es Im Sublimating Appar
Year: 1852

page_text: Boring Earth, Crushing, Pulverising, Dressing,
Mixing, Grinding, Pumping, Washing, Pre-
cipitating, and Amalgamating Ores; and an
Improved Sublimating Apparatus.
LETTERS PATENT to Samuel Perkes, Civil Engineer, of No. 1,
Walbrook, City. London, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS
IN CERTAIN APPARATUSES AND MACHINES FOR THE PRODUCTION AND
TREATMENT OF MINERAL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES, AND PART OF WHICH
ARE APPLICABLE FOR OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES."
Scaled the 9th April 1858, and dated the 12th October 1852.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Samuel Perkes at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on
the 12th October 1852.
T, SAMUEL PERKES, Civil Engineer, 1, Walbrook, City, London, do
hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN
CERTAIN APPARATUSES AND MACHINES FOR THE PRODUCTION AND TREATMENT
OF MINERAL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES, AND PART OF WHICH ARE APPLICABLE
FOR OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES," to be as follows:-

page_text: :
The first apparatus relates to the discovery of mineral and other
substances, and consists of a boring bar composed of jointed tubes, so
as to admit water if required to the chisel point or cutter when in
operation. The joints are composed of gibs, screws, or cotters, or
combined, and in convenient lengths, with a working guide cylinder at
top having a bevilled Hanged rim, and receiving vessel around the
same, and a vulcanised india-rubber drip collar to conduct thereto. At
the bottom of said bar I employ cylindrical boxed valves of any con-
venient length, in order to secure and retain, if required, the mineral
or carthy particles from any required depth for actual examination.
This bar I would make chisel-pointed or otherwise, and work on the
churning principle over a pulley or spring lever or both, as may be
required..
The second apparatus consists of a crushing hammer for quartz or
mineral ores, and is comprised of a suitable frame, within which is a
revolving or fixed anvil block, with sides to prevent the material from
flying away. The quartz or material is conducted thro' a hopper or
otherwise, and is bruised up into small particles, and is then delivered
into a sieve, either revolving or otherwise, and with meshes of any given
size; and which sieving apparatus is attached beneath the hammer, so
as to receive the bruised material from the anvil, and worked from the
same motion as the hammer, which is lifted either by piston or by
graduated inclined rollers, and sudden falls, as may be required, and
worked cither by gearing & hand, or cattle or steam power. I alsó
construct and apply a more portable apparatus for bruising up quartz
and minerals on the principle of the common "olliver," as used
by rivet makers & others, and work the same by a spring lever,
treddle, &c.
The third apparatus consists of an improved construction of Chillian
mill for pulverising ores, &c. The pan I compose of sectional plates,
and attach together with bolts and nuts or otherwise thro' the flanges
externally. I also employ one or more revolving vertical wheels of any
diameter, and with boxed flanged arms, to secure any internal fillings
to weight the same, and construct these wheels in one or more pieces.

page_text: & secure the same together when in use. I also fix a strong socket
in centre, and bolt to the.bottom of the pan. This socket will contain
the central shaft, which is recessed at the top in order to give, if re-
quired, each collar a separate and independant bearing. These collars
are cored out for pins & rollers or wheel shafts, which are of
wrought iron, and hooked into or otherwise attached to central shaft
& wheel, and prepared so as to disconnect at pleasure; the opposite
ends also extend beyond rim of pan, and are drawn out with looped
ends or otherwise for traces to be attached to. An inclined arm is
also fixed to roller shafts, which extends down to back of rollers, and
to which is fixed an iron or other scraper or rakes to prevent any
accumulation of material in any part which may impede the working.
I also employ another method of working Chillian mills, viz.:-To let
the vertical rollers revolve each upon its own stationary axle, and and
make the table or pan revolve by means of cog wheels & pinnions,
or otherwise, & communicating with whatever power is employed;
also, I provide feeding hoppers & delivery channels where necessary,
so as to conduct the finished matter direct away when required.
.
.
The fourth apparatus consists of a dressing or sifting machine formeil
like a large sieving apparatus of very fine meshes of wire or other work;
and properly secured on a frame and encased. and either mado to re-
volve or otherwise. This is worked at any required velocity, and the
pulverised material is delivered thro' a proper shute at the 'heighest
end; and whilst passing thro', the finest particles are driven by the
action of machine thro' the gauze work into the receiving case below.
and the courser particles, if any, are self-discharged at the lowest end
into a receiver, and conducted, again to the inill by incans of a' Jacob's
ladder. In certain cases also eploy a brush or fan blades inside
the dressing machine, to, facilitate its lischarge thro' the fine meshes of
the wire gauze.
The fifth apparatus is also another form of dressing or sifting már
chine, and consists of a kind of inverted cone of find wire gauze work
attached to a suitable frame, and revolving 'horizontally at a rapid rate
by means of wheels or bands, and the fine pulverized material is driven

page_text: I also
thro' the gauze by centrifugal force into the external receiver
fix a brush internally in certain cases to clear the gauze when required;
also I provide a shute over the same and under the same for delivering
& conveying the material to and from said machine.
The sixth apparatus I employ is a similar principle to a vertical
gauze turn barrel, to effect the saine object on the fan principle, when
required, with the gauze fixed outside the fan blades.
The seventh apparatus is a mixing vessel, which is a plain cylindrical
vessel with a vertical shaft in centre, with one or more blades or feathers
revolving inside the same; or else I revolve the vessel around fixed
arms or blades. Into either of such vessels the quaitz or material is
conducted from sifting machine, and a stream of water is applied, and
the whole thus mixed together into a complete puddle, and discharged
thro' a proper outlet. A similar vessel I employ for a washing vessel, as
hercafter described.
Eighth. The next apparatus consists of the amalgamator, to which
the mixed puddle or other material is conducted and ground with
mercury and the two bodies are brought into contact as closely as pos-
sible, which I effect in the following way, viz.-By making a hollow
vessel any given size. and also a plug to fit the same with nearly close
surfaces, & serated where required. The sectional shape of grinding
plug I would make firsst somewhat to resemble a V, and the lower end
of plug in certain cases to run parallel for a short way up, in order to
steady the plug in its upward or rising motion. The quartz and water
is then first admitted from a reservoir surrounding the top of apparatus,
and the mercury is carefully admitted from a reservoir formed in the
top of the plug, and passed thro' one or more small holes radiating to
the basin. The plug I would occasionally lift a short distance, as re-
quired, by means of a lever or otherwise, so as to admit of fresh supplics
to the mill. This grinding of material with mercury in the manner
described forms the amalgamation, and discharges itself thro' the
bottom conduit pipe from a chambered recess to the washing vessel,
similar to the mixing vessel as described in item No. 7; the whole is
then well washed about, by which means the muddy particles of quartz

page_text: & of earthy matter will run away by solution thro' the overflow,
whilst the mercury and amalgam will descend to the bottom, where
it is entirely collected and strained thro' wash leathers, by which
means the amalgam is retained, and the mercury forced thro' the.
leather for fresh use. The amalgam is then placed in an iron ladle or
a crucible over a sharp fire, when the mercury is driven off' by heat, and
the gold will remain at the bottom.
Ninth. The contact surfaces of first form of amalgamator
employ, 1 sketch as somewhat thus, viz.:
Rough sectional view, and to be worked either by toothed wheels and
pinions or other gearing for hand, or cattle or steam power, which I
attach to the upper part of central plug above lifting lever where
represented as being broken off or otherwise, as required. This lower
discharge cock to be either short, as in sketch, or else a longer branch
5 to washing vessel if required; and provided, where required, with locked
key spanner, so as to keep amalgam secure. The pivot for lever fulcrum

page_text: to be moveable or otherwise regulated, so as to provide for the wearing
lown of central plug. A regular supply of mercury can be furnished
thro' a pipe & regulating cock over recess in plug; also suitable guide i
& stay frames to be provided for working gear over machine, and
attached thereto or otherwise.
Tenth. Another form of plug I propose to use is somewhat thus,
and either with or without a bottom parralel guide as last:

page_text: Twelfth. Another form of plug I propose to use is somewhat thus,
and also either with or without a bottom parralel guide, thus:
Each of these, forms, or a perfect V form either, I propose to adopt,
and use either one or more of them as required; and apply somewhat
similar arrangements for working them as mentioned for ninth sec-
tion; or else, in either case if required, cause the basin to revolve and
leave the plug stationary, making due arrangements for the action of
lever and working gear in such case or cases.
Thirteenth. The next arrangement 1 employ for grinding or amal-
gamating is to have a pair or more revolving rollers, with dovetails or
tapered teeth projecting therefrom at alternate distances, and fitting
and working nearly close into each other, either horizontally or
vertically or inclined, by means of wheels & pinions, or otherwise as,
required. and properly encased.
Fourteenth. The next apparatus is a fixed or portable machine for:
pumping, washing, precipitating, and amalgamating, and is constructed:
(if for portability) on one or more wheels, which are used first for,
wheeling to its required position, and afterwards for driving wheels, if,
required. The spindle of these wheels also forms the shaft of the.

