lbl25a
11-30-2011, 01:47 PM
I became interested in HHO in my search for a small high temperature torch for use in the workshop without the need for an Oxygen supply.
The main problems seem to be the generation of a sufficient gas flow and the avoidance of flashback.
Such torches have been available in UK for many years for use in the Jewellery trade but are much too expensive for amateur use.
I had started to make my own using information from the web when I was offered one of the original commercial units at a cost that I could afford. It had been stored unused for about twenty years but had been full of electrolyte. I had to dismantle the unit and rebuild it in order to put it into working order and in doing so I learnt a few tips that may be useful to others interested in torches.
Although this unit uses old technology and may not be as efficient as more modern dry cells the first lesson seems to be that a high power current source is essential. A 200 volt amp low voltage (4.5v) transformer is used to generate approximately 0.9 litres HHO per minute from a single plate wet cell. This feeds a very small torch orifice to maintain a back pressure that is kept between upper and lower limits sufficient to reduce the risk of flashback. The risk of flashback is further reduced by passing the gas output through a modified bubbler containing a highly volatile flammable liquid in order to change the characteristics of the flame. Methylated spirits reduces the flame temperature and gives a less oxidising flame with a much lower risk of flashback. Methyl Ethyl Ketone is even safer but has a more reduced flame temperature.
Hope that this is of interest.
Tony
The main problems seem to be the generation of a sufficient gas flow and the avoidance of flashback.
Such torches have been available in UK for many years for use in the Jewellery trade but are much too expensive for amateur use.
I had started to make my own using information from the web when I was offered one of the original commercial units at a cost that I could afford. It had been stored unused for about twenty years but had been full of electrolyte. I had to dismantle the unit and rebuild it in order to put it into working order and in doing so I learnt a few tips that may be useful to others interested in torches.
Although this unit uses old technology and may not be as efficient as more modern dry cells the first lesson seems to be that a high power current source is essential. A 200 volt amp low voltage (4.5v) transformer is used to generate approximately 0.9 litres HHO per minute from a single plate wet cell. This feeds a very small torch orifice to maintain a back pressure that is kept between upper and lower limits sufficient to reduce the risk of flashback. The risk of flashback is further reduced by passing the gas output through a modified bubbler containing a highly volatile flammable liquid in order to change the characteristics of the flame. Methylated spirits reduces the flame temperature and gives a less oxidising flame with a much lower risk of flashback. Methyl Ethyl Ketone is even safer but has a more reduced flame temperature.
Hope that this is of interest.
Tony