DAVY LAMP Meaning and
Definition
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The Davy Lamp is a safety lamp designed and invented by Sir Humphry Davy in the early 19th century. It was primarily developed to prevent explosions in coal mines caused by the ignition of flammable gases present in the atmosphere. The lamp consists of a cylindrical metal base, usually made of brass or copper, with a glass enclosure surrounding its flame.
The design of the Davy Lamp includes several innovative features that mitigate the risk of explosions. The glass enclosure acts as a barrier, preventing the flame inside from igniting the surrounding methane gas. Importantly, the glass is equipped with wire gauze or metal mesh around it, acting as a flame arrestor. The mesh enables the heat to be dissipated, lowering the temperature of the surrounding flammable gases and reducing the likelihood of ignition.
By incorporating these safety features, the Davy Lamp significantly improved the conditions for miners working in hazardous environments. It allowed them to detect the presence of methane or other flammable gases by observing the behavior of the lamp flame. For instance, if the flame became elongated or separated from the gauze, it indicated the presence of dangerous concentrations of gas.
The Davy Lamp revolutionized mining safety and was widely used throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its invention led to a significant reduction in explosions and subsequent loss of life in coal mines, safeguarding the well-being of miners around the world.
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A form of lamp whose light is surrounded by fine wire gauze, invented by Sir Humphrey Davy, used in workings subject to explosions of fire-damp.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for DAVY LAMP
- savy lamp
- xavy lamp
- cavy lamp
- favy lamp
- ravy lamp
- eavy lamp
- dzvy lamp
- dsvy lamp
- dwvy lamp
- dqvy lamp
- dacy lamp
- daby lamp
- dagy lamp
- dafy lamp
- davt lamp
- davg lamp
- davh lamp
- davu lamp
- dav7 lamp
Etymology of DAVY LAMP
The word "Davy Lamp" was named after its inventor, Sir Humphry Davy. It was created by Davy in 1815 as a safety lamp for use in coal mines. The lamp was designed to prevent methane and coal dust explosions by enclosing the flame in a wire mesh cage, which allowed ventilation and prevented the flame from igniting the flammable atmosphere. The Davy Lamp played a significant role in improving the safety conditions for miners during the Industrial Revolution.
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