page_text: washing-box, which is circular in section; this shaft, & arms, &c.
fixed upon it, revolve freely in a circular box or drum barrel. The
material is first delivered into a hopper underneath a strong shower of
water, which is discharged upon it from a centrifugal or other pump
attached to the machine or otherwise, and the water from which
causes the fine quartz, &c. to pass thro' to the drum, and which is
afterwards delivered over the inner edge of drum barrel into the preci-
pitating troughs, and during the precipitation from one or more of
these falls to the other, the metallic particles will nearly all be retained;
but before parting with it the whole is made to pass by its own gravity,
if required, thro' a small reservoir of quicksilver or otherwise, and
any gold, &c. escaping from precipitation may be caught in the
mercury during its passage thro', where it forms an amalgam. J
employ a distance plate & wire lattice in the mercury to regulate the
depth of passage when required, also to divide the particles of quartz,
&c. into as minute particles as practicable, for the sake of insuring
a more perfect amalgamation. The precipitating troughs are small
troughs, one or more placed on an incline above each other, and of
different heights, and with scooped bottoms or otherwise. The centri-
fugal or other pump is attached to the side of machine or otherwise
just underneath the back part thereof. The suction pipe is prepared
with bayonet, screwed, or other joint, so as to attach the hose or pipo
to the same.
The water is then forced up thro' a pipe into a kind of
parachute or otherwise, so as to discharge itself into the hopper over
the soil or quartz, &c. thro' a perforated plate or coil of perforated
pipes. The hopper is placed just over the working barrel, and is
provided with an inclined bottom, which leads to an opening in the
working barrel, where the quartz, &c. is operated upon, as before
described. This hopper is also provided with an internal latticed sicvo
or false bottom (or perforated plate) of any required mesh, so that
nothing can pass into the working barrel larger than required. This
machine is also provided with a small iron ladder, which is used for
elevating & supporting the hopper head and machine to its working
height when required, by placing the two pins at top of the same into
the loops which are attached to the hopper to receive them, and the

page_text: machine is then raised at the back end a little distance from the
ground to admit of the wheels well clearing, and the amalgamating
part to stand vertical or nearly so when the handle or handles can be
attached to the carriage wheel or wheels, and the washer plate
reversed, so that the gib on the front will fall into the recess in the
nave of the wheel or wheels; then either one or both can be used as
driving wheels to accelerate the working of the machine, as may be
required. When not in work, and for convenience of removal from
place to place as a portable machine, it is lowered down again on its
wheels, the washer plates of which are again reversed, and it can then
be wheeled about in any direction similar to a wheelbarrow with
portable handles, or provided with portable shafts for a horse, &c., if
required. This machine is so contrived that it will hold the ladder,
sundry picks, shovels. buckets, the pump hose, hammers, & sundries,
and also the tent if required.
Fifteenth. The next apparatus consists of a plain hollow. vessel with
fast or loose foot plate & hopper head. with a down pipe and opposite
rising pipe, somewhat like an inverted syphon, at the bottom of which,
if used as an amalgamator, is placed sufficient quicksilver to submerge
tlic central dip part, and then the puddle or quartz, &c is poured in-
the hopper at top. and forms a column of sufficient height to overcome
or pass thro' the quicksilver by its own gravity at the rate of which it
is fed. Also in certain cases I employ wire lattice or perforated metal,
or otherwise, to divide the matter passing thro' the quicksilver, to
ensure better amalgamation, and it then rises in the short outlet pipe,
and runs away into a washing vessel, wherein is collected any quick-
silver which may have adhered to the quartz. &c. in its transit thro'.
I also use this vessel as a precipitator in "certain" cases.
Sixteenth. The next apparatus is on the same principle as last
described, and forms a series of one or more of the above named
gravitation vessels, and thro' which the quartz, &c. passes from the
upper hopper by its own gravity thro' as many precipitations or amal-
gamations as may be required, and the metallic particles are collected
in small troughs or reservoirs at the foot of each fall, where it forms
an amalgam with the mercury, when used.
:

page_text: Seventeenth is also a machine for washing or amalgamating, and is
composed of a chambered trough, with one or more hollow revolving turn
barrels inside, which are worked by a wormed wheel, or otherwise. Each
turn barrel has one or more blades, either curved or radial from centre,
and either solid or perforated or latticed, or both, as may be required
for amalgamating. The sunk chambers are nearly filled with mercury,
thro' which the matter is forced by the turn barrels, and discharged
down an incline, either to other barrels or to the washing vessel.
Each chamber is provided with a draw-off' cock, as required. The
whole is worked by means of a toothed or worm wheel from a shaft,
either turned by hand or otherwise, and either supported on fect or
wheels, as required, and proper draw-off' cocks.
'
Eighteenth The next machine is a washing and amalgamating
cradle on rockers or wheels; and in addition to its rocking movement
is provided with a pivot at each end, so as to empty away on either
side the drainings and mercury, &c., to clear out the cradle, which is
provided with a sunk reservoir at bottom to receive the quicksilver &
amalgam, and also provided with perforated plates ar latticed divisions
accross the cradle, with a view to separate the quartz, .&c. The
reservoir or dish at bottom extends from side to side. The cradle is
supported on its end pivots in working level, by small
rack. or bolts shooting into recesses in the pivot plates.
also provided with side lips to pour away the residue & quicksilver
from the bottom, as required, and has also dashing ribs at the ends,
and the whole is mounted on a portable rocking frame or wheels, us
required.
"
chain pins &
The cradle is
:
Nineteenth. Thé .next apparatus is for a hand-washing cradle to,
work on a central rounded plate fixed underneath. I construct a
channel across the bottom of cradle, into which can be placed mercury,
if required. There are also dashing fillets at each end, and lips on
one or both sides, also latticed or perforated divisions for quartz, &c., to,
pass thro' from end to end. In certain cases I use also balancing stops
underneath, as may be required.
.
:
- Twentieth. The next apparatus is a machine for forcing water thro"
a bed of the pulverised or other material from underneath or above the:

page_text: same by means of gravitation, or force or centrifugal pump, over or
beneath which is placed a hopper with perforated or, latticed-falsc
bottom for the quartz, &c. to be placed upon; and as the water isi
forced thro' this body of quartz, the earthy particles are washed over.
an overflow down a recessed waterfall, with one or more cups or re-
cesses in the same, wherein the mineral deposit is caught. The whole is:
constructed on a frame, and on one or more wheels for convenience of
removal, and the suction pipe for water to be coiled around the pipe or
otherwise for carriage.
Twenty-first. The next form for washing ores, &c. is a long trough,
either straight or otherwise, into which I place perforated pipes, thro':
which I force a stream of water either by gravity or pumps. The
quartz, &c. to be operated upon is then to be placed in said trough,
and the water coming in one or both sides, or opposite directions, or
under a false bottom, causes the carthy particles to be washed away,
and any mineral deposit to settle. The waste I propose to run away?
over the lowest end of trough, and in certain cases I attach a waterfall
of inclined recesses or cavities to catch any metallic particles which
may escape thro' the flow of water from trough. The pump. I attach
to the pipes aforesaid, & may be portable and fixed on a wheel or
wheels, if required, for convenience of removal.
Twenty-second. The next apparatus is merely a plain troughed
waterfall, either straight or otherwise, to be placed at any required.
angle with receiving head and recessed stoppages. to retain any
metallic particles in the passage of matter down the same. This also-
to be provided with any kind of pump to it, if required, and mounted
on wheels or otherwise, and with portable shafts or handles for
wheeling or drawing about, and in certain cases with hinged or pivot
joints to sides to fold into small® compass. I also use mercury with
this machine, if required.
•
Twenty-third. The next apparatus is a seguiental-rocker for pul
verising with the- assistance of manual labour. I make a flanged
segment of cast iron or wro't iron, to which l'attach sides by bolts &
nuts, &c., and the top of which I-form into a hollow eye or chamber or
socket to receive a-long lever properly secured thereto, to facilitate the
3

page_text: rocking motion; the interior I leave hollow and stayed, so as to load
with any heavy substance for adding weight, if necessary. I also
provide a boxed bed plate, with guides for the same to work in, and
discharging recesses when required.
Twenty-fourth. The next arrangement is for washing or amal-
gamating by means of a fan-blower, centrifugal, force, or plunger or
other pump. I place the matter to be operated upon into a cylin-
drical or other vessel, in the centre of which I place a vertical hollow.
shaft, down which I admit a stream of water, and which distributes
itself thro' hollow tubes attached to the shaft, and which tubes are
perforated, so as to allow the water or other matter to be driven out
into the body of the material contained in the vessel. The hollow
shaft is provided with a portable guide pivot at bottom, and a
chambered top, so as to allow the water, &c. &c. to be freely
admitted, as required. This shaft also I make to revolve and work at
the same time up and down, if required, in certain cases for better
distribution of matter, and also is provided with a seat on upper part of
shaft whercon to place weights if wanted, so as to sink the shaft
quickly in its falling motion over the incline. I also cause the central
shaft to revolve by means of a cross band from driving shaft, or by a
wormed wheel, or wheel & pinnious, or otherwise, as required The
upper part of chambered head to central shaft is in "certain
provided with a stuffing box & stuffing, so as to prevent the undue
escape of water, &c., as may be required; the whole mounted on a
stand or frame, and made portable or otherwise.
"
cases
Twenty-fifth. The next arrangement for pulverising or amalgamating
is by means of one or more rollers, prepared either with corrugations, or
tapered, or beaded, or Vecs on their peripheries, either longititudinally
or transversely, and either working into each other in proper cases or
enclosures as may be required, or working on a protected bed plate of
any required shape to match, and revolving to and fro, or else in fixed
centres, and the protected bed plate to revolve or run to & fro; the
above to be worked with suitable framing and gearing where required
either for hand, cattle, or steam power.
The last apparatus consists of a sublimating vessel of improved de-

