DIY Mini Butane Torch Would Make MacGyver Proud

Need to MacGyver yourself out of a situation with a mini torch? Well, you might want to watch this video of how to make a mini butane torch out of some random household components.

Built by [Roman UrsuHack], almost all the parts in this assembly are being used completely not as manufacturer intended. Which is why we love it. And why it’s a bit dangerous too.

Using an inkjet printer cartridge refill syringe, a bicycle pump needle, some tubing, a few compression valves (they look almost like medical equipment, for blood donation), a water bottle, a can of butane, lots of hot glue, and a few bicycle pump fittings, [Roman] has created a rather ingenious little butane torch.

We specifically like how he designed the nozzle. By cutting a small hole in the bicycle pump needle, it’s possible to jam the syringe through that hole to provide a basic mixing valve for air and gas.

To seal the hole, he’s wrapped thin copper wire around the joint then loaded it with flux, and covered it in solder — a clever way to block a hole!

Then by sending compressed air through the syringe, and gas through the bicycle pump nozzle, with a bit of pressure adjustment, you can get a pretty nice blue torch flame. He mentions you could use the bubbler pump from an aquarium, but assuming a worst case scenario — shows us how to make a water bottle compressed air tank instead.

For a slightly more robust solution, why not build a mini HHO torch? NOTE: Slightly more dangerous.

[Thanks for the tip Andrew!]

Filed under: tool hacks