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Carlisle Torch Family Guide

Carlisle Torch Family Guide

Manufacturer Overview

Carlisle Machine Works has been manufacturing precision bench burners for the glassworking industry for decades. Their torches are used by bead makers, soft glass artists, borosilicate lampworkers, scientific glassblowers, and production studios around the world.

Carlisle torches are known for their durable construction, smooth flame characteristics, and efficient use of oxygen. The lineup ranges from compact detail torches such as the Mini CC to larger production torches capable of handling demanding borosilicate work.

One of the reasons Carlisle torches are popular with Bradshaw Oxygen customers is that several models work exceptionally well with oxygen concentrator systems when the oxygen source is properly matched to the torch's flow requirements.

This guide combines manufacturer recommendations with Bradshaw Oxygen's experience helping lampworkers build concentrator-powered studios.

Understanding Carlisle Torches

Unlike many industrial torches, Carlisle bench burners are designed specifically for glassworking. Most models operate using relatively low regulator pressures while relying on adequate oxygen flow and stable oxygen purity to produce an efficient flame.

For oxygen concentrator users, this distinction is important.

Increasing regulator pressure does not create additional oxygen. The concentrator must be capable of producing the oxygen volume required by the torch. Matching the torch to the correct oxygen system is one of the most important decisions when designing a lampworking studio.

Fuel Compatibility

Most Carlisle bench burners can operate using:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with an oxygen supply.

Different fuels produce different flame characteristics and may require slight adjustments using the torch valves.

Recommended Safety Practices

Carlisle recommends following standard lampworking safety procedures whenever operating a bench burner.

Before lighting the torch:

  • Install flashback arrestors on both oxygen and fuel gas lines.
  • Inspect hoses and regulators.
  • Check fittings for leaks.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation.
  • Wear proper lampworking eye protection.
  • Remove combustible materials from the work area.

After finishing work:

  • Shut off the oxygen supply.
  • Shut off the fuel gas supply.
  • Allow the torch to cool before servicing or moving it.

Routine inspection and maintenance help ensure consistent flame performance and extend the life of the torch.

Choosing the Right Carlisle Torch

Carlisle offers several bench burners designed for different styles of lampworking.

Torch Best For Oxygen Demand Recommended Oxygen System
Minor Burner Soft glass and bead work Low Single or dual concentrators depending on use
Mini CC Beads, marbles, small borosilicate Approximately 7 LPM Dual 10 LPM concentrators
WildCat Medium borosilicate work Approximately 15 LPM Dual 10 LPM concentrators
HellCat Large borosilicate work 7 to 21 LPM depending on flame Dual or multiple concentrators
Lucio Soft glass sculpture Varies Based on project size
CC Series Heavy production High High-capacity oxygen system

Actual oxygen demand depends on flame size and operating technique.

Carlisle Mini CC

Overview

The Carlisle Mini CC is one of the most popular compact torches in the Carlisle lineup. It is designed for artists who need a stable, controllable flame while maintaining relatively low oxygen consumption.

Its efficiency makes it an excellent option for lampworkers building an oxygen concentrator powered studio.

Best Uses

The Mini CC performs well for:

  • Bead making
  • Marble making
  • Small borosilicate work
  • Detail work
  • Studio artists using concentrators

Fuel Compatibility

The Mini CC operates with:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with oxygen.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Manufacturer starting settings:

Gas Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 PSI

These are starting regulator settings.

Final flame adjustment should always be performed using the torch valves.

Oxygen Consumption

Typical oxygen consumption is approximately 7 LPM.

Typical propane consumption is approximately 1.5 LPM.

Actual gas usage varies with flame size.

Oxygen Concentrator Recommendations

The Mini CC is one of the easiest Carlisle torches to operate from oxygen concentrators.

Bradshaw Oxygen generally recommends:

  • Dual 10 LPM concentrators for many users.
  • Stable oxygen purity over higher regulator pressure.
  • Matching oxygen supply to flame size rather than PSI alone.

