Chapter XXXI: Appendix: Descriptions of a Number of Acetylene Generators as Made in the Year 1909 (1)

(_The purpose of this Appendix is explained in Chapter IV., page 111, and a special index to it follows the general index at the end of this book._)

AMERICA--CANADA.

_Maker_: SICHE GAS CO., LTD., GEORGETOWN, ONTARIO.

_Type_: Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Siche" generator made by this firm consists of a water-tank _A_, having at the bottom a sludge agitator _N_ and draw-off faucet _O_, and rigidly secured within it a bell-shaped generating chamber _B_, above which rises a barrel containing the feed chamber _C_, surmounted by the carbide chamber _D_. The carbide used is granulated or of uniform size. In the generating chamber _B_ is an annular float _E_, nearly filling the area of the chamber, and connected, by two rods passing, with some lateral play, through apertures in the conical bottom of the feed chamber _C_, to the T-shaped tubular valve _F_. Consequently when the float shifts vertically or laterally the rods and valves at once move with it. The angle of the cone of the feed chamber and the curve of the tubular valve are based on the angle of rest of the size of carbide used, with the object of securing sensitiveness of the feed. The feed is thus operated by a very small movement of the float, and consequently there is but very slight rise and fall of the water in the generating chamber. Owing to the lateral play, the feed valve rarely becomes concentric with its seat. There is a cover _G_ over the feed valve _F_, designed to distribute the carbide evenly about the feed aperture and to prevent it passing down the hollow of the valve and the holes through which the connecting-rods pass. It also directs the course of the evolved gas on its way to the service-pipe through the carbide in the feed chamber _C_, whereby the gas is dried. The carbide chamber _D_ has at its bottom a conical valve, normally open, but closed by means of the spindle _H_, which is engaged at its upper end by the closing screw-cap _J_, which is furnished with a safelocking device to prevent its removal until the conical valve is closed and the hopper chamber _D_ thereby cut off from the gas-supply. The cap _J_, in addition to a leather washer to make a gas-tight joint when down, has a lower part fitting to make an almost gas-tight joint. Thus when the cap is off; the conical valve fits gas-tight; when it is on and screwed down it is gas-tight; and when on but not screwed down, it is almost gas-tight. Escape of gas is thus avoided. A special charging funnel _K_, shown in half-scale, is provided for inserting in place of the screw cap. The carbide falls from the funnel into the chamber _D_ when the chain is pulled. A fresh charge of carbide may be put in while the apparatus is in action. The evolved gas goes into the chamber _C_ through a pipe, with cock, to a dust-arrester _L_, which contains a knitted stocking lightly filled with raw sheep's wool through which the gas passes to the service- pipe. The dust-arrester needs its contents renewing once in one, two, or three years, according to the make of gas. The pressure of the gas is varied as desired by altering the height of water in the tank _A_. When cleaning the machine, the water must never be run below the top of the generating chamber.

AMERICA--UNITED STATES.

_Maker:_ J. B. COLT CO., 21 BARCLAY STREET, NEW YORK.

_Type:_ Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Colt" generator made by this firm comprises a carbide hopper mounted above a generating tank containing water, and an equalising bell gasholder mounted above a seal-pot having a vent-pipe _C_ communicating with the outer air. The carbide hopper is charged with 1/4 x 1/12 inch carbide, which is delivered from it into the water in the generating tank in small portions at a time through a double valve, which is actuated through levers connected to the crown of the equalising gasholder. As the bell of the gasholder falls the lever rotates a rock shaft, which enters the carbide hopper, and through a rigidly attached lever raises the inner plunger of the feed-valve. The inner plunger in turn raises the concentric outer stopper, thereby leaving an annular space at the base of the carbide hopper, through which a small delivery of carbide to the water in the generating tank then ensues. The gas evolved follows the course shown by the arrows in the figure into the gasholder, and raises the bell, thereby reversing the action of the levers and allowing the valve to fall of its own weight and so cut off the delivery of carbide. The outer stopper of the valve descends before the inner plunger and so leaves the conical delivery mouth of the hopper free from carbide. The inner plunger, which is capped at its lower end with rubber, then falls and seats itself moisture-tight on the clear delivery mouth of the hopper. The weight of the carbide in the hopper is taken by its sides and a projecting flange of the valve casing, so that the pressure of the carbide at the delivery point is slight and uniform. The outside of the delivery mouth is finished by a drip collar with double lip to prevent condensed moisture creeping upwards to the carbide in the hopper. A float in the generating tank, by its descent when the water falls below a certain level, automatically draws a cut off across the delivery mouth of the carbide hopper and so prevents the delivery of carbide either automatically or by hand until the water in the generating tank has been restored to its proper level. Interlocking levers, (11) and (12) in the figure, prevent the opening of the feed valve while the cap (10) of the carbide hopper is open for recharging the hopper. There is a stirrer actuated by a handle (9) for preventing the sludge choking the sludge cock. The gas passes into the gasholder through a floating seal, which serves the dual purpose of washing it in the water of the gasholder tank and of preventing the return of gas from the holder to the generating tank. From the gasholder the gas passes to the filter (6) where it traverses a strainer of closely woven cotton felt for the purpose of the removal of any lime.

Drip pipes (30) and (31) connected to the inlet- and outlet-pipes of the gasholder are sealed in water to a depth of 6 inches, so that in the event of the pressure in the generator or gasholder rising above that limit the surplus gas blows through the seal and escapes through the vent-pipe _C_. There is also a telescopic blow-off (32) and (33), which automatically comes into play if the gasholder bell rises above a certain height.

