What kind of torch do I need for glass blowing?
A torch used quite extensively in the industry is the National Handtorch Type 3A Blowpipe shown here. This relatively inexpensive torch, with tip sizes #2, 3, 4,and 5 will cover most of your needs. Surface-mix torches and burners are used most frequently when large areas of glass need to be worked.
What is the best gas for glass blowing?
Oxygen
Oxygen is always used as the mixing gas in scientific glassblowing. Oxygen pressures range from 10 – 15 psi for most applications. Compressed air is not capable of producing the flame temperatures necessary for working borosilicate and quartz glasses.
Can you use a welding torch for glass blowing?
Many glassworkers use Victor and National welding torches with propane. Mostly for boro work but you can also do soft glass; the colors don’t come out as nice and you have to be careful not to burn the crap out of the glass but it definitely can be done (and is done on a daily basis in many parts of the world.)
How hot is a glass blowing torch?
Most glass shaping takes place at between 1,600 and 1,900 °F (870 and 1,040 °C), when the molten glass glows a bright orange color.
Can borosilicate glass be blown?
If you want to get started in glass blowing, you will need a few key pieces of equipment. Torch – In order to melt borosilicate glass you will need a torch that burns both propane and oxygen. Eye Protection – If you are going to blow glass, make sure your eyes are protected with proper torch working glasses.
Can a propane torch melt glass?
Nevertheless, there are specialized glasses that will melt at as low as 900 degrees. A kiln is necessary to raise the temperature of glass to 1400 to 1600 degrees, while a blow torch can raise the temperature of glass to approximately 900 degrees. Ignite the flame on your propane blow torch.
Will a mapp gas torch melt glass?
I recommend using mapp gas which burns even hotter than propane or butane. If you use it with mapp gas, the flame will be hot enough to melt borosilicate glass, after a minute or so, to the point where you can shape it & mold it into anything you want (if you possess the talent & knowledge necessary to do so).