Construction of a Sparker from an Empty Piezoelectric Lighter

Figure A

    An extremely useful sparker used for initiating reactions of gas mixtures can be constructed from an empty (out of fuel) piezoelectric igniter such as an Aim-&-Flame.  The assembled device is shown in Figure A.

How to Build a Sparker.
    Make sure the piezoelectric lighter is completely out of fuel.  Use the pinch-nosed pliers to remove the end cap from the lighter.  Locate the terminal in the center of the barrel of the piezo lighter.  Click the lighter to observe a spark arcing between the terminal and the chassis of the lighter.  Solder two 8 cm lengths of 24-gauge wire leads to the chassis and piezo electrode as shown in Figure B.  Remove 5 mm of insulation from one end of each of the two pieces of wire.  The wire lead to the piezo electrode is formed into a small loop to slide onto the piezo electrode prior to soldering.  The cavity around the piezo electrode is then filled with hot glue which adds stability and provides insulation from arcing.  Place a band of electrician's tape around the wire leads close to the arcing end of the wires (Figure C).  Simultaneously cut both wires 2 mm beyond the tape band.  Do NOT remove insulation from the arcing leads;  the spark will easily jump and the insulation prevents the leads from making contact.  Place another band of electrician's tape around the chassis/wire lead solder joint to complete the project.  Click the lighter to check for spark.
 

Figure B

Figure C

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