Abstract: By externally mounting a resiliently flexible member about a valve stem so as to biasingly engage the valve stem with the valve housing in the closed position, a unique, self-contained, captured valve assembly is provided. In the preferred embodiment, the flexible biasing member comprises a rubber material which peripherally surrounds the valve stem and the valve housing. This valve assembly is particularly useful in gas lighters of the butane fuel type, since the preferred embodiment provides a seal against leakage and secondary ignition.

Abstract: By forming a plurality of substantially parallel grooves in the peripheral surface of a cylindrical spark wheel blank, and then rolling the grooved spark wheel blank between at least two cooperating dies, an inexpensive, unique spark wheel is rapidly and efficiently formed having a multitude of ramp top surfaces terminating in raised sharp cutting edges and burrs throughout its outer peripheral surface. The spark wheel blank must rotate between the dies sufficiently to impart the desired abrasive characterisic to the spark wheel surface. The dies employed in the process of this invention must incorporate either a plurality of cutting edges which are spaced closely enough to prevent the spark wheel from bottoming out on the die during the rolling step or relief channels at the base of each cutting surface which prevent destruction of the abrasive spark wheel surface.