Dissolved Acetylene Gas - DA

DISSOLVED ACETYLENE GAS

Pure acetylene is a unique gas with hazards that arise from its high energy bonds and flammability. These same properties give acetylene its value as a high temperature cutting and welding gas with a very wide range of applications. However, free acetylene can undergo explosive decomposition when compressed or overheated. Decomposition is a spontaneous reaction forming hydrogen and carbon (in the form of “lampblack” or “soot”). A considerable amount of heat and pressure is generated by this dissociation, which can produce high energy explosions.

Acetylene is normally dissolved in a solvent, typically acetone, at pressures up to 19 barg (275 psig) at 20°C (68°F). The dissolved acetylene is packaged in specially designed cylinders filled with a porous material to prevent voids where gaseous acetylene could collect. The combination of these two features, solvent and porous filler material, allows acetylene to be contained in cylinders at moderate pressure without danger of decomposition. To prevent decomposition during use, acetylene gas system pressures must not exceed 1.5 barg (22 psig).

Industrial Applications

Acetylene is principally used for oxyacetylene cutting, heat treating, and welding. Bulk acetylene can be also used as a raw material in the chemicals processing industry for the production of organic compounds, including acetaldehyde, acetic acid and acetic anhydride. Acetylene has the highest flame temperature of any common hydrocarbon because of its triple bond structure. Combustion with oxygen achieves a flame temperature of 3090°C (5594°F), releasing 54.8 kJ/litre (1470 BTUs/ft3) of energy. Its high flame temperature allows acetylene to be used in a variety of metal working applications like cutting, welding, brazing and soldering.