Triple-refined butane for micro-torches?

[Luann Udell]

I read an article from Beading Daily about micro-torches http://www.beadingdaily.com/blogs/daily/archive/2010/06/04/how-and-why-to-buy-a-micro-torch-for-making-jewelry.aspx and they recommended using only triple-refined butane. 

The article said regular butane for cigarette lighters may eventually gunk up the torch. 

I couldn't any locally, so I ordered some from an on-line cigar site.

Has anyone else heard of this, or have any info?

At least I have LOTS of butane now!   

[Russ Nobbs]

Couldn't you ask this kind of question of Craft 911's emergency line?

I think we've had some discussion about this... let me see if I've filed anyting on it.
Ah, back in 06 in B&B forum, some members suggested NOT using Ronson brand and pushed the use of triple refined butane from kitchen or cigar/cigarette shops.

Kurt (Metalman) chimed is with this:

>>> Kurt Madison 12/29/06 08:09AM >>>
 I have had my torch for almost 20 years, used on a regular basis. I just get the regular smoke shop, Walgreen's or other box mart variety which I believe is the Ronson. The bigger the canister, the better my per fill expense. Camping supply stores have some butane that is extra refined and you pay $$ for it. The higher quality camp stoves do have fittings and orifices that are sensitive to butane quality. I would like to hear more details about the torch problems mentioned because I truly suspect it is other considerations than the fuel quality.

Looking at the majority of the butane torches available in the craft industry these days, I have not seen a one that has the level of machining or refinement in their construction that would be sensitive to fuel quality. I can go further and say that some of these small torches are badly machined and do not work as they should, even at the more expensive price points.
When  Mike and I looked at the torches we carry, I was satisfied that the construction, materials and machining was of a decent quality for the product. That is why we went ahead with it.
In that 20 years I have been using my torch, I have not seen any reason to have a more highly refined fuel - torch works great, lights first time every time. I think its a hustle for dollars.
Kurt

Kurt Madison
Art Clay Guy

That was 4 years ago. Let's see if he still holds this opinion.

[Polly]

  LOL. You made me look.  I googled Craft 911 Emergency just to see if there was such a thing!   But all I found were patriotic craft projects and old fundraisers to raise funds for the NYC building crash

[Russ Nobbs]

There is so a Craft 911 Emergency line!
I just read about it in the new Crafts Report.
I took the copy home but I'll bring it back so you can read all about it.

[Luann Udell]

http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/68f03ba6#/68f03ba6/50  I'm glad you liked the article, Russ, I think it was one of my best! 

[Metalman]

My thoughts remain the same regarding extra or multi refined butane. The only torch I have seen that I would buy to replace my old one is actually the current model made by the same company as my old one.  I have a Blazer brand torch from the late '80s or early '90s.- US made and works great.
The new Blazer is over $100 retail but will be what I buy if I every have to.
Triple Refined - Bah!!
That being said I will repeat my request [or challenge]
Send in stories and or proof that the triple refined is neccessary - I would love to look at it.
k

[Luann Udell]

Well, I now own a lifetime supply of triple-refined butane and seem to be permanently subscribed to a cigar mailing list, so I will report back in a year.

[Russ Nobbs]

It was a good article, Luann.
I've served on a number of show juries and read the artists comments after shows.
Some artists concerns could be handled quickly at the show with a call to 911 Craft Emergency.

What influence do you think the cigar mailing list will  have on your attitude or articles?

[Luann Udell]

LOL, okay you are all too funny!    (and what an odd name for this emoticon.....)  And I just have to say....

First, at least two of those stories were based on actual events I witnessed.

Next, I unsubscribed from the cigar newsletter.  

Finally, when I unpacked the box, I realized I now own QUADRUPLE-refined butane.  

I'm positive this will make a huge difference in my micro-torch work.....