Technical Description and Instructions

Abstract: This is a technical description of the Not A Flamthrower by The Boring Company. This is divided into several sections. The sections talk about the functions, aesthetics, principal parts etc. Essential information of its operations and warnings are also provided.

Not A Flamethrower

The Boring Company’s “Not A Flamethrower” is not a flamethrower; but an 870mm flame gun.

Functions

The Not A Flamethrower has the sole purpose of getting attention as it is a ludicrous to own a domestic flamethrower. But there are surprising uses of it. Such as: Home security, de-icing a driveway, clearing unwanted foliage, lighting up your fireplace.

Aesthetics (Overview)

The Not A Flamethrower is a simple flame gun that has the appearance of a futuristic sci-fi gun. Majority of its body is made like an air-soft gun. Its color is black and white, length of 870mm, which gives it it’s sci-fi essence unlike traditional flamethrowers. It comes with its own propane tank holder which requires an ignition flame to “throw the flame”.

Principle Parts

  1. Regulator

Prevents accidental overflow when the propane tank is connected.

  1. Idle Valve

This allows a small flame to stay lit when operating the Not A Flamethrower.

  1. Propane Tank (Purchase Separately)

A standard 14.1 oz. (400 g) propane tank. These propane tanks are available at most hardware or automotive stores. Common brands include Bernzomatic©, Worthington©, Rothenberger©, GoSystems©, and Todays Tools©.

  1. Ignition

Repeatedly pressing it lights up a small flame at the end of the nozzle which helps the propane to be lit on fire when sprayed.

How does it work?

  1. The regulator maintains the pressure the inside the propane tank. Rotating it changes the pressure which allows the fuel to be rushed out of the tank through the rubber hose to the nozzle.
  2. The idle valve allows for a small amount of fuel to be used for the ignitor. The red ignition trigger acts like a common lighter used to light cigarettes. It creates an internal spark right up the nozzle to ignite the small amount of propane related by the idle valve.
  3. This can be tested when the Not a Flamethrower is ignited. You will hear propane running to keep the ignition flame lit.
  4. The main trigger allows the propane to be sprayed right into the ignition flame using the forwards velocity from the tank pressure.
  5. Propane works the same as any other alkanes. When it comes in contact with oxygen, it undergoes a combustion reaction to produce carbon dioxide, water (vapors) and heat.

Instructions (Flame on!)

  1. Rotate the regulator knob counterclockwise until it stops (You will hear, and possibly smell, gas hissing).
  2. Repeatedly press the red ignition switch until a flame is lit. You will hear a click with each press.
  3. Troubleshooting
  • Rotate the idle knob counterclockwise one quarter turn. This will increase the size of the idle flame.
  • If the flame is not lit after pressing the ignition switch 10 times, rotate the regulator knob clockwise until it stops. This will shut off the flow of gas to the flamethrower.
  • Repeat steps 1 and 2.
  1. Squeeze the trigger to create a larger flame. *Hold no more than seven seconds for optimal and safe performance*
  2. Shutoff
  • Turn the regulator knob until it stops.
  • Pull and hold the trigger to let propane purge out of the nozzle. *This ensures no residual gas remains in the Not A Flamethrower’s system*

Warning!

  • Keep away from minors and those who have not read the instructions.
  • Comply with all federal, state, and local laws, including fire and safety regulations.
  • Do not face towards the face, people, animals, or flammable objects. Always have a fire extinguisher and a bucket of water nearly when operating.
  • Use in an open area.
  • Do not operate when vertically upside down. Flame flows up in the air and can damage the Not a Flamethrower and potentially harm the operator.
  • Disconnect propane cylinder when not in use.
  • If you inspect a potential damaged, broken, or leaking, do not use it.
  • Do not use to strip lead paint and light cigarettes or barbeque.
  • Handle the Not A Flamethrower with caution even after shutoff as the nozzle may still be extremely hot.
  • Place the Not A Flamethrower on a level surface when the propane tank is attached to avoid accidental tip-over.
  • Do not pull the trigger for more than seven seconds.
  • Do not operate the Not A Flamethrower more than five minutes at a time.
  • Check all joints and couplings periodically for loose connections and do so in a well-ventilated area away from sparks or flames. If you suspect a leak, the Not A Flamethrower must be repaired or replaced.

Work Cited