_Maker:_ DAVIS ACETYLENE CO., ELKHARDT, INDIANA.

_Type:_ Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Davis" generator made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder with double walls, the inner wall surrounding a central tube rising from the top of the generating chamber, in which is placed a water-sealed carbide chamber with a rotatory feeding mechanism which is driven by a weight motor. The carbide falls from the chamber on to a wide disc from which it is pushed off a lump at a time by a swinging displacer, so arranged that it will yield in every direction and prevent clogging of the feeding mechanism. Carbide falls from the disk into the water of the generating chamber, and the evolved gas raises the bell and so allows a weighted lever to interrupt the action of the clockwork, until the bell again descends. The gas passes through a washer in the gasholder tank, and then through an outside scrubber to the service-pipe. There is an outside chamber connected by a pipe with the generating chamber, which automatically prevents over-filling with water, and also acts as a drainage chamber for the service- and blow-off-pipes. There is an agitator for the residuum and a sludge-cock through which to remove same. The feeding mechanism permits the discharge of lump carbide, and the weight motor affords independent power for feeding the carbide, at the same time indicating the amount of unconsumed carbide and securing uniform gas pressure.

_Maker:_ SUNLIGHT GAS MACHINE CO., 49 WARREN STREET, NEW YORK.

_Type:_ Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Omega" apparatus made by this firm consists of a generating tank containing water, and surmounted by a hopper which is filled with carbide of 1/4-inch size. The carbide is fed from the hopper into the generating tank through a mechanism consisting of a double oscillating cup so weighted that normally the feed is closed. The fall of the bell of the equalising gasholder, into which the gas evolved passes, operates a lever _B_, which rotates the weighted cup in the neck of the hopper and so causes a portion of carbide to fall into the water in the generating tank. The feed-cup consists of an upper cup into which the carbide is first delivered. It is then tipped from the upper cup into the lower cup while, at the same time, further delivery from the hopper is prevented. Thus only the portion of carbide which has been delivered into the lower cup is emptied at one discharge into the generator. There is a safety lock to the hopper cap which prevents the feeding mechanism coming into operation until the hopper cap is screwed down tightly. Provision is made for a limited hand-feed of carbide to start the apparatus. The gasholder is fitted with a telescoping vent-pipe, by which gas escapes to the open in the event of the bell being raised above a certain height. There is also an automatic cut-off of the carbide feed, which comes into operation it the gas is withdrawn too rapidly whether through leakage in the pipes or generating plant, or through the consumption being increased above the normal generating capacity of the apparatus. The gas evolved passes into a condensing or washing chamber placed beneath the gasholder tank and thence it travels to the gasholder. From the gasholder it goes through a purifier containing "chemically treated coke and cotton" to the supply-pipe.

1 Vent-cock handle. 2 Residuum-cock handle. 3 Agitator handle. 4 Filling funnel. 5 Water overflow. 6 Hopper cap and lever. 7 Starting feed. 8 Rocker arm. 9 Feed connecting-rod. A Pawl. B Lever for working feed mechanism. C Guide frame. D Residuum draw-off cock. G Chain from hopper cap to feed mechanism. H Blow-off and vent-pipe connexion. I Gas outlet from generator. J Gas service-cock. K Filling funnel for gasholder tank. L Funnel for condensing chamber. M Gas outlet at top of purifier. N Guides on gas-bell. O Crosshead on swinging pawl. P Crane carrying pawl. Q Shaft connecting feed mechanism. R Plug in gas outlet-pipe. S Guide-frame supports. U Removable plate to clean purifier. Z Removable plate to expose feed-cups for cleaning same.

AUSTRIA-HUNGARY

_Maker:_ RICH. KLINGER, GUMPOLDSKIRCHEN, NEAR VIENNA.

_Type:_ Non-automatic; carbide-to-water.

The generating plant made by this firm consists of the generator _A_ which is supported in a concrete water and sludge tank _B_, a storage gasholder _J_, and purifiers _K_. In the top of the generator are guide-ways _F_, through each of which is passed a plunger _C_ containing a perforated cage charged with about 8 lb. of lump carbide. The plungers are supported by ropes passing over pulleys _D_, and when charged they are lowered through the guide-ways _F_ into the water in the tank _B_. The charge of carbide is thus plunged at once into the large body of water in the tank, and the gas evolved passes through perforations in the washer _G_ to the condenser _H_ and thence to the storage gasholder _J_. After exhaustion of the charge the plungers are withdrawn and a freshly charged cage of carbide inserted ready for lowering into the generating tank. There is a relief seal _f_ through which gas will blow and escape by a pipe _g_ to the open should the pressure within the apparatus exceed the depth of the seal, viz., about 9 inches. There is a syphon pot _N_ for the collection and withdrawal of condensed water. The sludge is allowed to accumulate in the bottom of the concrete tank _B_ until it becomes necessary to remove it at intervals of about three months. Water is added to the tank daily to replace that used up in the generation of the gas. The gas passes from the storage holder through one of the pair of purifiers _K_, with water-sealed lids, which are charged with a chemical preparation for the removal of phosphoretted hydrogen. This purifying material also acts as a desiccating agent. From the purifiers the gas passes through the meter _L_ to the service- pipes.

BELGIUM.

_Maker_: SOC. AN. DE L'ACÉTYLITHE, 65 RUE DU MARCHE, BRUSSELS.

_Type_: Automatic; contact.

