Nice explanation of the torch and setting it up. Especially liked the explanation about the flame and the difference between annealing and soldering. Thanks. Cheers Jim
Thank you SO MUCH! I've found so many videos explaining everything *EXCEPT* what I'm needing to know the most, which would be exactly what the flame should look like and HOW to get it there. You nailed it perfectly! Again, THANK YOU.
What are the EXACT steps to setting the psi on my oxy tank? And, when finished for the day, do I turn off just the oxy tank or both the oxy tank AND the valve handle on the oxy tank gauges (along with my fuel of course)? And then reset my oxy psi everyday? Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
Hi, lovely Nicole! After taking your class, I bought this Little Smith kit from Rio and it actually does come with flashback arrestors even though it’s not mentioned in the description. ❤️
For years I have used a butane microtorch but it struggles with anything beyond very small. I'm still a little scared of a torch requring tanks & hoses but your videos show how well the torch works and this explanation of setup is really helpful.
Thank you! I am just considering upgrading from a propane only torch and was about to look for just this type of video explaining this torch. Thank you so much!
@nicole ringgold This is the most useful instructional video. I’ve just got an OxyContin and Smiths little torch and have tried it out just once. I’ve already forgotten the order to,turn back on, but your nemonic POOP is brilliant. I’m going to print that out and post it above my solder station. Thanks Nicole. I’m now just eagerly awaiting your book, which I’ve already pre-ordered.
Another VERY helpful vid! I have struggled with correctly identifying the correct annealing flame. This was so helpful. I can see the inner flame tip and color changes easily as you tweaked the fuel-to-oxygen ratios. Also, discussing where to set the fuel/oxygen tank dials depending on the tip number used was a great reminder. I'm going to check mine tomorrow. Of course, the gas safety tips - flashback arrestors and bleeding the hoses when done - are so important. These basics, so often glossed over, make all the difference. THANK YOU!!!! A question though: Many times when I try to ignite my torch (on the same device you use), there is a delay with it catching (it doesn't ignite), and I have to shut the fuel off and on a couple of times before it finally ignites. I've cleaned out my tip once (with a piece of wire), but should I do something else? This will happen throughout my work day - not just at the beginning. I can hear and smell the propane so it's not that the fuel isn't coming up the hose. ???
That's curious. I would need to see what you're doing. But I have a few thoughts off the top of my head. Are you pointing your torch tip directly into the igniter? If not, you should be. If it's even slightly off, it won't catch. If you are, then check the igniter to be sure that the ignition spark isn't bent. I don't think it's your tank/hoses/tips because you're smelling and hearing the propane. Maybe try lighting with a candle to see if you have the same problems?
@@ringgoldnic Thanks so much for your reply. I will check the ignition spark (???) to see if it's bent. It might most likely be that I'm not pointing the torch tip correctly - although I fiddle about in there every which way. I'm always afraid of ignition and hold my breath every time I go to light up. I will watch the video again to see how you lay your tip into/onto the ignitor. Yes, I will try the candle too. Not sure what I'm afraid of. We are all such curious creatures! Thanks, Nicole!!!XXX
This was so helpful I figured out multiple things I’m doing wrong (self taught here) I use a benzomatic propane tank and a permanent oxy setup. My go to tip is a 5 so I will try using a 6 or 7 (I think I have a 7) I’m wondering if the is is why my torch makes this pulsing sound and it’s like the oxy is puffing or blowing and it’s got a ticking sound also I’ve had my pressure too high on my oxy that could be the problem too. Things why I’m not using my setup at the moment. (I’m using a fuel can with a sterno torch head on it)but I paid a lot of money for my little smith setup and I’d like to be able to use it effectively Im so visual seeing how they flame cone is was so great also the distance away from the metal … yep I’m one of those that’s got my torch to far away. Also to much oxygen! Now I know why my flux burns off and my metal oxidizes and my solder won’t flow and I melt my silver! THANK YOU NICOLE for these videos!! I’m in Spokane and hope to take an in person class one day with you but for now these videos are GOLD!!!!!! 😊❤❤❤❤❤
Very good video. Like others have said there are a lot of videos on soldering but few on how to set up and use a smith little torch. In my opinion the smith is tops but beware of the "knock offs" coming in from across the water. Buy a genuine Smith Little Torch NOT the cheap imitation.
Hi Nicole, Thank you for this excellent video. I may have missed it, but what should I turn my propane tank to? I have it at a 5. Using a 7 torch tip and was using oxygen at a 4, so I'll turn it up. Is 5 ok for the oxygen? Thank you.
