Improve Productivity & Safety

In HPG, also called propylene, the BTU’s produced is 1962 vs. 963 for acetylene.  In addition, because acetylene becomes very unstable over 15 psi whereas HPG is stable at any pressure, acetylene is a poor choice for heating applications. These facts explain why cutting speeds are 15-20% faster and heating speeds in excess of 50% faster

HPG produces a much cleaner cut with less dross thus reducing chipping/grinding time. Labor cost, which represents up to 90% of total fabrication costs (vs, materials cost), even further.

The Safety Factor

Acetylene is both unstable and dangerous over 15 psi and is very sensitive to flashback.  HPG does not expose the user to these safety concerns.

5:1 Cylinder Ratio Reduces Rental, Handling, Inventory & Potential Loss of use Costs 

Comparing two cylinders of comparable size, one HPG cylinder will do the work of 5 acetylene cylinders, a fact that has been observed for 40 years.  Additionally, acetylene cylinders are filled with a porous silica lime filler and acetone which enhances stability but reduces volume and traps product.  Up to 15% of acetylene in a cylinder stays in
the cylinder.

• Safer: reduced chance of flashbacks, more stable
• 50% reduction in cost over acetylene
• 50% reduction in gas pressure vs. propane, this means less gas
• 75% fewer cylinder change outs (one 63 lb. propylene vs. four 300 cu. ft. acetylene)
• Quality Cuts: Less grinding, better joint fit-up
• Higher vapor pressure in colder temperatures
• Faster cutting speeds means improved productivity
• Longer tip life means less change out time
• High BTU rates: uniform heat transfer for heating and brazing

Author: Bob Page