HAND TORCH OPERATION
A. Cutting with a Hand Torch
1. The torch can be comfortably held in one hand or steadied with two hands. Choose the technique that feels
most comfortable and allows good control and movement. Position the index finger or thumb to press the con-
trol switch on the torch handle.
2. For edge starts, hold the torch perpendicular to the workpiece with the front of the tip on the edge of the
workpiece at the point where the cut is to start. For piercing, angle the torch slightly to direct sparks away from
the torch until the pierce is complete.
3. For drag cuts keep the torch in contact with the workpiece. For standoff cutting, hold the torch 1/16 -1/8 in
(2-3 mm) from the work.
4. With the torch in starting position, press and hold the control switch. After an initial gas purge, the pilot arc
will come on and remain on until the cutting arc starts.
5. Once on, the main arc remains on as long as the control switch is held down, unless the torch is withdrawn
from the work or torch motion is too slow. If the cutting arc is interrupted, the pilot arc comes back on auto-
matically.
6. To shut off the torch simply release the control switch. When the switch is released a ten second post-flow
will occur. If the torch switch is closed during the post-flow, the cutting arc will restart immediately when the
torch is brought within range of the workpiece.
B. Piercing with a Hand Torch
1. When piercing with a hand torch, tip the torch slightly so that blowback particles blow away from the torch
tip (and operator) rather than directly back into it.
2. Complete the pierce off the cutting line and then continue the cut onto the line. Hold the torch perpendicular
to the workpiece after the pierce is complete.
3. Clean spatter and scale from the shield cup and the tip as soon as possible. Spraying or dipping the shield
cup in anti-spatter compound will minimize the amount of scale which adheres to it.
Disconnect primary power at the source before disassembling the torch or torch leads. Frequently
review the Important Safety Precautions at the front of this Manual. Be sure the operator is equipped with proper
gloves, clothing, eye and ear protection. Make sure no part of the operator's body comes into contact with the work-
piece while the torch is activated.
Sparks from the cutting process can cause damage to coated, painted, and other surfaces such as
glass, plastic and metal.
NOTE Handle torch leads with care and protect them from damage.
16
CAUTION
WARNING
