Invents New Torch

A new gasoline-oxygen cutting torch which it is believed will bring an overall saving of between 25 and 30 per cent over the acetylene-type torch for such operations as cutting, brazing, scarfing, and allied work has been developed by James A. Browning '44, Instructor in Mechanical Engineering in Thayer School.

This liquid-fuel torch, according to Browning, can do as much work on 70 cents worth of gasoline as the oxyacetylene torch can perform on a 100 cubic foot tank of acetylene. In addition it can make a faster and cleaner cut under similar conditions.

Basically, the torch is operated in the same manner as an acetylene torch. The chief innovation lies in the cutting head and tips which have been especially designed and tooled by Browning after years of intensive research and experimentation. Unlike earlier models, which were developed by Professor Browning's father, the late James H. Browning, the present torch blends liquid gasoline and oxygen and this mixture is then converted into vapor in the torch tip, which is heated by the actual torch flame rather than by an auxiliary pilot flame, as was utilized previously. Patent applications are pending. Browning hopes for early production, to make the new model available to industries and the armed forces within a year.

JAMES A. BROWNING '44, Thayer School instruc- tor, with his gasoline-oxygen cutting torch.