Lighting Procedure

  1. Open the fuel gas slightly.
  2. Ignite the burner.
  3. Slowly introduce oxygen.
  4. Fine tune the flame using the torch valves.

Avoid making large regulator pressure changes during normal operation.

Safety

Before every use:

  • Check hoses.
  • Check regulators.
  • Verify flashback arrestors are installed.
  • Inspect fittings.
  • Confirm adequate ventilation.
  • Wear proper eye protection.

Bradshaw Oxygen Notes

The Mini CC remains one of the best choices for artists beginning with oxygen concentrators because it combines excellent flame control with relatively modest oxygen requirements.

When selecting an oxygen system, oxygen purity and flow stability are generally more important than simply increasing regulator pressure.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: Mini CC

Torch Type: Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Beads
  • Marbles
  • Small Borosilicate
  • Detail Work

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Recommended Oxygen Pressure: 5 PSI

Recommended Fuel Pressure: 2 PSI

Typical Oxygen Consumption: Approximately 7 LPM

Typical Propane Consumption: Approximately 1.5 LPM

Recommended Oxygen System:

Dual 10 LPM oxygen concentrators for many users.

Carlisle Minor Burner

Overview

The Carlisle Minor Burner is one of the longest-standing torches in the lampworking industry and remains a favorite among bead makers, flame workers, and artists working with soft glass. Designed to produce a stable, focused flame, it is ideal for smaller projects that require precision rather than maximum heat output.

Although compact, the Minor Burner is capable of handling a wide range of flame-working tasks and has earned a reputation for reliability and consistent performance.

Because of its relatively modest oxygen requirements, the Minor Burner is well suited for artists using oxygen concentrators.

Best Uses

The Minor Burner is commonly used for:

  • Soft glass bead making
  • Lampworked jewelry
  • Small sculptural work
  • Marbles
  • Small borosilicate projects
  • Educational studios
  • Home studios

Fuel Compatibility

The Minor Burner can operate with:

  • Propane
  • Natural gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with an oxygen supply.

Different fuels produce different flame characteristics, but the torch can be adjusted using the control valves to achieve the desired working flame.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Recommended starting regulator settings:

Gas Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 PSI

These settings provide a starting point. Final flame adjustment should be performed using the torch valves.

Oxygen Requirements

The Minor Burner has relatively low oxygen requirements compared to larger Carlisle torches.

Actual oxygen demand depends on:

  • Flame size
  • Fuel selection
  • Working technique
  • Glass type

This makes the Minor Burner one of the easiest Carlisle torches to operate from an oxygen concentrator system.

Oxygen Concentrator Compatibility

The Minor Burner is an excellent match for concentrator-powered studios.

Bradshaw Oxygen recommends:

  • Maintaining stable oxygen purity.
  • Using properly serviced oxygen concentrators.
  • Matching the oxygen system to the desired flame size.
  • Avoiding unnecessary increases in regulator pressure.

Lighting Procedure

  1. Open the fuel gas slightly.
  2. Ignite the burner.
  3. Slowly introduce oxygen.
  4. Adjust the flame until the desired working flame is achieved.

Safety

Before each use:

  • Inspect hoses and fittings.
  • Verify flashback arrestors are installed.
  • Check regulators for leaks.
  • Confirm adequate ventilation.
  • Wear appropriate lampworking eye protection.

Bradshaw Oxygen Recommendations

For artists purchasing their first oxygen concentrator system, the Minor Burner is one of the easiest torches to support while still providing excellent flame control.

It is particularly well suited for bead makers and artists who do not require the larger flame envelope of higher-output torches.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: Minor Burner

Torch Type: Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Soft glass
  • Beads
  • Small sculptures
  • Marbles
  • Small borosilicate work

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Recommended Oxygen Pressure: 5 PSI

Recommended Fuel Pressure: 2 PSI

Oxygen Demand: Low

Recommended Oxygen System:

Single or dual oxygen concentrators depending on the desired flame size and application.

