My melting tip is a multi port from Paige. I remember that you had a problem with one of these tips. I clean my tips in an ultrasonic and their flame is fine. I think that my problem is an ailing O2 concentrator. It is a 5 lpm machine with lots of hours on it. Luckily I have a refurbisher nearby who also sells new (refurbished) machines. I can do melts with this setup, it just takes a bit of time and I am impatient. I also like to limit the amount of O2 that my melt absorbs. I have never tried melts with my Little Torch and may look at different tips for it to include the Little Torch specific rosebud that you suggest. Thanks…Rob
1 Like
Hi Rob,
technically, Smith says that their rosebud tip is for annealing, and not melting…although i have used it for melting small amounts (of sterling) under 2 oz…i was told, i cannot recall who, who said to use with 1lb propane tanks that are more than 1/2 full…
i still haven’t figured out the best way to melt 3-4 oz yet…
i think my torch melting stumbling block is the limitations of a 1lb propane tank…something about volume, pressure, and flow rate i “think”…and the torch “flow rate”…someone may be able to elaborate on the “whys”
i still have my friends melting furnace…new in box
p.s i had called smith and spoke to a wonderfully knowledgeable person in support…she explain alot about the relationship between tank size and torch capabilities…i took notes…it made perfect sense while we were talking…but now i am muddled and my notes are chicken scratch…i should call again…i recommend speaking to someone who can explain this relationship…it is fundamental!
julie
1 Like
I think that it has to do with the amount of liquid surface area available to boil off the liquid propane into gas. When melting, the tank may not be able to keep up with demand. That is why I use the shorter, squatter, tanks. They have more surface area. My problem seems to be on the O2 side. When I use O2 from a regulated tank I have no trouble getting a quick melt of as much as 3 ounces…Rob
It appears that I am having torch problems all around. My EZ Torch leaks propane at the handle shut off. There isn’t much to it and I can replace the entire handle for less than $100, but I am looking first for parts. They don’t seem to be available at the usual places. If anyone knows where I can buy the shut off stem let me know. Thanks…Rob
Rob,
I think this is what you’re asking for right? I know that Otto Frei sells them. I don’t know about other jewelry tool companies? Actually, now that I think about it. Miller Welding bought out Smith and now makes the Little Torch. I’m pretty sure that means that most any welding supply company can order them for you.
It’s been a while since I’ve taken one of these torches apart, but as far as I remember these valves fit into a delrin plastic valve hole (I’m not sure what that would be called?). It could be that the delrin plastic hole that these valves fit into is damaged.
Also, each valve is $52.30 each on sale. That’s over $100 for a pair. I hate through-away culture, but if you can get a new handpiece for $100 it might be your best bet?
Jeff
Jeff…Thanks, but it is my EZ Torch that is giving me trouble. I bought a new Little Torch last year to replace the one that was bought probably 40 years ago…Rob
Sorry about that! I misread what you wrote!
Most jewelry tool companies have repair departments. It wouldn’t hurt to send an email to wherever you bought the torch from or your favorite jewelry tool company and ask them for advice. It may be that there are replacement parts available to distributors that aren’t available elsewhere.
Let me know what happens. I’ve got an EZ torch too.
Jeff
Jeff…It is not unusual for me to misread something, especially early without coffee. I will give Otto Frei a call later when they are open. I can replace the whole handle for $60 and that is what I may do. It is also chipped from being dropped. Thanks…Rob
1 Like