Carbide Lamp

Description: Carbide miner's lamp consists of a reservoir for holding the fuel (B) that screws into the main part of the lamp (A). The reservoir has screw threads at the top and a rubber 'o' ring to seal it. The main part of the lamp has a large circular reflector, inside which is a spigot for releasing the f…

Sub-Category: LIGHTING DEVICE; MINING AND MINERAL HARVESTING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

Description: Carbide miner's lamp consists of a reservoir for holding the fuel (B) that screws into the main part of the lamp (A). The reservoir has screw threads at the top and a rubber 'o' ring to seal it. The main part of the lamp has a large circular reflector, inside which is a spigot for releasing the fuel and a flint. On the top of the main part of the lamp is a flip top lid for refueling and a piece of wire that swivels. Inscribed on the top of the lamp is 'Guy's Dropper/On/Off/Pat.5.26.14 .9.19.16'. On the back of the lamp are two pieces of wire and a hook for hanging it on a hard hat.

History Of Use: Carbide lamps were a great advance over oil lamps and candles. This type of lamp was in common use by 1905 provided a bright light. It was also much safer and healthier for the miners as it did not produce any carbon monoxide and very little carbon diox