A blowtorch is a heating device that produces high temperatures during the fiery combustion of flammable substances.
The combustion products that are produced during operation of the device form an elongated torch, and it has a very high temperature.
The gasoline lamp became the most popular . In addition to this modification, blowtorches, in which the flame source is natural gas, have become widespread. This type of blowtorch differs from other gasoline ones not only in the fuel spent on work, but also in the general design.
The volume of the tank used for fuel in the lamp can vary depending on the model of the device from 0.1 to two liters. The thermal power of such devices can range from 0.5 to 3 kW, depending on the method of fuel supply. The power of the light bulb will be regulated using a special tap, which opens the supply of burned gas.
What is a blowtorch
The blowtorch was invented in 1880. And since then it has not lost its popularity, but has only improved its application. The device heats objects by burning a certain substance.
To operate the unit, gasoline, kerosene, alcohol or another composition is used. The peculiarity of this heating device is its maximum energy output while using a minimum of fuel.
The lamp is characterized by its low cost, versatility and ease of use. Therefore, it has not left the shelves of specialized stores for many years.
How does a blow torch work?
The high temperature flame powers the unit. This is achieved after the starting substance ignites and gradually transforms into gas. Once oxygen appears in the nozzle of the device, a flame begins to form.
- In this case, the fuel container holds 100-200 ml. liquid substance (gasoline, kerosene, sports, etc.).
- Modern soldering devices can be adjusted by supplying fuel, which increases or decreases the flame and its temperature.
- According to customer reviews, gasoline-powered units operate best, releasing the most energy when the fuel is burned.
Important! Gasoline must have an octane number of no higher than 80. Technical types of fuel such as “Galosha” are also suitable here.
As for kerosene, it is slightly inferior to gasoline in terms of the amount of energy released. But it costs less.
If the above types of fuel emit an unpleasant odor when burned, then alcohol does not differ in the emission of an unpleasant odor. Alcohol fuel produces less energy than gasoline and kerosene. And it has higher consumption than gasoline or kerosene formulations.
Top 5. Express 8700
Rating (2021): 4.15
Maximum heating with minimum gas consumption The development of a universal type allows for both soft and hard soldering due to the high maximum temperature.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1800 rub.
- Country: France
- Tank volume: 19 ml
- Maximum operating temperature: 2010 degrees
- Nozzle metal: steel
- Repair kit: no
A very practical blowtorch model is designed for high-quality operation during construction and other work thanks to its powerful technical potential. It is excellent for soldering copper and tin in different diameters. It is acceptable to use copper-phosphorus, silver or soft solder as solder. The length of the acute flame reaches 17 cm, it is continuous and uniform. The reinforced metal tip can withstand a working pressure of 1.5 bar. In this case, the consumption of propane-butane is minimal compared to competing models, it is equal to 110 g/h. The wear-resistant steel tank has an optimal volume, which allows continuous operation for 1.15 - 1.30 hours. Disadvantages of the model - power is inferior to analogues (1.6 kW), increased body dimensions.
Advantages and disadvantages
- High temperature conditions are achieved
- Suitable for soft and hard solder
- Adjustable flame intensity
- Minimum gas consumption
- Compatible with several brands of puncture cylinders (0.19 L)
- Power is less than that of the leaders in the rating
- The large body is not suitable for hard-to-reach places
See also:
- 5 best spotters
What is a blowtorch for?
This device has a very wide application. The main thing is that safety precautions and temperature conditions are observed when using it.
The device operates using oxygen, which generates a draft of an open flame through the supply of fuel energy under pressure to the nozzle, where it is heated, evaporated and a flame is formed.
So, what is this device for:
- Disinfection of premises;
- Processing of poultry and cattle skins;
- Heating metal pipes and rods for subsequent deformation;
- Connection of elements that require temperatures below 1100 degrees;
- When dismantling premises (heating paint on the surface);
- In the winter season, to warm frozen metal water supply elements;
- To perform light burning of plants, helping to eliminate small pests;
- Cooking and heating food while camping (a special stand is required);
- Roofing installation (roofing felt);
- Ignition of various heating and decorative devices (fireplace, fire, wood stove);
- Heating elements and hammer soldering irons.
