The use of petroleum allowed large-scale lighting systems to be undertaken by utilising its vapour. This had the great advantage of eliminating the need for the factories manufacturing oil. The transportation and handling of fuel was therefore greatly simplified.

The first petroleum vapour burners would be put in place in 1898 with 30mm diameter angled tubes. The dimensions would be increased as and when necessary in order to obtain 55 and 85mm diameter burners.

After the war, the principle was slightly modified. This would enable 30mm, 50mm and and 80mm diameter fittings to be used.

LAMPS WITH WICKS

These lamps would be used as standby lamps for petroleum vapour groups.

• 1st generation lamps with cylindrical reservoir (after 1900)
  This model was distinguishable by its weight, an internal ventilation chimney and by a retainer which permitted the placing of the cylinder on the lamp’s support. The reservoir is made of brass. The lamp’s burner is cylindrical only.

• 1st generation Aladdin-type petroleum lamp with tube
  Having no internal chimney with retainer and tube. The reservoir is made of brass. The lamp has lateral ventilation (“Aladdin” system). There is therefore no further need for an internal chimney. The reservoir is quite heavy.

• 2nd generation Aladdin-type petroleum lamp with tubeSame model as the preceding one but with neither chimney nor retainer, lighter in weight and made of repoussé brass. Stainless steel burner.

• 3rd generation Aladdin-type lamp with tube
  Same model as the preceding one, with very light repoussé brass reservoir. Burner in sheet of serrated brass.