Propane/Air EZ torch vs. Mapp/Oxy torch

[Former_Member]

I would like to add a torch to my shop (currently use butane microtorch and hardware store propane torch). I have purchased, but not opened, a Mapp/Oxygen torch set up. And I've found a propane/air EZ torch on-line that also looks good.
http://www.ottofrei.com/store/product.php?productid=7266&cat=1238&page=1

Since I haven't personally used either of these, I'm hoping someone out there has and can share their experiences/thoughts with me.

[Former_Member]

I like to use an acetylene/air set up. The air mixes in the hand piece, so you just have the one tank (actyl). Small and large tip, 6' hose, hand piece and gauges come with the kits. I will guess at the price...$130. Then you need a small tank that is full...$40 (guess?). I like the the one with dial on the front of the hand piece so you can turn the flame up/down while your working.

[JFrancoisStudios]

I use this exact model of rig, and find I really like it. Small flame to pinpoint joins and a lot of heat. Clean burning, too. But it can be a limiting if you want to go beyond jewelry scale.

Whichever set up go with - go to a welding shop to order. I picked up mine at Central Welding for less than half of this Rio listing.

http://www.riogrande.com/Product/Little-Torch-Propane-Oxygen-System/500076?pos=16

[Former_Member]

Thanks to both of you!

[Former_Member]

Jason - you use the little torch system with oxygen and propane?

[JFrancoisStudios]

Yep! I got the propane because it burns cleaner and is more convenient to get. (I have a propane heater for my rock studio, so one stop for fuel.)

For jewelry, I've never had a heat issue. I've also melted up to 2 ounces of scrap for water or broom casting with it.

However, I tried to make a 2" x 2" x 2" box out of 16g copper sheet and it could NOT handle keeping the piece hot enough to solder the corner.

[Former_Member]

Sounds like a nice set up. I'm looking at the EZ torch so that I can use only recyclable propane canisters. My studio is in my home so I'm uncomfortable keeping refillable tanks inside.

Have you ever tried Map/oxy combination? That might be a good way for you to keep that copper hot.

[JFrancoisStudios]

I haven't yet, but I'll take a look. I'm also considering an acetylene rig for centrifugal casting. Oh, the choices! :)

[MostlyStoneware]

Can you get a torch like the "little torch" configured to use both acetylene and propane? I like acetylene for my copper and enamel work and the lazier propane flame for silver? I have a set up for summer work in an outdoor workshop but I'd like to work indoors in winter.

[JFrancoisStudios]

Propane needs a specialized hose, because it can eat through the standard stuff. I don't know off hand if there is a hose that can support both, or if it's a good idea to potentially mix fuels in the hose while swapping the regulator from tank to tank.

You may end up with three tanks (propane, O2, acetylene) and two torches. One fuel per torch, with a splitter on the O2 to feed either.

Definitely ask at a shop.

[Former_Member]

the ez torch sucks! I went through 3 of them I was even working with worthington cylinders to try to figure out why the torch kept spewing out a napalm like substance.... oxy/mapp is dirty=tons of soot
the oxy/mapp is what i use while i'm working on retro fitting flash back arrestors to the two use tanks i have

[Former_Member]

Thank you Liz! You went through 3 different EZ torches?

[tinkerSueshop]

I've been thinking of getting the little smith torch that uses the MAPP/Oxy disposable tanks. I, also, am using a butane (Aero Torch) right now.
I want to step up to a "real" torch.
I believe the MAPP produces a bit less soot than Propane and is also considered a more "stable" gas.
http://www.ottofrei.com/store/product.php?productid=7188&quantity=1
Also, I want to get Flashback Arrestors. Where do they go? Between the preset regulator and the hose?

[gailwilliamsjewelry]

I also was considering the EZ torch I use acetylene/air but wanted to get a finer tip for more precise work. I read in one of the art jewelry mags that the EZ gives off a smell ... now that doesn't sound good! so I to am considering the Smith little torch with disposable tanks.... I also have a question re the flashback arrestors..... do you think it is important to have on them on the acetylene/air tank? because I dont ...

[Former_Member]

I don't know anything about flashback arrestors so I can't help with those questions. Gail - It's interesting to me that you want to mve from acetylene/air since I thought that one could get really good precise control with one of them. Could you get a different tip for your acetylene torch?

[gailwilliamsjewelry]

I did just get the smallest tip... but I havent tried it yet. so maybe it will work...and I really dont want to "move from " my acetylene... I love it .. just thinking of adding ... , I took a workshop with So Young Park and for all her really detailed work she uses the oxy/propane little torch.. very fine and hot ... Ill let you know when I try the new tip... going out of town for a month so will try it when I get back

[Former_Member]

I agree with Woody. But I do own 5 torch setups and give give an opinion from that perspective. I set each up for its own special use. I started with what woody states and still my choice. Acytelene b tank and the smith torch that pulls air in and mixes with the acytelene. I have never tried the Mapp gas torches....mapp is a mix of Methane,propane,acytylene. Both butane and propane contain high amounts of methane.
But since you have all ready bought that set up I would try it and see what it does first. i have many tanks in my studio...fire dept hates them and ins co's hate them. But I always turn the tank valves off when done. inever even get up from my bench with out doing this. Infact as I solder I turn the tank off between soldering tasks.Never leave tanks open, they can leak and are highly explosive. I mean highly.!!!!! see the photo's posts of that.
I looked at the link you provided and that torch looks cutsie to me. I like real torches.
If you are worried about the tanks and want a real torch there are natural gas units that up the presure from your natural gas line and are very safe.
Rio has one in thier catalog. I have a hydro torch and safe but a very small flame...good for a bench jewelrs work. Large silver pieces need much more heat.

[tessjordandesigns]

I got a smith little torch with acetylene/oxy setup and I love it.

[Former_Member]

many folks use oxygen concentrator like those used for medical reasons. barbara lewis the author of painting with fire, torch fired enamels posted this on our paintingwithfire.ning.com thread:
The oxygen concentrator I got was from Oxygen Unlimited. Here's the link: http://www.unlimitedoxygen.com/services.html Get the M10.
solves the worry about oxygen tank leaking, exploding
many lampglass workers use these

[shopsandandsilver]

Hello, I'm new to the group. Has anyone had a good experience with the Orca/EZ Torch? I'm using a benzomatic butane torch now but originally learned on acetylene. I'm working indoors downstairs with a window I have open and use a respirator mask every time I solder. I like the idea of just using one type of gas. I know the Orca can handle propane or MAPP. I also like the price of this unit and I can buy it in Canada as well. I have looked at the Smith little torch but really don't want to deal with two gases and acetylene here is $200.00 for the smallest tank. Is the Orca really a nightmare.