The generating apparatus made by this firm uses, instead of ordinary carbide, a preparation known as "acétylithe," which is carbide treated specially with mineral oil, glucose and sugar. The object of using this treated carbide is to avoid the effects of the attack of atmospheric humidity or water vapour, which, with ordinary carbide, give rise to the phenomena of after-generation. The generator comprises a water-tank _A_ with conical base, a basket _C_ containing the treated carbide inserted within a cylindrical case _B_ which is open at the bottom and is surmounted by a cylindrical filter _D_. At starting, the tank _A_ is filled with water to the level _N N'_. The water rises within the cylindrical case until it comes in contact with the treated carbide, which thereupon begins to evolve gas. The gas passes through the filter _D_, which is packed with dry cotton-wool, and escapes through the tap _M_. As soon as the contained air has been displaced by gas the outlet of the tap _M_ is connected by a flexible tube to the pipe leading to a purifier and the service-pipe. When the tap _M_ is closed, or when the rate of evolution of the gas exceeds the rate of consumption, the evolved gas accumulates within the cylindrical case _B_ and begins to displace the water, the level of which within the case is lowered from _S S'_, first to _S1 S'1_ and ultimately to, say, _S2 S'2_. The evolution of gas is thereby gradually curtailed or stopped until more is required for consumption. The water displacement causes the water-level in the outer tank to rise to _N1 N'1_ and ultimately to, say _N2 N'2_. The lime formed by the decomposition of the carbide is loosened from the unattacked portion and taken more or less into solution as sucrate of lime, which is a soluble salt which the glucose or sugar in the treated carbide forms with lime. The solution is eventually run off through the cock _R_. The cover _T_ of the filter is screwed down on rubber packing until gas- tight. The purifier is charged with puratylene or other purifying material.

_Maker_: L. DEBRUYNE, 22 PLACE MASUI, BRUSSELS.

_Type_: (1) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The generating plant made by this firm, using granulated carbide, comprises an equalising gasholder _E_ alongside a generating tank _B_, which is surmounted by a closed carbide receptacle _A_ and a distributing appliance. The carbide receptacle is filled with granulated carbide and the lid _N_ screwed down; the carbide is then withdrawn from the base of the receptacle by the distributing appliance and discharged in measured quantities as required into the water in the generating tank. The distributing appliance is actuated by a weighted cord _H_ attached to the bell _I_ of the gasholder and discharges at each time a quantity of carbide only sufficient nearly to fill the gasholder with acetylene. The gas passes from the generator through the pipe _J_ and seal-pot _D_, or bypass _F_, to the gasholder. The generating tank is provided with a funnel _G_ for replacing the water consumed, a sludge-stirrer and a draw-off cock _L_, and a water-level cock _C_. The gas passes from the gasholder through a purifier _K_, charged with heratol, to the service-pipe.

(2) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Debruyne" generator comprises an equalising bell gasholder _A_ placed alongside a generating tank _B_ containing water into which lump carbide is discharged as necessary from each in turn of a series of chambers mounted in a ring above the generating tank. The chambers are removable for refilling, and when charged are hermetically sealed until opened in turn above the shoot _C_, through which their contents are discharged into the generating tank. The carbide contained in each chamber yields sufficient gas nearly to fill the gasholder. The discharging mechanism is operated through an arm _E_ attached to the bell _G_ of the gasholder, which sets the mechanism in motion when the bell has fallen nearly to its lowest position. The lip _L_ serves for renewing the water in the generator, and the gas evolved goes through the pipe _K_ with tap _F_ to the gasholder. There is an eccentric stirrer for the sludge and a large-bore cock for discharging it. The gas passes from the gasholder through the pipe _J_ to the purifier _H_, charged with heratol, and thence to the service-pipe.

_Maker_: DE SMET VAN OVERBERGE, ALOST.

_Type_: (1) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

This generating apparatus comprises an equalising gasholder _A_ placed alongside a generating tank _B_, above which is mounted on a rotating spindle a series of chambers _C_, arranged in a circle, which are filled with carbide. The generating tank is closed at the top, but on one side there is a shoot _D_ through which the carbide is discharged from the chambers in turn into the water in the tank. The series of chambers are rotated by means of a cord passing round a pulley _E_ and having a weight _F_ at one end, and being attached to the bell of the gasholder at the other. When the bell falls, owing to the consumption of gas, to a certain low position, the carbide chamber, which has been brought by the rotation of the pulley over the shoot, is opened at the bottom by the automatic liberation of a catch, and its contents are discharged into the generating tank. The contents of one carbide chamber suffice to fill the gasholder to two-thirds of its total capacity. The carbide chambers after filling remain hermetically closed until the bottom is opened for the discharge of the carbide. There is a sludge-cock _G_ at the bottom of the generating tank. The gas passes from the gasholder through a purifier _H_, which is ordinarily charged with puratylene.

(2) Non-automatic; carbide-to-water.

This apparatus comprises a storage bell gasholder _J_ placed alongside a generating tank in the top of which is a funnel _E_ with a counter-weighted lever pivoted on the arm _B_. The base of the funnel is closed by a flap valve _C_ hinged at _D_. When it is desired to generate gas the counter-weight _A_ of the lever is raised and the valve at the bottom of the funnel is thereby opened. A charge of carbide is then tipped into the funnel and drops into the water in the generating tank. The valve is then closed and the gas evolved goes through the pipe _G_ to the gasholder, whence it passes through a purifier to the service-pipe. There is a sludge-cock on the generating tank.

_Maker_: SOC. AN. BELGE DE LA PHOTOLITHE, 2 RUE DE HUY, LIÉGE.

