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Sputtering Torch

by Susan LeGuyader
If you're dealing with uneven, sputtering flame from your torch, check for this.
Instructions
Does it hiss or spit or flicker or just seem weak when you point it in any other direction that straight out? Do you worry it might be broken? It just might be the temperature in your room.
This is one of my top go-to torches.

I've used this style for over 5 years, this is my second torch head.
Susan LeGuyader's Sputtering Torch - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, butane torch
Let me share some backstory from my time in the studio yesterday.

My studio is a tiny house, outbuilding that my husband built for me several years ago.
It is not on a cement foundation and is not overly insulated.

When we built it, we had no idea that I would evolve so much in my jewelry making career.

That said, the building gets cold.

I have a space heater in there that I leave on, with a minimum temperature setting around 55 degrees.
When I ignited my torch yesterday to anneal some metal, the flame was weak. It was flickering.

It sputtered when I pointed it down towards the charcoal brick. It almost went out. The canister was cold to the touch.

I put 2 and 2 together and came up with a possibility of 4.

I say possible 4 because there is always the chance that there is something wrong with the torch head. They do wear out.
Susan LeGuyader's Sputtering Torch - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, sputtering flame
So, I kicked up the heat in the studio and warmed up the canister with body heat.

I did take the torch head off first and tucked it next to be in the chair.

After the canister was no longer cold to the touch, I put the head back on and lit it up. The flame was steady and strong and I was able to anneal my metal.

When diagnosing trouble with your torch head, please be careful. Study what is going on. This is just one possible answer. Safety first!
Susan LeGuyader's Sputtering Torch - , Tools For Wire Jewelry, Tools, torch flame

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