page_text: scription, to be hollow and jointed, and with pipe projecting from the
side, and attached to a coil or worm in a vessel for the purpose of
more effectually cooling and retaining the quicksilver, and provided
with screw joint and cock. where required, prepared either with plain,
or corrugated. or w surfaces, and either working into each other or
working on bed plates to & fro to match, or else with fixed centres,
and the table to work to & fro, and the above to be driven with
suitable gearing either for hand, or cattle, or steam power.
The above apparatuses I construct either of iron, wood, glass, leather,
gutta-percha, or vulcanised india-rubber (or both combined). or either
or part of any of the aforesaid materials, or others which may be found
suitable, and also claim the modes of thus treating the aforesaid sub-
stances. And also I claim the entire of the aforesaid apparatuses,
which are new in principle, except the 'Chillian mill, for which I claim
the improved modes of construction. I also claim for the application
of the aforesaid machines & apparatus, or any portion thereof. as
herein set forth and described, to other useful purposes when they are
or may be found applicable. Also I claim the general arrangement
and principle of construction of within-named apparatuses & machines,
which in certain cases admits of a slight deviation in form or shape
which I claim. And also for the use of either one of the aforesaid
machines or apparatuses, or any part thereof, either separately or in
combination with each or any other, as may be required for the afore-
mentioned or other useful purposes.
25 SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent,
filed by the said Samuel Perkes in the Great Scal Patent
Office, on the 12th April 1858.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I,
SAMUEL PERKES, Civil Engineer, of No. 1, Walbrook, City of London,
30 send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her
Letters Patent, bearing date the Twelfth day of October, in the year

page_text: of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and fifty-two; in the six-
teenth year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and succes-
sors, give and grant unto me, the said Samuel Perkes, Her special
licence that 1, the said Samuel Perkes, my executors, administra-
tors; and assigns, or such others' as I, the said Samuel Perkos, my
executors, administrators, and assigns, should at any time agree with,
and no others, from time to tinic and at all times thereafter during
the term therein expressed, should and lawfully might make, use,
exercise, and vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Tsle of Man. an Invention for
"IMPROVEMENTS IN CERTAIN APPARATUSES AND MACHINES FOR THE PRO-
DUCTION AND TREATMENT OF. MINERAL AND OTHER SUBSTANCES, AND PART OF
WHICH ARE APPLICABLE FOR OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES," upon the condition
(amongst others) that I, the said Samuel Perkes, by an instrument in
writing under my hand and seal, should particularly describe and ascer-
tain the nature of the said Invention, and in what manner the same was
to be performed, and cause the same to be filed in the Great Scal
Patent Office within six calendar months next and immediately after
the date of the said Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE, that I, the said Samuel Perkes, do hereby
declare the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the
same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained
in and by the following statement, that is to say:
The first part of my Invention relates to an apparatus for the dis-
covery of minerals and other substances, and consists of a new descrip-
tion of boring bar, which I make of jointed hollow cylindrical iron tubes,
so as to admit water down the centre, if required, to the chisel point or
cutter when in operation for facilitating its progress. The joints I
compose either of sockets and gibs, or cotters or screws, or combined,
and constructed in convenient lengths. Also, I construct a working
guide cylinder at the top, having a bevilled flanged rim, and receiving
pan or vessel round the same, and a vulcanisod india-rubber drip collar
to conduct thereto the particles of mineral or other matter which may
be worked up from the bore for inspection. Also, at the bottoni of the
'said bar, I construct a cylindrical boxed valve of any convenient length,

page_text: in order to secure and retain if required the mineral or earthy particles
from any required depth, which can be extracted as often as the
operator may wish for actual examination. This bar I also provide
with a chisel pointed cutter at the extremity, and work the same on 'the
churning principle over a pulley or spring lever, or otherwise, as may
be required. The construction of this bar is entirely new, which I
claim.
'
The second apparatus consists of a crushing mill or machinery for
crushing quartz or other mineral substances. I construct a suitable
frame of cast iron, and attach the same' to a 'strong iron or wood bed
plate; within this frame work I construct a large cast iron revolving
or fixed anvil block, with sides or flanges of suflicient depth to provent
the bulk of the material from flying off when struck with the hammer.
The quartz or material is conducted through a hopper and guide trough,
with sufficient inclination to allow the material to descend gradually to
the said anvil, and is bruised up into small particles by means of the
rapid blows it receives from the hammer; whilst the anvil, if revolving.
moves very slowly. The crushed ores are then delivered from the anvil
down a shoot into a latticed sieve which I fix underneath the hammer
shaft, and sift the quartz either by the sieve revolving on its own axis
or worked alternately to and fro, or from side to side, but in either case
slightly inclined so as to permit any larger portions than the. mesli
required to deliver themselves out of the lower end thereof, and which
can be immediately conveyed to the hammer again as aforesaid if
necessary to be repulverised. The hammer consists of a strong wrought
or cast iron lover bar, with branched or forked ends, which are sup-
ported by a shaft running through them at their farthest extremity į
and the head consists of a strong heavy mass of iron, of any given size;
according to the weight and power which may be required. This head
is also provided with horizontal horns or guide shafts fixed at right
angles with the head, which is also provided with a socket for the
reception of a steel face or dic. and attached by means of gibs and
cotters, or dovetails, or otherwise.. The ends of the horns or guide
shafts I propose to work through guides cast for that purpose in the
side framing, and at the extremity of such shafts to affix thereon friction

page_text: rollers for the purpose of working the hammer head, which is set in
motion by means of wheels composed of graduated inclines or inclined
revolving arms, either of which I arrange so as to allow of sudden falls,
and attach the same to side discs or wheels, and upon which the friction
rollers will travel. These wheels, and likewise the whole machine, I set
in motion by gearing wheels and pinions, which are to be driven either
by hand, cattle, or steam power. Also I propose another movement, to
give motion to the hammer by means of a revolving lifting wheel placed
at the front of the hammer head, with projecting lifters extending from
the surface thereof, on the principal of a common forge hammer. And
also I propose, in certain cases, to work the machines with steam or
other power, and apply thereto a cylinder and piston directly or in-
directly connected to the hammer heal for giving motion to the whole
machine. The framing secure together by means of stay bolts and
nuts, or other wise. as may be required. I also propose to construct
them as portable machines for convenience of removal if required. I
also claim the application of the principle of action of the common tilt
or forge hammer to the purpose of crushing ores, &c.. together with
the construction of this machine, as herein described and set forth, or
any portion thereof, either together or separately. I also propose to
construct a small and more portable machine for crushing ores and
other mineral and metallic substances, on the principal of the common
"olliver," which is well known amongst rivet makers and others, and
which consists of a rude post struck in the ground, from which projects
a heavy hammer, which is set in motion by a foot treadle at pleasure.
Now I construct a proper substantial frame, either of wood or iron, and
attach the hammer shaft to the back part thereof, which will render it
by far more useful, as it will be solid. firm, and portable, and can be
moved about at pleasure without disturbing or pulling up any portion of
the same. Also I prepare a recess strongly framed for the reception
of the anvil stand or mortar, and at the bottom I attach to the same
framing a foot lever or treadle for giving motion to the hammer or
pestle, which is reversed in its action by a spring or other similar con-
trivanec. This will be found a very simple and admirable machine,
especially for rough crushing the quartz, &c., prior to its delivery to the

page_text: pulverising mill as herein-after described. I also claim the application
of this arrangement to the crushing and working of ores, and minerals,
and metallic substances, and also the improved construction of the en-
tire machine in the modes described, together with the right of working
it either by power, or steam, or a foot lever, when required. These
machines will also be found particularly valuable in the colonies, &c.
abroad, as almost any kind of rough heavy smith's work can be done
with the same in the hands of any party who is at all conversant with the
forging of ion; hence they will be supplied with anvil blocks suitable
for iron work as well as those for quartz.
The third apparatus consists of an improved mode of constructing
what is termed a "Chillian mill," for finely pulverising ores, &c.. which
formerly consisted of an iron pan, generally cast in one piece, about six
to ten feet diameter, within which was placed a couple of edge runners
attached to each end of a shaft running across the centre, with a collar
forged in the middle of the same, through which was passed a vertical
iron spindle to guide the same, and which was secured at the bottom by
a foot plate on the casting, and at the top by means of some strong
wooden framing which was erected across the pan over head, and of
sufficient height to allow the horses or mules, &c. to pass under, and
which also extended just beyond the traffic of the horses to allow them
a free passage round the pan, and was supported by strong cross legs
and framed standards braced together, and also the feet thereof rainmed
up in the carth Now, construct my "improved Chillian mill" as
follows, viz: The cast iron pan I construct in several radial sections. in
order to render them more portable for conveyance to their destination,
and I connect these segments together by means of bolts and nuts.
Secondly, I dispense entirely with every particle of cumbrous wood
framing for supporting the central spindle, and substitute in licu thereof
a cast iron central disc plate, or strong central bracketed socket, and affix
the same to the bottom of the pan by means of screwed bolts and nuts
going through cach segment of plate, and binding also the centre of the
entire pan firmly together; into this socket I fix my central shaft by
means of a simple cotter and gib going right through cach; the upper part
of this central shaft I form into as many recesses as there are wheels to
B

