Scandinavian Copper Liten Ovn-circa 1950s

There are several variations of “alcohol burning “vessels going as far back as 1850.
Initially invented for flame sterilizing small lab equipment, such as needles, because of their precision and constant flame. In scientific labs, the methane gas Bunsen Burner was the most commonly used but it was hotter than alcohol, so alcohol was best used for cooler temperatures needs.
By the late 1800s, alcohol burners were being used in the outdoors for heating, lighting and cooking. A small copper-made alcohol burner was preferred for camping when the need for fire was modest.
There are many benefits of copper alcohol burners for outdoor use. They are safer because alcohol for fuel is less volatile than other sources, which reduces the risk of accidental spills and large fires if the burner is knocked over, though a fire risk still exists it is indeed lower.
They are portable and easy to carry, making them useful for camping or in situations where you need to take your heat source with you. Alcohol burners produce a smokeless and residue-free flame, making them cleaner to use. They are low-maintenance, easy to refill, and the fuel is inexpensive and readily available if you need a flame that remains steady without dripping or sputtering. Copper alcohol burners work with denatured alcohol, ethanol, or methanol as fuel. Denatured alcohol is a popular choice because it burns cleanly with the least amount of soot and odor, as well as being widely available. Ethanol can also be used, but it is expensive and often taxed, while methanol is another option, though it is toxic.
Denatured alcohol can burn anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours, depending on the amount of fuel, burner design and reservoir size. A common rule of thumb is that one ounce of alcohol burns for about 10 minutes, but this can be extended significantly with accessories like the simmer rings.
This design is known as a Scandinavian model made in the 20th century. Small copper alcohol burners were called a "liten spis" (Swedish), "liten ovn" (Norwegian), or "lille ovn" (Danish), which translates to "small stove". Smaller, portable burners with metal bases or a rest, might have been called a "kökspanna" or "kökskärl" (Swedish for"cooking pot" or "kitchen vessel") might apply depending on its function and design. This burner is designed to be “wickless” in a way. There is a small ceramic fiber internal wick built inside the fuel reservoir that has an open wall that acts as the air flow tube via capillary action. As the burner is lit by match, the heat from the initial flame travels up the copper walls while warming the alcohol vapor inside and making it easier to burn.
The vapor exits the copper vessel through small ports, where it mixes with oxygen in the air and is ignited. The copper vessel continues to heat the alcohol, ensuring a steady supply of vapor and a consistent flame. The internal wick is protected by the copper tube and never burns, eliminating the need for replacement.
The design provides more even heat distribution compared to traditional burners. These type burners are typically made of all-copper with a sealed, screw-on top, “scissor snuffers”, or a tip-resistant cover to make them a safer alternative to glass burners.

MemoryLaneVintiques picked this item from the estate of Major Bruce A. Cole of Lewisville, TX
Weighs: 12.2 ounces
Burner/Reservoir: 2.5” X 3.5”
Total Length: 8.5”
Just Handle Length: 5.25” (has finger rest)
Great Condition and Patina

MemoryLaneVintiques sanitizes all glassware, jewelry, resin made, wooden and glazed pottery before packing for shipment....100% Guaranteed!
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