Doug DeHaven Recently picked up this torch to restore and use. I need help finding cutting tips and valve O rings for it! Please leave a comment if you have any ideas!
Here it is all cleaned up!
And here is how I picked it up if you can believe it!
The only info I can find about it was from Internet archive, here are some clips from the 1951 catalog.
Info I have on it so far:
lS-46-2LP Marked on current cutting tip.
LC229 90° button type cutting torch only, price. $39.00 Adjusted for inflation $478.52!
Now some Science and history!
In the realm of metalworking, the oxy/acetylene torch, pioneered by the Smith Equipment Company, has remained an iconic tool for over a century. This marvel of engineering combines oxygen and acetylene to generate intense heat, allowing craftsmen to shape and cut metals with unparalleled precision.
Fueling the Flames:
Acetylene, a compound of carbon and hydrogen, serves as the fuel source, while oxygen acts as the catalyst for combustion. Stored in separate tanks, these gases are fed into the torch where they mix and ignite, creating a controlled flame at temperatures exceeding 6,300 degrees Fahrenheit.
A Legacy of Innovation:
Founded in 1917 by Carl E. Smith, the Smith Equipment Company revolutionized metalworking with its oxy/acetylene torch technology. Over the decades, the company’s commitment to innovation has led to advancements in torch design, enhancing both efficiency and safety in fabrication processes worldwide.
Precision in Practice:
The oxy/acetylene torch’s versatility is unmatched, capable of welding delicate joints or cutting through thick steel plates with ease. Its precise control and intense heat make it indispensable in industries ranging from automotive repair to shipbuilding.
Continuing the Tradition:
Today, Miller Electric Mfg. Co. and Smith Equipment are both owned by Illinois Toolworks (ITW). In 1998, ITW acquired Smith Equipment, and in 2013, Miller Consolidated Smith Equipment’s oxy-fuel cutting products under the Miller brand that continues to uphold its legacy of excellence in metalworking tools. With ongoing advancements in technology and materials, the oxy/acetylene torch remains a cornerstone of modern fabrication, embodying the perfect blend of history, science, and precision.
Conclusion:
As we marvel at the oxy/acetylene torch’s fiery prowess, let us also pay homage to the Smith Equipment Company and its pioneering spirit. From humble beginnings to global recognition, their legacy lives on in the enduring innovation and precision of the oxy/acetylene torch, shaping the world of metalworking for generations to come.