Thank you for this video. Your discussion of the different torch flames was very helpful. I currently use the small disposable propane and oxygen tanks-I have a home studio and insurance is an issue. You mentioned that you do not need a flashback arrestor on the small disposable cylinder oxygen tank. Is it necessary to use a flashback arrestor on the small disposable cylinder propane tank? Currently I do have one on my propane tank but I have heard it isn’t necessary and don’t understand why taking it off wouldn’t be a safety issue.
From what I understand from my welding suppliers, the disposable tank regulators have built-in flashback arrestors. So, your putting one on there isn't really a problem. It just means you're doubling up. Although, sometimes flashback arrestors do slow down the flow of fuel/oxygen, so it could be limiting your pressure.
Hi Nicole :) I found a used oxygen concentrator that I’ve just used for the first time with my little torch. I’m wondering how to safely bleed my oxygen hose. The machine is off, and I notice that when the machine’s built in regulator is turned to the right, oxygen continues fo flow out of the torch. I’m assuming that if I leave this open, the oxygen will eventually run out since the machine is off, but am looking for some confirmation about that. It seems to be taking quite a long time, perhaps that’s just because the machine stores quite a lot of ozygen…thoughts?
Turn off your oxygen concentrator. Turn the regulator off. To do so, turn it to the left. Leave the nozzle on your oxygen hose open until the air no longer comes through.
Thank you! I’ve been getting firescale lately and I think I’m annealing with a flame that’s too hot. I really appreciate this video! Also,how would one go about taking a class from you? 😊
Hi Nicole, i just stumbled across your video and it was perfect! Thank you for sharing this information. May I ask what flame should be for soldering larger pieces of silver? I am making silver cuffs with 20g back plate and #4 silver triangle wire about 7”x1” and I just cant get my solder to flow. I can’t even get medium solder to flow! I have used Smith’s silver smith torch for many years and I just bought the Smith Little using Oxy Propane and I’m completely lost. Thank you in advance ❤
@@ringgoldnic I would be overjoyed to FaceTime with you! That is incredibly generous. I am off of work Wednesday and Thursday if that works with you. The #7 tip is the only one I have used. I’m in the Pacific Time Zone. :-)
@@scoobstyr So sorry for the delay! I was teaching a workshop. Would sometime this next week work? Here is my email address for better communication: ringgoldnic@gmail.com
Thank you so much for this informative video! I have a question about the torch tips. The manual says you can use sizes 3-7 with propane, I’m wondering where instructions came from to only use 6 and 7 with propane? Is this just from personal experience? Thanks so much!
Yes, the manual does say that. If you use the smaller tips with propane though, you'll find that the flame often snuffs out. Meaning there's too much pressure trying to squeeze through that tiny hole. If you change to a larger tip you won't experience as much of the "snuffing".
Hi Nicole, thanks for an excellent video. I wish I had it when I bought my smith torch a couple of years ago. I have difficulties when I am lighting the torch. I have an oxygen concentrator. Just after I start the propane and light the flame, when I slowly introduce the O2, the flame comes off. This can happen several times and needs re-lighting. I wonder if this is because perhaps the tips are dirty? Or the setting on the O2 concentrator is not the right one? I would be grateful for advice. Many thanks , Smaranda
@@ringgoldnicit does it for all sizes, the large ones I manage to control quicker and stabilise the flame after only 3-4 attempts. For a 5 and below I could be there ages trying to light it.
@@Noirsmaranda I have found that, with oxygen concentrators, it's mostly the #7 tip that works effectively, especially when heating a large mass. Also, some of my students who use concentrators tell me that they leave the machine running for 5-10 minutes to give it time to stabilize before using.
I didn’t realize my question to you was so long and probably confusing. Sorry, but what I want to know is a generic little Smith torch safe to use? Also, when I do invest in a remanufactured oxygen concentrator, is there a possibility you could do a video on how to hook the hoses up correctly the manufactured oxygen concentrator ? Absolutely loved your video, so detailed, Thank you so much, Nicole, Hugs🤗, Michelle
@@ringgoldnicthat’s definitely true about Rio… I did not check all my text messages Sunday Mother’s Day. They sent me a message that they had gotten in some of the remanufactured concentrating oxygen in stock…this morning Monday I noticed it and I was saying yay and I popped onto Rio Grande site and it said they were sold out.. back on the waiting list again…
Hi Nicole, thank you so much for this video. I haven’t used my smith little torch in a few years and it’s been sitting at my bench in my unheated garage. I want to get back into jewelry making, what can I do to make sure my torch is in good condition and safe to use? Thank you!
