What Materials and Features Distinguish Cheap from Premium Lighters?

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In summary, a cheap lighter made of metal will not melt off under normal use, while a more expensive lighter made of plastic may. The more expensive lighter is also likely to be more durable.
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prathu41
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was just curious to know what a cigarette lighter made of what metal they use in the exterior where the light comes out.what kind of plastic is used to hold the liquid?will the metal melt off if its switched on for a while? what's the difference between a $1 lighter and the $24 zippo lighter , other than the price?
 
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Not sure why this is in General Physics, but oh well. The answer to most of your questions is:
Whatever's cheap, while still being capable of doing the job.

Metal: probably tin or plated steel, something that's cheap, easy to work with, and won't severely oxidize when the lighter is used, or worse yet, melt under the likely flame temperature.

Plastic: polystyrene or polypropylene or something similar that'll resist the pressure they put the butane under, and won't be dissolved by the same lighter fluid. Oh yeah, did I mention cheap?

The Zippo (and similar lighters) aren't designed to be disposable lighters (they also use naptha oil, and a wick instead of liquidified butane). They're designed to last a long(ish) time, and possibly be used even as a fashion accessory. You're paying for all of the above, and probably for the brand name and premium as well.
 
  • #3
tanx for the info
 
  • #4
prathu41 said:
was just curious to know what a cigarette lighter made of what metal they use in the exterior where the light comes out.what kind of plastic is used to hold the liquid?will the metal melt off if its switched on for a while? what's the difference between a $1 lighter and the $24 zippo lighter , other than the price?

the lighter can divide two type: gas lighter and liquid lighter, it will burn out if it made of plastic, the metal will not melt off its switched on for a while.the price for a real zippo lighter at least over $1, you can distinguish from its weight heat resistant grade and flame,wind prevent capacity, such as, the weight of the real is more lighter than the imitation. and it will burn itself off even if I have bought one of http://www.uxsight.com/category/168555/cigarette-lighter.html" from a website store, I'd like to share with you, you can have a look if you are free.
 
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Related to What Materials and Features Distinguish Cheap from Premium Lighters?

1. What are the main components of a cigarette lighter?

The main components of a cigarette lighter include the metal casing, flint wheel, flint, wick, fuel tank, and the ignition mechanism.

2. How does a cigarette lighter ignite?

When the flint wheel is spun, it rubs against the flint and creates a spark. This spark ignites the fuel-soaked wick, which then produces a flame that can be used to light a cigarette.

3. What is the purpose of the fuel tank in a cigarette lighter?

The fuel tank holds the flammable liquid, typically butane, that is used to create the flame. When the flint wheel is turned, it releases a small amount of fuel onto the wick, allowing it to ignite.

4. How can I refill a cigarette lighter?

To refill a cigarette lighter, you will need to purchase a can of butane fuel and use a small screwdriver to loosen the valve on the bottom of the lighter. Carefully insert the nozzle of the butane can into the valve and press down to refill the fuel tank. Once full, replace the valve and wait a few minutes before using the lighter again.

5. Can a cigarette lighter explode?

While it is rare, a cigarette lighter can potentially explode if it is exposed to high heat or pressure. This is due to the flammable nature of the fuel inside the lighter. It is important to use caution when handling and storing a cigarette lighter, and to never leave it near a heat source or in a hot car.

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