0331-0016 - Victor 3-101 Size 3 Acetylene Cutting Tip (2-1/2" Cut)

Technical Overview of the Victor 3-101 Size 3 Acetylene Cutting Tip

The Victor 0331-0016 is a Series 3, Type 101, Size 3 cutting tip designed specifically for medium-duty oxy-acetylene cutting applications. Engineered by Victor Technologies, this consumable is manufactured from a single piece of high-grade copper alloy. The choice of material is critical in oxy-fuel cutting; copper provides exceptional thermal conductivity, rapidly dissipating heat away from the tip orifice to prevent overheating and flashback during prolonged use. This specific model is calibrated to cut steel thicknesses of approximately 2-1/2 inches (63.5 mm), making it a versatile choice for general fabrication and maintenance tasks.

The internal geometry of the 3-101 series features precision-machined gas paths. The preheat orifices are designed to optimize the acetylene-oxygen mixture, ensuring a stable preheat flame that brings the base metal to kindling temperature efficiently. The cutting oxygen bore is smooth and perfectly centered, delivering a laminar stream of oxygen that oxidizes the metal cleanly, resulting in a narrow kerf and minimal slag accumulation. This tip operates optimally with a cutting oxygen pressure range of 45-50 PSIG, a preheat oxygen pressure of 5-16 PSIG, and an acetylene pressure of 4-10 PSIG. The cutting speed for this tip size is rated between 10 and 13 inches per minute, depending on the operator's skill and the condition of the metal.

Compatibility is a key specification for the 3-101 series. It is designed with the standard Victor medium-duty seating configuration, making it compatible with Victor 100 Series torch handles and cutting attachments, such as the CA1350 and CA1260. The double-seating arrangement ensures a leak-proof connection between the tip and the torch head, which is vital for safety and performance. Operators should verify their torch model before installation, as the 3-101 is distinct from the 1-101 series used in heavy-duty (300 series) torches.