GPN-1 - GPN-1 Propane Cutting Tip Size 1 for Victor 300 Series Torches

Technical Overview of the GPN-1 Cutting Tip

The GPN-1 is a precision-engineered cutting tip designed for use with Propane or Natural Gas fuel sources, specifically manufactured to be fully compatible with Victor 300 Series cutting torches and attachments. As a Size 1 tip in the GPN (General Purpose Natural gas/Propane) series, it is calibrated to effectively cut mild steel ranging from approximately 3/4-inch (19mm) to 1-inch (25mm) in thickness. This component is essential for industrial fabrication environments where alternative fuels are preferred over acetylene due to cost or availability.

Structurally, the GPN-1 utilizes a two-piece design, consisting of a brass inner member with splines and a copper outer shell. This configuration is critical for alternative fuels like propane, which have a lower flame propagation rate than acetylene. The recess created between the inner and outer members acts as a combustion chamber, anchoring the flame and allowing for the heavy preheat required to bring the base metal to kindling temperature efficiently. The splined inner piece ensures a stable, uniform preheat flame pattern, while the central oxygen orifice is precision-drilled to maintain a laminar cutting stream, minimizing kerf width and slag accumulation.

Compatibility is a key feature of this SKU. It fits standard Victor-style heavy-duty torches, including the CA2460, CA2461, and CA2462 cutting attachments, as well as ST2600 straight torches. The seating surfaces are machined to tight tolerances to ensure a metal-to-metal gas-tight seal, preventing dangerous flashbacks or leaks at the torch head. Operators should ensure their regulator settings are adjusted for propane cutting, typically requiring slightly different oxygen-to-fuel ratios compared to acetylene operations.

Maintenance of the GPN-1 is facilitated by its separable design. Unlike single-piece acetylene tips, the outer shell can be removed to clean the splines of the inner member, extending the service life of the consumable. This tip represents a reliable, high-quality aftermarket solution for professionals requiring consistent performance in heavy scrapping, structural steel fabrication, and general maintenance repair operations.