I'm using a piezoelectric igniter (brand name, Lightnin' Bug, sold for acetylene torches) which I bought specifically so I wouldn't have to keep matches around the kitchen. I've tried it on my stove, it won't work, on a butane lighter, on a paper towl soaked with ether. Nothing lights! I'm astonished.
Is the ignition energy for acetylene THAT MUCH lower than that of producer gas, that these sparks won't light anything else...? I know that the spark TEMPERATURE should be high enough, and I had read of a piezo device being used to ignite wood alcohol, that's why I figured it would have to work. 10 points to the one who can clear up this mystery for me.
(In the meantime, please don't be worried, on my behalf. I've gone back to using matches for the time being, there are no kids or pets in the house and I'm not leaving flammables around. I'm in no danger of fire or explosion.)
2007-02-11
01:36:38
·
7 answers
·
asked by
cdf-rom
7
in
Physics