I think my Oxcon is running funny

[sublimekate]

I've always run my oxycon at around 3.5, which has given me a good size neutral flame, I like to work a bit slower and only ever run it higher if I'm making something big and want to get the base bead done quickly.

However over the last couple of days running it at 3.5 just hasn't been enough, I've had to lower the propane to get a neutral flame so much that it's just too small to work with.

I cleaned the torch, which I do about once a week, and gave it a thorough going over, same problem.

I've had to raise the oxycon to 5 to get a good size neutral flame to work with, this isn't a problem but I can't work out what's changed.

I'm on the same propane tank as I have been for the last few months and it's got plenty in it.

I'm sure that the oxycon is running differently, and there's no where to go from 5 so I'm a little concerned.

Any ideas 

[Redhotsal]

It may be the weather - it's been hot so the flow of fresh air around the oxycon may be less than usual. Mine certainly react to the weather.

Make sure you have a really good fresh supply of air going to it - might be worth wheeling it out from under your table (if that's where it lurks) and having it sit in the middle of the room to see if that makes any difference?

[sublimekate]

It has been warm here, very warm, and yes it lives under the bench but I could probably get it near the door.

I'll try it and report back 

Thanks Sal

[Sulis (Hazel)]

...also check that the inlet is clear and the external filter doesn't need a clean. It's just a bit of sponge you can rinse under the tap on my Oxycon, so could be the same on yours? Does yours have an orange light if it's not running right? Is it lit, if so?

[Dragonfire Glass]

...also check that the inlet is clear and the external filter doesn't need a clean.

Just what i was going to say 

[sublimekate]

Ah yes the filter, I wonder if with 'the accident' in the studio at the weekend it's got grot in it.

Will wash sponge, already checked the inlet, all clear.

Thank you.

[Sulis (Hazel)]

Oh, I hope that's it. That would be simples. As Alexander Meercat says.