A permanent match lighter, also known as a everlasting match or re-ignitable match, is a type of match that can be lit and extinguished multiple times. Unlike regular matchsticks, the permanent match lighter contains additional fuel and an ignition mechanism that allows it to be re-used over and over again.
Some of the key questions around how permanent match lighters work include:
– What is the fuel source and how is it stored?
– What is the ignition mechanism?
– How does the flame get extinguished after each use?
– What production methods and materials are used to make permanent match lighters?
This article provides an in-depth look into the components and functionality that enable a permanent match lighter to provide a reliable flame time and time again.
Fuel Source
The fuel source is one of the defining aspects of what makes a permanent match lighter different from a regular matchstick. Whereas regular matches use a solid mixture of chemicals at the tip as the fuel, permanent match lighters contain a reservoir that can hold liquid fuel.
Common types of fuel used in permanent match lighters include:
– Naphtha – A petroleum-based liquid hydrocarbon also known as lighter fluid.
– Butane – A colorless, flammable gas often used in lighters.
– Isobutane – Another flammable gas sometimes used instead of butane.
– Methanol – The simplest form of alcohol. Burns cleanly but is toxic.
The fuel reservoir is typically made of metal or heat-resistant plastic. It is designed to hold just enough fuel for hundreds or thousands of lights while limiting evaporation between uses.
The fuel delivery system brings the liquid fuel from the reservoir to the ignition area. This often consists of a simple wick that draws fuel through capillary action. Alternatives include a pressurized valve system that can deliver a spurt of gas each time.
Ignition Mechanism
The ignition mechanism is what produces the flame when the user activates the permanent match. There are two main types of ignition systems used:
Flint Wheel
– A small flint wheel made of ferrocerium is rotated against a metal striker.
– This creates sparks that ignite the fuel at the top of the wick/nozzle.
– The wheel can be turned to provide a continuous stream of sparks as needed.
– Often combined with a tamper to increase fuel vaporization.
Electric Arc
– An electric current jumps between two electrodes, creating an arc.
– The high voltage arc ignites the fuel vapor.
– Powered by batteries, a piezo generator, or other electric source.
– May use a push button or slider switch to activate arc.
Both the flint wheel and electric arc methods allow the ignition system to be activated multiple times while requiring little force or motion from the user. This durability and simplicity is key to enabling thousands of lights over the lifetime of a permanent match.
Flame Extinguishing
For safety and efficiency, the flame needs to be extinguished quickly and completely after each use of the permanent match lighter. There are a few ways this is accomplished:
– Automatic cut-off: The fuel supply is automatically cut off after a set time, around 5-10 seconds. This suffocates the flame.
– Shaking or tilting: The user gives the lighter a quick shake or tilt. This disrupts the fuel supply and separates the flame from the fuel source.
– Flip top cover: Some lighters have a top cover that can be closed to cut off oxygen and put out the flame.
– Fire-retardant casing: The metal or heat-resistant plastic casing is designed not to catch on fire. So the flame goes out on its own once the fuel flow stops.
Having a reliable flame extinguishing method means the lighter won’t continue burning and waste fuel after use. It’s an important safety feature as well.
Production and Materials
Permanent match lighters contain multiple components and require somewhat specialized production compared to regular matchsticks. Here are some details on how they are manufactured:
– Casing: Made from metal (brass, zinc alloy, etc.) or heat-resistant plastics via mold casting or injection molding. Two halves are joined together.
– Flint wheel: Cut from sheets of ferrocerium into tiny gears. Pins hold wheel in casing.
– Wick or nozzle: Cotton wicks threaded through fuel chamber. Or plastic nozzles with small fuel ports.
– Fuel reservoir: Fixed metal or plastic chamber filled with naphtha, butane or other fuels.
– Electric ignition: Miniature arc generator and circuitry installed if using electric arc design.
– Assembly: Components pieced together by hand or automated processes. Fuel added at end.
– Testing: Quality checks done on flame consistency, ignition system, fuel cut-off, number of lights, etc.
– Packaging: Protective blister pack, sleeve, box or case added for retail or bulk orders.
Advances in lighter manufacturing technology now allow permanent match lighters to be mass produced at costs low enough for the everyday consumer market. The result is a long-lasting, reusable lighter that provides an excellent return on investment over thousands of lights.
Benefits Over Regular Matches
There are several advantages that permanent match lighters have over single-use paper matches:
– Reusability – A single permanent match can provide hundreds to thousands of lights, compared to one light per matchstick. This makes them much more economical over the long run.
– Durability – The metal and plastic construction is far more durable than a paper and wood matchstick prone to breaking.
– Wind resistance – With an enclosed design and stronger flame, permanent match lighters work better than matches in windy conditions.
– Water resistance – The sealed casing also keeps the match lighter functional after getting wet, unlike paper matches.
– Portability – Compact size and one-hand operation is convenient for lighting on the go. Easier to carry than a matchbox.
– Safety – Enclosed frame prevents accidental ignition in pocket or purse. Flame extinguishes immediately after use.
The utility and reliability of a permanent match lighter makes it a great option for camping, household uses, emergency kits, and any application where having an ongoing ignition source is beneficial.
Types of Permanent Match Lighters
There are many varieties of permanent match lighters available that use the same basic fuel and ignition principles outlined above. Some notable types include:
– Regular lighters – The most common style, shaped like a short pen or small tube. Flint wheel for ignition.
– Mini lighters – Extra compact versions, but with reduced fuel capacity.
– Floating lighters – Lighter floats on water thanks to a sealed, air-filled base. Useful on boats.
– Candle lighters – Designed for vertically lighting candles, with a long nozzle.
– Utility lighters – Rugged, outdoor-oriented designs with extra fuel capacity. May include other tools.
– Decorative lighters – Artistic cases and themes, often given as gifts.
– Electric arc lighters – Modern, electronic lighters without flint wheels.
– Refillable lighters – Allow fuel replenishment through filling valves. More economical.
There are also disposable varieties of permanent match lighters that still offer increased reuse versus matches, but are not designed to be refilled when the initial fuel runs out.
Conclusion
Permanent match lighters represent an ingenious evolution of the simple matchstick. By incorporating a renewable fuel source and durable ignition mechanism, they provide a portable flame on demand for hundreds of lights. Careful construction seals the combustible fuel safely until needed, while leaving the lighting experience simple and instant. The convenience and reusable nature of permanent match lighters make them a versatile fire starting tool with many benefits compared to standard book matches. With a range of styles now available, there is a type of reusable permanent match lighter suitable for almost any application.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Fuel reservoir | Stores liquid fuel supply for hundreds of lights |
| Wick or nozzle | Transports fuel to ignition point |
| Flint wheel | Creates sparks to light fuel when turned |
| Electric arc | Uses electric current to ignite fuel |
| Casing | Encloses components, extinguishes flame |
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Regular | Standard pen-shaped lighter with flint wheel ignition |
| Mini | Smaller design with less fuel capacity |
| Floating | Can float on water thanks to air-filled base |
| Candle | Long nozzle for vertical candle lighting |
| Utility | Rugged, outdoor-oriented lighter with more fuel |
| Decorative | Artistic cases and themes, often given as gifts |
| Electric Arc | Modern, electronic lighter without flint wheel |
| Refillable | Allow fuel replenishment through filling valves |
