed to work respectively with just oxygen or just acetylene. Swapping regulators will give you false readings if it gives a reading at all and plugging in the wrong hose might cause an imbalance in pressure. Fortunately, hoses are color-coded; with blue being for oxygen and red for acetylene.
Depending on what you’re working on, you’ll often be switching from lower pressures to higher ones. To give an idea, if you’ll be welding 1/16-inch steel, you’ll need 8 – 20 psi of oxygen and about 5 psi of acetylene. Likewise, for cutting up to 2-inch steel, you’ll need 40 – 50 psi of oxygen and 5 psi of acetylene.
Bear in mind that these are portable kits, so their capacity is not too large. While 20/10 cu ft is enough to get most jobs done, the small size falls victim to constant refills and short continuous use.
What would be ideal for DIY and those in professional metalwork is a tank size of at least 80/70 cu ft. It’s big and offers longer operational time without making you overburdened even with the increased weight.
One last very important note to remember is to make sure that before you purchase, look to see if the tanks are DOT approved. DOT-approved tanks are those that pass and comply with the DOT’s regulations and are deemed good for use in transactions; local shops might and can refuse service for non-DOT-approved tanks.
Also, depending on the courier and mode of delivery, most of the time, tanks do get shipped empty to avoid any hazards, especially if they will experience changes in pressure during transport.
Top portable oxyacetylene torch kit
#1 Top best oxyacetylene torch kit
The Victor ESAB 0384-0948 comes equipped with a 20-cubic-foot oxygen tank and a 10-cubic-foot acetylene tank, both of which are DOT approved.
Its J-handle torch is suitable for handling different light-duty tasks, cutting 1/2-inch-thick metal, and welding 1/8-inch-thick metal with ease. The torch is also compatible with larger-sized tanks, providing more practicality and flexibility to the user.
The Victor portable torch kit with oxygen and acetylene tanks comes equipped with a light torch handle as well as a cutting attachment. The kit’s hard plastic tote and comfortable grip not only make it durable but easy to carry around, making it ideal for jobs that require you to move to other locations.
#1 Premium portable oxyacetylene torch set
While being the priciest kit on the list, the Harris 85601-200 has commendable features that distinguish it from the others. First is its flame-resistant and weather-proof carrying case. This, along with its lightweight polycarbonate frame, shows that it is guaranteed to last you a very long time.
It features a heavy-duty brazing attachment and can cut through 4-inch plates and weld 1/2-inch plates without any troubles when fitted with larger tips.
#1 Best value portable oxyacetylene torch kit
Like the Victor ESAB 0384-0948, the Thoroughbred GasPony1 also comes with its own ISO-approved tanks. What’s different is that these tanks have a much larger capacity and are exchangeable for filled ones if you don’t mind shelling out a bit more money.
While most portable kits are meant for lightly-demanding tasks, the GasPony1 can effectively handle medium-duty torching, brazing, and welding. It also comes with shade 5 glasses and is housed in an impact-resistant, freestanding plastic tote.
#1 Most affordable portable oxyacetylene torch kit
The 9Trading oxyacetylene torch set is one of the more affordable kits on the market that still guarantees you satisfactory results. It comes in a lightweight, waterproof polypropylene case, making it suitable for on-the-go jobs.
It is capable of handling general brazing, cutting, and welding tasks without much fuss.
However, the downside that comes with this kit’s low price tag is that its tanks are not DOT-approved, so having them filled will be a challenge.
Reminders before you buy a portable oxyacetylene torch kit
- Check the durability. One of the first things that you must consider before buying a torch kit is its durability. Like other kinds of equipment, it is sure to be subject to wear and tear, especially with continuous usage. If you expect that it’s something you will often be using, invest in a kit that’s well-made and hard-wearing.
- Research the brand. Brands like ESAB and Hobart earn their reputation for the quality and reliability of their products. It’s usually easier to find customer reviews for big-name brands, so you can determine if their kit is good or bad without much doubt. However, it’s also reasonable to go for lesser-known brands, more so if you are on a tighter budget.
- Think about the price. Price can often help you gauge the features of your kit and the grade of its materials. Investing in a better model will help you save more money in the long run by cutting down on maintenance and replacement costs. However, there are also plenty of high-caliber torches available at different price ranges.
- Consider the kind of work you need to do. If you are mostly doing light brazing, heating, or cutting, you won’t need to buy a kit designed for heavy-duty use. Purchasing the model that best addresses your needs will help you get your money’s worth and make sure that you accomplish your work as efficiently and accurately as possible.
Can you use other gases with these kits?
It is possible to use other gases but it can only be done for specific uses, and the necessary precautions must be observed.
For example, propane and propylene are viable replacements for acetylene but can only be used for heating and cutting and not portable gas welding. However, using these gases will require a longer time for preheating before the torch can be used.
