How Blowtorches Work?
How Blowtorches Work? Plumbers use blowtorches to solder and fix copper pipes. The word "solder" refers both to the process of joining the pipes and to the substance used in the process. To solder, a plumber heats the pipes and then applies solder material, which softens in the heat. As the solder melts, it flows into the gap between the pipes and creates a tightly fitted joint. To learn about a different method of soldering, read about cold heat soldering irons. In addition to fixing leaky pipes, many people use smaller, handheld blowtorches for cooking, stripping paint and thawing frozen pipes. These simplified blowtorches are relatively inexpensive. To produce a flame, they use pressurized fuel gas, like propane or butane. Rather than having a separate cylinder of oxygen, they rely on the oxygen in the surrounding air to sustain their flame. These kinds of blowtorches can reach temperatures of 3200 to 3800 degrees Fahrenheit (1760 degrees Celsius to 2093 degre...