Abstract: The present invention relates to a heating device comprising a heat generating portion composed of a mixture of at least of ferric oxide, cupric oxide and trilead tetroxide powder and powder of silicon and/or silicon-iron alloy, a firing portion disposed contiguous to said heat generating portion and constituted by mixing boron or aluminum powder with at least one of ferric oxide, cupric oxide, barium peroxide and strontium peroxide powder, and an igniting portion situated adjacent to said firing portion and composed of a mixture of red phosphorus and potassium chlorate which is ignited by frictional heat or sparks of a flint. This heating device is capable of quick and easy heating of an object to be heated with no need of using any extraneous heating means. The invention also provides an instantaneous heater utilizing the heating device.

Abstract: An ignition system comprising a metal plate having a pyrogen on one side thereof, a turning shaft journalled by the plate, and a sparking wheel secured to the shaft. A flint is supported by the plate and pressed against the wheel. An opening is formed in the plate adjacent the wheel, and a screen is formed on the plate adjacent the opening. The screen deflects sparks through the opening to the pyrogen, and the screen is preferably angled to efficiently deflect the sparks. The igniter is mounted in a self-heating container for heating food or a liquid.