IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM PUMPING MACHINERY, PARTS OF WHICH ARE APPLICABLE TO STEAM ENGINES AND PUMPING MECHANISM GENERALLY."
Year: 1880

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to George Henry Corliss, of Providence, in the County of
Providence, and State of Rhode Island, one of the United States of America,
for an Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM PUMPING MACHINERY, PARTS
OF WHICH ARE APPLICABLE TO STEAM ENGINES AND PUMPING MECHANISM
GENERALLY."
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said George Henry Corliss at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 15th June 1880.
GEORGE HENRY CORLISS, of Providence, in the County of Providence, and State
of Rhode Island, one of the United States of America. "IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM
PUMPING MACHINERY, PARTS OF WHICH ARE APPLICABLE TO STEAM ENGINES
AND PUMPING MECHANISM GENERALLY."
The first part of the Invention relates to the framing, the rigid parts by which
the members of the mechanism are held in their respective positions, notwith-
standing the great strain thrown on them by the working of the engine. I
construct this frame of cast iron, in sections of convenient size, with joints easily
and perfectly faced by ordinary machinery, and so formed that the strains are
transmitted in a nearly right line in all the directions in which they are received.
The frame is especially adapted for pumping engines, but a part of the advantages
thereof may be realized in its use for engines for any purpose.
A second part of the Invention relates to the provision for obtaining fresh feed-
water at a high temperature, for feeding the boilers for generating steam.
It is important in the economical working of steam engines to introduce the
feed-water into the boiler at as high a temperature as possible. The water from
the condenser is usually at a temperature of 100° to 120° Fahrenheit =
grade.) Feeding with such water saves much fuel as compared with feeding the
water cold.
(35° centi-
But in a large class of cases the condensing water is, by reason of saltness or
other quality, not suitable to be fed into the boiler. My Invention is an improve-
ment on the means for heating a separate supply of water.
I construct a condenser of more than usual height, preferably by adding a tall
chamber on the top of the ordinary condenser-body. A liberal space is provided in
the upper portions where the cold condensing water never comes, and in this space I
Dine 1 971

page_text: arrange a series of pipes, with provision for expansion and contraction due to
variations of temperature. The fresh water for feeding the boiler is caused to
circulate through these pipes, and can thus attain a temperaturo up to and even
considerably above the hot salt water pumped out from the condenser.
The third part of the Invention relates to the means for communicating motion
to the steam and exhaust-valves respectively. I use the "circular-sliding valves,"
sometimes known as "Corliss"," operated by turning alternately in opposite
directions in a manner analogous to a stop-cock. The exhaust valves are operated
with a continuous connection to the mechanism. The steam valves are, under
ordinary conditions, opened by the mechanisın, liberated therefrom, and closed by
the force of a weight or spring.
It is important to so operate the connections that the valves will open and closo
rapidly.
I have discovered and practically worked out means for attaining this end in
great perfection with a single eccentric and few parts.
A fourth part of this Invention relates to the regulation of the speed of working.
The object is to avoid the differences of speed which ordinarily obtain when tho
engine is running lightly or heavily loaded. I will describe the improvements as
applied to a fly-ball governor. Ordinarily it requires a considerably higher speed
to run the balls at a high level and cut-off the steam at an early point than to run
with the balls at a low level and cut off late. In other words, a higher pressure of
the steam or light load on the engine being met by the governor balls rising to a high
position, and thus reducing the quantity of steam, compels the engine to run with
an appreciably higher velocity than when the steam pressure is low or the load is
heavy, requiring the volume of steam to be increased.
Devices have before been proposed for changing the relative speed of the engino
and governor at will. I have discovered that it is practicable to inake such a
change automatically by the action of the governor itself, and to so proportion tho
parts that the change in the relations of these speeds shall exactly compensate for
the required high speed of the governor to reduce the quantity of steam used. My
governor requires an excess of velocity in the engine to raise the balls of the
governor, and a reduction in the speed of the engine to lower the balls of the
governor. But so soon as the balls have actually risen or fallen my device causes
a corresponding change in the relative velocities between the motion of the engine
and the governor, so that while the governor maintains the higher or lower velocity
the engine runs at the same rate as before.
The engine, which has slightly quickened its speed and raisod the balls, is by
the change in the relations of the parts brought again to its proper speed, but
without the balls necessarily returning to their original position. They remain in
the new position by reason of the governor running faster, while the engine runs
no faster than before. If the next change in velocity chances to be a slowing of
the engine the reverse action takes place, but if it is in the same direction the
governor balls fly higher yet; and again, by reason of the peculiar combination,
the engine comes to its original speed without the balls returning. These changes
may go on in the same direction until the limit of motion is reached, but 1 take
care that the range is sufficiently ample that this shall not occur until I have
reached the minimum or maximum power of which the engine or other motor is
Busceptible.
The fifth part of the Invention relates to the means for guiding and operating
the valves. It is intended more particularly for large pumps. The valves are of
a class which open by the lifting motion. They are partly self acting and partly
operated by mechanism.
The valves are preferably in the form of thin discs, and open by vertical or nearly
vertical motion, and close upon seats of leather or other pliable material. They
may be arranged in sots or series extending around the pump, but these details may
be varied. I will show and describe only two valves, mounted one to serve as the
induction and the other the eduction valve.

