How to Safely Join Acetylene Hoses

Acetylene is a hydrocarbon gas used for welding and metal cutting. Acetylene gas is explosive in the presence of air or oxygen, and safe handling is needed for storing, transporting and using acetylene. Welding and cutting equipment use flexible hoses connecting the gas supply to the cutting or welding nozzle. Connecting acetylene hoses can be done safely by following certain procedures.

Things You'll Need

• Acetylene hoses - colored red
• Adjustable wrenches
• Flame arrestor
• Check valve

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Instructions

• 1

  Connect acetylene hoses only with identical hoses of the same pressure rating and color. Acetylene hoses are colored red. Never mix hose colors or use hose adapters to connect dissimilar hoses. Never cover hose connections or tape over the hose.

• 2

  Attach a check valve and flashback arrestor between the gas regulator and the acetylene hoses. Some flashback arrestors contain a check valve; check the manufacturer specifications for suitability of an arrestor as a check valve.

• 3

  Connect acetylene hoses with no pipe thread compound, oils or greases. Combustible pipe thread compounds may not react with acetylene itself, but acetylene is normally used with oxygen for cutting or welding. Oxygen can cause carbon-based oils or greases to burn, which could damage the acetylene hoses. Check for leaks with a soap and water solution before use.

• 4

  Connect acetylene hoses to an acetylene tank by using a pressure-reducing regulator valve between the hoses and tank. Never hook acetylene hoses directly to a supply tank.