Smith torch o rings

[big bubba]

apologize in advance for such a simple question. had my Smith torches/welding tips since early 70's. never a problem. the o rings are original &
am careful in making the various attachment connections. my question is what is the recommended "lube" to prevent tearing, etc to the rings.

remembered when i learned, not to use petroleum based products/oils with an acetylene system for safety reasons (flammable).
your thoughts? Probably should get a replacement kit from Smiths anyway. thanks in advance

 

[WranglerX]

What about something silicone based... Maybe like dielectric grease... Think I would check with professionals though....

When my regulators needed new diaphragms and updating I uses these people for parts...I had a question and e-mailed them and had a response within the hour... Good people.

Regulator and Torch Exchange, Inc. Regulator and torch repair, parts, and service.

Maybe this...

Christo-Lube Grease 5 gram – Regulator and Torch Exchange, Inc.


Dale

 

[big bubba]

perfect
the 2nd link was what i was looking for.
so far, regulators in good shape... thanks

 

[RNeumann]

I’m following this with interest. The o ring material from the 1970s was different stuff. Not impervious to almost all chemicals like the stuff today. Let us know how it goes if you do decide to add something to those old seals.

 

[Tractor Seabee]

Best to get the O & M o-rings if you can. If I had to I cpuld probably match them up at my Ace HDW store at NAPA auto parts.

Ron

 

[yomax4]

Smith O-rings come with a thin grey graphite looking lube on them. When it wears off from changing tips they want you to replace them. For the other brands you can get a small tub of o-ring grease for automated plasma o-rings. Usually free and will last for ever. Remember, Less is more when greasing o-rings.

 

[dstig1]

No lube allowed on any oxygen fittings. Other than that, there exists actual "o-ring" lube sold by the nice people at Parker Hannifin. Probably can find a tiny tube of it on ebay or just searching online.

 

[WranglerX]

No lube allowed on any oxygen fittings. Other than that, there exists actual "o-ring" lube sold by the nice people at Parker Hannifin. Probably can find a tiny tube of it on ebay or just searching online.

Christo-Lube is oxygen safe it's even certified for underwater breathing apparatus....

O2 Lube | The nation's largest manufacturer of Christo-Lube products


Dale

 

[big bubba]

thanks for the responses on my o ring lube question. am ordering lube & set of replacement Smith's o rings from Reg & Torch Replacement Co as recommended by DL Meisen
only use the torches a few times yearly. to be honest, the current o rings on the torches & welding tips are from my original purchase in '71.
guess it's time to replace. fortunately no damaged rings, but prob a good idea to replace. (i take good care of them
Smith torches are the most reliable ones i've run across. quality equip pays for itself over the years....
thanks again

 

[Fallon]

No lube allowed on any oxygen fittings. Other than that, there exists actual "o-ring" lube sold by the nice people at Parker Hannifin. Probably can find a tiny tube of it on ebay or just searching online.

Many materials spontaneously combust in the presence of pure oxygen. Any grease that isn't certified to be oxygen safe is really likely to do so.