Underwater Torches

[kingjim9]

Hello could someone explain to me how underwater torches work?

Thanks,

Jim

[migman69]

well i think they run on oxy/acetlyne someone can correct if im wrong

Underwater cutting and gouging torch
Document Type and Number:
United States Patent 4131780
Link to this page:

http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4131780.html

Abstract:
An underwater cutting and welding torch wherein the torch head carries both the welding electrode and means for directing a high pressure fluid toward an arc struck between the electrode and a workpiece. The high pressure fluid preferably is the water in which the torch is being operated.


hope this helps

[migman69]

here is some more info;


Skill needed for underwater torch
Question
How do underwater flares and torches work, when water puts out fires?
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Question
Thank you for your question about underwater cutting torches. The first thing you must realize is that a flame requires a combustible substance and an oxidizer. In the case of a candle flame, the combustible substance is the heated wax which rises up the candle wick and is vaporized by the heat of the flame. The oxidizer is the oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere. These two ingredients can sustain a candle flame.

In the case of an underwater torch, both the combustible substance and the oxidizer must be supplied by hoses leading down to the torch, since no free oxygen is available underwater. The combustible gas, which might be hydrogen or acetylene, depending on the application, can be combined with oxygen gas (the oxidizer) to produce an underwater flame at the tip of the torch.

In order to maintain a steady flame, it is necessary to have a stable bubble around the flame which the exhaust gases from the combustion (typically water vapor and carbon dioxide) cannot maintain by themselves. The gas must be supplied at a high enough pressure to overcome the pressure exerted by the water. An underwater torch must therefore have a separate means for sustaining a bubble around the work location. This is accomplished by separate jets of compressed air introduced around the tip of the torch to protect the flame from the surrounding water by forming a rather large bubble enclosing the flame and the region directly adjacent to the work location. As you might imagine, a great deal of skill is required for divers who perform this kind of work.
Related Questions

[kingjim9]

thanks alot. I've always wondered about how they could work underwater. And know i know that there is some sort of air bubble around the torch tip. Thanks

[migman69]

your welcome i just looked up underwater welding online and gave you some info

[DSW]

Hey saw this and thought i'd reply even if a little late. I dive recreationally (if you call caves and deep wrecks recreational) but for the last year i've picked up some extra money helping out a commercial diver who welds and cuts underwater. All his underwater cutting is using a Broco torch. (slice pak or air arc gouge would be similar i guess). Its an exothermic rod connected to the welder with O2 supply. Strike the rod like you would stick welding and as long as the o2 is on the rod cuts almost eveything untill it runs out, no power needed once it starts. Cuts steel, wood ,concrete, brass, you name it. My understanding of basic welding is that acetlyne self combusts at 15 psi. 15psi is the presure of water at 33ft. I would guess that the torch you guys refered to uses propane or hydrogen as the fuel. I already weld mig and I'm trying to learn stick so I can get in the water with him and make some better money.