OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

AND
TECHNICAL MANUAL
FOR

PRIME-CUT

ULTRATHERMIC CUTTING SYSTEM

READ THIS MANUAL

BEFORE OPERATING

WARNING: Read this Manual Before

Operating
Warning: You must read and understand these operating instructions thoroughly
and follow the procedures contained herein for the operation and servicing of the
Prime-Cut equipment to avoid serious injury or death to operator or bystanders or
damage to property.
Employers must be familiar with the correct operation of this torch and provide
operator training before allowing their personnel to begin using the Prime-Cut
equipment.
Prime-Cut cutting systems operate at a temperature of approximately 10,000F,
enabling them to cut or melt virtually any known material. Sparks, splatter and
molten material generated by this process can cause fire, severe property damage,
bodily injury or death.
TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH:
Never use the Prime-Cut cutting system or rods underwater with a
welding power source.
Always use a 12 volt DC ignition system.
Always wear flame or spark resistant clothing, shoes and eye and face
protection.
Always know the composition of the target material.
Always know what is behind the target material.
Always clear the work area of bystanders and flammable materials.
Never point the torch at anybody.
Always use caution when cutting overhead to avoid falling sparks,
molten material and falling objects.
Always ensure that all parts of the Prime-Cut system are in good working
order prior to use to avoid potential malfunction.
If you have any questions regarding the safe operation of Prime-Cut
systems please call:
Broco, Inc.
10868 Bell Ct.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Tel: (800) 845-7259; (909) 483-3222

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0
2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

8.0

9.0

10.0

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
2.1
Warnings
2.2
Safety Precautions
COMPONENTS
3.1
Required Equipment
3.2
Accessory Equipment
SETUP PROCEDURES
4.1
Preparing the Work Area
4.2
Pre-Assembly Inspection
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES
5.1
Oxygen System
5.2
Battery
5.3
Leather Shield (LS)
5.4
Cutting Rod Insertion
5.5
36" Rod Extender (XT)
5.6
Hose/Cable extension kit (H/CEK)
OPERATING PROCEDURES
6.1
Cutting Rod Ignition
6.2
Techniques
6.2.1
Piercing
6.2.2
Cutting
6.2.3
Gouging
6.3
Shutdown
PRIME-CUT TORCH MAINTENANCE
7.1
Flash Arrestor & Flash Arrestor Screen
7.2
Coupler Assembly
7.3
Oxygen Control Valve
7.4
Oxygen Control Valve Assembly Leak Testing
STRIKER PLATE ASSEMBLY MAINTENANCE
8.1
General Maintenance
8.2
Striker Plate Assembly/Disassembly
TROUBLESHOOTING
Oxygen Leaks
9.1
9.2
Uneven Oxygen Flow
9.3
Cutting Rod Doesn't Fit Collet
9.4
Valve Stem Won't Move Freely
REPLACEMENT PARTS, SERVICE & REPAIR

1.0 PURPOSE AND SCOPE

The purpose of this document is to describe the recommended operating
procedures, maintenance requirements and repair procedures necessary to ensure
proper operation of the Prime-Cut cutting torch system.
Components for which procedures are described are the cutting torch, the striker
plate assembly and accessory equipment.
Oxygen regulator repairs should be conducted only by qualified personnel trained
and authorized to perform work on high pressure oxygen regulators.
Inspection/repairs of oxygen cylinders and oxygen cylinder valves should be
conducted only by qualified personnel trained and authorized to perform work on
high pressure oxygen cylinders and oxygen cylinder valves.

2.0 WARNINGS AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

2.1 Warnings
All users and their supervisory personnel must read and be thoroughly familiar with
the contents of this manual prior to using this equipment or disassembling any part
of the Prime-Cut cutting torch system.
Never modify this equipment in any manner or use it in any way not specified in this
manual.
Oxygen mixed with oil or grease reacts explosively. Never use compressed air, oil,
solvents or other material to clean the oxygen system. Always keep oil and grease
away from the cutting torch, oxygen cylinders, valves, regulators, hoses and
fittings.
Never use this equipment in conjunction with any power source other than a 12 volt
DC or 24 volt DC battery.
Never use Prime-Cut exothermic cutting system or rods underwater with a welding
power source. Prime-Cut products are not intended for diving operations and are
not insulated to protect from the risk of electrical shock.