page_text: Each valve is connected by an arm to a rocking shaft. This shaft is mounted in
a removable bonnet, which covers a hole in the casing of the pump sufficiently large
to allow the valve to be inserted and removed. By taking off the bolts and
removing the bonnet, the shaft and valve.may be removed with it. In case of
derangement or fracture, the bonnet and valve may be removed, and a new bonnet
being ready, with the corresponding shaft arm and valvo, the now may be
substituted for the old, and the entire pumping machinery be ready for working
again with only a few minutes delay. The shaft projects out through one of the
ends of the bonnet, and carries an arm on the protruding-end, which allows the
attachment of a link from any suitable portion of the pumping machinery to aid in
closing the valve, or in both opening and closing it. I employ a spring having an
abutment moved by the machinery to urge the valve to its seat when it should
shut, and to allow, it to open when it should open, o
The sixth part of the Invention relates to means for inserting and removing, and
ensuring the light and easy operating of the shaft. A description of one will suffice
for both or all.
The bonnet is hollow and projects sufficiently outside of its seat to allow the
shaft and its peculiar bearings to ithin the bonnet. Only the arm carrying
the valve extends inward past the seat of the bonnet.
The seventh part of the Invention relates to the seats on which the valves strikė
and rest in closing, or to a corresponding surface carried on the valve, which
correspondingly relieves the shock and produces a tight fit, as shown in the main
passages:
-
I have discovered and practically wrought out a mode of constructing such
surfaces, which possesses marked advantages over any previously known to me.
The cigth part of tho. Invention is also intended mainly for large, pumps, and
relates to the valves and adjacent parts of the air pump.
•
I employ a ring of relatively thin metal for the valve, of such size as to extend
quite around the body of the pump. I can uso this valve with my peculiar.
guiding and operating means for the induction alone or for the eduction alone; but..
I prefer to use the fullest form of the Invention for the eduction and a less complete
development of the Invention for the induction, thus using the Invention for both.
places in-the same pump and will so describe it.
In carrying out my Invention I employ a central casting, formed wide near.the
top and wide near the bottom, and with a cross web at, the mid-height, as shown.
It is strengthened by a heavy rim or web. I employ a corresponding 'casting.
for the central portion of the other side of the frame. The surfaces of cach aro,
planed or otherwise perfectly faced, where they, match against tho adjacent
castings.
I employ a casting with stout webs, or ribs faced and bolted to the central
casting. A corresponding casting is formed with a jaw for the pillow-block brasses:
which support the main shaft. It may be of considerable thickness throughout to
better resist its additional strain.
A casting is stoutly wobbed and bolted to the central casting. A casting
correspondingly bolted to the cylinder constitutes the other sido of the framing.
The cylinder may itself form the support of this side of the framing, being fixed
directly or through the medium of other castings on the strong masonry below.
The top castings are preferably faced and bolted on the inclined surfaces of
both of the frames, and stiffly unites them to form a unit. The upper portions of the
castings are faced and bolted together; they form by their union a jaw for the
brasses for the beam center.
To the bottom of both the respectivo castings is bolted a stout central casting
extending downward. The lower portion is broadly webbed, and'is faced on the
two sides to be stiffly bolted to the pumps, one on each side. This casting unites
the frames together to form a unit at their respective bottoms, and unites the
pumps together with the same same absolute rigidity, and-unites-the-pumps and
the-frames-to-form-a-unit-of-the-whole..

page_text: The strain due to the pumping is received very directly by the casting. The
main pumps constitute in themselves a stout framing and are bolted under the
masonry; stout through bolts also extend from the bases of the castings, down
through the masonry, to take hold of the pumps. Corresponding bolts extend
down from the base of the castings, or from the cylinder, or from the casting on 5
which it is bolted to take hold of the pumps below.
The framing is all in parts of a size convenient for manufacture and trans-
portation. The strain is received in a nearly right line from one bottom bearing
to the other, from each to the top centre and from the crank bearing to the top and
bottom. The downward extension aids to support the engine by the pumps and 1
to support the pumps by the engine, and particularly to receive the strain of
pumping and transmit it in a direct line.
I have described the frame as adapted for a single engine only; in such case the
other end of the crank-shaft would be supported by an additional bearing, and
which may be entirely independent of this frame. Where two engines with my 1
improved frames are used together, constituting a double engine, they should be
braced across by castings near the top, and both bearings of the crank-shaft will
be preferable formed in the framing.
A steadiment mounted between the frames forms a guide for the pump-rod on
one side of the machine. A corresponding steadient is mounted on tho other side
for a corresponding purpose. Bosses are formed in the castings to give a proper
bearing for these important members; bosses at other proper points aid in giving
support for the rock-shaft, governor-shaft, and other members of the mechanism in
tho required positions.
A horizontal gallery, formed of cast iron or other suitable material, is mounted a
at the proper level to afford convenient access for attention to the several centers
on the beam. This gallery rests on a portion on the top of the central pieces and
is farther supported by braces.
Modifications may be made. I can substituto cast-iron for the whole or a part
of the masonry between the bases of the castings and the pumps below, and the
same modifications may be made on the other side under the castings. Tho
castings may be continued down to rest on the masonry, or they may be held up
by bolting solidly to the cylinder, or to a condenser, or any suitable casting under
the cylinder.
The framing is eminently stiff by virtue of its form, which braces it in all
directions in which strain is received; additional braces may be introduced in
various directions if desired. I propose especially to introduce a digonal cross
piece extending from the interior of one of the frames obliquely upwards to the
interior of the other framo near its top, with a proper aperture for the passage of
the pump-rod. This may be of service in communicating the strain more directly
between both main centres and the crank, but I do not believe it generally
necessary.
In carrying out the second part of my Invention I employ a condenser having
a tall chamber bolted on the top thereof, with stuffing-boxes in the upper end,
through which are passed water pipes. The pipes are made in several pieces, and
united so as to cause the water to traverso up and down several times in passing
from the entrance to the exit. The steam is received alternately through the two
nozzles of the cylinder, and fills the entire chamber with the weak steam, which
bathes the feed-pipes and imparts heat thereto without exposing the feed-pipes
to any contact with the cold injection water. The water pipes are suspended on
cross-pieces at the upper end, and are steadied by corresponding or smaller cross-
pieces below. It is important that the cross-pieces be so arranged as to efficiently
steady the pipes and prevent their being moved by the blasts of exhaust steam,
which are received intermittently, while they at the same time allow the pipes to
freely move up and down to the small extent required to accommodate the
expansions and contractions with variations of temperature. The stuffing-boxes