Good morning. Once your hoses are connected to the full tanks, you can turn on your hoses one at a time and use leak detector to determine whether or not the hoses and all of the connections are tight. If they are, ensure that your regulator pressure is set correctly and you should be good to go.
@@ringgoldnic Wow, thank you the fast response, I appreciate it! I’ll check for leaks and also see if I have a tool to make sure the torch nozzle isn’t blocked. This all makes me nervous but I think once I settle back into it I’ll be more comfortable using a torch again.
@@annavictoriagriewahn9227 I’m not sure what you mean. You are trying to get the torch system? Here’s the link: www.riogrande.com/product/smith-little-torch-propane-and-oxygen-system/500076GP/?code=500076&_t_id=Gux5gfK7PI_uamgenV2ETA%3d%3d&_t_uuid=c8cdb57e-9120-40b9-872d-36fa750016d4&_t_q=little+smith+torch&_t_hit.id=Commerce_Products_Product%2fCatalogContent_1548fea5-f09a-4a63-be1a-0c7d2e5eef21_en&_t_hit.pos=8
Hi Nicole, thanks for an excellent video. I wish I had it when I bought my smith torch a couple of years ago. I have difficulties when I am lighting the torch. I have an oxygen concentrator. Just after I start the propane and light the flame, when I slowly introduce the O2, the flame comes off. This can happen several times and needs re-lighting. I wonder if this is because perhaps the tips are dirty? Or the setting on the O2 concentrator is not the right one? I would be grateful for advice. Many thanks , Smaranda
Nice explanation of the torch and setting it up. Especially liked the explanation about the flame and the difference between annealing and soldering. Thanks. Cheers Jim
Thank you SO MUCH! I've found so many videos explaining everything *EXCEPT* what I'm needing to know the most, which would be exactly what the flame should look like and HOW to get it there. You nailed it perfectly! Again, THANK YOU.
Excellent, I'm so glad you found it helpful. Thank you!
What are the EXACT steps to setting the psi on my oxy tank? And, when finished for the day, do I turn off just the oxy tank or both the oxy tank AND the valve handle on the oxy tank gauges (along with my fuel of course)? And then reset my oxy psi everyday? Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thank you.
This is a masterclass on the smith little. Thank you Nicole :)
I think I'm going to take the plunge and treat myself for Black Friday...I'm nervous and excited!
Don’t be nervous! And you can use my RUclips discount code for $20 off your shipping from RioGrande, if that helps.
Hi, lovely Nicole! After taking your class, I bought this Little Smith kit from Rio and it actually does come with flashback arrestors even though it’s not mentioned in the description. ❤️
Very informative and detailed. Thanks!
For years I have used a butane microtorch but it struggles with anything beyond very small. I'm still a little scared of a torch requring tanks & hoses but your videos show how well the torch works and this explanation of setup is really helpful.
Nicole, thank you for this wonderful video. This helps a lot💜Cecelia
Thank you! I am just considering upgrading from a propane only torch and was about to look for just this type of video explaining this torch. Thank you so much!
Thank you 🙏 this video was excellent
@nicole ringgold This is the most useful instructional video. I’ve just got an OxyContin and Smiths little torch and have tried it out just once. I’ve already forgotten the order to,turn back on, but your nemonic POOP is brilliant. I’m going to print that out and post it above my solder station. Thanks Nicole. I’m now just eagerly awaiting your book, which I’ve already pre-ordered.
Thank you!!!
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU
Thanks good job !
Another VERY helpful vid! I have struggled with correctly identifying the correct annealing flame. This was so helpful. I can see the inner flame tip and color changes easily as you tweaked the fuel-to-oxygen ratios. Also, discussing where to set the fuel/oxygen tank dials depending on the tip number used was a great reminder. I'm going to check mine tomorrow. Of course, the gas safety tips - flashback arrestors and bleeding the hoses when done - are so important. These basics, so often glossed over, make all the difference. THANK YOU!!!!
A question though: Many times when I try to ignite my torch (on the same device you use), there is a delay with it catching (it doesn't ignite), and I have to shut the fuel off and on a couple of times before it finally ignites. I've cleaned out my tip once (with a piece of wire), but should I do something else? This will happen throughout my work day - not just at the beginning. I can hear and smell the propane so it's not that the fuel isn't coming up the hose. ???
That's curious. I would need to see what you're doing. But I have a few thoughts off the top of my head.
Are you pointing your torch tip directly into the igniter? If not, you should be. If it's even slightly off, it won't catch. If you are, then check the igniter to be sure that the ignition spark isn't bent.
