HGX Propane

From GAWDAwiki

HGX (known as HGX-3) is an additive for propane fuel when propane is used as an alternative fuel for oxy-cutting (oxyacetylene cutting). Oxy-cutting is a process where metal is cut by mixing oxygen with a fuel gas, such as propane, using a cutting torch. HGX-3 can be added to 1,000 gallons of propane. Propane and HGX propane are referred to as alternative metal cutting fuels along with MAPP gas and propylene.

HGX enables propane to burn at 5400 degrees F so that cutting time and speed are maximized. HGX propane is commonly used as an alternative to acetylene for oxy-cutting since it comes close to matching acetylene's cutting temperature of 5700 degrees F while using less oxygen and causing fewer safety hazards.

HGX is a relatively new additive on the market. Its demand has increased since a 2011 explosion at the main acetylene production plant in the United States (learn more about the Explosion and Acetylene Shortage).

Performance of HGX Propane

HGX makes a smooth, clean cut, especially when compared to acetylene. After cutting with HGX, metals are ready to be welded with little to no additional grinding.

Its high cutting temperature makes preheating times comparable to acetylene. When compared to acetylene, HGX propane uses less oxygen for cutting, and is even capable of producing a flame that is hot enough for some welding applications.

Set Up

Since HGX is a propane mixture, it requires an injector torch and tip setup that maximizes the flow of propane and provides optimal heat at the outer edge of the flame's cone. Users of acetylene who switch to HGX propane will also need to use hoses specifically designed for propane in order to avoid long term deterioration. When dealing with highly combustible fuels such as propane, any leaks can lead to a fatal explosion.

The regulators for alternative fuels such as HGX propane will be different from the regulators used with acetylene since acetylene is limited to a pressure no higher than 15 PSI. Alternative fuels will need regulators that deliver fuel at a higher PSI in order to maximize the effectiveness of their heating and cutting. Acetylene users can still use their old equipment with alternative fuels such as HGX propane, but they will not have optimal performance from their alternative fuels for heating or cutting.

Safety, Storage, and Supply

Though propane requires safe handling and storage procedures like any other cutting fuel, propane mixed with HGX is far more stable than acetylene, posing fewer safety threats. Cutting with HGX propane makes flashbacks and backfires far less likely -- both are common problems for acetylene operations.

Videos

Victor Propane Cutting Demo Video: http://www.youtube.com/smithequipmentco