Hexamine fuel tablet

Esbit is an abbreviation for " Erich Schumms fuel in tablet form " and the brand name or trade name for a white, tableted fuel. It is used primarily for cooking and camping in toy steam engines. In competition with the denatured alcohol, which is used in alcohol stoves, it is often called dry alcohol.

History

Esbit 1936 was invented by the Swabian manufacturer Erich Schumm, who was also named for the product.

Components

Esbit is made of hexamine, also known as hexamethylenetetramine HMTA, which is pressed into cubes or block form. The calorific value is about 31,300 kJ / kg.

Storage

Esbit is hygroscopic and should be stored dry and tightly packed. In a humid environment, a bag with desiccant are enclosed.

Hazards

The safety data sheet indicates the following special dangers that can occur when dealing with Esbit (R- phrases):

• Highly flammable
• May cause sensitization by inhalation or skin contact.

In addition, the following safety advice given (S -phrases) are:

• Keep out of the reach of children
• Keep away from foodstuffs, beverages and feed
• Do not breathe dust
• Avoid contact with skin
• Material and its container must be disposed of in a safe way
• Wear suitable protective gloves
• In case of accident or if you feel unwell

When operating a toy steam engine with Esbit in enclosed spaces the following should be noted:

• The room should not be too small
• The room should be ventilated
• Use only small amounts
• Children should be supervised.

In addition, all risks need to be considered, arising from the combustibility and from open flame. However, it is not recommended by Esbit liquid fuels, such as To replace methylated spirits, because the attendant hazards are significantly larger.

Cooker

The manufacturer also offers a small, foldable cooker, where you can carry a standard pack of 6 Esbits à 14 g in the folded state. He is indeed for mobile use very light and compact, but is due to the low calorific value only as a last resort for heating small quantities. For the effective use also absolute calm is required. The minimalist stove is made of electrolytically galvanized steel.

The Esbit stove is used by the Bundeswehr and the Austrian Army to prepare the main dishes from the one-man pack. The French armed forces use a disposable models: The cooker consists of a pre-cut sheet is included in every pack, and only one man has to be opened.