Chained oxycons - run all, all the time?

[earthandsky]

I have a question about running multiple oxygen concentrators with a two stage torch.

Is it necessary for all concentrators to be running even when only using the inner fire? The inner fire doesn't require all the oxygen that the combined concentrators provide, but I'm concerned about "backup" into the non-running concentrator(s), resulting in damage to it.

Thanks!

[squid]

I'm not sure of the answer, but I do know you can buy backflow prevention valves that would keep oxy from being forced into a linked oxycon. I got mine from Kimberly at Pyromanix.

[kbinkster]

Backflow valves will keep the oxygen from one concentrator from running up into another, but it does not prevent a machine from backing itself up by not getting its product into the line. As long as the little ball is up in the flow meter, that machine should be getting something out, and then you should be o.k.. But, if not, it will cause problems. You can also keep the outer oxygen valve of the torch open a little while running the centerfire, if it becomes a problem.

[Dale M.]

Why not just turn one off..... If you don't need both running to supply oxygen, then do not turn on both.... You are not going to hurt the one that is off... These system usually have internal check valves (back flow preventers) so the machines is safe from external pressure ...

Dale

[earthandsky]

Thanks for the replies. :-)

It's good to know there's an external valve that can be used, but I didn't know if there was something internal that would prevent backflow into the ones that are turned off.

Tonight was my first night with new torch and oxycons and I ran all of them so that I could put the torch through its paces. But on soft glass only nights, there doesn't seem to be any sense in turning on all three oxycons, unless there's the potential for backflow damage to the ones that aren't running.

[kbinkster]

On most machines, there should be an internal check valve to prevent backflow. However, if the machine has been modified in some way, you have no way of knowing if it is still there without opening up the machine and looking for it. Also, if you back it up with enough pressure, you could pop something apart inside and would have to open the case to put it back together.

It's just easier to put the check valves in the Y connector assembly and not have to worry about it.

[earthandsky]

Thanks for the info, Kimberly. :-)