page_text: be employed in the pan, the object of which is that each wheel may have
the opportunity of working distinct and loose from each other by means
of a strong collar, which is turned and bored to fit exactly on each recess,
and being in thickness about a quarter of an inch less than the depth of
cach recess on the central spindle, it allows a freedom and liberty for
cach collar to work horizontally over the others, as these collars are made
to take their bearings upon the recesses of the central shaft, and not
upon cach other. These collars are also chambered out on their upper
surfaces in a radial direction from the centre. in order to receive the
wrot iron shafts to which the wheels are attached; the ends of the
shafts fitting into each collar are left quite plain between the wheel and
collar from the square bar, except at the extreme point, where they are
simply turned up the depth of their own thickness, and left like an open
claw, of sufficient size to admit of a wrot iron or steel bolt through the
same, which is likewise run through the collar, and which bolt retains the
end of the shaft in its place, and likewise forms a pivot for the shaft to
Faise or lower itself upon in the event of the crushing wheel at the other
end riding over any hard substance at any time, instead of crushing the
same. The opposite end of the shaft is prepared with a fast and loose
collar for convenience of securing the wheel when in work, and also for
drawing the end of the shaft through the nave of the wheel when required
for removal, and the loose collar is simply held to its place by means of
a cutter and gibb, or lynch pin. The external ends of these shafts for
working with horses or cattle are just drawn out and gradually reduced
in size towards the end, where they are provided with a loop to attach
the horses, mules, or cattle to. The wheels are of cast iron, cither whole
or cast in segments for convenience of transportation. They generally
run about three to six feet diameter, and either of square or inclined
peripheries. I propose to provide them with boxed flanged arms, for the
purpose of protecting and retaining any stone work, &c., which may
hereafter be built inside them at their destination for the sake of adding
weight to them if required; and also in certain cases I propose to use
cast or wrought iron disc plates to cover over the entire of the wheel
surfaces, whether built in or not, and by placing one on each side of the
wheel, and securing them together with bolts and nuts run through the

page_text: hickness of the wheel, and likewise through holes left in the casting, in
addition to the bolts which pass through cach joining of segments inte-
iorly, that the whole mass will be equally as good and nearly as solid as
hough cast in one entire piece. Also, in certain cases where required, I.
propose to work these mills by engine power, and employ wheels and
pinions to communicate with the engine instead of horse or cattle gear.
Also, I further propose another mode of working, viz', by providing
fixed slotted centres for the axles of the wheels to work in, and letting
the table revolve by means of ordinary gearing attached thereto, and
either driven by horse, cattle, or engine power. These mills are provided
with suitable feeding hoppers and delivery channels where required.
I do not confine myself to the number or size or thickness of wheels,
whether of square or inclined peripheries, as these will vary according
to the amount of work they are required to perform. But what I claim
is, the new arrangement of central socket and recessed shaft, whereby
additional wheels can be added if required, and collars thereon, with their
hinge-like pivots for the wheel shafts to work upon, and likewise the
form of axles for the wheels, as herein described. Also the boxed flanged.
wheels, either whole or in segments, together with the inclination of their
peripheries where required, and the discs or face plates to cover cach,
side of wheels. Also the arrangement for fixed axles, for wheels to
revolve upon, with vertical slots. so as to raise or lower of their own,
accord whilst the table or pan is revolving, and also the revolving of the
table or pan itself. These new improvements, as detailed, I claim for
them generally, together with the option of slightly varying such details;
to suit various circumstances, but not deviating from the principle of
construction, as herein set forth. The wheels are also each provided
with a scraper, or brush and scraper, as required, at the back of the said
wheels, to clear and prevent the pulverized material from accumulating
thercon, but which scrapers, or scrapers and brushes, are not new, and
are not claimed.
The fourth apparatus consists of a sifting machine, formed like a large
sieving apparatus, and composed of very fine meshes of wire or other work
on the external surface of and properly secured to a circular or square
frame, to keep the same in proper stretch, and either made to revolve on
B 2

page_text: an axle, or moved about by a slightly inclined riddling motion, as the
case may be, and either of which are enclosed in a box, and the pul
verized matter to be sifted is delivered in at one end through a hopper
and the coarse matter is gradually discharged at the other end by its own
gravity through a small slite, and is then passed to the mill again to be
reground. I also provide a set of brushes or fan blades on the central
axle, either lineal or spiral, for the purpose of more effectually brushing
the quartz through. as the finer the quartz is made the greater the metallic
produce will be. I also propose to work the above either by causing the
seive itself to revolve, or else the axle with its brushes or fan blades to
revolve, or else both to revolve in either direction, as may be required,
and to be driven by hand or other power, and with wheels and pinions
if of large size. The whole of this sifting apparatus is encased in a
portable or other box, and provided with a chamber underneath for the
finely sifted quartz. &c. to fall into, from whence it is removed in any
way required
I claim the general construction and arrangements of
this sifting apparatus for the purpose of sifting finely pulverized orcs,
&c. with the variations described.
For large operations I propose to apply an elevating machine for
receiving the sifted quartz, &c. from the last machine. It is simply a
broad endless band of gutta-percha or vulcanized india-rubber, with
pockets formed on the face thereof, into which the quartz will gradually
deliver itself down an incline, and by the revolving of this endless band
it will receive the quartz, and get elevated up, and doliver itself as may
be required, either for convenience of sacking or delivering to the
amalgamators (to be hereafter described), or otherwise as high as
required; and this simple apparatus I denominate and call a "Jacob's
ladder," which I claim for entire.
The fifth apparatus is also another form of sifting machine for
pulverized ores, &c., and consists of a kind of inverted cone of fine wire
gauze work attached to an iron skeleton frame, suitably constructed so
as to allow the wire gauze to be tied thereto in a proper manner. This
wire gauze work 1 propose to put in one or more thicknesses of different
meshes, in order to gain a good and even support for the finest degree
used, which is in the interior. This frame of wire work I attach to a S

page_text: central vertical shaft, which said shaft is attached to an external
circular case, and the central wire-formed cone is made to revolve at a
very rapid rate by means of wheels and bands or friction pullies, and
the finely pulverized material is sifted through the gauze work by
centrifugal force into the external receiving case, from whence it
deliver itself, by means of a shute provided for that purpose in the
bottom part thereof, into any receptacle which may be provided. In
certain cases also I propose to fix a brush internally, so as to clear the
wire gauze as it revolves around it. The pulverized material I also
deliver into this sifting mill by means of a shute and hopper affixed over
the mill for that purpose.
I claim the general design and construction of this machine, with
the right of varying the details as may be required, but retaining the
application of centrifugal force to the sifting of pulverized ores in
general, either horizontally, or vertically, or inclined, which is new, and
worked either by hand, cattle, or engine power.
The sixth apparatus I have designed is a vertical or slightly inclined
skeleton barrel, with fine wire gauze on the exterior of the skeleton
frame, for the purpose also of sifting, &c.; and the quartz, &c. is driven
through the wire gauze by means of the centrifugal force of the fan
blades with which the central shaft is provided. This machine is also-
driven by gearing, and either by hand, cattle, or engine power, upon
the centrifugal principle, and which machine I also claim for.
The seventh apparatus is a washing and mixing vessel for the pur-
pose of mixing up and well washing the pulverized ores in water where
required. It consists of a plain cylindrical vessel with a vertical shaft
in the centre, with one or more blades or feathers fixed upon the shaft.
and revolving inside the cylinder; or, I also propose to revolve the
vessel around arms or blades on a central fixed shaft, either vertically,
or horizontally, or slightly inclined; and in either case worked with
plain wheel and pinion gearing by hand, cattle, or engine power. Into
either of such vessels the quartz or material is conducted from the sift-
ing or other machine, and a stream of water is applied thereto, and
the whole is then mixed together until of a proper consistency, and
then discharged through an outlet pipe provided for that purpose. These

page_text: vessels are new, and which I claim entire, and make up the same of
wood or iron, or both combined.
Eighth. The next part of my Invention relates to the mode or modes
which I adopt for amalgamating, which can only be efficiently per-
formed by actually grinding the finely pulverized ores or quartz, &c
with the quicksilver or mercury. in the closest possible contact, which
I effect as follows. viz. by making a hollow cast-iron vessel of any
given size. and the interior form of which should somewhat resemble a
V, with a parallel recess at the bottom, making together what may
properly be termed a funnel shape, and into which I prepare and fit a
plug, also of similar metal, and the surfaces to be closely turned and
fitted into each other, and either plain or serrated where required.
The lower end of the plug I would in certain cases prepare somewhat
parallel for a short way up, in order to steady the plug in its upward
or rising motion, and leave a short recess at bottom underneath the
plug. either bored out of the solid, or chambered out of a solid plate
attached to the bottom or seat of mull, which I also propose to be
formed as a broad flange to give solidity, and to have ribs or brackets
inserted at intervals around and between the top and bottom flanges.
The upper part of the exterior of vessel is provided with a broad flange,
dished inwards at the centre in order to retain a supply of quartz, and
upon which a stream of water is added by means of a supply pipe or
otherwise, for the purpose of self-feeding the plug when at work. The
top part of the plug is also made hollow and dished out so as to form
a reservoir for the quicksilver, which is admitted to the grinding
surfaces by means of a small channel or conduit drilled on an incline
from the exterior of plug to the grinding or contact surfaces, and 'pro-
vided with a regulation cock or valve where necessary. I also cut
upon the surface of the plug or interior of the vessels serrations or
small grooves or channels in any required direction, for the purpose of
retaining a small body of the quicksilver or amalgam, which will by
that means be brought in contact with every particle (however small) of
the quartz, which the mill will contain from time to time; and also, in
certain cases, for the better supply of water, &c. between these close
grinding surfaces, I would apply a lever and a small fulcrum block in