page_text: of the water pipes allow the same to move in and out with sufficient freedom to
avoid mischief.
The chamber on the top of the condenser performs the double functions, first, of
a liberal passage for the easy flow of the steam from the receiving ports or nozzles
to the main body of the condenser, where it is exposed to contact with cold water
and condensed in the long approved manner, and second, as a heating-chamber for
the foed-water circulating in the pipes, where it is fully exposed to the heat of the
steam flowing past it to the condenser, and is not touched by the cold water
injected.
I prefer to use two sets of water pipes. The Invention may be made to succeed
with only one set; or more than two sets may be employed if preferred. The
chamber above the condenser is adapted for ready separation to allow access to the
pipes for repairing or exchanging when required.'
Modifications may be made in the forms and proportions. I can make the
water pipe a continuous pipe of copper, lead, or other material, either extending
several times up and down, or oxtending transversely, or coiled, or variously
convoluted. I esteem it important to provide that the steam may circulate freely
through the spaces, and obtain access to the exterior of all parts of the water pipo,
that the passage may be liberal for the free descent of the steam among the pipes,
and that the pipo or pipes be allowed to expand and contract freely, but confined
against any rattling inotion when subjected to the violent impact of the exhaust
steam.
In carrying out the third part of, my Invention I employ a cylinder provided
with four valves, two steam valves and two exhaust valves, turned by shafts
provided with suitable lovers.
A skeleton framing turns on a centre fixed on the side of the cylinder or of the
fixed framing adjacent to the cylinder. It is rocked by means of a rod operated by
an eccentric and connected to a pin.
+
The rocking frame or skeleton wrist plate is by preferenco formed with four
branches. Each of the branches carries a pin, which by the arrangement of the
parts is caused to move at each oscillation in the near vicinity of the corresponding
valve-shaft. Each of the valve levers is joined to its respective pin by a link..
The wrist plate turns each of the valves to the proper extent, and that by means
of the passage of the pins near the shaft of the respectivo valves. The valves aro
turned much more rapidly when the rocking frame is at the middle of its motion
than when it is at either end of its motion. This gives tho required rapid turning
motion of the valve at the moment the valvo is being opened and being closed,
with the required slower motion at each end of its sweep, and this.is effected by a
single lever with few connections and little chance of mal-adjustment.
It will be understood that the steam valves will usually close still more rapidly
than is provided by this motion, by virtue of their being detached and closed by
self-acting means, but which may be similar to those long approved on what are
known as "Corliss'" engines. The quick motion in opening and closing and tho
alower motion at each end of the sweep of the valves is moro particularly important.
with the exhaust valves, but the quick opening is of considerable value also for the
steam valves. The present Invention attains this.
The upper pins which work the exhaust-valves move nearer the axes of their
respective valves than the corresponding lower pins which work the steam valves;
this is important. The exhaust valves should open and close with a very rapid
motion, and hang with a slow motion in the open and closed positions. The steam
valves should not possess this peculiarity of motion to the same extent. It is
important in delicately adjusting the point of cut-off by the governor that tho
steam valves shall be opened with a more nearly uniform motion.
The upper pins require to be held much wider apart at the upper end of the
cylinder than at the lower end, to correspond to the wider apart position of the
valves at the upper end. It will be understood that the parts must be so designed
"

