Torch Set Up

[shootingflame]

Hi everyone,

I'm pretty new to this site--only a few days. But I've noticed how much amazing help and support there is here, and I'm hoping a few of you can answer my first question.

I'm working on a Hot Head right now, but I'm getting ready to order a Minor Burner in about 2 weeks. I'm choosing that one because I'm still very new to lampworking, and I only plan on making beads for now. Also, I worked on one during the class that I took and I loved it.

So what I need to know is what do I need to set it up? And is there a website or link somewhere that will walk me through setting it up? My husband will probably do most of the setting up, and he's a stickler for details. I'm sure he will want to know everything he can.

Thank you!

[cadia]

If you are new to the site I would read through and/or do a search in the safety and the torch sites here there is alot of info there. Your question is pretty general and lots has already been covered in these areas. Then ask some more specific questions and I'm sure someone can help.
:wave:

[Hayley]

If you are looking for what you need to set up just your torch, any of the vendors (perhaps the one who is selling you the Minor) can help you determine your hoses, regulators, quick connects, flash back arrestors.

You will have to decide if you want tanked oxygen or an oxycon . . . if oxycon, there are lots of threads about that (and confusing ones too!).

Most important, but often overlooked by new lampworkers, is the ventilation system!!! You will need a hood or funnel with a fan that is adequate for you system to draw the glass fumes away from your face . . . breathing in that stuff is really, really, really bad for you!

Oh, and you will need a kiln to anneal your beads eventually. Fiber blankets or crock pot with vermiculite (or the Japanese stuff) will suffice for now however.

Eye protection (didynium glasses) and respirator (N-100 or P-100) for using frit, enamels, anything with metal content including some glass.

Hope this helps.

[Dale M.]

Here is a "background" document on how to setup a fuel/oxygen torch....

http://www.artglassanswers.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=11

Whether its a National 8M or Minor, Bobcat, or Mini CC, conceptually they are all pretty similar when it comes to setup....

Dale

[shootingflame]

Thanks everyone.

Cadia--I'll do that. I've only gone through a couple of pages, but have already found some useful info.

Hayley--thanks. The ventilation is something that we've always been sort of concerned about. I'm in the garage right now, right in front of a window. I always have the window open, the overhead door open, and the back service door open. There seems to be excellent ventilation that way. However, I'll need something more formal when winter comes. I already am not sure how I will heat the garage to the point of being comfortable. I'll have to post that as a question too--what do midwesterners like me do during the winter?

Dale--perfect! Thank you so much!