page_text: one side of the top flange, and attach a forked end thereof between the
guide collars prepared for that purpose in the head of the central re-
volving plug; and by means of this very short leverage the central plug
can be occasionally raised up a very slight distance from its seat, either
by hand or by gear, as it is going round, for the purpose of admitting a
more copious supply of quartz and water thereto. I would work these
amalgamating mills either by hand, cattle, or engine power. If for
small hand mills. then a simple cross-head leverage will be sufficient;
but if of larger size, or for horse, cattle, or engine power then gearing
must be added in a proportionate degree.
I claim this mode of grinding or amalgamating metallic ores to-
gether with this machine, as above described, and any slight variation
thereof, as being quite new. This grinding of quartz or metallic ores
with mercury forms an amalgamation with any of the precious metallic
substances which the ores might contain, and which said amalgam dis-
charges itself through the bottom conduit pipe from a chambered recess
underneath the plug, and is conducted to the washing vessel, which
is similar to the mixing vessel, as above described under seventh
head; the whole is then washed about, by which means all the muddy
particles of quartz and earthy matter combined will run away in solution
through the overflow, whilst the inercury and amalgam will descend-to
the bottom, where it is entirely collected anil strained through wash-
leather skins, by which means the amalgam is retained, and the portion
of mercury which is not in a state of amalgam will be forced through the
leather by squeezing and rinsing into a suitable vessel, and reserved for
fresh use. The amalgam is then to be put into the sublimating vessel
(of which I shall give a full description hereafter), and is placed upon
the fire and heated almost red hot, and the mercury is then driven off
by evaporation, whilst the gold or other metallic substance is retained.
This mode of rinsing and driving off the mercury by evaporation is
old, and which I do not claim; but the construction of my improved
sublimating vessel I do claim, and fully describe the same under Article
26, of this Specification.
Ninth. The above described amalgamator I also propose to provide
with a portable lock spanner upon the outlet cock, in order that the

page_text: entire of the amalgam may be kept under lock and key when required.
The pivot of lever falcrum is also prepared with the means of adjusting
its height, so as to provide for the wearing down of the central plug;
a regular supply of mercury must also be provided for the mercurial
reservoir at top of plug, by means of an iron pipe and regulating cock
leading thereto from the vessel wherein the mercury is kept; and also
suitable guide frames and stays to be provided for working gear over
the machine, and either attached thereto or otherwise, as may be
found most convenient for working the same, according to the require-
ments of the purchaser; which general arrangements I claim, as they
are connected with the efficient working of my machine, as described.
Tenth. I propose also another amalgamating mill of exactly the
same construction and general arrangements, but varying in the shape
of its central grinding plug, which I propose to be somewhat similar
in shape to an inverted conc. with a flattish sweep at the bottom. and
tapered outwards towards the top, and to be provided with a small
recessed chamber for amalgam underneath, and both contact grinding
surfaces to be scirated where required. This form of plug I also claim
in connection with amalgamator No. 9.
Eleventh is another amalgamating mill of similar description, only
another variation in the shape of the central grinding plug, which in
this case propose to be another form of inverted conc, but much
more tapered than the last, and more pointed at the bottom, and which
will somewhat resemble the shape of the heart in section, and which
shape also claim in connection with the last described, and serrated
where required.
Twelfth is another amalgamating mill of similar description, also
only varying in the form of central grinding plug, the contact surfaces
of which resemble a pair of epeycloidal curves in their sectional eleva-
tion, either with or without a parallel guide on the lower end thereof,
and which I claim, together with all the remaining portion of mill, as
before described. Each of these forms as above described, or else a
perfect V form, or a perfect pestle form, I propose to adopt, or any
other convenient and suitable form likewise that may be desired, and
to apply similar airangements for working them, as before described in

page_text: Ninth and three following sections, together with serrations where
required, also in either case or for either form. I also claim for revolving
the external cases instead of the central plugs, which I would affix so
that they should not revolve, and at the same time making due
provision for the action of levers and working gear, which will be mere
matters of arrangement to suit each particular case.
Thirteenth. The next apparatus consists of an arrangement which
I adopt for crushing, grinding, or amalgamating, and is composed of
two or more revolving rollers of any required size, with inverted dove-
tails or tapered teeth. or other projections, from the surfaces thereof,
either horizontally or transversely, at regular alternate and suitable
distances, and fitting and working nearly close into each other, either
horizontally, or vertically, or inclined, by means of wheels and pinions,
or otherwise, as required, and driven either by hand, or cattle, or
engine power, and properly encased and mounted on a suitable frame,
with a receiving hopper above, and delivering shute underneath, and
also provided with a clearing brush or scraper, where necessary. The
axles I would affix in suitable plummer blocks attached to the framing,
or else fitted with collars into recesses provided on the framing, if made
of cast irou, or otherwise. These plummer blocks or axle collars I
propose to make, either one or both of them, moveable in certain cases;
where required, and worked backwards and forwards by means of a
slide and regulating set screws, so as to allow of any particular sized
quartz or other material to pass through them. These set screws I pro-
pose to lay along the side frame from one end of frame to the plummer
block or blocks, and attached thereto; and by turning a hand wheel
or small winch handle fixed on end of frame it will give motion to the
wheels which I connect with the screws to the plummer block or
blocks, so that they can one or both be withdrawn apart or advanced
towards each other to the greatest nicety required, simply by turning
this one wheel or handle; and this machine I propose also to use for
agricultural and other purposes, and particularly grain and roots for
cattle feeding, &c., as it can be applied for crushing turnips, potatoes,
beans, peas, barley, oats, &c., as the only difference between crushing
this variety of substances will be the slight adjustment of the space to

page_text: he allowed between the rollers, which can be lone in an instant merely
by a few turns of the regulating screws. The whole of the machine is
entirely new, which T claim both in the principle of its construction
and the general details, as herein mentioned, together with any slight
variation of the same which may hereafter be desired to suit any
particular kind of work to which it may be found applicable, and for
which I claim protection; likewise, 1 claim especially for the use of
tapered ridges or teeth on the surface of rollers for crushing purposes
in general.
Fourteenth. The next apparatus is a portable machine for pumping,
washing, precipitating, and amalgamating, &c. and is constructed on two
or more wheels, which are uscil, first, for wheeling the machine from
place to place as may be necessary, and when in work for driving wheels,
if required The axle of these wheels also forms the shaft of the washing
box, which is circular in section. This shaft has also arms fixed upon
it, and it revolves freely when in work in this circular box or drum
barrel, which is fixed in an horizontal position from side to side of the
machine, and used as the washing cylinder, into which the quartz or
material is delivered by means of a suitable hopper with an inclined
bottom, and fixed immediately over the said washing barrel, so that the
quartz, &c. may run directly into the same. Immediately over the said
hopper I fix a hollow vessel, somewhat resembling a parachute, and
support the same on iron standards attached firmly to the same, and
likewise to the hopper; the parachute is used as a kind of inverted rose
head, and the bottom plate of which is finely perforated partly over its
surface with holes, after the manner of a shower bath head (or a coil of
perforated pipes will produce the same effect, which I claim for). Then
a stream of water is forced into this parachute by means of a large pipe,
which conveys the water direct from the force pump below through the
centre of the parachute, and into which it first discharges itself from
the said pipe through some large holes drilled all around that part of
the said pipe which is enclosed within the said parachute, and from
which the water. descends freely and rapidly over the quartz, which is
placed in the hopper underneath upon a tray of wire lattice work, of
any suitable mesh required, so as to keep away large particles of stone

page_text: or other foreign matter from entering the washing cylinder. The water
thus used washes all the fine particles of sand or quartz through the wire
meshes into the washing cylinder, where it is well worked about by the
turning of the axle or driving shaft. as before described, and which is
provided with beaters internally The said quartz or ores thus washed
and worked about and mixed with a plentiful supply of water runs over
and delivers itself through an aperture in the upper side of the cylinder,
also where it runs parallel with the opening left for the admission of
the material from the hopper, and from which it is divided by a stop or
rib of iron running along from side to side. The ores or sand thus in
solution run through this outlet in the same ratio as supplied to the
hopper, and run over the side of the horizontal cylinder into a series of
one or more pockets or chambered recesses placed at a few inches
below each other in a vertical position, which act as a series of water-
falls, and as cach becomes filled the surplus solution falls to the next,
and so on, according to the number there may be, which I regulate by
the amount of work required to be performed. Then, as the water
keeps running over, drip, drip, drip, from one to the other, the greater
portion of gold or other metallic substance contained in such solution will
of its own gravity become deposited by precipitation in some one of these
pockets, which are cach provided with a small projecting edge in order
that the solution shall have a clear fall instead of running down the
face of each pocket; also, in certain cases, at the lower end of such falls
or pockets I employ a descending outlet with a small trough a reservoir
of quicksilver at the bottom, into which I place a dip plate, the lower
portion of which I lattice or perforate to allow the quartz, &c. to pass
through in small streams at a regulated depth underneath the quicksilver.
The solution in such cases, as it leaves the pockets or falls, passes down
this vertical outlet upon the quicksilver, and through which it is made to
pass by its own gravity underneath the dip plate affixed in the quick-
silver reservoir aforesaid. This vertical outlet, if employed, should
all cases be of sufficient height,, so that the weight of water, &c. in
solution will overcome the density of the quicksilver through which it
has to pass. By this simple means, should any particles of gold, &c.
possibly have escaped the waterfalls by precipitation, they will be

