How Small is a Hand Warmer?

The many hand warmer sizes give you a lot to choose from. You will find some that measure 4 x 2.5 x 0.5 inches, 5 x 3 x 1 and 4.3 x 2.2 x 0.7. Several models are no bigger than your hand.

Benefits

As the name makes plain, the purpose of the equipment is to keep your hands from getting cold. It is an essential tool for those who go snowmobiling, skiing and hiking.

The equipment keeps your hands warm when doing recreational activities. In cases of emergencies, it can keep the hands or feet warm. If you get stuck in a chilly place, the tool will stop the cold from getting to you.

Ingredients

The chemical warmers have many ingredients. Among the most important are salt, water, vermiculite, cellulose, activated carbon and iron. These elements are set in an oxygen-free container. For the chemicals to work, they must not interact with oxygen.

How the Warmers Work

Even though the hand warmer sizes differ, they all work by way of chemical reactions. After the container is unwrapped, oxygen begins to mix with the ingredients in the warmer. After the warmer is struck by oxygen, iron begins to oxidize. Heat is released.

The salt is another vital element because it functions as a catalyst. This is a substance that hastens the interaction of iron and oxygen. The polypropylene on the other hand, permits oxygen to flow without causing water evaporation.

Purpose of the Vermiculite and Carbon

The role of carbon is as a dispersal agent. This allows heat to be distributed into the warmer evenly. The vermiculite functions works as an insulator. What is does is stop heat from moving away and keeps the equipment warm.

DIY Warmers

Place sodium acetate in a saucepan. Add some water so it is dissolved. Heat it until near boiling point. Add and stir more sodium acetate. When solids appear in the saucepan bottom, stop stirring. Empty the liquid in another container. Do not put the solids in the container. Put this in the fridge until it has to be used.

When you have to use it, dip the edge of a spoon in the solids. Put this in the liquid container. The liquid will heat up and solidify. Put this in a bag and it is ready for utilization.

The hand warmer sizes are not that important compared to its warming ability. You have to make sure that the equipment is working properly.