NEIMME: Lamps
No. 56.
WOLF LAMP.
Made by Wolf, Leeds.
This lamp is very similar to No. 55.
In this case there are two 30 mesh iron gauzes and an enamelled dome is fitted round the burner to produce better combustion and, therefore, more luminous flame and to reflect light upwards and outwards.
Tightness of fitting on assembly of gauzes and glass is assured by leaf springs under the middle ring.
(See description of No. 55).
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No. 56 A. WOLF ACETYLENE SAFETY LAMP. Click to view image |
CONSTRUCTION.
The top of the lamp is Marsaut pattern, with two 30 mesh brass gauzes.
Burner. Vertical jet acetylene burner.
Lock. Screw.
Air intake is from the middle ring, through the gauzes and down to the flame, augmented by a supply below the glass, through a small gauze cylinder to the flame.
Generator. The generator can be unscrewed when the carbide container
can be separated from the water vessel above it by releasing the lever clamp.
Igniter. A friction igniter is normally fitted. (missing in this specimen,)
HISTORICAL NOTE.
The acetylene lamp was introduced for its increased candle power. Its use was largely limited to shaft examinations etc.
An acetylene flame is excellent also for gas testing. Acetylene lamps have not been approved because the flame is so easily extinguished and relighting them when full of an explosive mixture might be dangerous.
Many attempts have been made, even between 1930-40 to devise an acetylene lamp which would not be so easily put out and thus removing the dangerous feature. Professor Wheeler, after repeated trials, concluded that it could not be done. Mr. Dargue of Newcastle, did devise a pressure controlled water feed which gave excellent results. The shape and dimensions of his lamp, however, were ungainly and impracticable.