Blowtorch design
A blowtorch includes the following elements. One of which is the fuel tank used for fuel. She is given the most space. It is sealed.
It is special in that it holds all the elements of the device. One of which is the handle needed to hold and carry the device.
It is located on the side of it. Next comes a pump with a valve, designed for manual use and through which pressure is created in the container of the device. At the same time, there are models combined with a filling neck into which fuel is also poured.
- After this comes a siphon tube, which supplies energy to the evaporator from the tank, and connects these parts into a single whole.
- Also, the element on which the rate of fuel supply to the evaporator depends and located behind the siphon tube is called a needle valve.
- The container in which energy is converted from liquid to vapor is called an evaporator.
- And the heating part from which the flame flies out is the ejector. It is a continuation of the evaporation system.
And the last thing the lamp consists of is a nozzle, which also belongs to the evaporator and sprays fuel towards the ejector located at the end of the U-shaped tube.
What are the differences between a blowtorch and a gas torch?
- Different flame temperatures and heating power . A blowtorch is best used for heating or burning. But if you need to melt or cut, then use a gas burner.
- There is a serious design difference . The lamp has a tank for liquid fuel and an evaporator, which are always located next to an open flame. These parts add danger when using the device, which cannot be said about the burner. Its gas containers can be kept at a distance from the flame.
- Quick preparation for work . The blowtorch requires refueling, raising the pressure in the tank, and cleaning the nozzle. Warming up the evaporator and bringing the device into working condition will require some time and additional fuel consumption. In this regard, gas lamps are much more practical. They do not require additional preparation procedures.
- more time to service a blowtorch . It is necessary to maintain the nozzles, valve, valve and all connections of these parts in good condition. Otherwise, the tightness will be broken. Gasoline will leak out. This will worsen its performance and create the preconditions for ignition and explosion.
- When operating a gas burner, there are practically no foreign odors , which is inevitable when working with a blowtorch.
Now it is clear that the gas burner is technically more advanced . The industry produces models that can completely replace a blowtorch. In addition, they are more convenient to use, much more functional and safer. You should also remember that gas is cheaper than gasoline. This means you can save on consumables.
ProductsComment
What is it made from?
Various alloys can be used for manufacturing. Basically, the device is made of steel, combining it with cast iron and brass. This is necessary to increase the reliability of the lamp capacity.
Handles are made of both metal and plastic combined with a metal alloy. The valve of the device is made of fire-resistant material (plastic).
Size range and weight
Lamp production mainly consists of 2-liter containers (290x160x275). Devices are also produced with other container volumes for fuel, which can be increased from 3.5 liters and above.
- For example, containers from 1.5 to 2.5 liters are produced for gasoline.
- For gas appliances from 0.022 l.
- The mass of such a device without fuel is 1.5-2.5 kg.
- This should also be taken into account when purchasing a lamp (if you need a lighter option).
Advice! When choosing a lamp, you should pay attention to its diameter. The larger it is, the better the excess pressure will be injected, and therefore the operation of the device.
The units are produced mainly with a fuel tank diameter of 100-145 mm.
Top 3. Topex 44E141
Rating (2021): 4.3
17 reviews from resources were taken into account: VseInstrumenty, CMP234.ru, 220 Volt
Bright design in an ergonomic format It is difficult to pass by such a device; its yellow-red color and convenient body can be seen far away, which increases the safety of the work being carried out.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1800 rub.
- Country: Poland
- Tank volume: 38 ml
- Maximum operating temperature: 1350 degrees
- Nozzle metal: brass
- Repair kit: no
This device is effective for heating objects, soldering and welding at home with mandatory ventilation and in the open air. The metal container is covered with a thick layer of anti-corrosion enamel, while the upper part (start button, control valve, handle) is made of plastic. The holder is comfortable to grip and has a long cycle of operation, and it corresponds to the volume of the butane tank connected by piercing and is 190 grams. The fuel in the lamp is consumed on average in the amount of 180 g/h, however, by simply rotating the valve wheel, the flame and pressure can be adjusted. Disadvantages - there is no gas cylinder included in the set, poor-quality piezo ignition at low temperatures.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Functional design
- Anti-corrosion protection of metal containers
- Easy flame level adjustment
- Convenient top location of the start button
- Piezo ignition does not always work quickly at low temperatures
- A punctureable gas cylinder is not included in the set.
