AWS C4.3/C4.3M:2018

The newly revised manual for oxyfuel gas heating torch operation includes the latest procedures to be used in conjunction with oxyfuel gas heating equipment. The manual also includes the latest safety requirements. Complete lists of equipment are available from individual manufacturers.
Scope : 1.1 Scope. This manual describes the equipment, procedures, and safe practices for oxyfuel gas heating torch operation. It is written for the operators of torches using single or multiple heating tips and heads. It is also recommended for management personnel associated with the oxyfuel gas heating torch operation and process. Oxyfuel heating is an operation whereby various metals are heated in order to perform the following operations: (1) Straightening and bending with mechanical force (2) Flame straightening and cambering (3) Stress relieving (4) Preweld and postweld heating (5) Fusion of coatings (6) Flame hardening (7) Flame shrinking The metal is heated by the direct application of single- or multi-flames to a desired elevated temperature. The heating process may be applied to all types of metal forms or shapes. An operator can make proper compensation for the effect of the metallurgical conditions, part geometry, and physical changes that may occur during the heating process. In general, torch heating does not require any lengthy startup. Operations can be performed in most locations, in confined areas, under most conditions, and with relatively low-cost equipment. Torch heating can also be performed on completed structures without dismantling them. Although this recommended practice is not written with mandatory requirements, mandatory language, such as the use of â??shall,â? will be found in those portions of the document where failure to follow the instructions or procedures could produce inferior, misleading, or unsafe results. 1.2 Units of Measure. This standard makes use of both U.S. Customary Units and the International System of Units (SI). The latter are shown within brackets ([ ]) or in appropriate columns in tables and figures. The measurements may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system must be used independently. 1.3 Safety. Safety issues and concerns are addressed in this standard although health issues and concerns are beyond the scope of this standard. Safety and health information is available from the following sources: American Welding Society: (1) ANSI Z49.1, Safety in Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes (2) AWS Safety and Health Fact Sheets (3) Other safety and health information on the AWS website Material or Equipment Manufacturers: (1) Safety Data Sheets supplied by materials manufacturers (2) Operating Manuals supplied by equipment manufacture Applicable Regulatory Agencies Work performed in accordance with this standard may involve the use of materials that have been deemed hazardous, and may involve operations or equipment that may cause injury or death. This standard does not purport to address allsafety and health risks that may be encountered. The user of this standard should establish an appropriate safety program to address such risks as well as to meet applicable regulatory requirements. ANSI Z49.1 should be considered when developing the safety program.