Open Flame/Microburner User Guide

What Is an Open Flame / Microburner?

A microburner is a type of gas burner used to heat substances, combust substances, and sterilize objects at high temperatures. A needle valve on the burner helps control the amount of air drawn into the burner — more air results in a hotter flame. The flame temperature is adjusted based on user input.

What Microburners Are Available in the Wet Lab Makerspace?

In the Wet Lab Makerspace, we have three butane burners. For more information about our butane burners, [link to microburners page].

The butane burners are located in the Flammables Cabinet within the fume hood in the Chemistry Room (EXP 225B).

Butane burners stored in the Flammables Cabinet

Safety Considerations

  • Tie back long hair, if necessary.
  • Minimum PPE in the Open Lab: lab coat, safety glasses, and gloves.
  • Kept in an open space with nothing overhead that could pose a fire hazard.
  • Familiarize yourself with how to properly turn off the gas and extinguish the flame.
  • Never leave a lit burner unattended, and extinguish it when finished.

Operating Instructions

1. Preparation

  • Ensure the work area is clear of flammable materials.
  • Gather all necessary equipment and materials.
  • Place the butane burner on a stable, non-flammable surface in an open area with nothing overhead to prevent fire hazards.
Butane burner placed on a stable surface in an open area
  • Ensure the gas supply is connected securely to the burner.
Gas supply connected securely to the butane burner

2. Check for Leaks

  • Inspect the gas connections for leaks before lighting the burner.

3. Lighting the Burner

  • Open the gas valve slightly until you can hear a hissing sound.
Opening the gas valve on the butane burner
  • Use a lighter to ignite the gas at the top of the burner.
  • Adjust the gas flow to achieve a steady flame.

4. Adjusting the Flame

  • Use the air intake control to adjust the flame:
    • A yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion (safety risk).
    • A blue flame is ideal for heating.
Butane burner with a yellow flame indicating incomplete combustion
Butane burner with a blue flame ideal for heating

5. Using the Flame

  • Always keep flammable materials away from the flame.
  • Use appropriate equipment (e.g., beakers, test tubes) to avoid direct contact.

6. Extinguishing the Flame

  • Close the gas valve to extinguish the flame.
  • Allow the burner to cool before handling.

7. Cleanup

  • Turn off all equipment and clean the work area.
  • Store the burner and related materials safely in the Flammables Cabinet in the Chemistry Room.
Butane burner and materials stored in the Flammables Cabinet

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