page_text: that the motion will be correct relatively to the valve-center wherever the valve
may be placed.
I can make the skeleton lever in various forms so long as the correct positions
of the centres and consequently their correct motions are attained.
Modifications may be made by any good mechanic without departing from the
principle. The steam valves may partake in a higher or lower degree of tho
quality of moving quickly in opening and closing.
It will be understood that this Invention does not interfere with any of the
refinements of the valves and other parts of the steam engine which have been
used or may be used with this class of valves.
In carrying out the fourth part of my Invention I employ an upright shaft,
which is equipped at the top with the ordinary heavy fly-balls and links which
connect to a slcevo, which revolving with the upright shaft is capable of rising and
falling thereon as controlled by the position of the fly-balls. These parts may be
of the ordinary or any suitable construction.
On the bottom of the upright shaft is truly set a large disc, having a plano
smooth under surface, through which the motion is received by friction for inducing
the rotatory motion of the governor.
Fixed bearings are supported on the main framing. A shaft is driven by a
belt from the engine running on a pulley, in such a manner so that its rate of
rotation shall correspond accurately therewith. The shaft is supported in the
bearings and is capable of being moved axially. It carries a rigidly mounted
wheel which is divided to form clamps, between which are confined a series of
discs of stout paper or pasto board, the edges of which project beyond the outer
face of the wheel, and aro turned to afford a smooth and uniformly adhesive
contact with the plane under face of the disc. Any shifting of the shaft endwise
changes the distance of the point of contact of the wheel with the disc, and
correspondingly changes the rate of rotation of the shaft relatively to that of the
engine, which I will term the "velocity ratio."
A sleeve is moved upward and downward by the rising and falling of the balla
and may be of any ordinary form and proportion. The rising of the halls as the
speed of the governor increases and the sinking thereof as the speed decreases,
induces the ordinary effect by causing a corresponding change of level of the
sleeve, and the corresponding turning of a bell crank lever which turns on a fixed
centre, and by changing the position of the rod changes the point of cut-off of the
engine, or operates a throttle valve or the gate controlling mechanism of a water
wheel by well known devices. A lever turning on a fixed centre is employed
engaging by one of its arms in a groove. The rising of the balls not only lifts
the sleeve, and thus by its groove changes the point of cut-off of the engine, but
it also turns a lever. The lower arm of the lever is connected by a link to a lever
which turns on a fixed centre, and engages by its lower arm in a groove turned
in the shaft. The proportions are such that when the speed of the engine is
increased and the rotation of the shaft is performed in less time, it imparts its
quickened rotation to affect the fly-wheels, causing them to rise, and this rise not
only changes the position of the rod by the action of the lever, but also through a
lever and its connections moves the driving shafts endwise so as to cause it to act
in a smaller circle on the under face of the disc.
This acting nearer the centre of the circle induces a quicker motion of rotation in
the balls. This quickened motion maintains the balls at their increased elevation
without necessitating the continuance of the increased speed of the engine.
And so soon as the velocity of the engine has appreciably decreased so as to
lower the sleeve, that fact not only induces the ordinary change of the point of
cut-off by the action of the lever, but also changes the point of contact of the
driving wheel by the action of a lever and its connections.
By this means when the engine is running at its ordinary rate, a diminishing of
the speed of the governor does not simply lower the balls and sleeve so as to

page_text: modifiy the point of cut-off by the action of another lever, but also by the action of
another lever and a link and third lever moves the shaft endwise to the left, and
changes the bearing point of the wheel to a position further out from the centre of
the disc. This causes the governor to run slower relatively to the engine, and
thus induces the required change in the position of the cut-off. When, on tho
contrary, the speed of the engine becomes materially too high and raises the balls,
it not only causes the proper change of position of a lever, and the required change
of position of the cut-off devices connected thereto, but also through connections
moves the driving shaft so as to bring the bearing point of the wheel closer to
the centre of the disc and increases the velocity ratio of the governor.
Such a change in the velocity of the governor relatively to that of the engine,
causes the changes in the actual speed of the engine to impress greator changes in-
the actual speed of the governor. These changes in the speed of the governor
enable it to perform its functions powerfully and reliably, and to easily effect the
required changes in the position of the lever and its connections, and consequently
in the point of cut-off, or in the position of the throttle, gate, or other devico for
controlling the power.
The adjustment of the velocity-ratio is important. If the rise of the governor
balls, when the engine quickens its speed, induces too little a change in the axial
position of the shaft, the improved device will work too much like the ordinary
governor, and require a permanent increase in the speed of the engine to induce
the consumption of less steam or water. If, on the contrary, the shaft moves
end wise too much in consequence of any given increase or diminution of motion of
the engine, the said increase or diminution will go on increasing, and the governor
cannot perform its functions. In this latter case tho motion of the engine will be in
"unstable equilibrium." Any chango of speed' in either direction will be
automatically increased instead of diminished by the action of the governor.
But with the adjustment exactly right the change of speed will be simply met
or balanced by the change in the velocity-ratio, and the governor will control the
engine and bring it to the proper velocity without, on the one hand, continuing
the motion of the balls upward or downward, or, on the other hand, requiring
them to return to their original positions.
I employ levers connected by a movable link which allow such adjustment with
great delicacy. The lower arm of one lover and the upper arm of the other lever
are inclined and slotted.
.
The movable link connects pins which are capable of being changed in these
slots to as small extents as may be desired. 'I can mount micromoter screws to
aid in this adjustment if desired. I propose in ordinary cases to employ shouldered
pins which may be firmly set in any desired position in the respective slots.
While the ordinary governor requires a velocity much above the normal to hold
the fly-balls in their highest position, and to give the engine the minimum steam
and a velocity much lower than the normal to run the fly-balls in their lowest
position and to give the engine the maximum steam, the improved governor holds
the engine at a uniform speed, or so nearly so that no appreciablo difference is
observed in counting the strokes for a minute or more, with the governor balls in
their highest, lowest, and in several intermediate positions.
The discs may be swelled or hollowed, it may be a full cone or a hollow cono,
care being taken to run the shaft in the proper relation thereto, so that the contact
shall be maintained as the shaft is moved endwise in its bearings. I can use other
devices, such as a pair of cone pulleys with a belt automatically shifted by the
governor or by suitable connections therefrom. Or I can mount two cone pulleys
with their surfaces nearly in contact, arranged in reverse positions, and can cause
the motion of one to be communicated to the other at varying rates through an
interposed endless belt, rope, or analogous device which may be run through the
space in positions controlled by the governor.
In carrying out the fifth part of my Invention I employ removable-bonnets,
Covering anertures anfficiently large to allow the introduction and removal of the

