Tesuco highlights gas welding safety

Tesuco has been highlighting the importance of safe equipment for HVAC&R practitioners, in particular for gas welding.

“Since starting 1988, Tesuco has been focussed on supplying gas welding equipment which meets Australian Standards and complies with welding processes and codes of practice,” says the company. “Equipment developed overseas can be outside the scope of Australia Standards. These then should be covered by EN (European Standard) or ISO (International Organization for Standardization) Standards.”

Tesuco notes that its Turboset 200 (OTS200) and the disposable oxygen and fuel gas cylinders used are not currently covered in any Australian Standard. They are, however, covered by EN or ISO standards, and the Turboset 200 has been fully tested and certified independently by a third party to comply with the EN1326 standard.

The Turboset 200 includes the following safety features:

• Oxygen cylinders of a maximum water capacity of 1 litre to meet EN1326 standard
• Oxygen cylinders (OOB) supplied by Tesuco are filled to a high pressure of 11,000kPa with a M12x1mm connection – they are disposable, lightweight, and recyclable once emptied and de-valved
• Cylinders are secured to prevent dislodgement by a specially designed carry case
• The cylinder holder is open to prevent the collection of gas if leaks should occur
• All parts are engraved or stamped with the correct standards number
• Fitment of internal flashback arrestors in the regulator outlets and inside the torch handle ensures flashback arrestors are used at all times, meaning the operator is always protected
• No need for ongoing annual testing if internal flashback arrestors are used
• Operational video is online and can be viewed on the Tesuco website
• Same parts have been used for more than 10 years, no change in the model number
• Full spare parts available in Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific islands.

Tesuco says International or Australian standards should be followed at all times.

“Each state or territory has welding processes – codes of practice,” says Tesuco, “and most codes are based on a national model code of practice developed by Safe Work Australia. You can view these online.

“All codes have the same underlying key points. Officers within a business must exercise due diligence to eliminate or minimise the risks from the welding processes. The workers have a duty to take reasonable care of their own health and safety.

“Flashback arrestors should be fitted at the blowpipe and regulator end of both the oxygen and fuel gas lines. Secure cylinders to prevent dislodgement.”