_Type_: Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Photolithe" generating plant made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder _A_ in the tank _O_, alongside a generating tank _B_ which is surmounted by a carbide storage receptacle divided into a number of compartments. These compartments are fitted with flap bottoms secured by catches, and are charged with carbide. Through the middle of the storage receptacle passes a spindle, to the upper end of which is attached a pulley _b_. Round the pulley passes a chain, one end of which carries a weight _n_, while in the other direction it traverses guide pulleys and is attached to a loop on the crown of the gasholder bell. When the bell falls below a certain point owing to the consumption of gas, it pulls the chain and rotates the pulley _b_ and therewith an arm _d_, which liberates the catch supporting the flap-bottom of the next in order of the carbide compartments. The contents of this compartment are thereby discharged through the shoot _C_ into the generating tank _B_. The gas evolved passes through the cock _R_ and the pipe _T_ into the gasholder, the rise of the bell of which takes the pull off the chain and allows the weight at its other end to draw it up until it is arrested by the stop _f_. The arm _d_ is thereby brought into position to liberate the catch of the next carbide receptacle. The generating tank is enlarged at its base to form a sludge receptacle _E_, which is provided with a sludge draw-off cock _S_ and a hand-hole _P_. Between the generating tank proper and the sludge receptacle is a grid, which is cleaned by means of a rake with handle _L_. The gas passes from the gasholder through a purifier _H_ charged with puratylene, to the service-pipe.

The same firm also makes a portable generating apparatus in which the carbide is placed in a basket in the crown of the bell of the gasholder. This apparatus is supplied on a trolley for use in autogenous soldering or welding.

FRANCE.

_Maker_: LA SOC. DES APPLICATIONS DE L'ACÉTYLÈNE, 26 RUE CADET, PARIS.

_Type_: Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Javal" generating plant made by this firm consists of an equalising bell gasholder _A_ in the tank _B_ with a series of buckets _D_, with removable bottoms _h_, mounted on a frame _F_ round the guide framing of the holder. Alongside the gasholder stands the generating tank _H_ with shoot _K_, into which the carbide discharged from the buckets falls. On top of the generator is a tipping water-bucket _I_ supplied with water through a ball cock. The bell of the gasholder is connected by chains _a_ and _c_, and levers _b_ and _d_ with an arm which, when the bell descends to a certain point, comes in contact with the catch by which the bottom of the carbide bucket is held in place, and, liberating the same, allows the carbide to fall into the shoot. When the bell rises, in consequence of the evolved gas, the ring of carbide buckets is rotated sufficiently to bring the next bucket over the shoot. Thus the buckets are discharged in turn as required through the rise and fall of the gasholder bell.

The carbide falling from the opened bucket strikes the end _i_ of the lever _k_, and thereby tips the water-bucket _I_ and discharges its contents into the shoot of the generator. The rise in the level of the water in the generator, due to the discharge of the water from the bucket _I_, lifts the float _L_ and therewith, through the attached rod and chain _u_, the ball _s_ of the valve _t_. The sludge, which has accumulated in the base _N_ of the generator from the decomposition of the previous portion of carbide, is thereby discharged automatically into a special drain. The discharge- valve closes automatically when the float _L_ has sunk to its original level. The gas evolved passes from the generator through the seal-pot _M_ and the pipe _r_ with cock _q_ into the gasholder, from which it passes through the pipe _x_; with condensation chamber and discharge tap _y_ into the purifier _R_, which is charged with heratol.

_Maker_: L'HERMITE, LOUVIERS, EURE.

_Type_: (1) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The generating plant known as "L'Éclair," by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder _A_ floating in an annular water-seal _N_, formed in the upper part of a generating tank _B_ into which carbide enters through the shoot _K_. Mounted at the side of the tank is the carbide delivery device, which consists of the carbide containers _J_ supported on an axis beneath the water-sealed cover _H_. The containers are filled with ordinary lump carbide when the cover _H_ is removed. The tappet _O_ attached to the bell of the gasholder come in contact with a pawl when the gasholder bell descends to a certain level and thereby rotates a pinion on the protruding end of the axis which carries the carbide containers _J_. Each time the bell falls and the tappet strikes the pawl, one compartment of the carbide containers discharges its contents down the shoot _K_ into the generating tank _B_. The gas evolved passes upwards and causes the bell _A_ to rise. The gas is prevented from rising into the shoot by the deflecting plates _G_. The natural level of the water in the generating tank, when the apparatus is in use, is shown by the dotted lines _L_. The lime sludge is discharged from time to time through the cock _E_, being stirred up by means of the agitator _C_ with handle _D_. When the sludge is discharged water is added through _M_ to the proper level. The gas evolved passes from the holder through the pipe with tap _F_ to the service-pipe. A purifier is supplied if desired.

_References_

A Gasholder. B Generator. C Agitator. D Handle of agitator. E Sludge-cock. F Gas outlet. G Deflecting plates. H Cover. I Carbide. J Automatic distributor. K Shoot. L Water-level. M Water-inlet. N Water-seal. O Tappet.

(2) Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact.

A generating plant known as "L'Étoile" made by this firm. A tappet on the bell of an equalising gasholder depresses a lever which causes water to flow into a funnel, the outlet of which leads to a generating chamber containing carbide.

_Maker_: MAISON SIRIUS, FR. MANGIAMELI & CO., 34 RUE DES PETITS- HÔTELS, PARIS.

