kerosene/paraffin

[andybingley]

Hello every one this is my first post, after lurking for a couple of weeks. What have some of you guys got against kerosene (sussed that you were referring to "paraffin" english translation after a while) I have a couple of paraffin lamps Bialaddin/Vapalux types for electricity outages/emergencies etc. Great lanterns much brighter than anything with batteries in (my oppinion).

 

[PaulW]

Hi Andy. I have nothing against paraffin lamps. In fact I prefer them to electical types for some occasions -- when I have a special dinner with my lady, etc.

I must admit I'm not familiar with the types used for emergencies such as the ones you mention. I don't think they would qualify as "flashlights," but it sounds like they are indeed "lanterns," and I would like to learn more about them.

That raises the question -- does it have to be electrical to be discussed here? I suspect not, but don't know for sure. I look forward to watching this thread as the discussion unfolds.

Meanwhile, thanks for posting. I welcome your opinions, views, and knowledge.

 

[andybingley]

Sorry for replying to my own post (in effect) maybe I should have posted this at the same time, but if you want to know more about Bialaddin and Vapalux try this address www.bairstowbrothers.co.uk hope this converts to a link otherwise just cut and paste. Andy

 

[Short Circuit]

Welcome to CPF. Kerosene lantrens/lamps do belong here.

I use the Aladdin lamps most evening.

 

[Kirk]

Hi Andy,
Welcome to CPF. There's a thread down below with some info and opinions on the Aladdin kerosene/paraffin lanterns. I have an Aladdin and use it every so often when I want some light and heat, and also as standby in case of a power failure. Does the Vapalux make any noise when it is "on"? The Aladdin is totally silent and I like it much better than a pressurized lantern that hisses, sometimes loudly.
Kirk

 

[andybingley]

Hi Kirk. Yes Vapalux lanterns are pressurised and do hiss a bit, but not that loudly. The things are so bright that if you don't like the hiss you can just move it a bit further away. Give out a lot of heat too.

I have had a look at some of the other threads but keep coming accross posts about paraffin lanterns being unsafe and smelly (in my opinion not so).

I have not used unpressurised lamps my self. Does pressurised combustion stop the paraffin smelling?

 

[sunspot]

I use antique glass lanterns that use petroleum spirit. I must admit that the pressurised paraffin lanterns that Vapalux has are very nice looking. Thanks for bringing them to CPF.
I'm off to ebay to look for one in brass.

 

[Kirk]

Andy,
The smell depends on the quality of the fuel. Cheap, nasty fuel = nasty smell. I've been using "ultra-pure lamp oil" in my Aladdin and have been very pleased as there is almost no odor even if you put your nose over the chimney. Others say good quality #1 kerosene works perfectly well. I think I got some #12 kerosene because it really stank!
Kirk

 

[inverno]

I'd stick with the Lamplight Farms regular lamp oil, which is highly refined kero/paraffin with almost no odor. I've seen warnings against the oil-candle type more viscous fuels (unless, of course, it's for an oil-candle) and plus, they cost a lot more.

 

[IlluminatingBikr]

[ QUOTE ]
andybingley said:
Hello every one this is my first post, after lurking for a couple of weeks. What have some of you guys got against kerosene (sussed that you were referring to "paraffin" english translation after a while) I have a couple of paraffin lamps Bialaddin/Vapalux types for electricity outages/emergencies etc. Great lanterns much brighter than anything with batteries in (my oppinion).

[/ QUOTE ]

What a typicl first post. They always like to lurk around and then when they have a question, and can't resist, they sign up.

Secondly, I don't see how any member of CPF could like lanterns over flashlights. Sorry Andy, but you have just got to love them flashlights. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[PaulW]

Yes, I lurked too, until I felt I had to say something. Doesn't everyone? /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

 

[andybingley]

[ QUOTE ]
Illuminatingbikr said:
What a typicl first post. They always like to lurk around and then when they have a question, and can't resist, they sign up.

Secondly, I don't see how any member of CPF could like lanterns over flashlights. Sorry Andy, but you have just got to love them flashlights. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Hi Illuminatingbikr,

Yes do love them flashlights. I own a 4D Mag, an AA Minimag, an Inova X5T and since joining CPF have a Surefire L1 and Pelican M6 on order. Lanterns serve a different purpose. What I am looking for is long running time and bright area (fill the the room type of thing, not directional) light. In my opinion battery powered lanterns can not compete with my Bialaddin or Vapalux.

Andy

 

[EMPOWERTORCH]

Sometimes on camping trips I will take a kerosene lamp as it provides heat and light. The heat is welcome at the end and beginning of the camping season when it can be quite cold at night. They're very cheap to run, too.
The drawback of them is that they are very delicate due to the glass chimney, and of course they require you to carry liquid fuel. However, 300ml of fuel should be enough to run a small lamp for several evenings.
Kerosene lamps are easily found at "flea markets" and car-boot-sales and come in many shapes, sizes and colours. I at one time started to collect them before I became more interested in torches!
***********************************************************
Does anyone know a UK supplier of round wicks?

 

[Ray_of_Light]

The only time I will resort to organic fuels will be when they will be used in a D size "catalist" cell. Or may in a 123 size "catalist" cell, to keep an ARC LS on for 100 hrs. I'm serious, I read that somebody in Europe is trying to bring combustible cells to mass market...

Anthony