What is the maximum safe working pressure for acetylene?

The maximum safe working pressure for acetylene is indeed 15 psi. This value is critical to ensure safety during oxyfuel cutting because acetylene is a highly flammable gas that can be explosive under certain conditions, particularly when not handled correctly.

When using acetylene, it is essential to adhere to this pressure limit to prevent the risk of flashbacks or explosions which can occur if the pressure exceeds safe operational thresholds. Additionally, acetylene’s stability decreases under higher pressures; thus, keeping it at or below 15 psi ensures that it remains within safe handling limits, reducing risks related to both gas leakage and combustion.

In industrial practices, staying within this pressure limit facilitates a safer working environment and helps in maintaining proper equipment function, such as regulators and hoses, which are designed to operate reliably within specified pressure ranges. Proper training and awareness around these pressure guidelines are vital for all individuals working with acetylene.