1930s Swiss Carbide Lamp

Description

This is a vintage Swiss Army - Medical Troops, Decker Phares & Cornets Carbide Lamp/Headlight, Neuchatel Switzerland. These Carbide Lamps … more This is a vintage Swiss Army - Medical Troops, Decker Phares & Cornets Carbide Lamp/Headlight, Neuchatel Switzerland. These Carbide Lamps were made in western Switzerland in first parts of 1900s. Beautiful with it's original old patina and it looks like never been used.

The body of the lamp consists of two containers placed one above the other. There is calcium carbide in the lower container of the lamp, onto which water drips from the upper container. Calcium carbide reacts with water to form ethyne and calcium hydroxide. The resulting ethyne gas (common name: acetylene) leaves the lower vessel through a short pipe ending in a burner fixed in front of a metal concave mirror. The escaping gas is ignited at the burner. The glaring flame is focused by the mirror and used for lighting. The nozzle used to be made of metal or soapstone, later made of ceramic. Calcium hydroxide (slaked lime) is the main residue left in the lower container. If the flame is disturbed by drafts or if it burns too big due to irregularly high pressure or if the nozzle is dirty, a lot of soot can be produced.

Could be perfect as Christmas decoration, a lovely vintage present or a perfect peace for your outdoor area.

Dimensions:
- Length: 20 cm (7.9")
- Width: 14 cm (5.5")
- Height: 27 cm (10.6")
- Weight: 1.650 g (3.64 lbs)

Please remember that items are preowned, vintage or antique and may show signs of wear and use. Please examine the pictures or video carefully. It is my sincere intent to provide an accurate description of all my items.

If you require more information or pictures, please contact me and I will be happy to answer any questions you may have before you make your purchase.

I ship registered with the tracking number. This item will also have additional insurance from the post.

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