See also:
- 20 best welding machines from AliExpress
Types of blowtorches
Manufacturers offer the following types of lamps:
- Gasoline devices. Most popular product. They are presented in a classic layout, consisting of a container for fuel and a fixed burner installed on top or a remote version. The device creates a flame temperature of more than 1000 C;
- Kerosene devices. The appearance of the device is partially the same as the above version, the nozzle is different, which has a larger diameter. The device is also equipped with an ejector with a coil, due to which the fuel is heated at lightning speed. Used for melting solders and heating large soldering irons;
- Alcohol devices. They stand out for their low demand and container volume for fuel up to 200 ml. They are mainly used in jewelry workshops for soldering products;
Gas devices. Feature – refilled using a disposable or refillable cylinder. The body is made of both metal and plastic. Of all these options, it has the highest cost.
This lamp can be used in any activity. It is also easy to move or use by connecting it to a cylinder via an extension hose.
Top 4. Campingaz Soudogaz X2000
Rating (2021): 4.2
High-quality piezo ignition The device is excellent for small heating jobs; instant ignition speeds up the work process.
- Characteristics
Average price: 1600 rub.
- Country: France (manufactured in China)
- Tank volume: 19 ml
- Maximum operating temperature: 1750 degrees
- Nozzle metal: brass
- Repair kit: no
This type of blowtorch is most often used in the food industry and at home to perform minor heating work. It is equipped with a reliable brass nozzle that produces a wedge-shaped flame. Its intensity is smoothly adjusted using a special valve built into the body. The nozzle is of the standard X 1550 type. The Campingaz C 206 gas cartridge is placed in a metal shell for safety. Propane-butane consumption is 120 g/h. One working cycle reaches about 2 hours. The operation of the device comes from a pierced gas cylinder, which is not included in the package. Another disadvantage of the model is the fragility of the plastic latch for securing the container.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Instant piezo ignition
- Long lasting brass nozzle
- Smooth flame adjustment
- Metal protected cartridge
- Economical gas consumption
- Unreliable plastic cylinder mount
- Lack of gas tank included
See also:
- 10 best welding machine companies
The best models of blowtorches
Based on customer reviews, a list of the best lamp models was compiled.
SIBIN 40670
This is a lamp used for refueling with gasoline. It has small dimensions, but performs all the functions that depend on it. The flame is regulated by a valve, and uninterrupted operation is ensured by a steel ejector and a protective casing.
The device saves fuel well thanks to a well-functioning supply system. Caring for the device does not take much time. It is enough to clean the nozzle with the needle included in the lamp kit.
BARS 91452
The device stands out for its universal use and fast heating. The device nozzle is easy to clean. Since it is located on the outside and can be removed.
Features a long service life.
- Gasoline grades 92 and 95 are used as fuel. The lamp is not afraid of either wind or moisture.
- The only thing that doesn’t suit buyers is the difficult process of setting the flame power.
BISON PROFESSIONAL – SAMOTLOR
The device originates from the USSR, but is still used today. It is easy to use, thanks to the ejector made of cast iron. After all, this element gives the device advantages in maintaining a constant temperature and slow cooling of the unit. Refers to soldering devices.
Can be used at any temperature. Cons: loud operation and frequent clogging of the nozzle.
1 DREMEL Versaflame 2200-4
One of the best options for multifunctional stationary blowtorches. You can use an open flame with a catalyst and a soldering attachment. A nice feature is its interesting design and wide functionality. Powered by liquefied butane. For convenience, the model is equipped with piezo ignition. Used for welding, soldering, heat shrinking. With a reservoir capacity of 22 grams, the device operates in intensive mode for about 75 minutes.
There are many useful options - child lock, removable leg for stationary operation, flame level lock, temperature mode selection. The kit includes several attachments - for soldering and torch extension. In terms of functionality, the lamp resembles a professional model. Users note the ease of recharging, very short heating time, and ease of use. The only downside they name is the fairly high cost.
