Torch with integral flashback arrestor and thermal shut-off device

Abstract

A torch with integral flashback arrestor and thermal shut-off device is provided. In one approach, a torch body includes a passageway of the torch body, and a cartridge assembly disposed within the passageway. The cartridge assembly may include at least one of: a resettable pressure-sensitive device, and a thermal shut-off device, wherein the pressure-sensitive device and the thermal shut-off device are modifiable from a first configuration to a second configuration in response to a pressure or temperature gradient in the torch body, and wherein the second configuration restricts flow through the passageway. The cartridge may further include a check valve disposed along the passageway, for example, within a bore of a bushing, or within a retainer coupled to the torch body at an inlet of the passageway.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is a continuation of International Application No. PCT / US2016 / 069392, filed on Dec. 30, 2016, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSUREField of the Disclosure[0002]The present disclosure relates to cutting, welding, and heating devices and, more particularly, to cutting torches with flashback arrestors.Discussion of Related Art[0003]Oxygen-fuel cutting, welding, or heating devices discharge fuel gas and oxygen from a nozzle for cutting, welding, or heating purposes. A typical torch includes a control body for connecting to separate fuel gas and oxygen supplies, tubes for supplying the oxygen and fuel gas from the control body to a head, and a cutting tip mounted to the head. The cutting tip receives the fuel gas and oxygen from the head and discharges these gases from its nozzle. More specifically, the head includes an interior surface extending around and defining a hea...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]In another exemplary approach of the disclosure, a flashback arrestor may include a passageway of a torch body and a resettable pressure-sensitive device operable with the bushing, wherein the resettable pressure-sensitive device is modifiable from a first configuration to a second

Problems solved by technology

Flashback may be caused by mixed gases (e.g., fuel/oxygen) that are allowed to develop within the welding hose due operator error, improper gas pressure, and/or defective equipment.

More specifically, in some cases, improper procedure/operation can result in reverse flow of oxygen into the fuel hose or reverse flow of fuel into the oxygen hose leading to mixed gas (e.g., flammable gas) within either hose.

Due to the rapid and explosive nature of flashback, it poses a major safety hazard to the operator of the gas torch and can damage the gas torch and associated equipment.

Although this stops the flashback from traveling upstream from the components that supply the gas to the torch, it disadvantageously does not eliminate the effects of flashback within the torch itself.

As a result

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