What gas is commonly used by plumbers for welding pipe?

Acetylene is commonly used by plumbers for welding pipe due to its high flame temperature, which is crucial for effectively joining metal components. When combusted in oxygen, acetylene produces a flame that can reach temperatures exceeding 3,000 degrees Celsius (5,400 degrees Fahrenheit). This intense heat allows for the melting and fusing of metal pipe edges, creating strong, durable joints necessary for plumbing applications.

Moreover, acetylene is often used in oxy-acetylene welding, a process that combines oxygen and acetylene to create a flame capable of welding thicker materials. Its popularity among plumbers also comes from its ability to achieve high-quality welds in various pipe fittings, making it an essential gas in the plumbing industry.

While other gases like natural gas, hydrogen, and propane also have their applications, they do not provide the same combination of high-temperature flame and effective weld quality as acetylene does in pipe welding.