Blow Torches

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About Blow Torches

Blow torches are essential heat-generating tools used across countless trades and applications, from plumbing and roofing to jewellery making and culinary work. At their core, these versatile devices produce a focused, high-temperature flame by combining fuel gas with oxygen, allowing precise heat application for tasks such as soldering copper pipes, brazing metal joints, stripping paint, thawing frozen pipes, and heat-shrinking materials. Modern blow torches range from compact handheld butane models perfect for delicate soldering work to heavy-duty propane and MAPP gas torches designed for professional plumbing and roofing applications.

Our extensive selection includes trusted brands like Sievert, Sealey, Rothenberger, Draper, and Monument, offering everything from auto-ignition models for convenience to specialist torches like the Draper GT9 Flameless Gas Torch for working in confined or sensitive environments. Whether you're a professional plumber requiring a reliable torch for daily installations, a roofer working with felt and bitumen, or a DIY enthusiast tackling occasional projects, you'll find torches suited to every skill level and application.

Today's blow torches incorporate numerous safety and convenience features including piezo ignition systems, flame control valves, anti-flare technology, and ergonomic grips. Many professional-grade models accept standard disposable cartridges or refillable cylinders, with some designed specifically for particular gas types such as CGA600 fittings or MAPP gas for higher temperature applications requiring temperatures up to 1,950°C.

Jargon Buster

• Piezo Ignition: An electronic spark ignition system that lights the torch at the press of a button, eliminating the need for matches or separate lighters. Essential for safe, convenient operation on site.
• MAPP Gas: Methylacetylene-propadiene propane, a fuel gas that burns significantly hotter than standard propane (approximately 1,950°C compared to 1,400°C), making it ideal for brazing, silver soldering, and working with harder metals.
• Swirl Flame Technology: A burner design that creates a rotating flame pattern, distributing heat more evenly whilst reducing gas consumption and providing better wind resistance for outdoor applications.
• BTU Rating: British Thermal Units measure the heat output of a torch. Higher BTU ratings mean more powerful heating capability, with professional torches typically ranging from 17,000 to 400,000 BTU depending on application.
• Anti-Flare: Safety technology that prevents dangerous flame flare-ups when the torch is tilted or inverted, particularly important when working in awkward positions or overhead.
• CGA600: A standardised connection fitting for disposable gas cylinders, ensuring compatibility between different brands of torches and cartridges commonly used in the UK market.

Who Uses Blow Torches?

Blow torches are indispensable tools across numerous trades and industries:

• Plumbers and Heating Engineers: Soldering copper pipe joints, brazing fittings, thawing frozen pipes, and removing old fittings during maintenance work
• Roofers: Applying and sealing roofing felt, heating bitumen, and working with torch-on roofing membranes
• Electricians: Heat-shrinking cable joints and terminations, removing cable insulation, and soft soldering electrical connections
• Vehicle Body Technicians: Paint stripping, loosening seized bolts, plastic welding repairs, and warming materials for better adhesion
• Jewellers and Silversmiths: Precision soldering, annealing metals, and brazing delicate components requiring controlled heat application
• Chefs and Caterers: Caramelising sugar toppings, finishing crème brûlée, and adding professional finishing touches to dishes
• Decorators: Stripping paint and varnish from wooden surfaces, softening old putty for window repairs, and removing stubborn coatings
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home plumbing projects, craft work, garden maintenance tasks, and general repair jobs requiring heat application

How to Choose the Right Blow Torches

Fuel Type: Butane torches are compact and ideal for precision work like electronics soldering, whilst propane models offer more power for plumbing and general trades. MAPP gas torches provide the highest temperatures for brazing and working with harder metals. Consider fuel availability and storage requirements for your working environment.

Heat Output Required: Match the BTU rating to your applications. Micro torches (2,500-5,000 BTU) suit electronics and jewellery work, medium-duty models (17,000-30,000 BTU) handle most plumbing tasks, whilst heavy-duty torches (100,000+ BTU) are necessary for roofing felt application and large-diameter pipe work.

Ignition System: Auto-start piezo ignition models like those from Faithfull offer maximum convenience and safety, eliminating the need for separate ignition sources. This is particularly valuable when working on ladders, in confined spaces, or when wearing gloves.

Portability Requirements: Self-contained torch kits with integrated gas cartridges like the Sealey micro butane range are perfect for mobile work, whilst professional plumbers might prefer separate torch heads that connect to larger, more economical gas bottles for workshop or van-based operations.

Flame Control: Variable flame adjustment is crucial for versatility. Look for torches with precision control valves that allow you to dial in the exact flame size and intensity needed, from a fine soldering flame to a broad heating flame.

