Making a Flame Thrower: Safety Tips & Risks

In summary, the conversation discusses a homemade flamethrower made from PVC and metal pipe, with a valve and vacuum breaker to control the flow of pressurized denatured alcohol that creates a flame when passed through a propane torch. The conversation also mentions potential safety risks and advises against building a flamethrower due to potential injuries and legal issues.
  • #1
dusty8683
22
0
my friend and i recently made a flame thrower that was posted on other forums. it has a tank made from pvc that we pressurize to 80psi, the tank connects to a hose, through a vacuum breaker, through more hose, to a gun made from 1.5in. metal pipe. the gun has a valve where you can open it to spray whatever is in the tank out. we've tested it with water and it works excellent... no leaks... pressure holds. to make it into a flame thrower, we would fill the tank with denatured alcohol and add a pilot light about 8in. away from the nozzel (propane torch). the stream of denatured alcohol would pass through the torch flame and create a massive flame. the vacuum breaker is to prevent any backflow into the tank. does anyone have any other suggestions on how safe this will be and what inherent risks we may have overlooked? thanks
 
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  • #2
Inherent risk which has perhaps been overlooked: The issue of pressurised flammable liquid being squirted at a naked flame!
 
  • #3
You want to make sure your vacuum breaker provides a gas-tight seal.
 
  • #4
and point away from your friends...unless you don't want to share the flamethrower with them
 
  • #5
Why do you want to build a flamethrower?

Are you in the running for a Darwin Award?

Seriously... if you get hurt, you got no advice whatsoever from here. We can't afford the potential lawsuit, either from you, or from the 8 year old lurker who got the idea from you.

Sorry.
 

1. What materials do I need to make a flamethrower?

To make a flamethrower, you will need a fuel source (such as gasoline or propane), a container to hold the fuel (such as a metal can or spray bottle), a valve or trigger mechanism to control the flow of fuel, and an ignition source (such as a lighter or match).

2. Is it legal to make and use a flamethrower?

The legality of flamethrowers varies by location. In some places, it may be legal to own and use a flamethrower, while in others it may be considered a weapon and require a permit. It is important to research and follow the laws and regulations in your area before attempting to make or use a flamethrower.

3. What are the main safety precautions when making and using a flamethrower?

Safety should be the top priority when making and using a flamethrower. Some important precautions include wearing protective gear such as goggles and gloves, working in a well-ventilated area, and keeping a fire extinguisher nearby. It is also important to have a clear understanding of how the flamethrower works and to follow all instructions carefully.

4. What are the potential risks of making and using a flamethrower?

There are several potential risks associated with making and using a flamethrower. These include burns or injuries from the flames, explosions or fires if the fuel source is not handled properly, and legal consequences if used in an illegal or dangerous manner. It is important to weigh these risks carefully and take all necessary precautions.

5. Can a flamethrower be used for any practical purposes?

While flamethrowers may have some practical uses in certain industries (such as controlled burning in agriculture or construction), they are generally not considered practical for personal use. It is important to use a flamethrower responsibly and only for its intended purpose, if any, to avoid any potential dangers or legal issues.

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