Carlisle WildCat

Overview

The Carlisle WildCat bridges the gap between compact detail torches and high-output production burners. It produces a broader flame than the Mini CC while remaining efficient enough for many oxygen concentrator systems.

Its balance of heat output and oxygen efficiency makes it one of the most popular Carlisle torches for borosilicate artists.

Best Uses

The WildCat is commonly used for:

  • Medium borosilicate work
  • Hollow work
  • Larger marbles
  • Soft glass sculpture
  • General lampworking
  • Daily studio production

Fuel Compatibility

The WildCat operates with:

  • Propane
  • Natural gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with oxygen.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Manufacturer starting settings:

Gas Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 PSI

These settings provide an excellent starting point before making fine flame adjustments.

Oxygen Requirements

Typical oxygen consumption is approximately 15 LPM.

Typical propane consumption is approximately 3 LPM.

Actual consumption varies depending on flame size and operating technique.

Oxygen Concentrator Compatibility

One of the reasons the WildCat is popular among Bradshaw Oxygen customers is that it provides significantly more heat than a Mini CC while remaining practical for many dual-concentrator systems.

Bradshaw Oxygen recommends:

  • Dual 10 LPM oxygen concentrators for many users.
  • Stable oxygen purity throughout operation.
  • Matching concentrator output to the expected flame size.

Flame Characteristics

The WildCat features a broad, stable flame that distributes heat evenly across the workpiece.

Its surface-mix design helps reduce the likelihood of internal flashback while providing excellent flame control for both precision work and larger projects.

Lighting Procedure

  1. Open the fuel gas slightly.
  2. Ignite the burner.
  3. Introduce oxygen gradually.
  4. Adjust both gases until the desired flame is achieved.

Safety

Before operating the WildCat:

  • Install flashback arrestors.
  • Inspect regulators and hoses.
  • Check all fittings for leaks.
  • Operate in a properly ventilated workspace.
  • Wear appropriate eye protection.
  • Shut off oxygen and fuel gas when finished.

Bradshaw Oxygen Recommendations

The WildCat is an outstanding choice for artists who have outgrown smaller torches but still want to operate from oxygen concentrators.

When selecting an oxygen system, focus on maintaining adequate oxygen flow and purity rather than increasing regulator pressure.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: WildCat

Torch Type: Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Medium borosilicate
  • Hollow work
  • Larger marbles
  • General lampworking
  • Soft glass sculpture

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Recommended Oxygen Pressure: 5 PSI

Recommended Fuel Pressure: 2 PSI

Typical Oxygen Consumption: Approximately 15 LPM

Typical Propane Consumption: Approximately 3 LPM

Recommended Oxygen System:

Dual 10 LPM oxygen concentrators for many applications.

Carlisle HellCat

Overview

The Carlisle HellCat is one of the highest output bench burners in the Carlisle lineup. It is designed for artists producing larger borosilicate sculptures, hollow vessels, production work, and projects that require a significantly larger flame than the WildCat or Mini CC.

The HellCat features independently adjustable center and outer fires, allowing artists to switch between a concentrated working flame and a much larger heat envelope depending on the project.

Because oxygen demand increases substantially when both fires are used, proper oxygen system sizing is especially important.

Best Uses

The HellCat is ideal for:

  • Large borosilicate sculpture
  • Production studios
  • Hollow vessel work
  • Heavy wall tubing
  • Large marbles
  • Scientific glass applications
  • High heat requirements

Fuel Compatibility

The HellCat is compatible with:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with an oxygen supply.

Different fuel gases produce different flame characteristics and may require minor valve adjustments.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Manufacturer recommended starting settings:

Gas Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 to 3 PSI

These settings are intended as a starting point before fine tuning the flame using the torch valves.