page_text: valves. The shafts are mounted in bearings in the bonnets and have rigidly
attached arins.
Each arm extends inwards through an aperture in the casing, and takes hold by
a bolt of the disc-valve.
To the
Another arm is attached to the projecting end of each valve-shaft.
attached arms is pivoted a hollow rod, which leads upwards to my mechanism,
which by the aid of this rod aids the working of the valve.
The rod for the induction valve connects at the top to the outer end of an elastic
lever which is pivoted to a plunger.
When the plunger is down and commences to ascend the spring lever is in a
position such that it has no effect except to contribute by its weight to balance the
valve, but when the plunger rises to near its highest position a stop on the plunger
strikes the end of a spring lever and lifts thereon.
This lifting action pulls upward a rod and closes the valve. The spring lever is
therefore a spring tending to close the valve, but only acting intermittently. During
a large portion of each stroke it is idle, but at or near the highest point of the
plunger motion it exerts a strong force, urging the valve to its scat. It follows
that as the upward motion of the plunger decreases the valvo is urged down with
gradually increasing force. The force should be sufficient, according to the flow of
water, and the rapidity with which the pump is worked, to urgo the valve to its
seat as soon as the plunger has actually stopped its upward motion, and before it
has commenced to descend.
The eduction valve is operated in a corresponding manner and by a slightly
different mechanism. The rod for the valve connects to an arm on a rock shaft,
which is mounted to turn in bearings on brackets. Another arm fixed on the same
shaft is made of steel, or other elastic material, bent around the shaft so as to give
sufficient elasticity, finally extending inward in the position represented.
While the plunger is in its highest position during the main portion of each
stroke this mechanism produces no effect. It should be so constructed as to
balance, or nearly balance, the valve. When the plunger desconds to near its
lowest point the flange on the plunger strikes an arin, depressing it, and it pulls
upward on a connected rod and urges the suction valve to its scat.
I provide for adjusting the tension of the springs, or the force with which each
shall act on its valve.
Each connected rod is hollow, with the terminal knuckle formed in a separate
piece and screwed in. The screw threads are right and left, so that by turning a
rod the knuckles or joints at the ends may be drawn together or thrust apart.
A jam nut secures the position rigidly after the proper tension has been obtained.
In carrying out the sixth part of my Invention I use a modification in the clastic
lever; it may be formed in a closely coiled helix, which allows it a very elastic
action with strong force, but with only a moderato strain upon any portion of the
metal.
The bearing at each end of the shaft is covered by a sleeve peculiarly fitted to
make a water-tight easily moving bearing. Exterior to this sleeve is a bushing.
The hole in the bonnet to receive the bushing is so large that before the bushing
is received the shaft may be easily introduced.
It is inserted diagonally and rectified in its position after insertion, as will be
readily understood.
The bushings are inserted from the exterior after the shaft and its levers are in
place.
The sleeves, shrunk or otherwise firmly fitted on the respective ends of the shaft,
are of brass or other incorrodible metal. The turning motion is between the
sleeve and the bushing.
The inner end of each sleeve is formed with a flange. Next to this I apply a
ring of vulcanized rubber. Next to this again I fit a loose collar. The outer face
of this collar is finished smoothly, so is also the adjacent surface of the bushing

page_text: against which it is pressed; the packing being gently compressed, the faces are
worked tightly together so as to make a water-tight joint.
"
• Before applying the parts together, the sleeves, packing, and movable collars, are
applied in their proper positions on the shaft, and the bushing not being yet in
place, the shaft is easily inserted, the longest end being of course inserted first.
Then the bushies are applied from the outer ends, and urged nearly or quite home
to form a joint between the rubbing surfaces. To facilitate subsequent adjustment
the work is put together with a shimming piece under the flango of each bush.
These are exchanged, for thinner ones.or removed altogether whenever the com-
pression of the packing makes it desirable to shift. -
The lever is applied after the other parts are in place. It is secured by expanding
the end of the shaft by a tapering screw. The end of the shaft is split, as is also
the outer end of the sleeve, to allow their expansion in this manner. They may be
expanded so as to take hold of one of the arms with sufficient force by friction
alone, but a key or other fastening may be used in addition if preferred.
My device may be employed at the longest end of the shaft only, the other end
being held in a piece which extends over the end of the shaft, and avoids any
chance of leakage.
In carrying out the seventh part of my Invention, I produce around the edge of
the valve-sent a shoulder of considerable width, and place thereon several strips of
leather coiled on edge. Within this I fix a cut ring of motal. The width of the
strip or strips of leather should be such as to protrude the upper edge considerably
above the upper face of the metal in which the seat is formed. The width or-height
of the ring should be such as to hold its upper edge about flush with the top of the
stationary metal.
The cut ring is of such dimensions that by forcing out strongly, by wedging or
otherwise, it may compress a proper quantity of leather, and bo sprung into position
with its ends abutting strongly together.
The protruding portion of the leather being shaved or otherwise carefully
adjusted to a practically uniform quantity (or quality) all around, on becoming
thoroughly wetted and many times strongly compressed by the action of the valve,
it spreads a little, and forms a smooth, uniform, and just sufficiently yielding seat
on which the valve may strike with much violence, and repeat rapidly with little
concussion or noise. The swelling of the leather in wetting may induce a slight
further tightening of the hold thereon; but my experiments indicate no difficulty
from any excess of strain in wetting or loosening in drying.
Modifications in the details may be made by any good mechanic. I can make
the valve much thicker, can use rubber or other yielding material instead of leather,
and especially can carry the pliable packing in the valve instead of in the fixed part.
In either position I consider it a valve seat, and properly described by those words.
In either position it is a continuous ring of pliable packing held by the cut ring
forcibly spread within it.
I attach much importance to the bevel or inclination of the rings of leather.
They dove-tail or lock together the parts.
In carrying out the eighth part of my Invention, I employ an air pump which
has a plunger worked up and down through a stuffing box around the top, and two
horizontal plates in which are the apertures to be controlled by valves... The water
it will be understood is received and discharged through liberal pipes.
The apertures for the flow of the water up through the plates are alike. Each is
an annular aperture extending continuously around. The metal is strongly.sup-
ported by webs below, cast in one therewith. The upper and lower edges of the
webs are sharpened.
The casting above the uppermost or delivery, which I have termed the eduction
aperture, is also formed with webs across, marked with similar marks. Over that
aperture each web is cut away to a width and height to allow the free rising and
sinking of the ring.valve.

