Does my alcohol burner have a problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the performance of an alcohol burner using methylated spirits (C2H6O). Users note that while ethanol typically burns with a blue flame, their burner produces an orange-yellow flame. This phenomenon is attributed to the presence of impurities in methylated spirits, which can cause incomplete combustion and a yellow flame. The burning of the wick is also acknowledged as a normal occurrence in this context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of combustion chemistry
  • Familiarity with methylated spirits (C2H6O)
  • Knowledge of flame characteristics and colors
  • Basic principles of alcohol burners
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of impurities in methylated spirits on combustion
  • Learn about the combustion process of ethanol and its flame characteristics
  • Investigate wick materials and their interaction with different fuels
  • Explore troubleshooting techniques for alcohol burners
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists using alcohol burners, chemists interested in combustion processes, and anyone troubleshooting issues with flame characteristics in alcohol-based fuel systems.

z.js
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I have an alcohol burner running on methylated spirits(C2H6O) and Wikipedia says that ethanol burns with a blue flame. Why does my burner burn with a orange-yellow flame? and it burns the wick a little as well. :confused:
 
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z.js said:
and it burns the wick a little as well.

That's why you get the orange flame. Take pure spirit in a spoon and light it. You will get a blue flame.
 
z.js said:
and it burns the wick a little as well.

Is this normal?
 
z.js said:
Is this normal?

Yes.
 

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