In oxy-fuel welding, which component should be closed last during shutdown?

During the shutdown process in oxy-fuel welding, the torch should be closed last to ensure safety and proper procedures are followed. When shutting down the equipment, the torch is the primary point of gas usage, and ensuring it is the last component to be closed prevents any residual gas from accumulating in the lines or creating a risk of flashback if other components are closed first. By closing the torch last, any remaining gas is expelled into a safe atmosphere rather than being trapped in the system.

Closing the other components, such as the oxygen and fuel cylinders, should occur before the torch to isolate the gas sources from the system effectively. If the torch is closed first, it may lead to a dangerous buildup of pressure in the hoses, and there is also a risk of hazardous conditions if the gas is still being fed into a closed system. Therefore, maintaining this order during shutdown is essential for safe oxy-fuel welding operations.