Never use this equipment unless you are familiar with acceptable industrial
welding and cutting procedures and practices.
Always use this equipment following generally accepted industrial safety
procedures and practices.
Always apply and adhere to ANSI/ASC Z49.1-88 Safety in Welding and Cutting
standards, or similar locally prevailing standards when using this equipment.
Never remove, cover or alter the warning labels attached to this equipment.
Never modify this equipment in any manner or use it in any way not specified in this
manual.

2.2 Safety Precautions

Warning Failure to heed these safety precautions may result in severe property
damage, bodily injury or death.
Protect yourself and others. Fumes and gases developed may be dangerous to
your health. Arc rays and splatter can injure eyes and exposed skin. Electric shock
can kill.
Oxygen mixed with oil or grease reacts explosively.
The operator and all bystanders must always wear adequate protective clothing,
shoes and welders gloves when Prime-Cut systems are being used.
Never operate this equipment without proper eye protection. Always use a number
5 or 6 shade filter.
Always use the Leather Shield to protect yourself from sparks and splatter.
Always keep your head away from the fume plume.
Always use adequate ventilation and exhaust at the arc point to keep fumes and
gases from your breathing zone and the general area. Special breathing apparatus
must be used when welding or cutting galvanized, cadmium plated (or other heavy
metal plated) or painted parts to avoid inhalation of toxic fumes.

Always keep the ignited tip of the rod away from the oxygen cylinder, battery and
hoses.
Always use extreme caution when operating the torch in windy or adverse
conditions.
Never allow falling sparks or molten metal to contact any part of the Prime-Cut
system. Damage may result which could render the equipment unsafe to operate.
Always keep oil and grease away from oxygen cylinders, valves, regulators, hoses
and fittings.
Never clean any internal part of the oxygen system. Never use compressed air, oil,
solvents or any other material to clean the oxygen system. The oxygen system
could become contaminated and cause internal burning in the torch or hose. All
service on oxygen delivery parts must be performed by a qualified and
knowledgeable technician.
Never leave the torch unattended while the oxygen cylinder valve is open and/or
there is pressure in the hose.
Never touch live electrical parts. Always wear welders gloves when inserting the
rod into the torch and/or extender. Never let the rod touch any unprotected part of
your body.
SEE:

American National Standard Z49.1 Safety in Welding and Cutting

Published by the American Welding Society, 550 N.W. LeJeune Rd.,
Miami, FL 33126.
OSHA Safety and Health Standards 29 CFR 1910 available from the
U.S. Department of Labor, Washington, D.C. 20210.

In Case of Emergency Call Immediately for Medical Aid.

3.0 COMPONENTS
3.1 Required Equipment

Torch Assembly

3/16, 1/4, 3/8 or 1/2 Collet with Collet Washer

Prime-Cut Cutting Rods

Leather Shield (PC/LS)

Oxygen Regulator

Oxygen Supply

12 Volt DC or 24 Volt DC Battery

Protective Clothing: welding leathers, gloves and tinted eye

shield. (See Safety Precautions)

3.2 Accessory Equipment

36" Cutting Rod Extender (PC/XT)

4.0 SETUP PROCEDURES

4.1 Preparing the Work Area

Warning Never operate the torch in an explosive or flammable environment.

Never cut into unknown material.
Never operate the torch with other personnel or bystanders in front of the torch or
in the immediate work area.

Caution Some plastics, paints and plated parts give off toxic fumes. Organic
materials may by combustible. Exotic metals may ignite. Glass and thin porcelain
may shatter. Rock and minerals may spall.
1.

Clear the work area of bystanders.

2.

Place the oxygen supply and battery in a location away from the immediate
work area.

3.

Know the composition of the target material.

4.

Know what is beyond the target material. Never cut near power cables, pipes,
flammable objects or bystanders.

5.

When the target material is a container or pipe, know the material previously
contained therein. Always thoroughly purge pipelines and containers with an
inert gas (such as nitrogen or argon) prior to cutting.

