12-1401-03 - Smith Little Torch Tip #3 Curved

Precision Engineering for Micro-Flame Applications

The Smith Equipment 12-1401-03 is a size #3 curved tip designed specifically for the renowned Little Torch system. This component represents a significant achievement in micro-welding technology, primarily due to its internal construction. Unlike standard welding tips that rely on drilled copper or brass orifices, this tip is fitted with a laser-drilled synthetic sapphire insert. This jewel bearing technology ensures that the 0.011-inch orifice maintains perfectly concentric geometry, which is critical for producing the thread-thin flames required in high-precision applications. The sapphire material is highly resistant to heat and oxidation, preventing the degradation of the flame shape over time that is common with inferior metal tips.

From a fluid dynamics perspective, the tip is engineered to handle a specific flow rate of 0.78 cubic feet per hour (CFH) for fuel and 0.94 CFH for oxygen. This precise ratio allows for a stable, neutral flame capable of generating 1,150 BTU per hour. The tip operates optimally at low pressures—specifically 4 PSI for both oxygen and fuel—making it safe and manageable for delicate bench work. The #3 size sits in the lower-middle range of the Little Torch spectrum, offering a balance between the microscopic heat of the #2 tip and the broader coverage of the #4 and #5 tips. Its drill size equivalent is #85, indicating its suitability for extremely fine detail work where heat control is paramount.

The 12-1401-03 is designed to be universally compatible with all standard fuel gases used in the industry. Whether the fuel source is Acetylene, Hydrogen, Propane, Propylene, or Natural Gas, the sapphire orifice ensures consistent laminar flow. This versatility allows technical operators to switch fuel sources based on the specific metallurgical requirements of the substrate without needing to change the tip hardware, provided the pressure settings are adjusted accordingly. The curved geometry of the neck further enhances the operator's ability to manipulate the flame around complex geometries often found in electronic components and mechanical assemblies.