German Basic Blowpipe Torch For Air/Natural Gas With Hose & Mouthpiece
This is the torch used in Kent Raible's granulation class. It is also used in Leslie Kail Villarreal class on granulation as well as Tonya Davidson's class. All instructors recommend this natural gas torch to be used with propane gas. Please be aware that neither the manufacturer, or Otto Frei, offers any warranty or guarantee for these natural gas torches when used with propane. Please contact your instructor for information and details on the operation of this torch.
Commonly used in Europe for fine and finest bench work, this German-made blowpipe uses either air supplied from the operator's mouth, or air from a foot bellows, mixed with natural gas*. It produces a soft and controllable less oxidizing flame than oxygen/gas torches. Goldsmiths who use these types of torches say they are necessary for fine delicate soldering jobs. These are simple and uncomplicated blowpipes based on similar tools that have been in use by goldsmiths for centuries.
This blowpipe uses natural gas at a extremely low output pressure. Recommended output pressure is 0.32 psi (230mm W.S. 0.022bar). That is less than 1psi.
Not for use with pure oxygen!
This flexible rubber tubing hose is preferred for use with blowpipes as it won't add very much weight to the blowpipe during use. Blowpipes are used with very low gas pressures, so this gum hose won't be stressed when used with a blowpipe.
Be sure to inspect your rubber tubing hose often for signs of wear and leakage using soapy water.
Use with a soft and flexible rubber tubing either the 6mm ID 114.912 or the 8mm ID 114.912-8. The 6mm ID hose is a very tight fit but favored by many. Both hoses should be secured using an automotive type hose clamp. These types of natural rubber hose is only for use at extremely low pressures. Check hose often for signs of wear and replace as needed. Always turn off the fuel pressure at the regulator source when this torch is not in use.
*This torch looks identical to the Air/Propane version. This natural gas torch is marked with an "E" for erdgas on the gas pipe (erdgas is the German word for natural gas). The Air/Propane version is marked with a "P" on the gas pipe, for propangas.