6.

Check to see that falling material (molten metal, sparks or severed pieces of
target material) will not cause injury to operator or bystanders or damage to
property.

4.2 Pre-Assembly Inspection

Warning Never use any equipment which is unsafe or appears to be unsafe.

Always replace damaged or worn components to reduce the risk of injury.
Never operate the torch without the flash arrestor and flash arrestor screen in
place.
1.

Always inspect the oxygen hose for damage or wear prior to and immediately
following each use of the Prime-Cut system.

2.

Always inspect the ignition power cables and connectors for damage or wear
prior to and immediately following each use of the Prime-Cut system.

3.

Always inspect the torch for damage or wear prior to and immediately
following each use.

4.

Always inspect the collet, collet washer, flash arrestor and flash arrestor
screen prior to and immediately following each use of the Prime-Cut torch.

5.

Check the battery for leaks. Never use a leaking battery.

5.0 ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES

5.1 Oxygen System

Warning Never stand directly in front of or directly behind the oxygen regulator
while opening the oxygen cylinder valve to reduce the risk of injury in the unlikely
event of regulator failure.
Always make sure the oxygen cylinder is a safe distance form the immediate work
area. Never let sparks or molten material come into contact with the oxygen
cylinder.
1.

Connect the oxygen regulator to the oxygen source.

2.

Purge the regulator to remove debris by slightly opening the oxygen cylinder
valve and turning the regulator knob clockwise until a small stream of gas
escapes. Close the oxygen cylinder valve. (For preset regulators that have no
adjustment knob, slightly open, then immediately close the oxygen cylinder
valve to purge the regulator.)

3.

Connect the oxygen hose to the regulator.

4.

Slowly open the oxygen cylinder valve.

5.

Adjust the oxygen regulator to between 10 and 80 psig, depending on the

target material and the type of work being performed.

6.

Check all connections for oxygen leaks.

5.2 Battery
CHARGE A NEW BATTERY BEFORE USING.
CHARGE AFTER EACH SUBSEQUENT USE.
THE BROCO BATTERY MODEL PC/BISLW MAY TAKE UP TO 16 HOURS TO
FULLY CHARGE IF COMMENCING FROM A FULLY DISCHARGED STATE.
DO NOT STORE A RECHARGEABLE BATTERY IN A FULLY OR PARTIALLY
DISCHARGED STATE.
NOTE- BATTERIES MAY LOSE UP TO 3% OF THEIR CHARGE PER MONTH
DURING STORAGE.

Warning Always use a 12 volt DC or 24 volt DC battery. Never use any other
power source.
Always make sure the battery is a safe distance from the immediate work area.
Never let sparks or molten material come into contact with the battery.
Never use a battery for ignition that is connected to a battery charger. Always
unplug the battery charger before attaching the ignition power cables to the
battery.
Never let the striker plate accidentally contact the torch, rods, or work area.
Electrical shock and sparks may result.

Caution The battery can discharge if the striker plate continuously contacts the
work area. Exercise caution to prevent complete discharge of the battery.
NOTE: Polarity does not matter for ignition since a direct short is required to ignite
the rod.
1.

Connect the power cable from the torch to the battery by connecting the black
battery clamp to the negative terminal of the battery.

2.

Connect the power cable from the striker plate to the battery by connecting
the red battery clamp to the positive terminal of the battery.

5.3 Leather Shield (PC/LS)

Warning Always use the leather
shield (PC/LS) designed for the
torch to protect yourself from
spark and splatter burns.
NOTE: Make sure the leather
shield is not between the oxygen
control lever and the torch
handle where it would interfere
with the operation of the torch.
1.

Remove the collet nut from

the torch.

2.

With the smooth finished

side of the shield facing
away from the torch, slide the leather shield onto the collet nut.
3.

Screw the collet nut back onto the torch.

4.

Position the leather shield so the long end covers the oxygen control lever.

5.4 Cutting Rod Insertion

Warning Always wear welding gloves when inserting rods into or removing rods
from the Prime-Cut torch.
Always insert the correct end of the cutting rod into the torch.
Never use a damaged cutting rod.

