Book Review
The Evolution of the Kerosene Mantle Burner
by Anton Kaim
Reviewed by M.J. Howell
After a brief introduction to lighting devices and fuels, the author begins tracing lighting technology from Leger's use of a flat wick in 1773 to Welsbach's 1885 application of the incandescent mantle to gas burners. Included are descriptions, and in many cases, patent drawings and documentation for early lamps such as Argand, Astral, Sinumbra, Moderator and Solar. The pre-mantle kerosene era covers developments by European companies such Hinks, Ditmar, Lempereur & Bernard, Wild & Wessel and Schwintzer & Graff to produce more light with less fuel.
The main focus of the book covers the period from 1892 through the 1960's and concerns the evolving changes in burner construction made by the various European and American companies in their attempt to perfect the kerosene mantle burner. Numerous photos, illustrations and patent drawings show the parts and construction of the many burners. Information about the manufacturing companies provides the reader additional perspective. Shown below is an example of the book's illustrations.
The extensive list of burners and manufacturing companies makes this book an excellent reference for burner and parts identification. For those wishing to understand the technical developments the author has provided a classification system grouping burners which share similar airflow construction. This book contains a great deal of information, including some concerning scarce or rare burners, that was previously unavailable and the author presents the information in an easy to read and understand manner. The Evolution of the Kerosene Mantle Burner is a very meaningful addition to the information on the subject.
The Evolution of the Kerosene Mantle Burner by Anton Kaim
English Language Edition, 2013, Softbound, 220 Pages, Illustrated, 8 1/4 by 11 3/4 Inches
Current Price: 65 Euros (Approx. $85.00) shipping included from The Netherlands
This book is available from the author; contact him directly for ordering details.
Availability Update - May, 2020:
The softbound volume has been replace with a new hard-bound book with 130 pages and 300 new images added. The Evolution of the Kerosene Mantle Burner is available new, hard-bound, for 39,99 Euro plus shipping. (Currently that is about $74.50, shipping included), from the author. Please contact him directly for ordering details before placing an order. Email: antonkaim@hotmail.com
Anton Kaim, Gemshoorn 46, 3068 HL Rotterdam, The Netherlands
The Rushlight Club Inc. www.rushlight.org