_Type_: (1) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The generating plant made by this firm comprises a drum-shaped carbide holder mounted above a generating tank, a condenser, a washer, an equalising gasholder, and a purifier. The drum _A_ is divided into eight chambers _a_ each closed by a fastening on the periphery of the drum. These chambers are packed with lump carbide, which is discharged from them in turn through the funnel _B_ into the generating tank, which is filled with water to the level of the overflow cock _b_. A deflecting plate _d_ in the tank distributes the carbide and prevents the evolved gas passing out by way of the funnel _B_. The gas evolved passes through the pipe _O_ into the condenser, which is packed with coke, through which the gas goes to the pipe _E_ and so to the washer _P_ through the water, in which it bubbles and issues by the pipe _G_ into the gasholder. The bell _L_ of the gasholder is connected by a chain _C_ to the axis of the drum _A_, on which is a pinion with pawl so arranged that the pull on the chain caused by the fall of the bell of the gasholder rotates the drum by 1/8 of a turn. The catch on the outside of the carbide chamber, which has thereby been brought to the lowest position, is at the same time freed, so that the contents of the chamber are discharged through the funnel _B_. The evolved gas causes the bell to rise and the drum remains at rest until, owing to the consumption of gas, the bell again falls and rotates the drum by another 1/8 of a turn. Each chamber of the drum holds sufficient carbide to make a volume of gas nearly equal to the capacity of the gasholder. Thus each discharge of carbide very nearly fills the gasholder, but cannot over-fill it. The bell is provided with a vent-pipe _i_, which comes into operation should the bell rise so high that it is on the point of becoming unsealed. From the gasholder the gas passes through the pipe _J_, with cock _e_, to the purifier, which is charged with frankoline, puratylene, or other purifying material, whence it passes to the pipe _N_ leading to the place of combustion. The generating tank is provided with a sludge-cock _g_, and a cleaning opening with lid _f_. This generating plant has been primarily designed for the use of acetylene for autogenous welding, and is made also mounted on a suitable trolley for transport for this purpose.

(2) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

A later design of generating plant, known as the Type G, also primarily intended for the supply of acetylene for welding, has the carbide store mounted in the crown of the bell of the equalising gasholder, to the framing of the tank of which are attached a purifier, charged with frankoline, and a safety water-seal or valve. The whole plant is mounted on a four-legged stand, and is provided with handles for carrying as a whole without dismounting. It is made in two sizes, for charges of 5-1/2 and 11 lb. of carbide respectively.

GERMANY.

_Maker_: KELLER AND KNAPPICH, G.m.b.H., AUGSBURG.

_Type_: Non-automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Knappich" generating plant made by this firm embodies a generating tank, one-half of which is closed, and the other half of which is open at the top, containing water. A small drum containing carbide is attached by a clamp to the end of a lever which projects above the open half of the tank. The lever is fastened to a horizontal spindle which is turned through 180° by means of a counter-weighted lever handle. The carbide container is thus carried into the water within the closed half of the tank, and is opened automatically in transit. The carbide is thus exposed to the water and the evolved gas passes through a pipe from the top of the generating tank to a washer acting on the Livesey principle, and thence to a storage gasholder. The use of closed carbide containers in charging is intended to preclude the introduction of air into the generator, and the evolution and escape of gas to the air while the carbide is being introduced. Natural circulation of the water in the generating tank is encouraged with a view to the dissipation of heat and washing of the evolved gas. From the gasholder the gas passes in a downward direction through two purifiers arranged in series, charged with a material supplied under the proprietary name of "Carburylen." This material is stated to act as a desiccating as well as a purifying agent. The general arrangement of the plant is shown in the illustration. (Fig. 38).

_Maker_: NORDISCHE AZETYLEN-INDUSTRIE; ALTONA-OTTENSEN.

_Type_: Automatic; water-to-carbide; "drawer."

The apparatus made by this firm consists of an equalising gasholder with bell _D_ and tank _E_, a water-tank _O_, and two drawer generators _C_ situated in the base of the gasholder tank. The water-supply from the tank _O_ through the pipe _P_ with valve _Q_ is controlled by the rise and fall of the bell through the medium of the weight _J_ attached to the bell. When the bell descends this weight rests on _K_ and so moves a counter-weighted lever, which opens the valve _Q_. The water then flows through the nozzle _B_ into one division of the funnel _A_ and down the corresponding pipe to one of the generators. The generators contain trays with compartments intended to be half filled with carbide. The gas evolved passes up the pipe _T_ and through the seal _U_ into the bell of the gasholder. There is a safety pipe _F_, the upper end of which is carried outside the generator house. From the gasholder the gas is delivered through the cock _M_ to a purifier charged with a special purifying material mixed with cork waste and covered with wadding. There is a drainage cock _N_ at the base of the purifier. The nozzle _B_ of the water-supply pipe is shifted to discharge into either compartment of the funnel _A_, according to which of the two generators is required to be in action. The other generator may then be recharged without interfering with the continuous working of the plant.

GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND.

_Maker:_ THE ACETYLENE CORPORATION OF GREAT BRITAIN LTD., 49 VICTORIA STREET, LONDON, S.W.

_Type:_ (1) Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact, superposed pans.