Caution Always use Prime-Cut cutting rods with the Prime-Cut torch. Never use
any other rods as hazardous backflashes or internal burning may result.
Note To determine the correct rod size for the target material and type of work
being performed refer to the table below.

1.

Check to see that the collet in the torch is the appropriate sized to properly fit
the rod being used.
To replace collet:
Remove the collet nut and collet from the torch. Make sure the neoprene
collet washer is in place. Insert the desired collet and replace the collet nut.

2.

Loosen the collet nut 1/2 turn.

3. Insert the end of the rod that has the recessed internal rods into
the collet until it is securely bottomed out on the collet washer.
Tighten the collet nut to lock the rod in place.
4. Check for oxygen leaks
at the collet nut. If a leak
exists:
a. Make sure the rod is
firmly seated on the
collet washer.
b. Inspect the rod for
damage.
c. Inspect the collet
washer for damage and
replace if necessary.
Note: Place the end of the rod with the
recessed internal wires into the torch.

1/2

36L

3/8

1/4

3/16

Cutting Rod Size Selection Chart.

CUTTING
Lock hasps and shanks
X
Reinforcement bar in concrete (re-bar)
X
All steel plate (mild and high strength) to 1/2 thick
X X X
All steel plate (mild and high strength) over 1/2 thick, to 2 thick
X X
All steel plate (mild and high strength) over 2 thick
X X
Aluminum, titanium, magnesium alloys and other volatile alloys*

PIERCING
Broken bolts to 3/4 diameter
X
Pins and broken bolts 3/4 diameter to 1 1/4 diameter
X
Steel plate less than 6 thick
X X
Steel plate greater than 6 deep*
Concrete to 4 thick*
X
Concrete over 4 thick*

GOUGING
Gouge cutting steel composite barriers to 2 thick
X
Gouge cutting steel composite barriers over 2 thick
* Use the accessory cutting rod extender

5.5 36" Rod Extender (PC/XT)

Note The rod extender is used to enable the operator to reach otherwise
inaccessible places.
1.

Check to see that the collet in the rod extender is the appropriate size to
properly fit the cutting rod being used.
To replace the collet:
Remove the collet nut and remove the collet from the PC/XT. Make sure the
neoprene collet washer is in place. Insert the desired collet and replace the
collet nut.

2.

Make sure the 3/8 collet is in the torch.

3.

Loosen the torch collet nut 1/2 turn.

4.

Insert the end of the rod extender into the torch collet until it is firmly seated
on the collet washer.

5.

Tighten the torch collet nut to lock the rod extender in place.

6.

Check for oxygen leaks at the collet nut. If a leak exists:

a. Make sure the rod extender is firmly seated on the collet washer.
b. Inspect the rod extender for damage.
c. Inspect the collet washer for damage and replace if necessary.

7.

Adjust the rod extender handle.

a. Loosen the thumbscrew on the rod extender handle.
b. Move the handle to a position that maximizes comfort and control.
c. Tighten the thumbscrew to lock the handle in place.

8.

Insert the cutting rod into the rod extender as instructed in the section,
Cutting Rod Insertion.

6.0 OPERATING PROCEDURES

Warning Always protect yourself form spark and splatter burns. Never operate
the torch without the leather shield in place.

6.1 Cutting Rod Ignition

Warning Always hold the striker plate by

the plastic handle to avoid electric shock.
Never touch the copper plate.
Never touch or hold an ignited cutting rod.

Caution Prolonged contact

between the cutting rod and the
striker plate can
overheat the battery causing damage.
1.

Point the cutting rod away from your body. Never point the rod at bystanders.

2.

Start the flow of oxygen by lightly squeezing the oxygen control lever on the
torch.

3.

Bring the striker plate into contact with the end of the rod.

4.

While holding the rod at a 45- 90 angle to the striker plate, slowly pull the
rod across the striker plate surface.

5.

Rod sparkling indicates ignition. Approximately 2-5 seconds of contact is

required for ignition.

6.

Maintain slight pressure on the oxygen lever to ensure complete ignition.

7.

Lift the rod from the striker plate and bring it to the target material.

8.

Place the striker plate in a safe location away from the work area.

9.

Commence cutting, piercing or gouging according to the following directions.

