From bigclivedotcom.

These devices split water apart into oxygen and hydrogen to provide gas to a micro-torch for acrylic edge polishing and small brazing tasks. I thought I’d get one to explore, but then decided to see what the differences were between the two most common units sold on online marketplaces.
I get the feeling that it’s just upselling by adding a slightly higher gas generation, a pressure gauge and a couple of extra torch tips.

I bought these on eBay as they seem to bulk ship them to regional warehouses. The same units appear to be "stocked" by multiple sellers, but there is major price variation. Beware of listings that are for the higher spec model, but show the lower spec model in the small print.

As supplied, they do not ship with the electrolyte powder needed to make the water conductive. The manual states sodium hydroxide (caustic soda drain cleaner in the UK), but many videos on the subject seemed to recommend potassium hydroxide as being better. But it’s much harder to get and mine foamed up, pushing liquid through the system.

Note that both potassium and sodium hydroxide are extremely caustic. They will cause skin burns in direct contact. Wear suitable protective gloves when making the electrolyte and also note that the powder should be added slowly to COLD water as the reaction is exothermic and will create a lot of heat. Both chemicals are used in soap making to convert oils and fats to soap.

The bubbler can be filled (just a third full) with either water or various alcohols. One manufacturer of a jewellery version showed the use of methanol and boric acid for a green flame to improve visibility and perhaps act as a mild brazing flux.

Something very important to know is that the gas is generated as pre-mixed oxygen and hydrogen which can cause issues with flashback where the flame shoots back along the hose and into the system. That’s part of the reason for the bubbler. Note that although it can seem to explode quite loudly, it is actually converting from gas back to water in the process, and actually creates an implosion effect. I’m not sure what would happen if it was able to flashback into the actual generator and storage vessel. The idea of testing that is not appealing due to the risk of getting drenched with caustic liquid.

There are some important things to know about using equipment like this. Do not power the unit down while the flame is active as it will increase the risk of a flashback as the pressure drops to near zero. It’s better to quench the flame and then power down. I also vented the pressure in the system by opening the torch valve again after turning the unit off, and then once the pressure had been released I loosened the filling cap slightly so the alcohol in the bubbler didn’t get drawn back into the main tank as it cools.

Likewise, when starting to use the unit, check all liquid levels and that caps are tight before powering it on. All common sense to those of us who are technically inclined.

Pretty interesting things though. Quite niche applications for the micro-torch, but amazing potential for making lighter than air exploding balloons. But note that they are REALLY loud. Definitely not something to ignite indoors. Also something that you absolutely do at your own risk. Keep in mind that just that small cluster of bubbles was loud enough to make my ears whistle for a long time.

Here’s the listing I bought the bigger unit from on eBay (not a sponsor). But the listing description can also be used for suitable keywords to find them elsewhere.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/357043461086
95L Acrylic Oxygen Hydrogen HHO Welder H180 Polishing Machine with Flame Torch

Now about that breathing hydrogen thing. Apparently at low concentrations it has been considered as being useful in controlling asthma. So as always, nothing can be ruled out. But I’ll steer clear of huffing a perfect explosive mix.

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