The "A1" generating plant made by this firm comprises a bell gasholder, with central guide, standing alongside the generator. The generator consists of a rectangular tank in which is a generating chamber having a water-sealed lid with pressure test-cock _I_. Into the generating chamber fit a number of pans _J_, which are charged with carbide. Water is supplied to the generating chamber from an overhead tank _B_ through the starting tap _D_ and the funnel _E_. It flows out of the supply-pipe near the top of the generating chamber through a slot in the side of the pipe facing the corner of the chamber, so that it runs down the latter without splashing the carbide in the upper pans. It enters first the lowest carbide pan through the perforations, which are at different levels in the side of the pan. It thus attacks the carbide from the bottom upwards. The evolved gas passes from the generating chamber through a pipe opening near the top of the same to the washer _A_, which forms the base of the generating tank. It bubbles through the water in the washer, which therefore also serves as a water-seal, and passes thence to the gasholder. On the bell of the gasholder is an arm _C_ which, when the holder descends nearly to its lowest point, depresses the rod _C_, which is connected by a chain to a piston in the outlet-pipe from the water-tank _B_. The fall of the gasholder thereby raises the piston and allows water to flow out of the tank _B_ through the tap _D_ to the funnel _E_. The generating tank is connected by a pipe, with tap _G_, with the washer _A_, and the water in the generating tank is run off through this pipe each time the generating chamber is opened for recharging, thereby flushing out the washer _A_ and renewing the water in the same. There is a sludge discharging tap _F_. With a view to the ready dissipation of the heat of generation the generating chamber is made rectangular and is placed in a water-tank as described. Some of the heat of generation is also communicated to the underlying washer and warms the water in it, so that the washing of the gas is effected by warm water. Water condensing in the gasholder inlet-pipe falls downwards to the washer. There is a water lip _H_ by which the level of the water in the washer is automatically kept constant. The gasholder is provided with a safety-pipe _K_, which allows gas to escape through it to the open before the sides of the holder become unsealed, should the holder for any reason become over-filled. The holder is of a capacity to take the whole of the gas evolved from the carbide in one pan, and the water- tank _B_ holds just sufficient water for the decomposition of one charge of the generator. From the gasholder the gas passes through a purifier, which is ordinarily charged with "Klenzal," and a baffle-box for abstraction of dust, to the service-pipe. With plants intended to supply more than forty lights for six hours, two or more generating chambers are employed, placed in separate compartments of one rectangular generating tank. The water delivery from the water-tank _B_ then takes place into a trough with outlets at different levels for each generating chamber. By inspection of this trough it may be seen at once whether the charge in any generating chamber is unattacked, in course of attack, or exhausted.

(2) Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact.

The same firm also makes the "Corporation Flexible-Tube Generator," which is less costly than the "A1" (_vide supra_). The supply of water to the generating vessels takes place from the tank of the equalising bell gasholder and is controlled by a projection on the bell which depresses a flexible tube delivering into the generating vessels below the level of the water inlet to the tube.

(3) Automatic; water-to-carbide; "drawer."

The same firm also makes a generator known as the "A-to-Z," which is less costly than either of the above. In it water is supplied from the tank of a bell gasholder to a drawer type of generator placed in the base of the gasholder tank. The supply of water is controlled by an external piston- valve actuated through the rise and fall of the bell of the gasholder. The flow of water to the generator is visible.

_Maker_: THE ACETYLENE GAS AND CARBIDE OF CALCIUM CO., PONTARDAWE, R.S.O., GLAM.

_Type_: Automatic; water-to-carbide; flooded compartment.

The "Owens" generator made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder alongside which are placed two or more inclined generating cylinders. The front lower end of each cylinder is fitted with a lid which is closed by a screw clamp. There is inserted in each cylinder a cylindrical trough, divided into ten compartments, each of which contains carbide. Water is supplied to the upper ends of the cylinders from a high-level tank placed at the back of the gasholder. In the larger sizes the tank is automatically refilled from a water service through a ball-cock. The outlet-valve of this tank is operated through a counter- weighted lever, the unweighted end of which is depressed by a loop, attached to the crown of the gasholder bell, when the bell has nearly reached its lowest position. This action of the bell on the lever opens the outlet-valve of the tank and allows water to flow thence into one of the generating cylinders. It is discharged into the uppermost of the compartments of the carbide trough, and when the carbide in that compartment is exhausted it flows over the partition into the next compartment, and so on until the whole trough is flooded. The gas passes from the generating cylinders through a water-seal and a baffle plate condenser placed within the water link of the gasholder to the bell of the latter. There is a water seal on the water supply-pipe from the tank to the generators, which would be forced should the pressure within the generators for any reason become excessive. There is also a sealed vent- pipe which allows of the escape of gas from the holder to the open should the holder for any reason be over filled. The gas passes from the holder through a purifier charged with "Owens" purifying material to the service pipe. The plant is shown in Fig 41.

_Maker_ ACETYLENE ILLUMINATING CO, LTD, 268-270 SOUTH LAMBETH ROAD, LONDON, SW

_Type_ (1) Non automatic, carbide to water

The generator _A_ of this type made by this firm is provided with a loading box _B_, with gas tight lid, into which the carbide is put. It is then discharged by moving a lever which tilts the hinged bottom _D_ of the box _B_, and so tips the carbide through the shoot _E_ on to the conical distributor _F_ and into the water in the generating chamber. There is a sludge cock _G_ at the base of the generator. Gas passes as usual from the generator to a washer and storage gasholder. Heratol is the purifying material supplied.

(2) Non-automatic; water-to-carbide; contact.

The generator _A_ is provided with a carbide container with perforated base, and water is supplied to it from a delivery-pipe through a scaled overflow. The gas evolved passes through the pipe _E_ to the washer _B_, which contains a distributor, and thence to the storage gasholder _G_. There is a sludge-cock _F_ at the base of the generator. From the gasholder the gas passes through the purifier _D_, charged with heratol, to the service-pipe.

_Maker_: THE ALLEN CO., 106 VICTORIA STREET, LONDON, S.W.

_Type_: Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact, superposed trays.