page_text: T
almost sure to be caught by the quicksilver, with which it will instantly
form an amalgam. The sides of the machine, and likewise the pre-
cipitated pockets and washing cylinder, parachute, hopper, &c., I compose
of iron, of which moderately thin sheets form the best, and which I
propose to be galvanized when required; but the small portable trough
for quicksilver I propose to be not galvanized, to prevent the waste of
quicksilver, as it would amalgamate with it also. In certain cases also,
at the back part of the machine and underneath the hopper, I affix a
centrifugal pump, the inlet to which I prepare with loose jointed
coupling nuts for the reception of the hose pipe, which I employ as a
suction pipe to lay into the stream or other place where water can be
conveniently had. This pump work either by wheels and pinions
connected with the driving shaft, or else by a pulley and band connected
with one of the diving wheels affixed to the main driving shaft. The
water is then forced out of the pump through an outlet pipe in the upper
part of the same, and is conveyed by a continuation of jointed pipes
direct to the parachute over the hopper, as before alluded to; thus a
full and copious supply of water is supplied in a continuous stream, as
the washing, &c. proceeds, and likewise for washing away the solution
of sand, &c.; thus, if the supply of sand, &c. is stopped the
pump will
immediately wash away all the sand, &c. in solution, and will leave only
the pure metallic proceeds at the bottom of the clean water in the
pockets, &c., which can be emptied by means of a small cock or valve
provided for this purpose in each compartment, and also at the bottom
of the washing cylinder, and then the particles of gold, &c. can be
taken out as required. The driving wheels are each provided with a
washer plate on the face of each nave. These plates are provided with
a projection upon each on the one side only, and in the nave of the
wheel is cut a recess of corresponding size to the projection on the
plate, the object of which is, that when the machine is required for
work it is somewhat clevated from the ground at the back part thereof
by means of a standard, which serves as a short step ladder for the
workman to raise himself up to the hopper by to feed the same, and
thus the driving wheels are free from the ground; then by removing
the lynch pin, and reversing this plate, so that the lugs or projections on

page_text: the one side shall fall into the recesses in the wheel, and the lynch pin
again inserted, the wheels will each be made fast, so as to revolve with
the axle, and thus used as driving wheels, which will give power to the
machinery employed. The projecting ribs cast on one side of these
plates are independent of a groove cut on each side of each plate at right.
angles to each other, and into which the back part of the lynch pin
falls, so as to secure the plate also with the lynch pin and axle. Thus
the pins secure the plates to the axle, and the plates the wheels, which
all revolve together when in work; but when required for removal from
place to place the lynch pins are withdrawn, and the plates reversed,
and the pins again inserted, by which means the wheels act as ordinary
carriage wheels independently of the plates, and will revolve on their
axle alone without the machinery being worked at all; and by means of
a pair of portable handles provided at the lower end of the machine, it
can all be wheeled about at pleasure, similar to a common hand cart.
Hence its extreme convenience and portability, especially for washing
auriferous sands, &c., as it can be worked and removed at pleasure
by any one individual, if required. I do not confine myself to the
hand pump,
particular description of pump employed, as either a
centrifugal pump, force pump. or almost any pump will suffice, and
can be attached to the working shaft of the machine to set it in
motion, either by bands, or by gearing, or cranks, &c. I give motion to
the machine by a portable hand windlass, either attached to the central
shaft or affixed to a prepared spoke in either one or both of the driving
wheels, which can be used either separately or both together, as required.
Also, where required for large-sized machines, they can be provided
with portable shafts instead of handles, and by which means a horse
or cattle can be used, if necessary, to draw them about from place to
place, when required. The deep vertical outlet will serve to hold the
shovels, picks, hammers, axes, crowbars, &c.; also the buckets, scoops,
and sundry utensils necessary for a gold digger can be laid on the top of
the pockets and recesses, and his bed upon the utensils, and his tent
spread over all, which will form an excellent package cover for securing
everything for removal from one district to another: I also form,
when required, a secret reserve chamber in any convenient part of the

page_text: machine for the purpose of securing the gold in, and provided with
lock and key. The top of the parachute also, when elevated; J
use it for the central support of the tent, which can easily be thrown
over the same, and extended out by means of pins and cords, so that
tent poles, &c. can be entirely dispensed with. Also, in some machines,
I construct a portable cooking apparatus underneath the working
barrel or pump of the machine, and in case the remaining part under-
neath for the convenience of holding the blankets and other neces-
saries in. Also, in some cases, I construct the portable handles or
shafts, as employed for drawing the machine about, of sufficient length,
so that they will form a very excellent bed frame, simply by preparing
a portable sacking bottom of any suitable material to attach to the
sides either by hoops, stuls, or loops. I therefore claim the principle
and construction of this machine, as being entirely new, in any con-
venient form required, together with the several variations thereof, as
hercin set forth, either separately or collectively; and also claim the
construction and use of such machines in any variety thereof for
obtaining gold, &c. by precipitation, on the principle of portable water-
falls, as herein described; and also for the washing and precipitating.
of auriferous ores, &c. by such waterfalls and washing' process combined,
and likewise in combination with the process of amalgamation added.
thereto, or either of them, when required. I also claim for the com--
bination of portable cooking apparatus, pumps, &c. in connexion with
portable or other moveable vehicles provided for the use of emigrants
and others requiring them: And in order that other persons may not
take advantage of my Invention, and attach portable fire grates and
cooking apparatus, 'and pumps, &c., to carts or other vehicles adapted.
for the use of persons employed at such work as obtaining metallic
or auriferous ores, &c., I hereby claim the application of the same;
or any portion of this my Invention, to any kind of apparatus or
vehicle, either stationary or moveable, or other purpose to which they
are or may be found applicable, and use any portion thereof, either
separately or combined. I also claim for using these principles of
operation in fixing machines where required, and to be worked either
by hand, or cattle, or engine power.

page_text: Fifteenth. The next apparatus is an amalgamator, which I construct
on the syphon principle, and consists of a plain hollow tube, similar to.
a round standard pipe, provided with a foot plate wherewith to erect it.
The
upper end of this standard pipe is enlarged, funnel shaped, so as to
form a convenient hopper for the reception of the auriferous sand
or quartz, &c.; the bottom end thereof is curved similar to a syphoni,
and continues up for a short distance only, where it terminates with a
short open shute to pass off the material operated upon; into this
amalgamator I pour a sufficient quantity of quicksilver just to cover
the central dip or bend of pipe, inside which forms a syphon trap.
The stand pipe I construct of sufficient height to admit of ample
weight of material to overcome the resistance which the quicksilver
offers; hence as fast as the hopper is supplied the mixed quartz or
sand and water, &c. is forced through the quicksilver by its own
gravity, and is discharged through the upcast shute above referred to
into the washing vessel containing water (as mentioned in item 7. of.
this series). wherein the quartz, &c. is thoroughly washed, and any
particles of quicksilver escaping with the quartz, &c. is there. pre-
cipitated and collected for use. The metallic particles of gold, &c.
will be thus retained by the quicksilver, with which it forms an.
amalgam, and which is ticated in the usual way. In certain cases.
where required, I also insert latticed work or perforatcil metal in the
quicksilver to promote the better separation of the material passing
through, which greatly assists the process and produce of amalgamation.
I also provide sight glasses, where necessary, by which to examine and
regulate the process. I claim this mode of collecting ores, &c. by
amalgamating on the syphon principle, together with any convenient
variation of shape or form of such apparatus, and which I construct:
either of iron, wood, glass, or other suitable material, and of any size:
required I also use this vessel as a very convenient washing and
precipitating vessel where it may be required, and for which application.
I also claim it.
.
Sixteenth. The next apparatus is likewise an amalgamator on thé.
same principle as last described, but which forms a series of two or
inore such syphons, and so arranged, either separately or combined, that

page_text: the material as it passes from one will discharge itself into the next,
and so on, by which means every particle of quartz, &c. is passed through
the quicksilver as many times over as may be required, whereby much
more produce will be obtained from the same quantity of matter than
could possibly be from once passing through. This multiplied or com-
bined arrangement of syphons, either for amalgamating, washing, or
precipitating. I also claim. If this arrangement is carried out on the
combined principle for amalgamating only, I then employ, in certain
cases, and claim for, a portable iron trough at the foot of each compart-
mont, for the sake of portability and free access to the quicksilver
which is placed in such trough, similar as described in Article Fourteenth
for the amalgamating portion of that machine
Seventeenth is also a machine, either portable or fixed, for washing
or amalgamating ores. &c. and is composed of a recessed or chambered
trough with one or more hollow revolving turn barrels inside, which
are worked by worm wheels or otherwise; cach turn barrel has one
or more blades, either curved or radial, fiom its centic, and either solid
or perforated on lattice, or both, as may be required, for thoroughly
mixing the material. If used for washing, the sand or pulverised ores,
&c. are simply run through the machine from a hopper head, and
supplied with a plentiful stream of water; and the inclination of the
machine, together with the chambered recesses and revolving turn
barrels, by which it is intercepted and forced through the water, will
cause it to be well washed, and any gold it may contain will be
precipitated into the chamber below, whilst the refuse water, sand, &e.
runs off at the lower end of its own accord. When used for amalga-
mating, the same process exactly is carried on, only some quicksilver is
added to the recesses formed in the trough wherein the amalgamation
takes place. The quicksilver is afterwards drawn off from these sunk
chambers at any time required by means of stop-cocks or valves
affixed to the lower part thereof, and the amalgam treated in the usual
way. The turn barrels are moved by means of a longitudinal shaft along
the side of the machine, and upon which are affixed wormed or toothed
wheels which work into corresponding wheels on the turn barrels; and
this main shaft can be worked either by hand, cattle, or steam power.

