Welding gas cylinder exchange and burn times

Want to learn more about welding gas burn times and cylinder capacities? Read more below for all the information you need about welding gas.

If you are a DIY homeowner, hobbyist, farmer or contractor, you’ll need to be safe access to acetylene for your welding projects. You can purchase welding gas cylinders or exchange your empty cylinder for a refill of acetylene or shielding gas in a variety of sizes at your local store. 

Welding gas burn times

How much welding gas you need is based on how long your project may take to complete. Here’s a quick list of welding gas types, approximate burn times and what cylinder size to purchase. 

What size of welding gas cylinder do I need?

Many home welders will be fine with 20, 40, and 75 cubic feet tanks (Cylinders #1-#3). These tanks hold a mixture of Argon and CO2, and can be purchased full or refilled in-store. 

Welding gas cylinder capacity

Cylinders come in several sizes, but DIY welders tend to need these four main sizes of gas tanks. Here's how much cubic feet of gas these common cylinders hold:

Welding tank sizes

If purchasing an acetylene cylinder #2, note these have a male threaded CGA 520 valve. You will need to purchase a TB-317 female/female adaptor to assemble to an acetylene regulator, which has a male threaded CGA 510 inlet.

Proper care and safety for gas welding tanks

Storage of gas cylinders is key for keeping you and your space safe. Follow these tips for storage:

1. Store gas cylinders upright.
2. Make sure area is well-ventilated.
3. Keep away from any heat or ignition source.
4. Store gas cylinders in an outdoor storage to prevent leakage from possible explosion triggers.

When you are done with your welding project, always turn the welding gas cylinder off and bled the lines. Never let a valve remain open and the cylinder pressure to empty. Empty cylinders can ignite much faster than a full tank. When transporting a cylinder, the protective cap must be covering the valve. Do not drag, slide or roll welding gas cylinders. Keep cylinders secured to a cart and in an upright position. Be sure regulator has been removed prior to transport.

Welding gas supplier

There's plenty to be done out here with welding gear. You'll find plenty of electric welding supplies and welding oxygen tanks for your welding kit at Tractor Supply to keep your hobby and DIY welding projects moving.