page_text: Theso ring valves are continuous annular forms of sheet iron or other material,
as light as is consistent with proper strength.
An elastic seat is provided both on the outer and inner edge of each aperture. A
brass double ring is formed by casting or otherwise with cross braces or bridges to
hold them stiffly apart. Each is recessed on its upper face, and the recess made to
receive the body of a ring of vulcanized rubber or other elastic and suitablo
material, with its upper edge projecting up above the metal. The valve at each
descent rests on the noiseless and tight fitting support.
In the most complete development of the Invention, I aid the rising or the
falling, or both, by mechanical connections analogous to those above described for
the round valves, that is to say, each annular valve is like the valve of the main
pump, partly self acting, controlled by the tendency of the water first to open it
and then to close it, but the motion thus impelled is further insured and modified
by a set of connections for aiding the lifting or dropping of both these ends. I
cmploy lugs joined or bolted thereon with links connected thereto by transverse
pins. The links are connected by similar pins at their tops to arms extending
inward from a rocking shaft. The latter extends out through a stuffing-box, and
carries an arm which is operated by any suitable connections of the working parts
of the machine. This rocking shaft, and its arm outside, may be similar to, but
longer than, corresponding parts for the main pump. Like those it may aid greatly
in depressing the valve promptly to its seat just before the termination of the
movement of the plunger, without waiting for the current of water to be traversed
and to begin to flow downward.
One modification, to which I attach much importance, is to dispense with the
connections and their attachments, and to work both the upper and lower valves
by the force of the water above, or aided by constant springs. Another important
modification is to mount the valves with more space between them, and to have
links and connections for each.
I esteem it important in all cases to provide such spaces in the webs as will
allow the valve to tilt to its fullest extent without jamming.

page_text: SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said George Henry Corliss in the Great Seal Patent Office on the 10th
December 1880.
GEORGE HENRY CORLISS, of the City of Providence, in the County of
Providence and State of Rhode Island, one of the United States of America,
Engineer. "IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM PUMPING MACHINERY, PARTS OF WHICH ARE
APPLICABLE TO STEAM ENGINES AND PUMPING MECHANISM GENERALLY."
The first part of the Invention relates to the framing the rigid parts by which
the members of the mechanism are held in their respective positions, notwith-
standing the great strain thrown on them by the working of the engine. I
construct this frame of cast-iron in sections of convenient size with joints easily
and perfectly faced by ordinary machinery, and so formed that the strains are
transmitted in a nearly right line in all the directions in which they are received.
The frame is especially adapted for pumping engines, but a part of the
advantages thereof may be realized in its use for engines for any purpose.
A second part of the Invention relates to the provision for obtaining fresh feed-
water at a high temperature for feeding the boilers for generating the steam.
It is important in the economical working of steam engines to introduce the feed
water into the boiler at as high a temperature as possible. The water from the
condenser is usually at a temperature of 100° to 120° Fahrenheit = 35° centigrade.
Feeding with such water saves much fuel as compared with feeding the water cold.
But in a large class of cases the condensing water is by reason of saltness or
other quality not suitable to be fed into the boiler. My Invention is an improve-
ment on the means for heating a separate supply of water.
I construct a condenser of more than usual height, preferably by adding a tall
chamber on the top of the ordinary condenser-body. A liberal space is provided in
the upper portions where the cold condensing water never comes, and in this spaco
I arrange a series of pipes with provisions for expansion and contraction due to the
variations of temperature. The fresh water for feeding the boiler is caused to
circulate through these pipes, and can thus attain a temperature up to and even
considerably above the hot salt water pumped out from the condenser.
The third part of the Invention relates to the means for communicating motion
to the steam and exhaust-valves respectively. I use the "circular-sliding valves,"
sometimes known as "Corliss," operated by turning alternately in opposite
directions in a manner analogous to a stop-cock. The exhaust-valves are operated
with a continuous connection to the mechanism. The steam-valves are under
ordinary conditions opened by the mechanism, liberated therefrom, and closed by
the force of a weight, spring, or atmospheric pressure.
It is important to so operate the connections that the valves will open and close
rapidly.
I have discovered and practically worked out means for attaining this end in
great perfection with a single eccentric and few parts.
A fourth part of this Invention relates to the regulation of the speed of
working.
The object is to avoid the differences of speed which ordinarily obtain when the
engine is running lightly or heavily loaded. I will describe the improvements as
applied to a fly-ball governor. Ordinarily it requires a considerably higher speed
to run the balls at a high level and cut-off the steam at an early point, than to run
with the balls at a low level and cut-off late. In other words, a higher pressure of
the steam or light load on the engine being met by the governor balls rising to a
high position, and thus reducing the quantity of steam, compels the engine to run
with an appreciably higher velocity than when the steam pressure is low or the load
is heavy, requiring the volume of steam to be increased.

