There are two main types of cylinders used in gas welding: oxygen cylinders and acetylene cylinders.
1. Oxygen cylinders: - Oxygen cylinders contain compressed oxygen gas, which is used as the oxidizing agent in gas welding. - Oxygen cylinders are typically painted green and have a left-hand thread on the valve. - Oxygen cylinders are used to support combustion and increase the flame temperature in gas welding processes. - Oxygen cylinders are stored and handled with care, as oxygen is a highly reactive gas that can cause fires and explosions if mishandled.
2. Acetylene cylinders: - Acetylene cylinders contain compressed acetylene gas, which is used as the fuel gas in gas welding. - Acetylene cylinders are typically painted black and have a right-hand thread on the valve. - Acetylene cylinders are used to produce a high-temperature flame for cutting, welding, and brazing metals. - Acetylene cylinders are stored and handled with care, as acetylene is a highly flammable gas that can explode if exposed to high temperatures or pressures.