Carbide or acetylene lamps have been a long time favorite with many cavers due to their strong dependable light. Carbide lamps also are very economical to use as you get hours of light from pennies worth of calcium carbide. The lamps work by dripping water (H2O) on to calcium carbide (CaC2) which react together to produce acetylene (C2H2) gas and waste product. The gas is ignited at the jet, producing a bright, clean light. The spent carbide should be removed from caves. Spent carbide is unsightly and does nothing for the beauty of caves. It is also toxic to cave life.
Petzl
Junior Carbide Lamp
The caver needs a reliable
helmet‑mounted lamp which lights up the whole field of vision. The Petzl
carbide‑only Junior lighting unit is suited to the above needs. It
features a reliable piezoelectric igniter which allows the flame to be lit
instantly. It has a built‑in parabolic reflector to put the light where
you want it. Use with acetylene generator E50 listed in this section. Weight
5.7oz.(160g). Made in
Catalog #E07 Junior Carbide Lamp
Petzl
Lazer
The Petzl Lazer combines carbide
light with a high tech electric light. It is not affected by waterfalls or
droughts. The focusable electric light provides a beam of light for distant
objects. The carbide provides a softer, diffused light for general navigation
and movement. Features a piezo‑electric ignition spring‑loaded
parabolic reflector and mount allows the light to absorb unexpected blows.
Electric light uses a 4.5 volt flat battery, or three AA cells with optional
adapter. Batteries not included. Use with E50 acetylene generator listed in
this section. Weight 8.8oz.(250g). Made in
Catalog #E30 Lazer Light
Catalog #E06 Optional
Catalog #MN1203 4.5 V Flat
Petzl
Ariane Acetylene Generator
The plastic Acetylene Gas Generator is light and durable.
Cylindrical body does not catch or jam, and the waist‑mount allows a
great range of motion. Holds 7oz.(200g) of carbide and will generate gas for up
to 8 hours. Weight 14oz.(396g). Made in
Catalog #E50 Ariane Gas Generator