Torches, oxygen and water torches in the UK

Jewelry Discussion
1

Hi all, I was wondering if anybody could offer me advice due to a
restructuring of EU laws on pressurised gas transport, it is no
longer possible to buy Bernzomatic oxygen canisters in the UK, which
is a shame as that is what I converted my Hoke torch to run on.
Getting a proper O2 bottle is not really an option due to BOC’s
exorbitant bottle rental and delivery charges, and realistically I do
not use enough. I could get a refurbished O2 generator (from
http://www.tuffnellglass.co.uk/Beadmaking%20Equipment.htm) for 3250,
which might be a good long term solution, but if I am going to start
spending this much I would rather find a low cost used water torch
(something I’ve coveted and looked for but been completely unable to
find). Suggestions on good ways to proceed welcome.

Chris Penner
www.collarsandcuffs.co.uk

2

Chris

I got a porta-pak oxy/acetylene set from air products years ago when
I was fixing stock cars (should have been a better driver I guess)
which gave 5 years advance rental on the gas bottles for 100UKP and
am still using the oxy but now for my silver and gold work with
propane and a little torch. That might be a lower capital solution.
Considering another Smith little torch to use with the acetylene for
a smaller flame. I haven’t used a water torch but get the impression
the flame is v hot but small and not ideal for silver and nbg for
large work

Andy Parker, Agate House Lapidary
Ulverston, Cumbria, England
@Andy_Parker

Tel: 01229 584023

3

Hi Chris,

  it is no longer possible to buy Bernzomatic oxygen canisters in
the UK, which is a shame as that is what I converted my Hoke torch
to run on. Getting a proper O2 bottle is not really an option due
to BOC's exorbitant bottle rental and delivery charges, and
realistically I do not use enough.

I’m not aquatinted with the economies & rules regarding the sale &
use of pressurized gas in other than the US. However, if you do a
reasonable amount of work requiring the use of a fuel/oxy flame,
you might look into the water torch as a possible solution. It
breaks down water into hydrogen & oxygen through the use of
electrolysis. The initial cost can be a bit high, but you’ll not
have to buy fuel gas or oxy again.

Another solution may be the use of an oxy concentrator. In the US
the medical profession sometimes prescribes oxygen to assist folks
who have breathing problems. One of the ways the oxy is provided is
by an electric powered machine that concentrates the oxy in the air
for breathing. These machines are sometimes available ‘used’ after
the initial user has gone on to a better life.

Dave