Why LPG should not be used for Gas Cutting?

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is not typically used for gas cutting due to several reasons:

High temperature requirement: LPG has a lower calorific value compared to other commonly used gases like acetylene or oxygen. This means that it produces less heat when burned, which is insufficient for the high temperatures required for gas cutting.

Flashback and safety risks: LPG is more prone to flashbacks when used for gas cutting. Flashbacks occur when the flame travels back into the torch, potentially causing explosions. LPG also has a wider flammability range than other fuel gases, increasing the risk of accidental ignition.

Carbonization: LPG can lead to excessive carbonization of the cut surface, resulting in poor-quality cuts. Carbonization occurs when the fuel gas reacts with the metal being cut, forming carbon deposits.

Lack of preheat flame: Unlike gases such as acetylene or propane, LPG does not produce a preheat flame. The preheat flame is essential for heating the metal to the desired cutting temperature before the cutting oxygen is introduced.

Due to these drawbacks, LPG is generally not preferred for gas cutting. Instead, gases like acetylene, propane, or natural gas are commonly used for this purpose.