[Jewelry making - Article 00203] - Re: [Orchid] Do small butane soldering torches work?

[jake]

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 Dear Tracy,

>     The only drawback of using the garage is we have a gas water
>     heater with an open pilot light flame. For safety and insurance
>     reasons, I can't see risking an acetylene tank.

    I had a similar problem; it is more widespread than usually
    recognized. I got a hold of something called the Precision LP Gas
    Torch. This is hot enough to alloy gold or silver and it can be
    operated off of a disposable canister with good results. This is the
    only product of its kind that I know of, it is in fact designed for
    professional jewelers. It lives up to its billing; I personally
    prefer it to air/acetylene for silver. But I do not want to overly
    influence a choice, only point out this option, I am very happy with
    mine. http://www.apecs.com.au/guild/lpgas.htm 

    As for the small butane torch, I can only think of one thing I made
    that perhaps could have been done with it. Not to knock the product,
    but beyond jump rings and such it's not going to get it (although I
    am told it is excellent for that sort of thing). Also they are not
    made for prolonged use at a time. 

    I would also like to point out an option you may wish to
    investigate. If you are the homeowner you might want to see about a
    natural gas torch. As for a good one, I wouldn't know, but I am sure
    several list members use one. 

    Take some time and decide on all options, then make the choice. For
    instance you may prefer the safety factor of a torch operated off a
    disposable canister (only a limited amount available) over the
    attractive advantages of a natural gas torch. The type of work to be
    done should also be considered, although my torch and natural gas are
    not mentioned see http://users.lmi.net/~drewid/PWR_gasses.html for a
    general discussion. (You may not need that info, I include it for
    perhaps someone out there that may wish to know.) This will give some
    idea on choice. A "water" torch may be an option, but like all, it
    can not do every thing best, has some limits, expensive also. But do
    investigate everything thoroughly. (As some things claimed for some
    products, which I will refrain from mentioning, are to put it kindly,
    bull. Moreover, I do not really think some stories I have seen as
    credible, even if, such feats as using multiple tiny torches in each
    hand are at best ridiculous.) 

    One guy off the lapidary arts list wrote me that he got hold of a
    used oxygen generator for $100, and used disposable propane cans with
    his little torch. I now have a chance to get one of those (free), but
    will still use my LP torch (a better choice on silver). I am pleased
    enough with what I have that I am in no hurry, but may wish at some
    time work a platinum or palladium project, until then I have no need.
    (But will get it just the same for storage.) Good luck and keep an
    open mind.

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