Flint spark lighter

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

A flint spark lighter in action.
Enlarge
A flint spark lighter in action.

A flint spark lighter (sometimes just called a spark lighter or a flint lighter) is a type of lighter used in many applications to safely light a gaseous fuel to start a flame. It is most commonly used for bunsen burners and oxyacetylene welding torches.

[edit] How It Works

A flint spark lighter works by rapidly rubbing a steel bar against a rough flint surface (also called the rasp), in much the same way flint and steel are used. This manual rubbing action, done by squeezing the handle, creates a spark which then lights whatever gaseous fuel it is used by.