Bunsen Burner Spirit with Wick (Glass Alcohol Lamp)

This glass spirit lamp (alcohol burner with wick) is a self-contained heat source and a portable alternative to a gas Bunsen burner. It's mainly used for gentle heating, flame-sterilising microbiology tools and lab demonstrations where there's no gas supply.

Core Components

• Reservoir: A glass container that holds the liquid fuel (select the size from the drop-down).
• Wick: A cotton or ceramic fibre wick that draws fuel up by capillary action.
• Cap: A glass or metal cover that puts the flame out by cutting off the oxygen.

Recommended Fuels

For a clean, soot-free flame, use alcohol of 90% or higher:

• Methylated spirits (denatured alcohol): The most common and affordable choice.
• Ethanol: Gives the cleanest flame and is preferred for safety in some labs.
• Isopropanol (isopropyl alcohol): Can be used, but may give more soot below 90%.

Safety and Care

• Filling: Fill the reservoir only between a quarter and two-thirds full. Overfilling can cause spills, and underfilling can let vapour build up.
• Putting it out: Always use the cap. Never blow the flame out, as hot alcohol can splash.
• Storage: If you won't use the lamp for several hours, pour the fuel back into its original container, as the caps are rarely airtight.
• Inspection: Always check for cracks or chips before lighting, as heat can shatter damaged glass.