Safety Features: Consider models with anti-flare technology, flame lock mechanisms for continuous operation, heat shields to protect your hands, and stable bases if you need to set the torch down whilst lit. These features significantly reduce accident risk, particularly important for HSE compliance on professional job sites.

Ergonomics: For extended use, comfortable grips, balanced weight distribution, and trigger placement matter significantly. Professional-grade torches from brands like Sievert and Rothenberger often feature ergonomic designs that reduce hand fatigue during all-day use.

Popular Accessories

• Gas Cartridges and Cylinders: Disposable butane cartridges, propane bottles, and MAPP gas cylinders to suit your torch model and fuel requirements
• Solder and Flux: Lead-free solder, silver solder, brazing rods, and appropriate flux pastes for different metal joining applications
• Heat-Resistant Mats: Fireproof work surfaces and heat shields to protect surrounding materials and ensure safe working practices
• Striker Igniters: Backup ignition devices for torches without piezo ignition, essential for reliability on remote job sites
• Pipe Cleaning Tools: Wire wool, emery cloth, and cleaning brushes to prepare surfaces properly before soldering or brazing
• Alternative Burner Heads: Swirl flame nozzles, pencil flame attachments, and spreading nozzles for specialised applications
• Carry Cases: Protective storage solutions and hot bags for safely transporting torches and accessories between job sites
• Heat-Resistant Gloves: Specialist welding or heat-resistant gloves for additional hand protection during extended torch use

Safety Information

Blow torches demand strict adherence to safety protocols due to the combination of pressurised flammable gas and open flames. Always work in well-ventilated areas to prevent gas accumulation and ensure adequate oxygen supply. Before lighting, check all connections for leaks using soapy water - never use a flame to test for leaks. Keep a suitable fire extinguisher rated for gas fires within easy reach of your work area.

When working on plumbing systems, ensure pipes are drained and that you're not inadvertently heating areas near combustible materials such as timber joists, insulation, or building fabrics. Use heat-resistant mats to protect surrounding surfaces and keep flammable materials at least one metre away from the work area. Never leave a lit torch unattended, even for brief moments.

Comply with HSE guidelines for hot work permits when working on commercial or industrial sites. Wear appropriate PPE including safety glasses with side shields to protect against sparks and molten material, and heat-resistant gloves when handling materials that have been heated. Allow torches and workpieces to cool completely before storage or handling, and store gas cylinders upright in cool, well-ventilated locations away from ignition sources and direct sunlight.

Regularly inspect your torch for damaged hoses, worn seals, blocked burners, or malfunctioning valves. Replace any damaged components immediately rather than attempting repairs with makeshift solutions. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule and never modify torches or use incompatible gas types, as this voids safety certifications and creates serious hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between propane, butane, and MAPP gas torches?

Butane torches are compact and ideal for fine work like electronics soldering, operating effectively in warmer conditions but struggling below 0°C. Propane torches work reliably in cold weather and provide higher heat output suitable for plumbing and general trade use. MAPP gas burns hottest of all (approximately 1,950°C compared to propane's 1,400°C), making it essential for brazing hard metals and working with materials requiring extreme temperatures. Choose based on your typical applications and working environment.

Can I use any gas cylinder with my blow torch?

No - always use the specific gas type and connection fitting recommended by the manufacturer. Torches designed for CGA600 fittings require compatible cartridges, whilst professional models may accept specific bottle connections. Using incorrect gas types or forcing incompatible fittings creates serious safety hazards including leaks, pressure issues, and potential explosions. Check your torch's specifications and only use appropriate, approved gas supplies.

How do I know if my blow torch has a gas leak?

Mix washing-up liquid with water and apply to all connections whilst the gas is turned on but not ignited. Bubbles indicate escaping gas. Never use a flame to test for leaks. If you detect a leak, immediately turn off the gas supply, work outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, and repair or replace faulty components before using the torch again. A hissing sound or gas smell also indicates leakage requiring immediate attention.

Why won't my piezo ignition work on my blow torch?

Several factors can prevent piezo ignition functioning: the electrode may be dirty or incorrectly positioned relative to the burner (clean with wire wool and adjust if possible), moisture may have entered the ignition mechanism (allow to dry thoroughly), or the piezo crystal may have failed after extensive use (replacement units are available for many models). Ensure the gas flow is correct - too much or too little gas can prevent ignition. As a temporary solution, use a striker igniter whilst arranging repair or replacement.

What maintenance does a blow torch require?

Regularly inspect hoses and seals for cracks, perishing, or damage, replacing annually or sooner if deterioration is evident. Clean burner jets with appropriate cleaning wires to prevent blockages affecting flame pattern. Check the piezo ignition produces a strong spark. Store with gas disconnected in a cool, dry location. After extended storage, test outdoors before use. For professional torches seeing daily use, consider annual servicing to maintain optimal performance and safety compliance.