THERMACUT EX-TRACK - Backfire Prevention; Flashback and Backfire Prevention; Flashback Prevention

EX-TRACK
®
Operator Manual, Revision T-136
the mid-point of the transverse rail is resting in the main unit, isolate the system from the main gas
and electrical power supply.
5.6. Flashback and backfire prevention
5.6.1. Flashback prevention
Flashbacks can cause serious damage, injury or death, ensure that flashback arrestors are fitted to
the oxygen and fuel gas regulators. The effect of a flashback is where there is a loud explosion, the
flame disappears inside the torch head, the torch head and hoses become intensely hot, a whistling
or hissing noise comes from the torch, immediately press the E-Stop button, turn off the fuel gas at
the torch, then close off the heating and cutting oxygen supply. Wear gloves when turning off the
gas supply at the torch, it may be extremely hot. Close off ALL gas supply at cylinders or manifolds.
Do not operate the system until a suitably qualified person has checked the system and found the
reason for the flashback. In certain countries it is mandatory for flashback arrestors to be fitted to
the torch as well as the regulators. It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure compliance with local,
national and international rules and regulations pertaining to the use of oxy fuel cutting equipment.
Flashbacks can arise from but be not limited to the following causes:
1. Incorrect gas pressure
2. Cutting nozzle overheating.
3. Cutting nozzle blocked by spatter or slag.
4. Incorrect nozzle size.
5. Damage to nozzle seating area.
The supplied flashback arrestor is built in on the fuel gas supply at the torch, it is intended for use
with Propane gas only, do not use it for any other gases.
The EX-TRACK
®
CNC System is not set up for Acetylene gas use.
5.6.2. Backfire prevention
A backfire may be caused upon ignition, or during the cutting process, due to incorrect gas
pressure, incorrect oxygen/fuel gas mixture at the nozzle or loose mill scale/rust adhering to the
nozzle tip. Backfires are identified by a violent popping sound; the flame ether extinguishes or re-
ignites at the nozzle. Immediately stop the cutting process and establish the cause before restarting
the process.