When Did Electric Lights Replace Carbide Lamps?

[Tailwinds]

I scored this yesterday....

At some point I want to put it on one of my bikes but I want it to be period-correct. The earliest bike I have right now is a '39.
So when did batteries take over for good???

 

[Uncle Stretch]

You might have to wait for one of the knowledgeable members. I know they still make carbide. I think you can order it online. They say its really bright and still will work like it use to. Do a google search if you want to make it work.

 

[SSG]

I dont pretend to be an expert on the subject but I think that electric, kerosene, and carbide lamps were sold alongside each other for some time. Electric lights for bicycles were sold as early as 1894 from what I've seen. I imagine your choice was out of preference. Electric lamps required long recharging, and bulbs might break on rough roads. Gas lamps had to be refilled with fuel, wicks trimmed, reflectors and lenses had to be wiped clean. I'm sure there were also considerations as to light output, price, etc. I believe electric became the preferred choice between 1910 and 1915. This holds true for motorcycles as well. Thats a nice looking lamp by the way. I've been meaning to grab one to stick an led and re-chargable battery in it.

 

[Tailwinds]

Yep that's what I plan to do as well, a modern interpretation. Obviously that lamp is missing a few of the doo-dads that help it operate as a functioning carbide lamp so I'll try to tastefully, and seamlessly convert it into an LED style.

........ but, if I can come across an old enough bike to put it on I'll just leave it be.

 

[Korporal]

If I remember correctly, the water reacts with the powder making a flammable gas. The brightness is controlled by the mixture of water and powder. It's been a few years, and I can't remember what the powder or gas are. I do remember lighting on up in a chem lab, and turning off all the lights. Pretty cool for a bunch of people that grew up solely with electricity.

 

[B607]

Carbide is mined from peat bogs. When mixed with water, carbide produces acetylene. It is dangerous stuff if you don't handle it properly and can be explosive. Coal miners used carbide lamps and I still have one that my grandfather used, along with his 50 year United Mine Workers pin. :!: Gary

 

[Korporal]

^^Acetylene! Same stuff in an oxy-acetylene torch, hence the danger. I used a specific carbide because we were in a chem lab, but I'm sure any kind will do.

50 years of mining is pretty wild. I can't imagine 50 seconds.

 

[deorman]

Calcium carbide. Some outdoor sporting goods stores carry it.