page_text: Devices have before been proposed for changing the relative speed of the engine
and governor at will. I have discovered that it is practicable to make such a
change automatically by the action of the governor itself, and to so proportion the
parts that the change in the relations of these speeds shall exactly compensate for
the required high speed of the governor to reduce the quantity of steam used. My
governor requires an excess of velocity in the engine to raise the balls of the
governor, and a reduction in the speed of the engine to lower the balls of the
governor; but so soon as the balls have actually risen or fallen, my device causes a
corresponding change in the relative velocities between the motion of the engine
and the governor, so that while the governor maintains the higher or lower velocity,
the engine runs at the same rate as before.
The engine which has slightly quickened its speed and raised the balls is by the
change in the relation of the parts brought again to its proper speed, but without
the balls necessarily returning to their original position. They remain in the new
position by reason of the governor running faster, while the engine runs no faster
than before. If the next change in velocity chances to be a slowing of the engine,
the reverse action takes place, but it is in the same direction, the governor balls
fly higher yet, and again by reason of the peculiar combination, the engine comes
to its original speed without the balls returning. These changes may go on in the
same direction until the limit of motion is reached, but I take care that the range
is sufficiently ample that this shall not occur until I have reached the minimum or
maximum power of which the engine or other motor is susceptible.
The fifth part of the Invention relates to the means for guiding and operating
the valves. It is intended more particularly for large pumps. The valves are of
the class which open by a lifting inotion. They are partly self-acting, and partly
operated by mechanism.
The valves are preferably in the form of thin discs, and open by vertical or
nearly vertical motion, and close upon seats of leather or other pliable material.
They may be arranged in sets or series extending around the pump, but those
details may be varied. I will show and describe only two valves, mounted, one to
serve as the induction, and the other as the eduction valve.
Each valve is connected by an arm to a rocking shaft, this shaft is mounted in a
removable bonnet, which covers a hole in the casing of the pump, sufficiently large
to allow the valve to be inserted and removed. By taking off the bolts and
removing the bonnet, the shaft and valve may be removed with it. In case of
derangement or fracture, the bonnet and valve may be removed, and a new bonnet
being ready with the corresponding shaft, arm, and valvo, the new may be substituted
for the old, and the entire pumping machinery bo ready for working again with
only a few minutes delay. The shaft projects out through one of the ends of the
bonnet, and carries an arm on the protruding end, which allows the attachment of
a link from any suitable portion of the pumping machinery to aid in closing the
valve, or in both opening and closing it. I employ a spring having an abutment
inoved by the machinery to urge the valve to its seat when it should shut, and to
allow it to open when it should open.
The sixth part of the Invention relates to means for inserting and removing, and
ensuring the light and easy operating of the shaft. A description of one will suffice
for both or all.
The bonnet is hollow, and projects sufficiently outside of its seat to allow the
shaft and its peculiar bearings to be within the bonnet. Only the arm carrying the
valve extends inward past the seat of the bonnet.
The seventh part of the Invention relates to the scats on which the valves striko
and rest in closing, or to a corresponding surface carried on the valve, which
correspondingly relieves the shock, and produces a tight fit, as shown in the main
pumps.
I have discovered and practically wrought out a mode of constructing such
seats or surfaces which possesses marked advantages over any previously known
to me.

page_text: The eighth part of the Invention is also intended mainly for large pumps, and
relates to the valves and adjacent parts of the air pump.
I employ a ring of relatively thin metal for the valvo, of such size as to extend
quite around the body of the pump. I can use this valve with my peculiar guiding
and operating means for the induction alone, or for the eduction alone, but I can
use the fullest form of the Invention for the eduction, and a less complete develop-
ment of the Invention for the induction, or vice versa, thus using the Invention in
one or both places in the same pump, and will so describe it.
But that my Invention may be fully understood, I will proceed to describe by
the aid of the accompanying Drawings, which form part of this Specification,
the means which I prefer to employ in carrying out the various details of my

