What is the acetylene generator?

Acetylene generator is a device that creates a stable supply of acetylene gas for use in welding work, repairs or construction stores where acetylene is constantly required. A device that has two basic types works by exposing the calcium carbide to water that produces acetylene gas. It can be beneficial for businesses using large amounts of acetylene a day, as there is less potential interruption of supplies and the cost of the final product is lower. However, the installation, use and maintenance of the acetylene generator is subject to strict safety measures, because acetylene is an extremely dangerous gas that easily explodes in a wide range of gas concentrations to the air.

Acetylene is a highly flammable colorless gas with a slight garlic odor used in conjunction with oxygen for welding, soldering and cutting steel. It is also used in several other industrial applications, including the face of large steel parts and radiocarbon dating. OsvariHowever, XY-acetylene is one of the largest acetylene consumer, which represents approximately 20% of global consumption. It is usually in these applications where acetylene generators are used.

There are two basic types of acetylene generator; The first uses the embankment system to feed calcium carbide in granular or powder form into the water tank. The second supplies water through a carbide layer at the bottom of the generator. Both types of generators should be well sealed and equipped with pressure safety valves in order to protect against the internal pressure of the generated gas.

The latter method is less desirable of two processes because it generates considerable heat. It also tends to produce acetylene long after stopping the flow of water. This makes it difficult to limit the process. On the other hand, the process of carbide feed has seen in water during the formation of acetylene that leads to lower temperaturesand controllable gas production limitation.

Installation and use of the acetylene generator should always be performed by qualified personal because there is still a danger of explosion that surrounds the production and use of gas. The acetylene generator should be placed far from the area where the work is carried out, no lights or naked flames should be allowed near the generator, and the building should be heated steam. Make sure that the highest level of cleanliness in the supply of carbide is ensured, since phosphate contamination is common in carbide and can cause concomitant production of hydrogen phosphide gas. This contaminant may have an adverse effect on metals welded oxy-acetylene systems. Particular attention should also be paid to control the pressure in the acetylene generator, as the gas explosively distributes over 15 pounds per square inch (dogs).