I just disassembled an oxygen regulator. I noticed the dial gauges were installed with some type of pipe dope. Is teflon tape or telfon pipe dope safe to use on an oxygen regulator? What type of pipe dope is safe to use? Also, does anyone know who manufactured the older Craftsman regulators?
I know that special ($$$$) sealants are used in scuba regulators that are using high concentrations of O2. Might check with a dive shop.
The reason for not using teflon - is the micro particles of teflon that flows from it into the stream - into TIG/MIG/air breathing units. - an anti-choking product.
Martin
Martin Eastburn @ home at Lions' Lair with our computer lionslair at consolidated dot net NRA LOH & Endowment Member NRA Second Amendment Task Force Charter Founder IHMSA and NRA Metallic Silhouette maker & member
charles wrote:
I have a Craftman outfit with regulators and probably the torch, made by Harris that I bought new about 45 years ago. Finally this year I had to replace the hoses. I guess some will consider them old, although they are much younger than I. The regulators are two stage, and they and the torch are still in good shape.
Other manufacturers may have provided regulators to Sears around that time.
Best Regards,
Ray Ramos
Thats your first mistake! - personally, I'd NEVER be doing anything like that - that stuff should always be left to a professional who has some accountability. Taking off (and/or replacing) the gauges, yea, but definetly not taking apart the regulator yourself.
Teflon tape is a no-no in any kinds of gas piping, and I believe that it is non-code/illegal in the State of California for natural gas. Like the other poster says, shreds of the stuff can get in orfices, filters, etc.
I won't make a recommendation, but in my natural gas piping, I personally use teflon impregnated 'brush-in-cap" pipe dope. For my welding stuff (be it Argon, Oxy/Ace, etc) I just don't do any repairs like that - not even to change a regulator. I'm at the stage in my life (and know better), so if/when I want a new gague, or flow meter on a regulator etc., down to the welding shop I go, and either get it repaired, trade it in, or get "new" (Ummm, new is goood...) :)
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