[Jewelry making - Article 00528] - Re: [Orchid] Hoke torch problems

[BH]

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    The gauges aren't the cause of the popping problem you described. 
    If your oxygen line pressure climbs when the torch isn't being used,
    and/or you can't keep the flame regulated while in use, then there
    is a problem with the gauge - probably the oxygen regulator.  Note:
    your oxygen regulator line setting knob should always be backed off
    each time you close the valve on the oxygen tank.  After time it is
    normal for the line pressure to leak down and when you reopen your
    oxygen tank valve the sudden rush of the tank pressure released into
    the line side of the regulator could, and will, damage the diaphragm
    in the regulator. 

    But, the problem you describe is in the torch valves itself.  It
    sounds too me like you might be a bit heavy-handed in turning the
    torch valves off and may have damaged the seat and/or needle of the
    torch valve. Take the valves off the torch and take a look at them.
    It is a simple needle and seat type valve. If you see a fairly deep
    line going all the way around the needle (male), you have a damaged
    valve. The way we use our torches, opening and closing the valves
    many times a day, a faint to shallow line is normal, but a deep one
    could be a source of a problem with the torch. Take some sandpaper
    and resurface the male needle. If it's real deep, you may need
    something a bit more aggressive such as a file, but it is possible.
    Get the needle as smooth as you can and be careful to keep the angle
    as near the same as it is originally. I've been using my Hoke for 30
    years but I don't know exactly how old it truly is because I bought
    it used - used to the point of some of the plating being worn off
    already. I've resurfaced the needles a couple times and keep on
    going. My torch has popped when I turn everything off for years.
    Probably not the safest scenario, but I've never been terribly
    concerned with it. The way I avoid the pop is to open the torch
    valves after I shut down the tanks and release all the pressure in
    the lines. I also have in-line flashback arrestors installed on each
    gas and oxygen line. Something everyone should consider for safety. 


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