I don't think it's your tank/hoses/tips because you're smelling and hearing the propane. Maybe try lighting with a candle to see if you have the same problems?
@@ringgoldnic Thanks so much for your reply. I will check the ignition spark (???) to see if it's bent. It might most likely be that I'm not pointing the torch tip correctly - although I fiddle about in there every which way. I'm always afraid of ignition and hold my breath every time I go to light up. I will watch the video again to see how you lay your tip into/onto the ignitor. Yes, I will try the candle too. Not sure what I'm afraid of. We are all such curious creatures! Thanks, Nicole!!!XXX
Thank you🙏❤️
This was so helpful
I figured out multiple things I’m doing wrong (self taught here)
I use a benzomatic propane tank and a permanent oxy setup. My go to tip is a 5 so I will try using a 6 or 7 (I think I have a 7) I’m wondering if the is is why my torch makes this pulsing sound and it’s like the oxy is puffing or blowing and it’s got a ticking sound also I’ve had my pressure too high on my oxy that could be the problem too. Things why I’m not using my setup at the moment. (I’m using a fuel can with a sterno torch head on it)but I paid a lot of money for my little smith setup and I’d like to be able to use it effectively
Im so visual seeing how they flame cone is was so great also the distance away from the metal … yep I’m one of those that’s got my torch to far away. Also to much oxygen! Now I know why my flux burns off and my metal oxidizes and my solder won’t flow and I melt my silver!
THANK YOU NICOLE for these videos!! I’m in Spokane and hope to take an in person class one day with you but for now these videos are GOLD!!!!!! 😊❤❤❤❤❤
excellent!!!
Very good video. Like others have said there are a lot of videos on soldering but few on how to set up and use a smith little torch. In my opinion the smith is tops but beware of the "knock offs" coming in from across the water. Buy a genuine Smith Little Torch NOT the cheap imitation.
Gracias la explicación precisa
Hi Nicole,
Thank you for this excellent video. I may have missed it, but what should I turn my propane tank to? I have it at a 5. Using a 7 torch tip and was using oxygen at a 4, so I'll turn it up. Is 5 ok for the oxygen? Thank you.
The pressure on both tanks should match the number on your torch tip. So, if you're using a #7 tip, both tank regulators should read 7.
Thank you for this video. Your discussion of the different torch flames was very helpful.
I currently use the small disposable propane and oxygen tanks-I have a home studio and insurance is an issue. You mentioned that you do not need a flashback arrestor on the small disposable cylinder oxygen tank. Is it necessary to use a flashback arrestor on the small disposable cylinder propane tank? Currently I do have one on my propane tank but I have heard it isn’t necessary and don’t understand why taking it off wouldn’t be a safety issue.
From what I understand from my welding suppliers, the disposable tank regulators have built-in flashback arrestors. So, your putting one on there isn't really a problem. It just means you're doubling up. Although, sometimes flashback arrestors do slow down the flow of fuel/oxygen, so it could be limiting your pressure.
Hi Nicole :)
I found a used oxygen concentrator that I’ve just used for the first time with my little torch. I’m wondering how to safely bleed my oxygen hose. The machine is off, and I notice that when the machine’s built in regulator is turned to the right, oxygen continues fo flow out of the torch. I’m assuming that if I leave this open, the oxygen will eventually run out since the machine is off, but am looking for some confirmation about that. It seems to be taking quite a long time, perhaps that’s just because the machine stores quite a lot of ozygen…thoughts?
Turn off your oxygen concentrator. Turn the regulator off. To do so, turn it to the left. Leave the nozzle on your oxygen hose open until the air no longer comes through.
Thank you! I’ve been getting firescale lately and I think I’m annealing with a flame that’s too hot. I really appreciate this video! Also,how would one go about taking a class from you? 😊
Hi Nicole, i just stumbled across your video and it was perfect! Thank you for sharing this information. May I ask what flame should be for soldering larger pieces of silver? I am making silver cuffs with 20g back plate and #4 silver triangle wire about 7”x1” and I just cant get my solder to flow. I can’t even get medium solder to flow! I have used Smith’s silver smith torch for many years and I just bought the Smith Little using Oxy Propane and I’m completely lost. Thank you in advance ❤
You'll need to use a #7 torch tip and definitely on the hotter side. Let me know if you want to Facetime so I can actually show you the flame.
