What gas is commonly used as a fuel in an oxyfuel cutting torch along with oxygen?

Acetylene is commonly used as a fuel in an oxyfuel cutting torch because it burns at a very high temperature, which is essential for effectively cutting through various materials, particularly metals. When combined with oxygen in the torch, acetylene produces a flame that can reach temperatures exceeding 3,400 degrees Celsius (about 6,192 degrees Fahrenheit). This intense heat facilitates the cutting process by melting the metal which is then blown away by the oxy-fuel mixture.

Other gases like propane, methane, and butane do not reach the same high temperatures as acetylene, which limits their effectiveness in applications that require intense heat, such as cutting heavy metal structures. Although these gases can be used for heating and welding, they are less suitable for high-temperature cutting tasks compared to acetylene.