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Bunsen Burner
Original price was: KSh 900.00.KSh 780.00Current price is: KSh 780.00.
- Base
- Gas Inlet
- Barrel: 5 to 13 cm in height.
- Collar
- Air Holes (Air Intake Valve)
- Description
- Reviews (0)
Description
Bunsen Burner
A Bunsen burner is a common piece of laboratory equipment that produces a single open gas flame, which is used for heating, sterilization, and combustion. It is named after Robert Bunsen, a German chemist, although the device was actually designed by Peter Desaga, a technician at the University of Heidelberg.
Components and Structure
- Base: A wide, heavy base that provides stability to the burner.
- Gas Inlet: A connector where the gas source, usually methane or natural gas, is attached.
- Barrel: A vertical metal tube where gas and air mix. The barrel is typically about 5 to 13 cm in height.
- Collar: An adjustable ring around the barrel that has air holes. The collar can be rotated to control the amount of air mixed with the gas.
- Air Holes (Air Intake Valve): Openings at the base of the barrel, just above the gas inlet, which allow air to enter and mix with the gas.
- Needle Valve: A valve that controls the flow of gas into the burner.
- Flame: The result of the gas-air mixture being ignited at the top of the barrel.
Operation
- Connecting to Gas Supply: Attach the rubber tubing from the gas source to the gas inlet of the Bunsen burner.
- Lighting the Burner:
- Ensure the collar is closed to limit air flow.
- Turn on the gas supply.
- Use a spark lighter or match to ignite the gas at the top of the barrel.
- Once ignited, adjust the collar to achieve the desired flame.
Types of Flames
- Yellow Safety Flame (Luminous Flame):
- Occurs when the air holes are mostly closed.
- Incomplete combustion, resulting in a cooler flame with temperatures around 300°C.
- Produces a yellow, luminous flame that is sooty and not ideal for heating as it leaves residues.
- Blue Flame (Non-Luminous Flame):
- Occurs when the air holes are open, allowing more air to mix with the gas.
- Complete combustion, producing a hotter and more efficient flame with temperatures up to 1500°C.
- Consists of two cones: an inner blue cone and an outer, almost invisible cone. The tip of the inner blue cone is the hottest part.
Safety Considerations
- Proper Ventilation: Always use in a well-ventilated area to avoid the accumulation of gas.
- Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect the tubing and connections for gas leaks.
- Use a Spark Lighter: To ignite the burner, use a spark lighter to avoid burns from matches.
- Adjust the Flame Properly: Ensure the correct flame is used for the specific task.
- Turn Off When Not in Use: Always turn off the gas supply immediately after use.
Applications
- Sterilization: Commonly used in microbiology labs for sterilizing equipment.
- Heating: Used to heat chemical substances during experiments.
- Combustion Reactions: Suitable for various combustion experiments.
- Melting and Boiling: Used to melt solids and boil liquids due to its high-temperature flame.
Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Keep the burner clean to prevent blockages in the gas inlet and air holes.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect for wear and tear, and replace any damaged parts.
By understanding the components, operation, safety measures, and applications of a Bunsen burner, users can effectively and safely utilize this essential laboratory tool.
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