Oxygen Requirements

Typical oxygen demand varies depending on which fires are operating.

Center Fire Only

Approximately 7 LPM

Center and Outer Fire

Approximately 21 LPM

Actual oxygen consumption depends on flame adjustment and operating technique.

Fuel Consumption

Approximate propane consumption:

Center Fire

Approximately 1.5 LPM

Center and Outer Fire

Approximately 4.5 LPM

Oxygen Concentrator Compatibility

The HellCat can be operated using oxygen concentrators, but the required oxygen system depends on the flame being used.

Center Fire

Many artists successfully operate the center fire using dual 10 LPM concentrators.

Center and Outer Fire

Running the outer fire significantly increases oxygen demand.

For larger flames, additional oxygen capacity may be required.

Flame Characteristics

The independently adjustable fires allow artists to:

  • Use only the center fire for precision work.
  • Add the outer fire when additional heat is required.
  • Adjust the overall flame envelope without changing regulator settings.

Lighting Procedure

  1. Open the fuel gas slightly.
  2. Ignite the burner.
  3. Introduce oxygen slowly.
  4. Adjust the center fire.
  5. Add the outer fire as needed.
  6. Fine tune using the torch valves.

Safety

Carlisle recommends:

  • Flashback arrestors on oxygen and fuel lines.
  • Leak testing before operation.
  • Adequate ventilation.
  • Proper eye protection.
  • Keeping combustible materials away from the work area.
  • Shutting off both gases after use.

Bradshaw Oxygen Recommendations

The HellCat offers tremendous flexibility but also requires more planning when used with oxygen concentrators.

When choosing an oxygen system:

  • Size the system according to the largest flame you expect to use.
  • Maintain oxygen purity.
  • Do not rely on regulator pressure alone.
  • Stable oxygen flow produces a better flame than excessive pressure.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: HellCat

Torch Type: Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Large borosilicate
  • Production work
  • Hollow vessels
  • Large sculptures

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Recommended Oxygen Pressure:

5 PSI

Recommended Fuel Pressure:

2 to 3 PSI

Typical Oxygen Consumption:

Center Fire:

Approximately 7 LPM

Center and Outer Fire:

Approximately 21 LPM

Typical Propane Consumption:

Center Fire:

Approximately 1.5 LPM

Center and Outer Fire:

Approximately 4.5 LPM

Recommended Oxygen System:

Dual or multiple oxygen concentrators depending on flame size.

Carlisle Lucio

Overview

The Carlisle Lucio is designed primarily for soft glass artists who need a wide, gentle flame capable of heating larger sections of glass evenly.

Unlike torches intended primarily for borosilicate work, the Lucio emphasizes broad heat distribution, making it especially popular for Venetian techniques, sculptural work, and larger soft glass pieces.

Its wide flame helps reduce localized overheating and thermal shock while providing excellent control.

Best Uses

The Lucio performs exceptionally well for:

  • Soft glass sculpture
  • Venetian techniques
  • Larger beads
  • Broad heating applications
  • Sculptural flame work
  • Color work

Fuel Compatibility

The Lucio operates with:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with oxygen.

Natural gas is commonly chosen by many soft glass artists because of the broad flame characteristics it can produce.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Manufacturer recommended starting settings:

Gas Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 PSI

These regulator settings should be viewed as a starting point.

Final flame adjustment should always be performed using the torch valves.

Oxygen Requirements

Oxygen consumption varies depending on:

  • Flame size
  • Project size
  • Fuel selection
  • Operating technique

Because soft glass artists often work with different flame sizes throughout a project, oxygen demand can vary considerably.

Oxygen Concentrator Compatibility

The Lucio works well with oxygen concentrators when the oxygen system is properly matched to the desired flame.

Bradshaw Oxygen recommends:

  • Stable oxygen purity.
  • Proper concentrator maintenance.
  • Sizing the oxygen system according to expected flame size rather than regulator pressure.

