A complete guide to propane torch temperature

Propane torches are used for a wide variety of needs, including soldering, heating rusted bolts and other types of metal work. It’s important to understand propane torch temperatures to get the most out of your propane torch. Proper temperature control is important to maximise torch usage and efficiency. 

Whether you’re a plumber, welder or other tradesperson, this guide will give you an overview of how to use your torch more effectively. If you need to use a propane torch for your professional or DIY project, explore Bromic’s wide range of torches and torch kits today.

What is the operating temperature of a propane torch?

The exact operating temperature of a propane torch changes depending on whether it’s an air-fed torch or an oxygen-fed torch. A traditional air-fed propane torch can reach a maximum flame temperature of 2000 °C, but on average only achieves around 1200 °C. 

A propane butane torch will also reach a similar temperature of 1225 °C. An oxygen fed propane torch, or propane oxygen torch, can go much higher, up to approximately 2550 °C. 

Additional factors that affect a propane torch’s temperature include the exact brand and composition of the fuel, the amount of oxygen in the environment, the flame type and further differences in the type of torch being used. 

Why is propane torch temperature important?

Understanding propane flame temperature is important to the general functionality of the torch and how much fuel you may need to use. By choosing the wrong types of torches and using the wrong fuel, you can waste time, cause unnecessary damage and increase fuel costs. Worst of all, you’re unlikely to achieve your desired results. 

Propane torch temperature affects the following:

• Melting Points: Metal materials have a wide variety of different melting points at which they become liquids. Ensure you know the melting point of the material so you can adjust to the right temperature. By knowing the right temperature you avoid wasting fuel or damaging the material.  Check out our complete guide to types of torches and fuels for more information.
• Gas and fuel efficiency: Different fuels are more suitable for working with different materials, based on how they affect the torches’ temperature. For example, propane can also be used to soften paint or caulk but will be inefficient to work with materials with melting points above 2000 °C.
• Soldering and Brazing Effectiveness: Effectively soldering or brazing materials like bronze requires a temperature above 930 °C to melt the material while retaining its uses. Working with material like tungsten is out of a propane torch’s temperature range, no matter the fuel or oxygen usage. 
• Control, precision and safety: Complete control of your torch temperature is also vital for efficient, successful work. Irresponsible use of a torch could lead to damaging components you are trying to repair or work with, as well as endangering yourself and others.

Propane torch temperatures for different tasks

By knowing the proper torch temperature for different tasks, you can avoid needless gas usage, work faster and reduce fire risks. Tasks that a propane torch is most suitable for, and the recommended temperatures include:

• Brazing metal materials: Brass, bronze, silver and copper all have melting points within a propane torch’s controllable range. The torch temperature for brazing varies depending on the material, but it is typically done above 450 °C.
• Soldering: For soldering tasks, a propane torch can be safely used for minor adjustments. It is recommended to begin soldering at a temperature of 315-370 °C. Temperature can be increased from there, depending on the material. 
• Heating frozen metal and rusted nuts: Propane torches can be used to thaw out frozen metals. However, be sure to check that there are no flammable or combustible materials around the frozen area of the metal. A torch can also be used to repair copper pipes or loosen tight or rusted nuts. There is no exact recommended temperature for thawing metal or loosening nuts. However, low temperatures are recommended, as the metal may melt if the torch is too strong.
• Softening putty and paint: At lower temperatures, a propane torch is an effective way to soften off old paint and putty from structures and make it easier to strip the material off. Stripping paint with a propane torch should be done slowly, at a low temperature to avoid burning the materials beneath the paint.

Propane torch safety tips

Propane is a highly flammable, hazardous material. It is vital that the torch is used with the best possible precautions, or you could cause property damage or burn yourself. The following are safety tips and recommendations when working with propane torches:

• Work in a well-ventilated area: Propane is flammable, and will also displace the oxygen in your lungs with too much exposure. Ensure your workplace is well-ventilated so gas can safely disperse.
• Wear appropriate gear: Even in liquid form, propane is highly hazardous and can cause cold burns. Wear appropriate work gear to reduce the chance of burns or skin-to-skin contact with hot or hazardous materials. Proper work gear should include protective gloves, safety glasses, and flame-resistant clothing that completely covers the body. 
• Check for leaks: Once you’ve applied any sort of appliance to the cylinder, cover the connection area with soapy water and watch for bubbles. You can also tell if there is a fuel leak by checking if there is a hissing noise, if it feels extremely cold or if it smells like rotten eggs.
• Fire prevention: When working with a propane torch, any flammable materials can cause complete combustion. Fires can spread out of control if not put out in time. Keep a fire extinguisher close by, especially when working with oxygen fed torches. Ensure the fire extinguisher is compatible and effective at extinguishing the fuel you are working with. This will enable you to quickly and efficiently stop fires from spreading.
  
• Shutting off equipment: Once you have finished using a propane torch, ensure that the torch is properly shut off. Additionally, remove or shut off any fuel supply and replace the caps. Be aware of the hot surfaces on the torch Do not let the torch rest on flammable materials surfaces or materials with a low melting point. Make sure the torch head is turned off before attaching any fuel cylinder.

Propane torch maintenance tips

Proper maintenance of your propane torch won’t just help to prevent leaks, fires and damages. It will increase the general longevity of your equipment and make your tools more effective. Here are some general maintenance tips to follow when using a propane torch:

• Inspect your torch regularly: Before using your propane torch, examine the connections and other vital components thoroughly. Check for signs of damage, wear and tear, or leaks. 
• Store the torch properly: Once you have finished using the torch, detach the fuel cylinders and store them in a safe space. Keep cylinders out of reach of children and away from any flammable material. Do not store the torch in any area above 59 degrees celsius. 
• Regularly test flame control: Your propane torch should be spouting a natural, healthy amount of flame once you’ve turned it on. Check that flame is spouting from the right direction, and only from the nozzle. Before using your torch on any material, be sure to test the flame in a safe, controlled environment. 

How to clean a propane torch

It is vital to regularly clean all the essential components of your torch after you’ve used it to ensure safety and longevity. Use the following steps to properly clean your torch:

1. Wait for your torch to cool, then gently brush the torch face with a stainless steel brush. Brush back and forth or up and down for 6 minutes to remove carbon deposits.  Do not use unnecessary force when cleaning your torch, it may cause internal damage. Do not place a hot torch face in cold water, or ‘shock’ it, as this may weaken the connection sites. 
2. Use cleaning wires to clean the gas and oxygen ports. Use the smaller wires to clean the smaller oxygen ports and the larger wires to clean the bigger gas ports on the torch’s front face. Do not use toothpicks or glass to clean the internal components. They may break and block the port. It’s best to use a specialised tip-cleaning wire set.
3. Turn the torch on high and hit the underside with a wooden dowel to clear any dust or carbon. 

Browse Bromic gas torches

When you use Bromic products, you can rely on products and solutions that ensure you get the job done. 

With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Bromic are the experts in the manufacturing and supplying quality gas and plumbing products.

Our wide and versatile range of hand torches, soldering irons, brazing products and welding and cutting kits are suitable for all your professional needs. That’s because we place product design and versatility at the forefront of everything we do. 

Browse Bromic’s gas torch range and find the perfect match for your needs.