By Thomas F. Kenney
A while back I was speaking with one of the big names in fire and rescue about rescue tools, and he said that the use of cutting torches is a lost art in the fire service. I don't think it is lost as much as it has been pushed aside by new technology in tools, changes in operating procedures, and an overall decrease in training. Never underestimate the simplicity and dependability of oxygen-acetylene cutting in forcible entry and rescue situations involving ferrous metal. Like all of the other tools we carry, it is only as good as the firefighters operating it. The basic principles of operating the torch really haven't changed in the past 100 years. However, the torch has been made safer, more portable, and more efficient.
The American Welding Society defines the cutting torch process as oxygen and fuel cutting. The fuels available vary and include acetylene, propane, and gasoline. This article focuses on understanding the oxygen-acetylene cutting torch and the role it can play in technical rescue, fireground forcible entry, and rapid intervention.
If you are a current subscriber,login hereto access this content.
If you would like to become a subscriber, please visit ushere.