6.2 Techniques

Warning Never let the cutting rod burn down into the torch. Always release the
oxygen lever to extinguish the torch while there are at least 2 inches of rod
remaining.
6.2.1 Piercing

Warning Always wear adequate protective clothing and a full face shield, and use
the leather shield (PC/LS) during piercing operations. Blowback is greater when
piercing. Exercise extreme caution.
1.

With the oxygen lever slightly depressed (low oxygen flow), press the burning
tip of the rod against the target material at a 90 angle, allowing it to melt a
1/4 deep hole.

2.

Insert the rod tip into the depression.

3.

Keeping the tip of the rod in the hole, increase the oxygen flow to increase
penetration by slowly depressing the oxygen lever.

4.

As the target material melts and flows back out of the hole, move the rod in
and out and around to enlarge the hole and allow the oxygen pressure to wash
away molten material.

5.

Remove the rod from the hole before releasing the oxygen lever.
6.

When piercing is
completed, release the
oxygen control lever to
extinguish the torch.
The rod will continue to
burn only as long as
oxygen is supplied.

7.

Never touch a used rod,

the target material or
the work surface with a
bare hand until it has

cooled. Always wear welding gloves.

Suggestions: Set the oxygen regulator to 35 psig when starting piercing

operations to avoid excessive blowback. When the penetration is approximately
2 deep, increase the oxygen pressure to 50 psig.
To pierce a pin in diameter or smaller, weld a small piece of angle iron on to
the head of the pin at the 3 oclock and 9 oclock positions to establish a trough
guide. This helps to assure the production of a straighter hole. After penetrating
3-4 you can remove the angle guide and complete the hole.
When piercing a pin longer than 5, it is best to use a 3/8 diameter rod.

6.2.2 Cutting

Note: Keep the burning tip of the cutting rod in direct contact with the target
material.
1.

Place the burning tip

of the rod against the
target material at a
45-90 angle.

2.

Increase the oxygen

flow by slowly
depressing the
oxygen lever.

3.

Keep the rod tip in

the cut.

4.

Pull the rod in the direction of the cut. Be sure that the molten material is
blown forward through the cut and does not splash backwards towards the
operator.

5.

Complete the cut by making sure all the hangers are removed.

6.

After completing the cut, release the oxygen control lever to extinguish the
torch. The rod will continue to burn only as long as oxygen is supplied.

7.

Never touch a used rod, the target material or the work surface with a bare
hand until it has cooled. Always wear welding gloves.

6.2.3 Gouging

1.

With the oxygen control lever slightly depressed (low oxygen flow), lay the rod
flat on the work piece (5-10 angle) with the burning tip of the rod against
the target material.

2.

Increase the oxygen flow by slowly depressing the oxygen lever.

3.

The target material will puddle in approximately 1-2 seconds. Keep the rod at
a very slight angle to the work piece and the tip of the rod in the puddle.

4.

With the oxygen lever fully depressed, push the rod in the direction of the
desired gouge.

5.

When the gouge is complete, lift the rod tip from the target material.

6.

Release the oxygen control lever to extinguish the torch. The rod will continue
to burn only as long as oxygen is supplied.

7.

Never touch a used rod, the target material or the work surface with a bare
hand until it has cooled. Always wear welding gloves.

6.3 Shutdown

Warning Always disconnect the ignition power cables prior to charging the
battery.

Note: Always place a protective cap or piece of tape over the open end of the
oxygen hose to prevent dirt or foreign objects from entering during storage.
1.

Close the oxygen cylinder valve.

2.

Depress the oxygen control lever to relieve any pressure from the oxygen hose.

3.

Turn the oxygen regulator adjustment knob counter-clockwise to take pressure

off the diaphragm.

4.

Disconnect the oxygen hose from the regulator and cap the open end of the
hose.

5.

Disconnect the torch and striker plate power cables from the battery.

6.

Wipe down the torch assembly and striker plate assembly with a clean oil-free
cloth.

7.

Remove the collet nut, collet, collet washer, flash arrestor and flash arrestor
screen and inspect for damage or wear. Clean and reassemble. Always
replace any damaged or worn parts with factory replacement parts.

