Hi Katherine,
There is a solution for most tanks. A flash back arrestor!
I can explain what has happened to you and it may not involve a faulty torch.
What you have experienced is flash back where the flame follows the acetylene back through the torch tip into the handle. It is caused by not turning the torch off properly so there is some gas leaking and usually if there is a small flame remaining it follows the gas toward the source back into the handle. It is pretty obvious when it happens because it has a sweet rather unpleasant smell. .If you smell it happening immediately turn off the gas at the tank and also the knob on the handle. Be careful because it may be hot so don’t touch it without protecting your hands. Let everything cool down. What can be very dangerous is it can also travel into the hose and down to the regulator and possibly the tank if not detected. A flash back arrestor is a small brass part that can be installed near the regulator connection. It is a safe guard. Look it up in a tool supply catalogue. In my experience it does not happen often if you are careful about turning off the torch carefully. If you catch it right away it doesn’t ruin the handpiece. When it all cools try lighting the torch and it will probably be fine. If in doubt go the a jewelry tool supplier or plumbing place and get them to check the torch to see it is operating properly. Don’t get rid of the torch unless obvious damage has been done. Always get it checked if you feel something is wrong and ask about controlling the pressure of the gas. That may be part of the problem if you are unsure your torch works. Ask! Learn how things work so you are prepared and know about safety. I like soldering with acetylene or propane and air. The air comes into the tip at the bottom though round holes on most torches and the size of flame is controlled by the amount of fuel and the pressure. Propane is a cleaner fuel but more dangerous because it is a heavy gas and if it leaks it can remain and not mix with the air in the room.
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