Cutting Torch Settings Chart and Guide

For welders and hobbyists, a cutting torch is one of the most important tools in their workspaces. From cutting to welding, this equipment performs the required tasks easily. But to get the job done, the user should know how to handle the torch.

Fortunately, the torch has settings that can improve its features. With a decent knowledge of these adjustments, the tool can provide the required results for varying projects.

Would you like to get the best out of your cutting torch? If yes, then you should go through this article and learn how to achieve this goal.

Cutting Torch Settings Chart and Guide

Here is a chart showing the ideal settings for working with a cutting torch. As expected, these settings should only be used as a point of reference for using the tool.

Metal Thickness	Size of Tip	Acetylene Pressure (PSI)	Oxygen Pressure (PSI)
⅛	000	3-5	20 – 25
¼	00	3-5	20 – 25
⅜	0	3-5	25 – 35
½	0	3-5	30 – 35
¾	1	3-5	30-35
1	2	3-6	35-40
2	3	4-8	40 – 45

Let’s say you are working with ½ inch metal, then you will have to use the 000 tips with 3-5 psi of oxygen and 30 – 35 psi of acetylene. But if your project requires 2-inch metal, then you should cut it up with the size 3 cutting tip size while the acetylene stays at 4-8 lbs and the oxygen at 40 – 45 lbs.

What PSI Should I Run My Oxyacetylene Torch?

The PSI of the oxyacetylene torch depends on the thickness of the material. For instance, if you are cutting ⅛ inch of steel, leave the oxyacetylene torch at 3-5 PSI (for acetylene) and 20 – 25 PSI ( for oxygen)

What Happens If the Acetylene is Set Too High?

If the acetylene is set too high, you might end up in an accident. After all, the high settings push the gas to explode and cause fires.

What PSI Should I Set for My Oxygen and Acetylene?

As you set the oxygen and acetylene for your cutting torch, you should consider the thickness of the cutting tip. Let’s say you want to cut ⅜ inch metal, then you should leave the oxygen and acetylene at 3 – 5 and 25 – 35 psi respectively.

What Happens if Acetylene is Used Over 15 psi?

Since acetylene is a volatile gas, using it at a pressure of over 15 psi can cause explosions. Besides, the explosions can lead to a fire in the workspace.

What PSI Should Acetylene Never Be Above?

As you are using the cutting torch, ensure that the acetylene psi does not exceed 15 psi. When it comes down to it, this setting can cause explosions and fires.

Why Does My Torch Pop?

After a period of use, a cutting torch tends to make a popping noise. Normally, this noise occurs because of a dirty nozzle, improper flow settings, backflow, and backfiring.

What Size Tip is Recommended to Cut 14 in?

If you want to cut the 14 in metal, stick with a 12** cutting tip. With the right oxygen and acetylene settings, you should get the job done.

Cutting Tip Size Chart

Here is a chart showing several cutting tips and their diameter.

Size of Cutting Tip	Actual Size of Tip ( Orifice Diameter)
000	0.027
00	0.033
0	0.041
1	0.047
2	0.060
3	0.071
4	0.083
5	0.100
6	0.121
7	0.141
8	0.162
10	0.185
12	0.221

If you want to use a 000 cutting tip, then the diameter should be 0.27 inches. As for the size 12 cutting tip, you should expect 0.221 inches.

What Happens If You Set Your Oxygen Too High?

If the oxygen for your cutting torch is set too high, then you might have issues with its stream. When used, such distortion results in poorly made cuts on the target material.

Oxyacetylene Settings for Heating

Here are the general steps for adjusting an oxyacetylene torch for heating.

Open the acetylene and oxygen valve
Move the acetylene tap with a quarter turn
Set the gauge to 3 – 5 cfm
Wait for a rotten egg smell before turning off the acetylene
Turn on the oxygen
Increase the flow of oxygen by using the bar on the torch
Adjust the PSI to 20 – 30
Shut off the oxygen stream from the torch
Turn on the acetylene
Light the torch with a striker
Reduce the acetylene stream by turning the knob on the torch until the smoke reduces
Switch on the oxygen
Adjust the flame until you have sharp points
Hold the torch by the handle
Apply the heat to the workpiece