Abstract: An acetylene gas generator is comprised of inner and outer nested chambers in which the inner chamber has a plurality of trays inserted therein, with a grid located above each tray. Water is provided to the inner chamber and is dispersed throughout the inner chamber by the grids to the trays containing calcium carbide or like material. Space between the inner and outer chambers is used to provide liquid cooling of the inner chamber.The generator can be used for a variety of purposes including the provision of acetylene for primary or auxiliary power for an internal combustion engine.