Why doesn’t the flame from a propane torch travel back to the can and blow it up?

Question

I’ve always been a little embarrassed to ask, but when I have, say, a propane torch, how come the flame doesn’t go back through the line and blow up the can?

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Believe it or not, it can happen if your equipment is set up incorrectly or not maintained properly. It’s called a flashback: [https://www.weldingandwelder.com/help-and-advice/preventing-flashbacks-in-welding-understanding-flashback-arrestors-and-safety-tips/](https://www.weldingandwelder.com/help-and-advice/preventing-flashbacks-in-welding-understanding-flashback-arrestors-and-safety-tips/)