A drip torch is a specialized tool used in land management to intentionally ignite fires under controlled conditions. It consists of a fuel reservoir, a spout, and a fiberglass wick, allowing a steady stream of flaming fuel to be dispensed onto the ground. Its primary function is establishing fire control lines, such as backfires or strip head fires, during prescribed burns to manage vegetation and reduce wildfire risk. The device offers precise control over the ignition point and fuel flow.
Preparing the Fuel Mixture and Equipment Check
The preparation for using a drip torch begins with mixing the appropriate fuel blend for safe and effective ignition. The standard mixture is typically three parts diesel fuel to one part unleaded gasoline (3:1 ratio by volume). Diesel increases viscosity and raises the flash point, preventing the fuel from burning too rapidly once it hits the ground. Gasoline ensures the mixture ignites readily from the torch’s wick flame, creating a reliable, continuous fire line.
Before filling the reservoir, the equipment must undergo a thorough physical inspection. Confirm the fuel tank cap and the spout’s flame guard are securely fastened to prevent spills or leaks. The vent hole, which allows air into the tank to maintain fuel flow, must also be clear of debris to ensure a steady stream of fuel.
A check of the fiberglass wick, located at the end of the spout, is necessary before the torch is put into service. The wick must be fully saturated with the fuel mixture to hold a stable flame that ignites the flowing fuel effectively. Any signs of fraying, excessive charring, or degradation indicate the wick needs immediate replacement.
Critical Safety Measures Before Use
Prior to igniting any fire, personnel must be equipped with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to guard against heat and flame exposure. This includes fire-resistant clothing, such as Nomex shirts and trousers, along with leather gloves to protect the hands from heat and sparks. A fire-rated helmet with a shroud is also necessary to protect the head, neck, and ears from elevated temperatures.
A comprehensive check of current and forecast weather conditions is mandatory before any burn operation begins. Wind speed and direction are important, as they dictate the fire’s behavior and the placement of ignition lines. High wind speeds can push fire beyond control lines, while low humidity increases the flammability and rate of spread of surrounding fuels.
Fire danger ratings and established burn prescriptions must be adhered to, ensuring environmental conditions align with the planned intensity of the burn. Immediate access to suppression tools is necessary during ignition operations. Water packs, foam extinguishers, or hand tools like shovels and rakes must be positioned directly on the fire line to address any spot fires or escapes.
Refueling the drip torch requires strict safety protocols to avoid combustion accidents. The torch must be completely cooled down and its wick extinguished before the fuel cap is removed. Adding fuel to a hot container risks igniting the volatile gasoline vapors within the tank, leading to a flash fire.
Techniques for Igniting and Handling
The physical operation begins with safely igniting the wick to establish a steady, reliable flame. This is usually accomplished using an external flame source, such as a match or a butane lighter, ensuring the operator holds the torch away from their body and face. The flame must be established only after the operator is in position on the designated ignition line, ready to begin the burn sequence.
When dispensing fuel, the torch should be held at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. This utilizes gravity to maintain a consistent fuel stream without excessive dripping. This specific angle allows the fuel to flow down the spout and past the burning wick, where it is simultaneously ignited before reaching the ground. Holding the torch too vertically can interrupt the flow, while holding it too horizontally can cause fuel to spill or leak uncontrollably.
Controlling the flow rate is achieved by slightly tilting the torch or adjusting the pace of movement along the ignition line. A slower pace or a slight increase in the angle will deposit more fuel, creating a wider, more intense ignition line suitable for heavier fuels such as dense leaf litter. A faster, steadier pace maintains a thin, continuous line of fire, which is often preferred for lighter fuel types or backing fires that move into the wind.
The operator must maintain a smooth, steady walking pace, ensuring the stream of flaming fuel consistently contacts the prescribed ignition point on the ground. Jerky movements or sudden stops can cause interruptions in the fire line or result in accidental spills of burning fuel near the operator’s feet. The movement should be synchronized with the fuel flow to produce an unbroken line of fire.
To temporarily pause ignition or finish a fire line, the flame on the wick must be extinguished safely and immediately. The operator achieves this by quickly inverting the torch, which dips the burning wick back into the reservoir, submerging it in the diesel-rich fuel mixture. The specialized flame guard on the spout prevents the flame from traveling back into the tank.
Cleaning and Storing the Drip Torch
After the burn operation is complete, the drip torch must be allowed to cool completely before post-use maintenance begins. All remaining fuel must be drained from the reservoir back into an approved, sealed container for proper storage or disposal according to local regulations. Fuel should never be left in the torch during extended periods of storage, as this can degrade internal seals.
The exterior of the torch should be wiped clean of any soot or residue, and the wick should be inspected for damage. When storing the device, it must be kept upright to prevent residual fuel from leaking through the spout or vent system. The torch should be stored in a cool, dry location, separated from flammable materials and away from potential sources of heat or ignition.