Question on O2/propane torch

[tractordude]

I have a Oxy/Acetylene torch head, lines, gages etc. I want to flip it over to Propane instead. Can I use some of my old stuff?

I was at the welding supply house today, just before closing time. I didn't want to take the guy's time to ask, as it is Saturday.
I'm trying to avoid the $250 in torch heads and lines, etc.

 

[Greyhorse]

You need new hoses (T instead of R)and a propane tip works much better.

 

[Kensgarage]

There's been a ton of bickering over this for years now. You'll definitely want the tips (not the whole head)because the mix volume is very different.
The gauges will work fine but I prefer a propane specific model on that side. The original 02 side is fine as is.
The hoses are the main argument point. There are " T" and "R" hoses."T" works with any gas. "R" is acet specific.
I've seen "R" running propane for over 10 years at many shops with zero issues. OSHA and your insurance guy might disagree.
***If I were to switch( I'm not---ever) to propane I'd leave my original hoses as is and buy a nice LP regulator for the LP side.

 

[Engine]

I've been using oxy-propane for cutting for a couple of years now. I use everything that was designed for OA except changed the tips. Everything works fine. Good for cutting, heating, and brazing, but not for welding.

 

[fourjeepin]

Propane here, too. It was my grandfathers. And like Engine, i use OA stuff except for the tip.

Curious, what are the advantages/disadvantages of propane vs. acetylene?

 

[tractordude]

Curious, what are the advantages/disadvantages of propane vs. acetylene?

It's cost of tank rental, fill price. I just need it for heating, so the temp is not a factor.
http://www.cousesteel.com/AndysPlace/PropaneAcetylene.html

 

[fourjeepin]

Gotcha. Thanks for the education. My propane tank is huge, refills happen at the local U-Haul, and as a bonus, I can use it to heat the shop.

 

[tractordude]

I got a price of $89 for a fill of Acetylene today, I can do propane for under $20.
I'm not in need of heat much, so the rental fee comes into play.
<tightwad>

 

[mark18mwm]

I use a 20 LB. propane tank and it seems to last about 2-3 times longer than my acetylene did, a smaller "Q" size tank. So much cheaper and I think it cuts heavier steel better.

 

[steel 35]

I have never used propane but watched demos at large shows.
The advantages boosted were you can pierce without hardening then drill; and watching them cut multiple layers of steel was very impressive.