The generating plant made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder, from the tank of which water is supplied through a flexible tube to the top of a water-scaled generating chamber in which is a vertical cylinder containing a cage packed with carbide. The open end of the flexible tube is supported by a projection from the bell of the gasholder, so that as the bell rises it is raised above the level of the water in the tank and so ceases to deliver water to the generator until the bell again falls. The water supplied flows by way of the water-seal of the cover of the generating chamber to the cylinder containing the carbide cage. Larger sizes have two generating chambers, and the nozzle of the water delivery-pipe may be switched over from one to the other. There is an overflow connexion which brings the second chamber automatically into action when the first is exhausted. One chamber may be recharged while the other is in action. Spare cylinders and cages are provided for use when recharging. There is a cock for drawing off water condensing in the outlet-pipe from the gasholder. The gas passes from the holder to the lower part of a purifier with water-scaled cover, through the purifying material in which it rises to the outlet leading to the service-pipe. Purifying material under the proprietary name of the "Allen" compound is supplied. The plant is shown in Fig. 44.

Maker: THE BON-ACCORD ACETYLENE GAS CO., 285 KING STREET, ABERDEEN.

Type: Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact, superposed trays.

The "Bon Accord" generating plant made by this firm comprises an equalising displacement gasholder _B_ immersed in a water-tank _A_. Alongside the tank are placed two water-jacketed generating chambers _G1_ and _G2_ containing cages _K_ charged with carbide. Water passes from within the gasholder through the water inlet- pipes _L1 L2_, the cock _H_, and the pipes _F1 F2_ to the generating chambers, from which the gas evolved travels to the holder _B_, in which it displaces water until the water-level falls below the mouths of the pipes _L1_ and _L2_, and so cuts off the supply of water to the generating chambers. The gas passes from the holder _B_ through the pipe with outlet-cock _T_ to a washer containing an acid solution for the neutralisation of ammonia, then through a purifier containing a "special mixture of chloride of lime." After that through a tower packed with lime, and finally through a pressure regulator, the outlet of which is connected to the service-pipe. There is an indicator _I_ to show the amount of gas in the holder. One generator may be charged while the other is in action.

_Maker_: FREDK. BRABY AND CO., LTD., ASHTON GATE WORKS, BRISTOL; AND 352-364 EUSTON ROAD, LONDON.

_Type:_ (I) Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "A" type of generator made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder, round the bell of which are arranged a series of buckets which are charged with carbide. Those buckets are discharged in turn as the bell falls from time to time through a mechanism operated by a weight suspended from a wire cord on a revolving spindle. The carbide is discharged on to a different spot in the generating tank from each bucket. There is a cock for the periodical removal of sludge. Gas passes through a purifier charged with puratylene to the service-pipe. The disposition of the parts of the plant and the operating mechanism arc shown in the accompanying figure, which represents the generating apparatus partly in elevation and partly in section. The carbide buckets (1) are loosely hooked on the flat ring (2) bolted to the gasholder tank (3). The buckets discharge through the annular water-space (4) between the tank and the generator (5). The rollers (6), fitted on the generator, support a ring (7) carrying radial pins (8) projecting outwards, one pin for each bucket. The ring can travel round on the rollers. Superposed on the ring is a tray (9) closed at the bottom except for an aperture beneath the throat (11), on which is mounted an inclined striker (12), which strikes the projecting tongues (1_a_) of the lids of the buckets in turn. There is fixed to the sides of the generator a funnel (13) with open bottom (13_a_) to direct the carbide, on to the rocking grid (14) which is farther below the funnel than appears from the figure. Gas passing up behind the funnel escapes through a duct (15) to the gasholder. The ring (7) is rotated through the action of the weight (16) suspended by the chain or rope (17) which passes round the shaft (18), which is supported by the bracket (19) and has a handle for winding up. An escapement, with upper limb (20_a_) and lower limb (20_b_), is pivotally centred at (21) in the bracket (19) and normally restrains the turning of the shaft by the weight. There is a fixed spindle (24) supported on the bracket (23)--which is fixed to the tank or one of the guide-rods--having centred on it a curved bar or quadrant (25) running loose on the spindle (24) and having a crank arm (26) to which is connected one end of a rod (27) which, at the other end, is connected to the arm (28) of the escapement. The quadrant bears at both extremities against the flat bar (29) when the bell (22) is sufficiently raised. The bar (29) extends above the bell and carries an arm (30) on which is a finger (30_a_). There is fixed on the shaft (18) a wheel (31), with diagonal divisions or ways extending from side to side of its rim, and stop-pins (32) on one side at each division. A clutch prevents the rotation of the wheel during winding up.

(2) Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact, superposed trays.

The type "B" generator made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder, a crescent-shaped feed water-tank placed on one side of the gasholder, and mechanism for controlling a tap on the pipe by which the feed water passes to a washer whence it overflows through a seal into a horizontal generating chamber containing cells packed with carbide. The mechanism controlling the water feed embodies the curved bar (25), connecting-rod (27) and flat guide-bar (29) as used for controlling the carbide feed in the "A" type of generator (Fig. 46). When the bell descends water is fed into the washer, and the water-level of the seal is thus automatically maintained. The gas evolved passes through a pipe, connecting the seal on the top of the generating chamber with the washer, into the gasholder. Plants of large size have two generating chambers with connexions to a single washer.

_Maker:_ THE DARGUE ACETYLENE GAS CO., 57 GREY STREET, NEWCASTLE-ON- TYNE.

_Type:_ Automatic; water-to-carbide; "drawer."