8.

Always inspect the cables and hose for cuts, burns or any other signs of
damage or wear.

9.

Store the Prime-Cut torch in a clean dry place.

10. Charge the battery according to the manufacturers instructions for the battery
and battery charger being used.

7.0 PRIME-CUT TORCH MAINTENANCE

7.1 Flash Arrestor and Monel Flash Arrestor Screen
Inspection/Replacement.

Warning Never operate the torch without a flash arrestor or screen in place.
The flash arrestor and monel screen perform an important safety function by
suppressing flashbacks which could otherwise cause injury to the operator or
damage the equipment.

Note It is recommended that the flash arrestor and monel screen be removed and
inspected periodically to insure an unrestricted oxygen path.
1.

Remove the collet nut and collet from the torch.

2.

Remove the neoprene collet washer from the torch head.

3.

Using a standard screwdriver, turn the flash arrestor counterclockwise until

the threads are disengaged.

4.

Remove the flash arrestor. Inspect for damage and clogging of the ports.
Clean if necessary.

5.

Remove the monel flash arrestor screen from the back of the flash arrestor.
Inspect for damage, corrosion or clogging. If dirty, clean the screen with
soapy water and rinse with fresh water. If damaged or corroded, replace with a
new screen.

6.

Replace by following steps 1 through 5 in reverse order.

7.2 Coupler Assembly Removal/Replacement.

Note The coupler assembly is replaced as part of a major overhaul of the torch or
when damaged by a catastrophic flashback. During the normal course of
operations it should not be necessary to remove or replace the coupler assembly.
The repair procedure calls for securing brass components in a vise. Note that brass
is a soft metal that bends or distorts easily. Damage to torch parts can affect fit-up
and cause oxygen leakage, making the torch unsafe to operate.
1.

Disconnect the oxygen hose from the torch hose adapter.

2.

Remove the collet nut and the collet.

3.

Remove the nylon screws (4) securing the torch handle grip. Remove the left
and right side handle grips. Carefully remove the nylon nuts (4) from the right
side handle grip and set aside.

4.

Disengage the valve lever screw from the brass lock nut and remove the
control valve lever.

5.

With the valve assembly exposed, secure the torch head in a vise.

6.

Using a 9/16 open end wrench, unscrew the brass hose connector and
remove it from the torch head. Remove the torch head from the vise and set
aside.

7.

Secure the valve assembly in a vise with the coupler exposed.

8.

Using a 7/16 open end wrench, unscrew the hose connector and remove it
from the top of the valve assembly to remove the coupler assembly.

9.

Reassemble by following steps 1 through 8 in reverse order. Use Teflon tape

on threaded hose fittings to prevent oxygen leakage. Do not over-tighten
threaded fittings.

7.3 Oxygen Control Valve Disassembly/Reassembly.

Warning Oxygen mixed with oil or grease reacts explosively. Always keep oil and
grease away from oxygen cylinders, valves, regulators, hoses and fittings. Use only
certified oxygen compatible silicon lubricants on the valve stem and valve stem oring.

Note The oxygen control valve is disassembled as part of a major overhaul of the
torch when damaged, obstructed or when an oxygen leak is detected. During the
normal course of operations it should not be necessary to disassemble the oxygen
control valve.
The repair procedure calls for securing brass components in a vise. Note that brass
is a soft metal that bends or distorts easily. Damage to torch parts can affect fit-up
and cause oxygen leakage, making the torch unsafe to operate.
1.

Disengage the valve lever screw from the brass lock nut and remove the
control valve lever.

2.

Secure the control valve assembly in a vise with the control valve nut facing
up.

3.

Using a 13/16 open end wrench or socket, unscrew the control valve nut
until it disengages from the control valve body. Remove the control valve nut.
Note the valve spring is under tension and may cause an uncontrolled
separation of the valve nut from the valve body. Use caution to avoid
damaging the rubber gasket.

4.

Remove the control valve internal parts from the rear of the control valve nut.

5.

Use care in disassembling the valve stem, valve stem spring and neoprene
valve stem washer. Do not remove the o-ring from the valve stem unless it has
first been determined the o-ring will be replaced.

