What are the rules for compatibility with acetylene and propane hoses? Also for other fittings; regulators, flashback arrestors.
UK (European) rules state that acetylene hoses (red) must be compatible with acetone, and that propane hoses (orange) must withstand pentane. However they don't say how this is achieved. I'm hearing confusing stories from hose vendors too; some claim acetylene is OK in propane hose (as it has an extra nitrile liner), others that propane is OK in acetylene hose.
How does this affect regulators too ? Is it safe to use an acetylene regulator for propane, or could there be damage to the diaphram ? (I've no intention of doing this, just curious).
I'm also wondering about flashback arrestors; the large resettable sort (Saffire 35+ to be precise). I've heard that these come in three flavours; oxygen, acetylene and propane. Propane gas can be used with either fuel type of kit, but the acetylene flashback doesn;t have the pressure or flow capacity to allow its use for high power work with a large heating nozzle.
All comments welcome ! I'd be particularly grateful for on-line (or affordable) sources of regulations BCGA CP7, EN559 & EN730