Sheen Flamethrower (Weedburner)

[MetalMonkey]

I'm not the gardening type, but apparatus for shooting out fire appeals to me.

I know a couple of members have mentioned them in the past, @brightspark @mart @JEZGUZ , perhaps others? What is the general consensus?

I've been looking at either a propane roofing torch or a Sheen X300/X500, which appears to be a paraffin blowlamp on steroids.

As far as I can see, the propane torch has the advantage of a quicker startup and shutdown, hotter and alternative uses (preheating springs to mind).
However, I can see it burning through tanks pretty quickly, and a large canister on a sack barrow is going to be difficult to move across flowerbeds and up an down steps.

We have a large reserve of 28sec heating oil, which apparently the Sheen can use, and it looks a more portable setup, if a little more faffy to get going.
Thus making it cheaper and more mobile. I'm not sure how the reliability and longevity stacks up.

The hand pump looks a bit of an effort, but I suspect a T piece and PCL coupler with the regulator set at 25psi might sort that.

I’d value any insight from those with experience of either option.

 

[brightspark]

i use a roofers burning torch now for weeds . pratting on with the sheen and paraffin is a hassle the jet blocks up and you have to use a pricker to clear it i use a 10lb propane bottle and a strap over my shoulder the torch has an igniter on it and a economiser trigger

 

[JEZGUZ]

I've got a Sheen x300, at least I think it's one of those, the hand pump isn't a problem, no worse than pumping up a bike tyre anyway. The biggest problem I've had is the burner tube getting blocked with bits from the tank, once they're going they are pretty effective. If you do get one, spares can be had from here:-
Sheen Equipment
Greasley St
Bulwell
Notts
NG6 8NG

 

[The_Yellow_Ardvark]

This type is more fun.
Not only does it work, it sounds fantastic.

It also is FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That is the warm up flame.

 

[Jlg]

View attachment 272337


This type is more fun.
Not only does it work, it sounds fantastic.

It also is FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


View attachment 272338



That is the warm up flame.

Which one is that

 

[The_Yellow_Ardvark]

X300

 

[waddycall]

I use a roofing torch and made a trolley from scrap for the bottle

 

[mart]

I use a roofing torch and made a trolley from scrap for the bottleView attachment 272360

I like the idea of that set up. Any chance of a photo of the torch in action? It has a decent length lance for burning. What make/model is it?

My sheen is kind of ok, but I can't get hold of small amounts (5 or 6 gals) of heating oil now-they only want to sell bulk amounts. The red diesel does not burn as clean as the other options and soots up. Paraffin/kerosene is more expensive than petrol! By the way, DO NOT use petrol under any circumstances.

 

[mart]

i use a roofers burning torch now for weeds . pratting on with the sheen and paraffin is a hassle the jet blocks up and you have to use a pricker to clear it i use a 10lb propane bottle and a strap over my shoulder the torch has an igniter on it and a economiser trigger

Any photos, with make model of what you are using. I am interested in the propane option. Thanks.

 

[waddycall]

Here you go. It’s this torch. The video is of another brand but it’s no different.

Rothenberger Propane Roofers Soldering & Brazing Torch 5m - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Propane surface-heating torch with chrome-plated flame stabiliser with a reinforced edge. Allows efficient use in adverse weather conditions with the flame stabiliser. Features a 63mm diameter high-performance torch nozzle. FREE next day delivery available, free...

www.screwfix.com

 

[CompoSimmonite]

I use a roofing torch as well. In the past had a paraffin type, as The Yellow Ardvark, but the roofing torch is so much lighter and easier to use

​

 

[The_Yellow_Ardvark]

I use a roofing torch as well. In the past had a paraffin type, as The Yellow Ardvark, but the roofing torch is so much lighter and easier to use

​

Indeed they are.

But with mine you can make 4 foot smoke rings, scare Norbert and it is cheaper than propane.