6.

Inspect the control valve body, control valve nut and internal parts for damage
or wear. Replace if necessary.

Reassembly:
7.

Place a new rubber gasket in the recess of the control valve nut.

8.

If valve stem o-ring is to be replaced. Secure valve stem with rounded end
exposed.

9.

Apply light coating of silicon lubricant to rounded end of valve stem. Slide
new o- ring on the valve stem until it seats in the groove. Remove the valve
stem from fixture.

10. Slide valve stem washer over rounded end of valve stem until it seats against
the back of the valve stem.
11. Press the valve stem assembly into the rear of the control valve nut.
12. Attach the valve stem spring to the rear of the valve stem.
13. Screw the control valve nut assembly into the control valve body. Hand
tighten until it stops. Torque an additional 1/8 to 1/4 turn. Brass threads are
easily stripped. Use caution not to cross-thread or over-tighten.
14. Assemble the control valve lever to the control valve using the brass screw and
lock nut.
15. Attach to an oxygen source and check for leaks.

7.4 Oxygen Control Valve Assembly Leak Testing Procedure

1.

Connect the oxygen hose to the oxygen hose adapter on the oxygen control
valve assembly.

2.

Connect the oxygen hose to a regulated oxygen source.

3.

Fill a tank or tub with enough fresh water to completely submerge the control
valve assembly.

4.

Open the oxygen cylinder valve and adjust the regulator output pressure to 60
psig.

5.

While submerging the torch in the water, depress and release the oxygen
control valve lever three or four times. Inspect around the valve stem and the
valve nut for bubbles that indicate oxygen leaks.

6.

If leaks are found, rework the control valve assembly and retest. If no leaks
are present, pass the control valve assembly and proceed with the next
maintenance procedure, or if no further procedures are necessary, return the
torch to working inventory.

8.0 STRIKER PLATE ASSEMBLY MAINTENANCE

8.1 General Maintenance
1.

Repeated ignitions will cause a build-up of slag deposits on the surface of the
striker plate. This build-up is easily removed by scraping the striker plate
across a rough surface or hard edge. Disconnect the striker plate power cable
from the battery prior to cleaning the striker plate surface. Failure to do so
could result in electric shock.

2.

After each use wipe the striker plate assembly and cable with a clean, dry, oilfree cloth. Inspect for damaged parts and replace or repair as necessary.

8.2 Striker Plate Disassembly/Reassembly

1.

Check to ensure the striker plate power cable is not connected to the battery
ignition system.

2.

Remove the nylon screws (2) from the striker plate handle.

3.

Grasp the copper striker plate and slide the handle back over the cable,
exposing the wooden insulator.

4.

Secure the exposed brass nuts (2) and unscrew the brass screws (2). Remove
the brass nuts and set aside.

5.

Remove the brass screws and set aside.

6.

Slide the copper striker plate from between the flanges of the wooden
insulator and set aside.

7.

Push the striker cable at the back of the wooden insulator up through the
insulator exposing the wire terminal lug.

Reassembly:
8.

Pull the striker cable at the back of the wooden insulator causing the wire
terminal lug to slide into the groove in the wooden insulator.

9.

Insert the copper striker plate into the groove in the wooden dowel taking care
to overlap the wire terminal lug with the copper plate. Align the parts so the
rearmost hole in the wooden dowel is in line with the hole in the wire terminal
lug and the rearmost hole in the copper striker plate.

10. Insert the brass screws into the holes.

11. Complete the reassembly by following steps 2 to 4 in reverse order.

9.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
This guide is intended to assist in determining the probable causes of torch
malfunction and their associated repairs.
For each potential problem identified a probable cause and recommended repair
procedure is listed.

9.1 Oxygen Leaks

1.

Oxygen leaks at hose adapter. Oxygen hose fittings are not tight enough.
Tighten fittings and test with soapy water. Formation of bubbles identifies
location of leak. A persistent leak can often be corrected by the use of Teflon
tape.

2.

