Acetylene: application in welding, safety precautions, storage of cylinders with this gas

Acetylene is a fast-acting combustible gas, when burned, a temperature of about 3000°C is formed. Natural gas is used to obtain this substance. A mixture of acetylene with oxygen is often used in gas welding. Thanks to this option, it is possible to effectively perform cutting of metals.

What you should know about acetylene?

Acetylene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon. Such a colorless gas was discovered by the Englishman E. Devi at the beginning of the XIX century. The Frenchman M. was engaged in synthesizing the substance. Bertlo already at the end of the 19th century. According to the latest data, this hydrocarbon was discovered on Neptune and Uranus.

It is worth noting, that under certain conditions acetylene becomes explosive:

• the temperature is over 450°C and the pressure is close 200 kPa;
• prolonged contact with copper or silver leads to an explosion on impact or a slight increase in temperature.

It is known, that during the explosion 1 kg of matter amount of heat, that stands out, exceeds the amount of heat by 1.5–2 times, which would occur when using TNT or nitroglycerin.

Safety precautions

That the use of this fuel gas led to sad consequences, it is necessary to remember about safety measures.

• It is important to constantly monitor the content of acetylene in the air. The maximum permissible concentration is 0,46%.
• If acetylene cylinders are used during welding, it is necessary to avoid placing them near a heating system or flame. It is also impossible to work with faulty cylinders or equipment, located horizontally.
• If a gas leak is detected, the valve should be closed quickly. Only a special key is suitable for this purpose, does not cause sparks.
• In the event of a fire, it is important to remove cold cylinders, and all other products should be cooled with appropriate compounds or water.
• If the gas ignites, fire extinguishers should be used, which contain 70% nitrogen and 57% carbon dioxide. It is also necessary to wear special fire-resistant suits and gas masks.

Use and storage of acetylene cylinders

Not all cylinders are suitable for storing and transporting acetylene. Such equipment must have a special layer of porous mass, and all parts and valves must be resistant to the influence of fuel gas.

It is worth noting, that cylinders must be checked periodically:

• upon receipt and before starting welding, it is necessary to carefully inspect the product;
• times u 2 years, the inspection is carried out by a special company, thanks to a thorough examination by specialists, it will be possible to make sure of that, that the porous mass is in good condition;
• all cylinders are tested for strength and density once a year 5 years.

Since the designs, filled with acetylene, very sensitive to heat, it is necessary to approach their storage and transportation responsibly.

• All products should be placed only horizontally. At the same time, it is important to make sure of that, that the valves are located above the base.
• Between the warehouse and the nearest heating device there should be a distance of at least 1 m.
• Cells are used for storage, where everything fits 20 pieces of balloons.
• During transportation, all products are covered with material, that does not let the sun's rays through.
• During the welding process, only a steel pipeline or a suitable hose can be used for gas supply. It is strictly forbidden to use copper pipes.

Although acetylene is considered quite expensive and potentially dangerous, it is indispensable during welding. This is due to the fact, that in the process of burning a substance, the formation of a flame occurs, the temperature of which reaches 3000°C. So that it does not lead to negative consequences, it is important to properly store acetylene cylinders and follow basic safety precautions.