I just bought mantles for my Vapalux 320. Due to some issues, I've got (in DIY store) Primus 730800 for butane lamp. They are pre-tied and the holes are too small for Vapalux/Tilley burner. I have idea to make holes bigger and replace the string with: 1.) wire from cycle brake cable; 2.) 0,5mm mild steel wire, zinc plated (from DIY store). What is your opinion? Will the brake cable wire burn in the process? (BTW, I've noticed proper mantles on some website).
I've used thin copper wire to tie mantles on or fuse wire also works great when the proper string breaks .
I have to trust you -- you are The Doctor... I was thinking that due to high temperature non-steel wire will melt. Copper is even more comfortable.
You can use light string or even cotton. Once the mantle is burnt in it will retain its shape anyway so you don't need stuff that won't burn just something to hold the mantle shape whilst it is being burnt in. ::Neil::
I regularly use a cheap 500cp mantle on both Tilley and Cialaddin lamps. These mantles are a little too big and also the holes too small to go over the burner nozzle. I cut the tie strings, top and bottom, wire them to the burner nozzle and spogot using very thin stainless steel wire. I then trim off the surplus material at top and bottom with sharp scissors. They work fine! As they are cheap, I use them for all my test burns after a refurb. Steve.