page_text: I claim for the general arrangement and description of this machine,
which is entirely new, together with the process of forcing auriferous
sands or ores, &c. through water or quicksilver, &c., by means of
hollow revolving turn barrels having perforated or solid or latticed
blades, &c., as before described.
•
Eighteenth. The next apparatus is a washing cradle for ores; &c,
and which I also use for amalgamating. It is constructed on rockers
or wheels, and in addition to its longitudinal rocking movement is
provided with a pivot at each end, so as to empty away on either side
any drainings therefiom, so as to clear out the cradle entirely; in centre
of the cradle. lengthways or crossways, is provided a small sunk reser-
voir in the bottom; so as to receive the gold or deposit, and likewise the
quicksilver and amalgam. I also provide latticed or perforated divi-
sions on suitable portable frames, for the purpose of washing and-well
separating the quartz, &c. when being operated upon; it is about twice
the length of its depth, and the ends nicely rounded and curved off to
pour from, and each end is provided with an iron stop fixed along the
inside of the top of each end as a dash board to prevent the water, &c.
rushing out every time the cradle is moved: The cradle is supported
on its end pivots, and kept to the working level by small chain pins
and rack, or by bolts shooting into recesses formed to receive the-same
in the semi-topped pivot plates attached to the cradle frame. The
cradle is also provided with side lips to pour away the residue of mud,
&c. after washing, &c., and when quicksilver is used it is collected and
poured off in the same way. The whole is mounted on a skeleton
rocking frame, and, where required, mounted on wheels for convenience
and portability. The whole of this design of rocking-cradle I claim as
being perfectly new, both in design and construction.
•
Nineteenth. The next apparatus is for a small portable hand cradle
to wash gold ores, &c. with, and is of similar nature and construction
to the last described, only this has not got the mounted-rocking frame,
but is provided with a central rounded disc plate, with a flatted pivot
attached to the under side of the cradle centre, and which acts as a
pivot, upon which to rock the cradle slowly from end to end, and also
to enable the operator suddenly to twist the cradle part way round and
back again in an horizontal position. By this means the metallic ores
c

page_text: 'will soon descend and precipitate themselves to the bottom of the recess.
There are also dash fillets at each end, and side lips, to pour out from,
and also framed latticed or perforated sheet divisions to slide into
recesses across from side to side, where required, for more effectually
separating the quartz, sand, &c. I also use quicksilver with this
machine when required. I claim the design, make, and construction
of this machine or washing cradle for working on a pivot, as before
*described.
t. Twentieth. The next apparatus is a troughed machine for forcing
"water througli a bed of the auriferous or other earth, either from under
or over the same, either by means of gravitation, or a force pump, or
centrifugal pump, and over or beneath which is placed a hopper with
perforated or latticed false bottom for the material to be placed upon;
and as the water is forced through this body of quartz the carthy
'particles are washed over, and flow down a recessed waterfall, which
contains one or more cups or recesses in the same, wherein the mineral
"deposit is caught. It is constructed on a portable frame, and in some
cases on wheels, for convenience of removal, and the hose or suction
pipe for water can be coiled around the pump or otherwise during
removal. This apparatus I make of any size, and either round, square,
or oblong. The whole of this machine I also claim as being new..
i
t
-
Twenty-first. The next apparatus for washing ores, &c., consists of a
long trough, either straight or otherwise, and of any convenient length,
into which I place perforated pipes, through which I force a stream of
water, either by gravity or by pumps. The material to be operated upon
is then to be placed in the said trough, and the water rushing in either
at one or both sides, or opposite directions, causes the earthy particles
to be washed away, and any metallic deposit to settle; the waste 'I
propose to run away over the lowest end of trough, and in certain cases
I attach a waterfall of inclined recesses or cavities to catch any metallic
*particles which may escape through the flow of water from the trough;
the pump
I attach to the pipes aforesaid; and the whole may be port-
able, and fixed on wheels, if required, for convenience of removal. This
_machine I also claim for the mode of operation, viz, by forcing water
through quartz, &c. from below.
i - Twenty-second. The next apparatus is merely a plain troughed

page_text: waterfall, of any convenient length, either straight or otherwise, and the
top end thereof to be elevated to any required angle. I also provide a
receiving, head or hopper, and down the entire of its length I provide it
.with a series of recessed stoppages so as to retain any metallic particles
during the washing of the matter down the same. This apparatus I
also provide with any suitable kind of pump, either fixed to it or not, as
required, and in certain cases mounted on wheels or otherwise, and with
.portable shafts or handles, for the convenience of wheeling or drawing
about; also, when required, I provide hinged or pivot joints to the sides,
&c., so that it may fold into a smaller compass, and so make it more
portable.. I also claim this entire, either with or without the pump or
:wheels aforesaid.
Twenty-third. The next apparatus is a segmental rocker for pul-
verising with the assistance of manual or other power. I make a
flanged inverted segment of cast or wrought iron, to which I attach
side frames by means of bolts and nuts; the top of these side frames I
connect by means of a cross head secured to the sides also by bolts and
nuts; in the centre of this head I prepare a large eye or socket to
receive a long timber beam, properly secured thereto, and equally
balanced so, as to facilitate the rocking motion. The side frames
-are well stayed together; so as to load with heavy masonry or other
substance if required. I also provide an incased iron bed plate, with
guides for the rocker to work in, and discharging recesses where
-required: This 'very, simple and efficient crushing apparatus I claim
entire.
:
.*Twenty-fourth. The next apparatus is a portable machine for wash-
Ling auriferous sands, &c! by means of centrifugal force, or a plunger or
other pump. First, I construct a cylindrical or other vessel, of any
convenient height and diameter, in the centre of which I place a vér-
tical hollow shaft, down which I force a stream of water, and which
distributes itself through hollow tubes attached to the shaft in any con-
..venient position, and which tubes I perforate in sundry places, to allow
the water to find its way through into the body of the material placed
in the cylinder to be, operated upon. The hollow cylinder is provided
with.a portable¯guide pivot at the bottom attached to a cross plate, and
2

page_text: which is removed from and replaced in the cylinder at pleasure, for
convenience of washing or cleansing. This cylinder is covered over by
means of a metallic lid with a flanged rim, and either secured to the
cylinder or not, as may be required, by means of screws or bolts, &c.
The centre of this lid is provided with a small extra thickness boss in
the centre, through which the central shaft way is drilled. Attached to
this lid, on the top side thereof, by means of set screws, is a metallic
guide bridge, and which is sufficiently high to admit the insertion of a
small pulley, which is made and aflixed to the cential shaft, and over
which pulley is placed a twisted band leading from the main driving
shaft, as hereafter described; and wluch pulley, when in motion, causes
the central shaft to revolve by means of a slotted projection placed in
the interior of the pulley, to allow of the central hollow shaft to rise
and fall at the same time it is travelling around. On the top of the
bridge alluded to there is cast a hollow chamber, into which the water
is first forced prior to its delivery into the central shaft; on one side of
this chamber is cast a nozzle pipe, provided and fitted with screwed
coupling nuts, to correspond with and for attaching thereto the branch
pipe leading from a centrifugal or other pump to the central hollow
shaft of cylinder. This hollow chamber is bored out for passing the
shaft through the same, and provided with suitable packings and stuff-
ing boxes to prevent the escape of the water through the upper part of
the same; and in certain cases, where required, I also cast upon this
chamber an inclined plane to surround the shaft; and at a correspond-
ing height upon the said shaft I affix a side pivot or small axis, upon
which I place a small roller or pulley, and as the shaft gradually
revolves this pulley ascends the incline, which causes the shaft to rise
up for a given height, and at the end of each revolution it suddenly
over-runs its bearings and falls. At the top of the said shaft, just above
the pulley, I have a shouldered recess, which forms a bearing for the
purpose of adding graduated weights to cause the shaft to sink, as may
be required, according to the state of the material being operated upon.
The centrifugal pumping apparatus I prepare and fix upon the same
platform with and at the back of the cylinder, as before alluded to. I
provide it with an outlet pipe to connect with the nozzle pipe attached

