SC13-5 - Smith SC13 Series Size 5 Heavy-Duty Acetylene Gouging Tip

Technical Overview of the Smith SC13-5 Gouging Tip

The Smith SC13-5 is a heavy-duty acetylene gouging tip engineered for precision metal removal and edge preparation. Part of the SC13 series, this size 5 tip is designed to produce a consistent groove measuring 1/2 inch (13mm) in width and 3/8 inch (10mm) in depth. It is specifically calibrated for use with acetylene gas, requiring a preheat acetylene flow rate of 50 SCFH and an oxygen flow rate of 246 SCFH to maintain optimal arc stability and metal removal rates. The tip features Smith's renowned in-tip gas mixing technology, where the preheat oxygen and fuel gas are combined within the tip itself rather than in the torch head. This design adds a significant layer of resistance to flashback, isolating sustained backfires in the tip to protect both the operator and the torch equipment.

Structurally, the SC13-5 utilizes a one-piece copper construction with a concave-shaped tip end. This geometry is critical for reducing backfire and resisting flameout during aggressive gouging operations where the tip is in close proximity to the molten pool. The internal bore is fully swaged and smooth, a manufacturing detail that promotes laminar gas flow for fast starts and minimizes the adherence of slag and spatter. This results in cleaner grooves that require less post-process grinding. The tip is compatible with a wide range of Smith Equipment hardware, including DG200 and SC200 series cutting attachments, as well as all SC and DG series hand torches and machine torches (such as the SC770 and SC772A). It is an essential consumable for industrial MRO applications involving the removal of old welds, crack repair in steel, and heavy plate edge preparation.