What is a carbide lamp?
The carbide lamp is a lamp that is designed to burn acetylene, a gas that will burn hot and light in the right conditions. These types of lamps were originally designed for mining, and although they were largely replaced by electric lamps, some people still use carbide lamps for cave, camping and mining operations. Antique versions can be purchased at an auction or via antique store, while new versions are available from outdoor suppliers selling camping equipment and related stocks. When the valve is open, the water can drip from the upper chamber to the lower chamber, which is filled with calcium carbide. This causes a chemical reaction that generates acetylene, with gas flowing from the nozzle in front of the lamp. Acetylene can be illuminated by agreement or similar devices and generate a clear flame. On the lamp is often mounted the reflector to distract the light.
There is some potential safety risks with a lamp. It is important to make sure the nozzle is JASNA so that the gas can escape, or the lamp can explode from the accumulation of pressure inside. It is also important to be able to control the valve that drips water because it controls the amount of gas produced inside the chambers. If the carbide lamp is not used, the valve must be securely closed so that the flammable gas is not generated. These lamps are also very hot, which can become a security problem.
The light produced by the carbide lamp is bright, white and even. The comparative nature of the light can be very useful in underground environments where the lights with fibers and lenses can cast special shadows. Shadows can cover important visual information or cause space to look and feel confusing, which can be disorienting under the earth.
calcium carbide for carbide lamps is produced industrially. It can be obtained through a number of companies. Many shops that sell new calcium carbide lamps also sell calcium carbide fillings or can direct peopleto potential resources. For people who buy antique lamps, it is important to clean and check the lamp, wear special valve control and nozzles before they drive the lamp and test it. It is also advisable to test the carbide lamp in a controlled environment with a fire extinguisher if there is a problem.