@@ringgoldnic I would be overjoyed to FaceTime with you! That is incredibly generous. I am off of work Wednesday and Thursday if that works with you. The #7 tip is the only one I have used. I’m in the Pacific Time Zone. :-)
@@scoobstyr So sorry for the delay! I was teaching a workshop. Would sometime this next week work? Here is my email address for better communication: ringgoldnic@gmail.com
thank you for this!! do you have a vid for using the multi flame/rosebud tip??
@@aggiraffelover13 I don’t, I’m sorry!
Thank you so much for this informative video! I have a question about the torch tips. The manual says you can use sizes 3-7 with propane, I’m wondering where instructions came from to only use 6 and 7 with propane? Is this just from personal experience? Thanks so much!
Yes, the manual does say that. If you use the smaller tips with propane though, you'll find that the flame often snuffs out. Meaning there's too much pressure trying to squeeze through that tiny hole. If you change to a larger tip you won't experience as much of the "snuffing".
Hi Nicole, thanks for an excellent video. I wish I had it when I bought my smith torch a couple of years ago.
I have difficulties when I am lighting the torch. I have an oxygen concentrator. Just after I start the propane and light the flame, when I slowly introduce the O2, the flame comes off. This can happen several times and needs re-lighting. I wonder if this is because perhaps the tips are dirty? Or the setting on the O2 concentrator is not the right one? I would be grateful for advice. Many thanks , Smaranda
What size tip are you using when you're lighting?
I
@@ringgoldnicit does it for all sizes, the large ones I manage to control quicker and stabilise the flame after only 3-4 attempts. For a 5 and below I could be there ages trying to light it.
@@Noirsmaranda I have found that, with oxygen concentrators, it's mostly the #7 tip that works effectively, especially when heating a large mass. Also, some of my students who use concentrators tell me that they leave the machine running for 5-10 minutes to give it time to stabilize before using.
Oh, I will definitely try that! Thank you so much.
I didn’t realize my question to you was so long and probably confusing. Sorry, but what I want to know is a generic little Smith torch safe to use?
Also, when I do invest in a remanufactured oxygen concentrator, is there a possibility you could do a video on how to hook the hoses up correctly the manufactured oxygen concentrator ? Absolutely loved your video, so detailed, Thank you so much, Nicole, Hugs🤗, Michelle
Unfortunately I don't own a concentrator, but Rio Grande has excellent customer service and will be sure to help you.
@@ringgoldnicthat’s definitely true about Rio… I did not check all my text messages Sunday Mother’s Day. They sent me a message that they had gotten in some of the remanufactured concentrating oxygen in stock…this morning Monday I noticed it and I was saying yay and I popped onto Rio Grande site and it said they were sold out.. back on the waiting list again…
Hi Nicole, thank you so much for this video. I haven’t used my smith little torch in a few years and it’s been sitting at my bench in my unheated garage. I want to get back into jewelry making, what can I do to make sure my torch is in good condition and safe to use? Thank you!
Good morning. Once your hoses are connected to the full tanks, you can turn on your hoses one at a time and use leak detector to determine whether or not the hoses and all of the connections are tight. If they are, ensure that your regulator pressure is set correctly and you should be good to go.
@@ringgoldnic Wow, thank you the fast response, I appreciate it! I’ll check for leaks and also see if I have a tool to make sure the torch nozzle isn’t blocked. This all makes me nervous but I think once I settle back into it I’ll be more comfortable using a torch again.
That was wonderful! Thank you! Now I feel like I should get this. Do they sell it on Rio Grande? Or where can I get this set up? Thank you!
Yes, they do!
@@ringgoldnicI tried buying it on rio grand and it wouldn’t let me.
@@annavictoriagriewahn9227 I’m not sure what you mean. You are trying to get the torch system? Here’s the link: www.riogrande.com/product/smith-little-torch-propane-and-oxygen-system/500076GP/?code=500076&_t_id=Gux5gfK7PI_uamgenV2ETA%3d%3d&_t_uuid=c8cdb57e-9120-40b9-872d-36fa750016d4&_t_q=little+smith+torch&_t_hit.id=Commerce_Products_Product%2fCatalogContent_1548fea5-f09a-4a63-be1a-0c7d2e5eef21_en&_t_hit.pos=8
Hi Nicole, thanks for an excellent video. I wish I had it when I bought my smith torch a couple of years ago.
I have difficulties when I am lighting the torch. I have an oxygen concentrator. Just after I start the propane and light the flame, when I slowly introduce the O2, the flame comes off. This can happen several times and needs re-lighting. I wonder if this is because perhaps the tips are dirty? Or the setting on the O2 concentrator is not the right one? I would be grateful for advice. Many thanks , Smaranda