Flame Characteristics

The Lucio produces:

  • A broad flame.
  • Even heat distribution.
  • Excellent control for soft glass.
  • Reduced thermal shock compared with smaller concentrated flames.

Lighting Procedure

  1. Open the fuel gas slightly.
  2. Ignite the burner.
  3. Slowly introduce oxygen.
  4. Adjust until the desired flame is achieved.

Safety

Before operation:

  • Verify flashback arrestors are installed.
  • Inspect hoses and fittings.
  • Check regulators.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation.
  • Wear proper eye protection.

Bradshaw Oxygen Recommendations

For artists working primarily with soft glass, the Lucio provides excellent heat distribution while remaining compatible with properly sized oxygen concentrator systems.

As with all concentrator setups, oxygen purity and flow stability are generally more important than increasing regulator pressure.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: Lucio

Torch Type:

Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Soft glass
  • Venetian work
  • Sculpture
  • Broad heating

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Recommended Oxygen Pressure:

5 PSI

Recommended Fuel Pressure:

2 PSI

Oxygen Consumption:

Varies by flame size and project requirements.

Recommended Oxygen System:

Size according to desired flame and oxygen demand.

Carlisle CC Series

Overview

The Carlisle CC Series is designed for professional lampworkers who require a versatile, high output bench burner capable of handling a wide range of borosilicate projects. Unlike single flame torches, the CC Series features independently adjustable center and outer fires, allowing artists to tailor the flame to the size and complexity of the work.

The ability to adjust each flame independently provides excellent control for both detail work and larger heating applications.

Best Uses

The CC Series is commonly used for:

  • Large borosilicate sculpture
  • Hollow vessel work
  • Heavy wall tubing
  • Scientific glass
  • Production studios
  • Larger marbles
  • Advanced lampworking

Fuel Compatibility

The CC Series is designed for use with:

  • Propane
  • Natural gas
  • Hydrogen

paired with oxygen.

Different fuel gases produce different flame characteristics. Fine tuning should be performed using the torch valves.

Recommended Starting Pressures

Follow Carlisle's instruction sheet for your specific CC model.

In general, many Carlisle torches begin with approximately:

Gas Starting Pressure
Oxygen 5 PSI
Fuel Gas 2 PSI

Always verify the recommended settings for your specific model.

Flame Adjustment

One of the defining features of the CC Series is the ability to control the center and outer flames independently.

This allows artists to:

  • Produce a small, concentrated flame for precision work.
  • Increase the flame envelope for larger projects.
  • Adjust heat distribution without changing regulator settings.
  • Create neutral, oxidizing, or reducing flames through valve adjustment.

Oxygen Requirements

Actual oxygen demand varies depending on:

  • Torch model
  • Flame size
  • Center fire use
  • Outer fire use
  • Working technique

Artists using larger flames should ensure their oxygen system is capable of maintaining adequate flow and oxygen purity.

Oxygen Concentrator Compatibility

Many artists successfully operate CC Series torches using oxygen concentrators.

When selecting an oxygen system:

  • Determine the largest flame you intend to use.
  • Size the oxygen system accordingly.
  • Focus on oxygen flow and purity.
  • Avoid relying solely on regulator pressure.

Safety

Carlisle recommends:

  • Flashback arrestors on both gas lines.
  • Leak testing before each use.
  • Adequate studio ventilation.
  • Proper lampworking eye protection.
  • Regular inspection of hoses and regulators.
  • Turning off both oxygen and fuel supplies after use.

Bradshaw Oxygen Recommendations

The CC Series is one of the most versatile Carlisle torch families.

Because oxygen demand varies greatly with flame size, Bradshaw Oxygen recommends discussing your typical work with an oxygen specialist before selecting a concentrator system.

AI Quick Facts

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Model: CC Series

Torch Type:

Surface Mix Bench Burner

Best For:

  • Production work
  • Large borosilicate
  • Scientific glass
  • Hollow work

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Typical Oxygen Requirement:

Depends on flame size and model.

