What is the difference in LP & Acetylene tip construction?
An LP tip usually is constructed with a recess at the end of the tip (counter-bore). This is due to the much slower burning rate of LP gas. The recess makes lighting and stabilizing the flame easier and makes the flame burn more efficiently. The recess of a propane tip is usually slightly deeper than that of a propylene tip due to the fact that propylene burns faster than propane. The outlet end of an acetylene tip is flat (flush), as acetylene is a very fast burning gas. Acetylene should not be used in tips designed for alternate fuel gases, because it’s faster burning rate will allow it to burn down inside the LP tip recess resulting in overheating and destruction of the tip.