Oxygen leaks at collet nut. The cutting rod is not seated against the neoprene
collet washer, or the collet washer may be dirty, worn or missing. Loosen the
collet nut 1/2 turn, firmly seat the rod and tighten the collet nut. If leak
persists, remove the collet nut, collet and collet washer. Clean or replace the
collet washer. If a collet washer is worn and a new one is not available, turn
the washer over and replace with the least worn face exposed.
Oxygen leaks at the control valve nut:
a. The rubber gasket is dirty or worn. Remove and clean or replace as
needed.

3.

b.

The valve stem o-ring is dirty or worn. Follow control valve disassembly
procedures to remove valve stem. Clean or replace as needed.

c.

The valve stem washer is dirty or worn. Follow control valve disassembly
procedures to remove the valve stem washer. Clean or replace as
needed.

d.

The valve stem is worn. Replace the valve stem and install a new o-ring.

e.

The control valve nut is loose. Partially unscrew the control valve nut.
Ensure the rubber valve nut gasket is in place. Re-tighten as described in
the control valve reassembly procedures.

9.2 Uneven Oxygen Flow

1.

The flash arrestor is dirty or worn. Follow flash arrestor

inspection/replacement procedures to remove the flash arrestor. Clean or
replace as needed.

2.

The monel screen is dirty or worn. Remove the monel screen as described in
the repair procedure. Clean or replace with a new screen as needed.

3.

The torch head is dirty. Remove the flash arrestor and monel screen as
described in the inspection/replacement procedure. With the torch

connected to an oxygen source, depress and release the oxygen control valve
lever three or four times to clear the oxygen path. Reinstall the flash arrestor
and monel screen.

9.3 The Cutting Rod Will Not fit Into the Collet in the Torch Head
1.

The wrong size collet is in the torch head. Inspect the collet in the torch to
determine if it is the correct size to fit the cutting rod to be used. If incorrect,
remove the collet and replace with the correct collet.

2.

The collet in the torch head is damaged:

a. Remove the collet from the torch. Inspect for burrs. If found, remove.
Replace the collet in the torch.
b.

Remove the collet from the torch. Use a slotted screwdriver to apply
pressure in the collet slots to open up the collet. Replace the collet in
the torch.

9.4 The Valve Stem Will Not Move Freely While Depressing and
Releasing the Control Lever.
1.

The valve stem is bent. Follow the oxygen control valve disassembly/
reassembly procedures to remove and replace the valve stem. Always replace
the valve stem o-ring when the valve stem is replaced.

2.

The valve stem spring is worn. Follow the oxygen control valve disassembly
reassembly procedures to remove and replace the valve stem spring.

3.

The valve stem o-ring is worn. Follow the oxygen control valve disassembly/
reassembly procedures to remove and replace the valve stem o-ring.

10.0 REPLACEMENT PARTS

Warning Always use factory replacement parts. Never use any other parts.
Failure to do so may render the torch unsafe to operate and lead to the risk of injury
or death.

Replacement Parts List

ORDER NO.
PCRP-303
PCRP-304
PCRP-305A

PCRP-305B

PCRP-305C

PCRP-305D

PCRP-307

PCRP-315
PC/XT

DESCRIPTION
Collet Nut
Compression Washer
3/8 Collet Kit
3/8 Collet
Collet Washer
1/4 Collet Kit
1/4 Collet
Collet Washer
1/2 Collet Kit
1/2 Collet
White Collet Washer
3/16 Collet Kit
3/16 Collet
Red Collet Washer
Flash Arrestor Assembly
Flash Arrestor
Flash Arrestor Screen
Leather Shield (PC/LS)
Rod Extender

Service and Repair

If the torch needs service or repair return it to Broco, Inc. Use of non-factory
replacement parts may render the torch unsafe to operate and lead to the risk of
injury or death.
If there are any questions concerning the correct operation or care of this torch
contact:
Broco, Inc.
10868 Bell Ct.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
(800) 845-7259; (909) 483-3222; Sales@Brocoinc.com

Broco, Inc. shall not otherwise be held liable in contract or in tort for any damages including but not
limited to incidental damages, consequent damages, or special damages in any way related to this
merchandise. Broco, Inc. neither expresses nor implies warranties which extend beyond the warranties
contained herein. Broco, Inc. makes no warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose
with respect to this equipment or parts thereof.