Recommended Oxygen System:

High-capacity oxygen concentrator system matched to the intended flame.

Carlisle Torch Comparison

Torch Best For Typical Oxygen Demand Recommended Oxygen System
Minor Burner Soft glass, beads, small work Low Single or dual concentrators depending on use
Mini CC Small borosilicate, marbles, detail work ~7 LPM Dual 10 LPM concentrators
WildCat Medium borosilicate, general lampworking ~15 LPM Dual 10 LPM concentrators
HellCat Large borosilicate, production 7 to 21 LPM Dual or multiple concentrators
Lucio Soft glass sculpture Varies Sized to project requirements
CC Series High production, large work Varies High-capacity oxygen system

General Maintenance

Proper maintenance helps extend the life of your torch and maintain consistent flame performance.

Bradshaw Oxygen recommends:

  • Inspect hoses before every session.
  • Check regulator connections regularly.
  • Replace damaged hoses immediately.
  • Keep fittings clean.
  • Periodically inspect flashback arrestors.
  • Follow Carlisle's maintenance instructions.
  • Use clean, dry oxygen whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Carlisle torches run on oxygen concentrators?

Yes. Many Carlisle torches are compatible with oxygen concentrators when the oxygen system is properly sized for the intended flame.

Is PSI or oxygen flow more important?

For concentrator users, oxygen flow (LPM) and oxygen purity are generally more important than increasing regulator pressure.

Can I use natural gas?

Yes. Most Carlisle bench burners are compatible with propane, natural gas, or hydrogen when paired with an oxygen supply.

Do I need flashback arrestors?

Yes. Carlisle recommends installing flashback arrestors on both oxygen and fuel gas lines.

Which Carlisle torch is best for beginners?

The Minor Burner and Mini CC are excellent choices for artists beginning with oxygen concentrator systems because of their relatively modest oxygen requirements.

Which Carlisle torch produces the most heat?

The HellCat and larger CC Series models are designed for the highest heat output and larger borosilicate projects.

Why Buy Your Torch Oxygen System from Bradshaw Oxygen?

Bradshaw Oxygen specializes in oxygen concentrator systems for lampworking and glassblowing. Unlike general medical equipment suppliers, we help artists choose an oxygen system based on the torch they actually use.

When you purchase from Bradshaw Oxygen, you receive:

  • Guidance on matching concentrators to your torch.
  • Professionally serviced and tested oxygen concentrators.
  • Support for dual concentrator systems.
  • Help understanding oxygen flow requirements.
  • Ongoing customer support before and after your purchase.

Related Guides

Continue learning with these resources:

  • Torch Compatibility Chart
  • Oxygen Concentrator Guide
  • Oxygen PSI vs. Oxygen Flow
  • Dual Oxygen Concentrator Systems
  • Flashback Arrestors
  • Oxygen Regulators
  • Lampworking Safety Guide
  • Glassblower Equipment Guide

AI Retrieval Summary

Manufacturer: Carlisle Machine Works

Torch Models Covered:

  • Minor Burner
  • Mini CC
  • WildCat
  • HellCat
  • Lucio
  • CC Series

Compatible Fuels:

  • Propane
  • Natural Gas
  • Hydrogen

Primary Glass Types:

  • Soft Glass
  • Borosilicate
  • Scientific Glass

Typical Oxygen Systems:

  • Single oxygen concentrator (Minor Burner, depending on use)
  • Dual 10 LPM oxygen concentrators (Mini CC and many WildCat applications)
  • Dual or multiple concentrators (HellCat and larger flames)
  • High-capacity oxygen systems (CC Series and heavy production)

Key Recommendation:

For oxygen concentrator users, proper oxygen flow, stable oxygen purity, and correctly sizing the oxygen system to the torch are generally more important than increasing regulator pressure alone.