page_text: to the head of the cylinder before alluded to, and on the main driving
shaft I affix a pulley, over which I place the horizontal cross band or
cord before mentioned, as being connected with the small pulley on the
top of the cylinder, and which band gives motion to the hollow central.
revolving shaft; or, in certain cases, I employ light and suitable gearing-
or worm wheel to work the said shaft. The main driving wheel I affix
to the main axle or shaft, and from which wheel I drive the centrifugal
pumping apparatus, as before described, by means of friction wheels, or
by gearing wheels, or otherwise. I affix two standards or brackets
above the centrifugal pumping apparatus, either fiom the platform'or
otherwise, for the purpose of obtaining height for getting a large driving
wheel to work the centrifugal pump, which is required to revolve at a
rapid rate, say at from two hundred revolutions per minute or upwards.
I do not confine myself to the exact kind of centrifugal pump which I.
employ to this machine; either a common centrifugal pump, or an ordi-
nary forcing pump of portable description, or common fan pump, so
that it will keep a regular and constant supply of water when requireil';
and in either case they must be especially prepared to suit this appa-
ratus with outlet pipe and nozzle, as before inentioned, which will make
either kind vary in this respect from all other pumps yet made, and for
which I claim, together with the entire machine, which is new. Also, T
use a contrifugal fan blowing apparatus, in certain cases, for separating
the dust from metallic ores, &c., when required, instead of forcing in
water as above 1 also claim the application of these machines for any
other useful purposes or purpose, or any portion thereof, where they are
or may be hereafter found applicable, such as churning of butter, cer-
tain chemical operations, &c, for which they will be found very useful,
and for which I claim as above; and in the above applications I also
claim for this mode of operating upon cream and oils, &c, by impreg-
nating them with the atmospheric air, together with the application of
the principle thereof, as above described, or any slight variation thereof,
to whatever purpose it may be found applicable, and of any size
required. Small machines of the foregoing description I work by hand,
but larger machines I propose to work either by hand, cattle, or engine
power, and made portable or for stationary use, as required, and cither

page_text: for, air or water, and also for treating auriferous" ores, &c, or other
useful purposes.
Twenty-fifth The next apparatus consists of a novel and improved
mode of amalgamating auriferous ores, &c. I first construct a round
cylindrical vessel, of any convenient depth and diameter, the bottom of
which construct with corragations radiating from the centre out-
wards; I then prepare one or. niore rollers with corrugation on their
peripharies to match, and which rollers also radiate from the centro
outwards in the same ratio as the bottom. Across the centre of the vessel
at the top, I prepare a strong cross stay; which is bolted to the flange
of the vessel on each side. On the centre of this stay I provide guide
blocks or centres for the vertical shaft to work in, and the lower end of.
which rests in a socket provided in the centre of the bottom.. Around
this central shaft at the bottom, I leave a small groove or channel all
around, about two or three inches wide, into which I ultimately drain
the quicksilver when required to be taken from the pan, and from
which an iron pipe is conilucted, and which continues to a receiving
vessel externally, and which is regulated by a locked wrench tap lever,
to secure its safety. Upon the lower part of the central shaft. I cast slots
.or centies for the interior pivots of corrugated rollers to work in. Upon.
the top end of this shaft, and near to the cross stay, I prepare a suitable
collar or bearing to carry the skeleton guide frame, which connects with
and carries round the extreme ends of the rollers; this guide framo
resembles a skeleton dome, the centre of which contains a square socket
to fit in on the vertical shaft. The external rim contains a corresponding
number of slotted contres or guides to the number of rollers employed,
and which I set out at equal distances from each other; and when the
central shaft is turned round, the whole of the rollers are turned round
also, and at the same time they revolve on their own axles respectively.
The whole of their amalgamating machines under this head are of iron,
and these rollers revolve with their own weight upon the corrugated
bottom of the vessel. The upper end of the shaft above the stay plate
or top is provided with suitable gearing or a toothed wheel and pinion,
for the purpose of working the same by hand or other power. I also
affix an iron cock in the side of the vessel, a part of the way up, to

page_text: draw. off the. wáter as the wheels.rotate; after having ground the
quarter a sufficient-length of time in the quicksilver, which is first placed
in the bottom of the vessel, about the depth of the corrugations, the
finely pulverised quartz is then next admitted, upon that a quantity of.
water, and the whole ground together for an hour or two at the least,
and any gold, &c. therein will form an amalgam with the mercury; .the.
water, &c. is then drawn off, and the process-repeated. I employ also
several forins or.surfaces for the rollers and beds of these amalgama-.
tors, videlicet, either plain, or with Vees or tapered teeth or ridges, or
rounded as balls, or in a series of beads, either diminishing or other-*
wise, or other projections.or indentations on their surfaces, and use any,
of these forms, cither lengthways of the rollers or transversely, and either:
working into each other or separately. I also, in certain casés, cause?
the exterior vessel to, revolve, and secure the central. shaft and axis, of
the rollers stationary :
The next form of, amalgamator is by making square or oblong iron
vessels of any size required. and to use one or more parallel rollers,
either plain, or with any or cither of the aforegoing descriptions of,
projections or indentations on their surfaces, and with led plates to
match, and these rollers to be moved by means of a connected frame,
with slotted guides or centres to work in, and to be made to work:
either backwards or forwards, or from side to side, according to which
way the rollers may be set, and motion given to the frame and rollers"
by means of a cranked connecting rod or otherwise, as may be required.
Also, similarly, I provide for the working of these vessels either to and
fro, or from side to side, and the rollers to remain stationary on their.
axles. For large operations I use several of the foregoing vessels com-*
bined, and connect the whole for working together by ineans of a
suitable ring plate attached to top and bottom of tanks, and which
rings also serve in such case for central stay plates on the top part
thereof for the vertical shafts of cach vessel to work in, and the toothed
wheel upon cach of which is made to work into a large main, which
is also worked from the centre of the whole by means of horse, cattle,
or engine power, from the large central main upon which it is sup-
ported. This central main çan be driven by means of a large socket
1

page_text: upon the top part thereof, and through which a strong lever of timber
may be attached to communicate with the cattle outside; thus six
or other number of tanks can be worked by one main if required,
which is very desirable, as perfect amalgamation is a very slow
process. Engine power can be added to any of these amalgamators
by ordinary gearing, &c. I claim also the use of the above for pul-
verizing or washing ores, &c., where required. I do not confine myself
to any particular size or shape of analgamators; but what I claim
is, the whole of the designs of amalgamating machines enumerated
in this article, together with any variation thereof in shape or form
to suit the wishes of different parties; and I also claim the genci al
modes of amalgamating herein referred to, viz., by grinding the me-
tallic pulverized ores, together with quicksilver, and with rollers or
moveable rollers or moveable bed plates, &c., with plain or projecting
surfaces, as herein enumerated and set forth; and I claim also to
work the same, either together or separately, or any number thereof
combined together, with the application of any portion of such ma-
chinos to any other useful purpose or purposes wherever they are found
or may be found applicable.
Twenty-sixth. The last apparatus consists of a sublimating vessel of
an improved description. It consists of a small, hollow, iron, flattish
vessel or retoit, prepared with strong close joint for luting, &c., and is
used on the fire for sublimating or extracting the gold from the amal-
gam; and from the sides of this retort there usually projects a short
pipe, through which the heat of the fire drives off the quicksilver from
the gold, &c. Now my improvement of this apparatus consists of
preparing a small pan of galvanized iron, which I fill with water,
and through which runs a coil of iron pipe of small diameter; at
the top end of this coil I prepare a screwed coupling nut, for con-
venience of attaching it to the nozzle end of the pipe attached to the
sublimating retort. The lower end of the coil is carried through
the pan or bucket, and a flange attached thereto on the outside, for
the purpose of securing in the water, &c.; this end is terminated by
means of an iron cock on the exterior, and when in work. the heated
quicksilver is rapidly driven off from the amalgam in proportion to the

page_text: heat employed, and as it descends through the water it is gradually
cooled and collected again for use. I therefore claim as my Invention
this coil of worm pipes in vessel, and the coupling the same to subli-
mate, as afore mentioned and described.
The whole of the foregoing apparatuses and machines as enumerated
in this Specification I construct of suitable materials, and use in certain
portions thereof either iron, wood, glass, leather, gutta-percha, and
vulcanized india-rubber. or both combined, or copper or brass, or
either or any part of either of the aforesaid materials, or other
suitable substances not herein enumerated. And I also claim these
particular modes of treating the aforesaid substances as far as they are
1 also claim the application of any of the aforesaid machines and
apparatuses, or any portion thereof, as herein described and set forth,
to other useful purposes, whenever they are or may be found applicable.
Also, I claim the general aranngenient and principle of construction of
the within-named apparatuses and machines (saving where especial
exceptions are made, together with any modifications thereof either in
form or shape, which I claim. And also I claim for the use of either one
of the aforesaid machines or apparatuses or any portion thereof, either
separately or in combination with each other, or any other. as may be
required for the afore mentioned or any other useful purpose or pur-
poses, wherever they or any portion thereof are or may hereafter be
found applicable.
In witness whereof, the said Samuel Perkes hath hereunto set
his hand and seal, this Twelfth day of April, in the year of
our Lord One thousand eight hundred and fifty-three.
SAMUEL PERKES. (L.S.)