Case study of an oxygen-acetylene cutting torch failure and measured overpressures due to flashback reactions

摘要

A generalized case study of the failure of an oxygen-acetylene cutting torch is presented with discussion of the failure and investigation. The theory that an oxygen-acetylene flashback reaction caused the explosive failure of the torch mixing tube was investigated. The investigation led to the conclusion that abusive treatment of the torch was the primary cause of the failure. The mechanical strength of the cutting torch was determined and the dynamic overpressures due to oxygen-acetylene flashback reactions were measured by means of fast-response piezoelectric pressure transducers.