The "Dargue" acetylene generator made by this firm comprises an equalising bell gasholder _B_ floating in a water-tank _A_, which is deeper than is necessary to submerge the bell of the gasholder. In the lower part of this tank are placed two or more horizontal generating chambers which receive carbide-containing trays divided by partitions into a number of compartments which are half filled with carbide. Water is supplied from the gasholder tank through the tap _E_ and pipe _F_ to the generating chambers in turn. It rises in the latter and floods the first compartment containing carbide before gaining access to the second, and so on throughout the series of compartments. As soon as the carbide in the first generating chamber is exhausted, the water overflows from it through the pipe with by-pass tap _J_ to the second generating chamber. The taps _G_ and _H_ serve to disconnect one of the generating chambers from the water-supply during recharging or while another chamber is in action. The gas evolved passes from each generating chamber through a pipe _L_, terminating in the dip-pipe _M_, which is provided with a baffle-plate having very small perforations by which the stream of gas is broken up, thereby subjecting it to thorough washing by the upper layers of water in the gasholder tank. The washed gas, which thus enters the gasholder, passes from it through the pipe _N_ with main cock _R_ to the service- pipes. The water-supply to the generator is controlled through the tap _E_, which is operated by a chain connected to an arm attached to the bell of the gasholder.

The water in the gasholder tank is accordingly made to serve for the supply of the generating chambers, for the washing of the gas, and as a jacket to the generating chambers. The heat evolved by the decomposition of the carbide in the latter creates a circulation of the water, ensuring thereby thorough mixing of the fresh water, which is added from time to time to replace that removed for the decomposition of the carbide, with the water already in the tank. Thus the impurities acquired by the water from the washing of the gas do not accumulate in it to such an extent as to render it necessary to run off the whole of the water and refill, except at long intervals. A purifier, ordinarily charged with puratylene, is inserted in many cases after the main cock _R_. The same firm makes an automatic generator on somewhat similar lines, specially designed for use in autogenous welding, the smaller sizes of which are readily portable.

_Maker_: J. AND J. DRUMMOND, 162 MARKET STREET, ABERDEEN.

_Type_: Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact.

The generating plant made by this firm comprises two or more generating vessels _B_ in which carbide is contained in removable cases perforated at different levels. Water is supplied to these generating vessels, entering them at the bottom, from an elevated tank _A_ through a pipe _C_, in which is a tap _F_ connected by a lever and chain _L_ with the bell _G_ of the equalising gasholder _H_, into which the evolved gas passes. The lever of the tap _F_ is counter-weighted so that when the bell _G_ descends the tap is opened, and when the bell rises the tap is closed. The gas passes from the generating chambers _B_ through the pipe _D_ to the washer-cooler _E_ and thence to the gasholder. From the latter it passes through the dry purifier _J_ to the service-pipe. The gasholder bell is sealed in oil contained in an annular tank instead of in the usual single-walled tank containing water. The purifying material ordinarily supplied is puratylene. The apparatus is also made to a large extent in a compact form specially for use on board ships.

_Agents_: FITTINGS, LTD., 112 VICTORIA STREET, S.W.

_Type_: Automatic; carbide-to-water.

The "Westminster" generator supplied by this firm is the "Davis" generator described in the section of the United States. The rights for the sale of this generator in Great Britain are held by this firm.

_Maker_: LOCKERBIE AND WILKINSON, TIPTON, STAFFS.

_Type_: (1) Automatic; water-to-carbide; contact, superposed trays.

The "Thorscar" generator of this firm comprises an equalising gasholder, the gas-space of the bell _B_ of which is reduced by conical upper walls. When the bell descends and this lining enters the water in the tank _A_ the displacement of water is increased and its level raised until it comes above the mouths of the pipes _E_, through which a portion then flows to the generators _D_. The evolution of the gas in the latter causes the bell to rise and the conical lining to be lifted out of the water, the level of which thereupon falls below the mouths of the pipes _E_ in consequence of the reduced displacement of the bell. The supply of water to the generators is thus cut off until the bell again falls and the level of the water in the tank is raised above the mouths of the pipes _E_. The generating chambers _D_ are provided with movable cages _F_ in which the carbide is arranged on trays. The gas evolved travels through a scrubbing-box _G_ containing charcoal, and the pipe _J_ with drainage-pipe _P_ to the water-seal or washer _K_ inside the holder, into which it then passes. The outlet-pipe for gas from the holder leads through the condensing coil _L_ immersed in the water in the tank to the condensed water-trap _N_, and thence by the tap _Q_ to the supply-pipe. The generating chambers are water-jacketed and provided with gauge-glasses _H_ to indicate when recharging is necessary, and also with sludge-cocks _M_. The object of the displacement cone in the upper part of the bell is to obtain automatic feed of water to the carbide without the use of cocks or movable parts. There is a funnel- shaped indicator in front of the tank for regulating the height of water to a fixed level, and also an independent purifier, the purifying material or which is supplied under the proprietary name of "Thorlite."

(2) Non-automatic; water-to-carbide; "drawer."

This generating plant, the "Thorlite," comprises a water-tank _A_ from which water is admitted to the drawer generating chambers _B_, one of which may be recharged while the other is in operation. The gas evolved passes through a seal _C_ to the gasholder _D_, whence it issues as required for use through the purifier _E_ to the supply-pipe. For the larger sixes a vertical generating chamber is used. The purifier and purifying material are the same as for the automatic plant of the same firm.

_Maker_: THE MANCHESTER ACETYLENE GAS CO., LTD., ACRE WORKS, CLAYTON, MANCHESTER.

_Type_: Automatic; water-to-carbide; "drawer."