Tips for using portable oxyacetylene torch kits
Dangers to avoid
- Never work in an enclosed area or somewhere with poor ventilation. Prolonged exposure to welding fumes can cause nausea and headaches as well as other, more severe symptoms and illnesses such as respiratory diseases.
- Condensed acetylene can drip from the torch and become a fire hazard. This can be avoided by restricting the rate at which the gas is released.
- Make sure that all the valves are tightly shut and excess gases have been vented from the hose before leaving your work area.
- Avoid standing near a regulator when opening a tank valve.
Safety, maintenance, storing, and refilling tips for your tanks
- Wear proper safety attire before working. This includes a welding jacket, welding helmet, welding gloves, a leather apron, denim pants, safety goggles, and closed leather shoes.
- Conduct regular equipment checks to see if any parts are leaking or need to be replaced. Be sure to inspect flashback arrestors and regulators to check if they’re working correctly. If the hose is damaged, replace it as soon as possible.
- Store oxygen cylinders apart from acetylene cylinders in a well-ventilated area. There should be a non-combustible wall at least 5 feet high to separate the two with all cylinders positioned upright.
- Avoid depleting the acetylene tank. Check with your local welding supply house to ensure that your tanks are appropriately refilled.
More tips for using portable oxyacetylene torch kits
Dos
- Ignite the torch using the recommended long nose lighter. This is because matches and small lighters bring your fingers too close to the tip.
- When lighting, keep it pointed away from your body so as not to expose your clothing to oxygen or acetylene.
- Make sure all valves are closed securely after use.
- If you need to drill any holes consider Aaron’s recommendation on drill bits for metal .
Don’ts
- Avoid using acetylene at a pressure greater than 15 psi.
- Do not smoke near the gas welder as it can cause a fire or explosion.
- Do not weld or cut containers that have been exposed to flammable materials.
- Never use oil or grease on your oxy-acetylene welding equipment because they can quickly ignite when exposed to oxygen.
Best safety and operation practices
- Install reverse flow-check valves and flash arrestors on both gas lines. This is a good way to prevent flashbacks or backfires.
- Be extra careful when handling a lit torch. Avoid pointing it at yourself and other people or walking around without putting out the flame.
- Carry and transfer hot metal using pliers or tongs.
Comparing portable oxyacetylene torch kits
| Victor ESAB 0384-0948
| Thoroughbred GasPony4
| Uniweld KC100PT Centurion
| Thoroughbred GasPony1
| Ameriflame TI350T
| Victor ESAB 0384-0946
| Victor ESAB 0384-0944
| Forney 1753
| Hobart 770500
| 9Trading
| Harris 85601-200
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Verdict: | Top performing portable kit | Best value portable kit | Best low-cost | Best premium portable kit | |||||||
| Quantity: | 15 pcs | 12 pcs | 13 pcs | 11 pcs | 12pcs | 15 pcs | 12 pcs | 13 pcs | 13 pcs | 11 pcs | 13 pcs |
| Tank certification: | DOT-stamped | ISO-certified, DOT-accepted | DOT-stamped | ISO-certified, DOT-accepted | Not DOT-approved | DOT-stamped | DOT-stamped | DOT-stamped | DOT-stamped | Not DOT-approved | DOT-stamped |
| Oxygen tank: | 20 cf | 125 cf | 20 cf | 80 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf | 20 cf |
| Acetylene tank: | 10 cf | 145 cf | 10 cf | 70 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf | 10 cf |
| Hose size: | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12.5 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 12.5 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 12.5 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 12.5 ft | (2) 3/16 inch diameter x 12 ft |
Conclusion
Overall, the Victor ESAB 0384-0948 is the best portable torch kit you can currently get, balancing price, quality, and functionality into an easy-to-carry package.
The Harris 85601-200 Port-A-Torch Deluxe may have a heftier price tag, but it is well-justified by its heavy-duty torch attachments and high-quality build.
With the exceptional value of the Thoroughbred GasPony1, you’ll be able to handle more moderately-demanding welding tasks without having to worry about portability or durability.
Finally, despite the drawbacks given by its relatively affordable price, the Colibrox 9Trading is still a commendable kit for its transportability and capacity to handle general maintenance work.
Victor ESAB 0384-0948 review
Pros:
- Intelligent design for easy handling and storage.
- Complete attachments, durable torch, and a hard plastic tote.
- Check valves are pre-installed.
Cons:
- Set might work better for light to moderate jobs.
#1 Best portable oxyacetylene torch kit
More information:
- Some history or oxy-fuel cutting, retrieved from, https://www.parkindustries.com/metal/oxy-fuel-processes/history-of-oxy-fuel-cutting/
Hi, my name is David, and thanks for reading one of my articles.
As a construction cost estimator, and a car restoration enthusiast I share some of my skills here at Bangingtoolbox.
If you have any questions about your car restoration projects or if you have any queries about pricing a construction job, you can find out more about me here.
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