I have swapped out literally hundreds of tanks of oxygen - I go through 6 to 10 "T" tanks a month in my studio. I really should invest in a generator... A concentrator is a great option if you don't want to fool with tanks and regulators, etc. However, because my studio has 4 minors and 1 Big Beth, a concentrator is not an option.

There are some precautions necessary with pressurized oxygen tanks. Understand that the oxygen is not flammable in and of itself, so you're not going to blow yourself up with it, alone. As long as you follow correct safety procedures, you will be a safe and happy torcher.

The number 1 safety tip is to never, ever, ever, ever use petroleum products or tools that have petroleum products on them on your oxygen apparatus - tank, hoses, regulator, all that stuff. This can cause spontaneous combustion, but if you don't allow petroleum products near your oxygen set-up, you'll never have a problem. And it's easy as that.

Here is the procedure I was taught when swapping a tank, which I always follow.

Tank removal:
1. Turn off the tank valve.
2. Open the diaphragm all the way. (counter clockwise)
3. Remove the regulator with a wrench that has never seen a petroleum product. (Mine is hanging on the hook where the holding chain is attached to the wall.)
4. Screw the cover on to the tank.
5. Remove the holding chain from the tank.
6. Roll the empty tank over to the empty tank location.

Tank replacement:
1. Roll the full tank over to the holding chain.
2. Tie the tank up with the chain.
3. Unscrew the tank's cap.
4. Momentarily open and close the valve on the tank to blow out any dust or debris that may be in the opening.
5. Attach the regulator with a wrench that has never seen a petroleum product. (Mine is hanging on the hook where the holding chain is attached to the wall.)
6. Verify or open the diaphragm all the way. (counter clockwise)
7. Slowly open the valve on the tank until it is open all the way.
8. Slowly close the diaphragm until your PSI setting is correct. (clockwise)