Oxyacetylene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oxyacetylene

[ɒksɪəˈsɛtəliːn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

welding process

Oxyacetylene is a type of gas welding process that involves burning a mixture of oxygen and acetylene to produce a high-temperature flame. This flame is used to melt and fuse metals together, making it ideal for welding, cutting, and brazing applications. It is one of the oldest methods of welding and remains widely used due to its versatility and effectiveness. Oxyacetylene torches can also be used for heating and soldering tasks in a variety of industries.

Synonyms

acetylene welding, gas welding.

Examples of usage

  • The mechanic used oxyacetylene to repair the broken metal frame.
  • Oxyacetylene welding is essential in construction and fabrication.
  • For precise cutting, the oxyacetylene torch provided optimal results.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Industrial Applications

  • This technique revolutionized metalworking in the early 20th century, making fabrication process faster and more efficient.
  • It’s commonly used in welding since the intense heat can melt most metals, allowing them to join together.

Safety Considerations

  • Due to the high temperatures produced, safety precautions are essential to avoid burns or fire hazards.
  • Proper ventilation is necessary when using this technique because burning acetylene can produce harmful gases.

Cultural Impact

  • Artists and builders have used oxyacetylene torches for sculpting and creating intricate metal art.
  • The use of this flame technique can be found in both commercial and artistic fields, emphasizing its versatility.

Science and Chemistry

  • The combustion of oxyacetylene produces a flame temperature that can exceed 3,200 degrees Celsius (5,792 degrees Fahrenheit).
  • It's an example of a reaction where gas molecules are transformed into heat energy, showcasing basic principles of thermodynamics.

Origin of 'oxyacetylene'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'oxy' from oxygen and 'acetylene,' which comes from the roots that describe its chemical properties.
  • Acetylene was first discovered in 1836 by French chemist Edmund Davy, originally named 'ethyne.'

The term 'oxyacetylene' originates from the combination of two gases: oxygen and acetylene. Acetylene itself was discovered in 1836 by the chemist Edmund Davy, though its application for welding wasn't realized until later. The oxyacetylene welding process was developed in the early 1900s and quickly gained popularity for its ability to produce intense heat and enable the fusion of metals. The first commercial oxyacetylene torch was patented in 1903, and the process revolutionized metalworking industries, contributing significantly to advancements in construction and manufacturing. Over the decades, improvements in technology have enhanced the precision and efficiency of oxyacetylene equipment, making it a standard practice in various applications, from artisanal crafts to large-scale industrial production.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,955 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.