page_text: a jaw for the pillow-block brasses which support the main shaft; it may be
considerably thicker than the casting A2 throughout to better resist its additional
strain, but I do not consider that point essential.
A³ is a casting stoutly webbed and bolted to the piece A¹ on the edge opposite
to A as shown. B³ is a casting correspondingly bolted to B'. The cylinder A may
itself form the support of this side of the framing, being fixed directly or through
the medium of other castings on the strong masonry D¹ below.
C, C, are top castings which are faced and bolted on the inclined surfaces of both
the frames A', B', and stiffly unite them to form a unit. The upper portions of the
castings C, C, are faced and bolted together. They form by their union a jaw for
the brasses for the beam centre.
To the bottom of both the respective castings B' is bolted a stout central casting
D extending downward. The lower portion is broadly-webbed, and is faced on the
two sides to be stiffly bolted to the pumps, one on each side. This casting unites
the frames A and B together to form a unit at their respective bottoms, and unites
the pumps together with the same absolute rigidity, and unites the pumps and the
frames to form a unit of the whole.
The section of the part D is that of a Greek cross, giving great stiffness. The
strain due to the pumping is received very directly by this casting. The main
pumps M constituto in themselves a stout framing, and are bolted under the
masonry D'. Stout through-bolts d also extend from the bases of the castings A³, B³,
down through the masonry D¹ to take hold of the pumps M. Corresponding bolts
similarly marked extend down from the base of the castings A³, A³, or from the
cylinder, or from the casting on which it is bolted, to take hold of the pumps
below.
The framing is all in parts of a size convenient for manufacture and transporta-
tion. The strain is received in a nearly right line from one bottom bearing to the
other, from each to the top centre, and from the crank bearing to the top and
bottom. I may repeat that the downward extension D aids to support the engine
by the pumps, and to support the pumps by the engine, and particularly to receive
the strain of pumping and transmit it in a direct line.
I have described the frame as adapted for a single engine only. In such case the
other end of the crank-shaft would be supported by an additional bearing, not
represented, and which may be entirely independent of this frame. Where two
engines with my improved frames are used together, constituting a double engine,
they are braced across by castings C¹ bolted as represented near the top, and both
bearings of the crank-shaft are in the framing.
A steadiment C³ mounted between the frames A2, B2, forms a guide for the pump
rod on that side of the machine. A corresponding steadiment C is mounted
between A³, B³, for a corresponding purpose. Bosses are formed in the castings to
give a proper bearing for these important members. Bosses at other proper points
aid in giving support for the rock-shaft, governor-shaft, and other members of the
mechanism in the required positions.
C is a horizontal gallery formed of cast-iron or other suitable material, and
mounted at the proper level to afford convenient access for attention to the several
bearings on the beain. The gallery C² rests on a portion of the top of the central
picces A, B, and is farther supported by braces, as shown.
Modifications may be made; I can substitute cast-iron for the whole or a part of
the masonry D¹ between the bases of the castings A³, B", and the pumps below, and
the same modification may be made on the other side under the castings A³, B³.
The latter castings may be continued down to rest on the masonry DT, or they
may be held up by bolting solidly to the cylinder or to a condenser, or any suitable
casting under the cylinder.
The framing is eminently stiff by virtue of its form, which braces it in all the
directions in which strain is received. Additional braces may be introduced in
various directions if desired. I propose especially to introduce a diagonal cross-
piece extending from the interior of the frame B2 obliquely upwards to the interior

page_text: of the frame A¹ near its top, with a proper aperture for the passage of the pump-
rod. This may be of service in communicating the strain moro directly between
both main centres and the crank, but I do not believe it generally necessary.
Referring to the Drawings, Figures 4 and 5, E is the main body of the condenser,
and E' is a tall chamber bolted on the top thereof with stuffing-boxes in the upper
end through which aro passed water-pipes c. The pipes are made in several pieces,
and united so as to cause the water to traverse up and down several times in
passing from the entrance to the exit. The steam is received alternately through
the two nozzles a', a², of the cylinder A, and fills the entire chamber with the weak
steam which bathes the feed-pipes c, and imparts its heat thereto without exposing
the feed-pipes to any contact with the cold injection water. The pipes o are
suspended on cross-pieces E at the upper end, and are steadied by corresponding or
smaller cross-pieces E³ below. It is important that the cross-pieces E³ be so
arranged as to efficiently steady the pipes, and provent their being moved by the
blasts of exhaust steam which are received intermittently, while they at the same
time allow the pipes e to freely move up and down to the small extent required to
accommodate the expansions and contractions with variations of temperature. The
stuffing-boxes e' allow the pipe to move in and out with sufficient freedom to
avoid mischief.
The chamber E¹ performs the double functions, first, of a liberal passage for the
easy flow of the steam from the receiving ports or nozzles a', a², to the main body E
of the condenser, where it is exposed to contact with cold water and condensed in
the long approved manner; and second, as a heating chamber for the feed water
circulating in the pipes e, where it is fully exposed to the head of the steam flowing
past it to the condenser, and is not touched by the cold water injected.
I have shown two sots of pipes c. The Invention may be made to succeed
with only one set, or more than two sets inay be employed if preferred. Tho
chamber E is adapted for ready separation to allow access to the pipes for
repairing or exchanging when required.
Modifications may be made in the forms and proportions; I can make the pipe c
a continuous pipe of iron, copper, or other material, either extending several times
up and down, or extending transversely, or coiled, or variously convoluted.
I esteem it important to provide that the steam may circulato freely through the
spaces, and obtain access to the exterior of all parts of the pipes e, that the passage
may be liberal for the free descout of the steam among the pipes, and that the
pipe or pipes be allowed to expand and contract freely, but confined against any
rattling motion when subjected to the violent impact of the exhaust steam.
Referring to Figs. 6 and 7, the body A of the cylinder is provided with four
valves, two steam-valves, and two exhaust-valves turned by shafts f, f. The
levers are marked respectively F.
G is a skeleton lever turning on a centre 5 fixed on the side of the cylinder A,
or of the fixed framing adjacent to the cylinder. It is rocked by means of a rod g³
operated by an eccentric, not represented, and connected to a pin g².
The rocking frame or skeleton lever G is branched as represented. Each of the
four branches carries a pin g¹, which, by the arrangement of the parts is caused to
move at each oscillation in the near vicinity of the corresponding valve-shaft f.
Each of the valve levers F is joined to its respective pin g' by a link f¹.
The paths of the centres g' at the upper end of the cylinder are indicated by
dotted lines. So also are the motions of the ends of the valve lovers or arms F.
It will be seen that the rocking of G turns cach of the valves to the proper extent,
and also that by reason of the path of the pins g', cach near the shaft of its
rospective valve, the valve is turned much more rapidly when the rocking levor G
is at the middlo of its motion than when it is at either end of its motion. This
gives the required rapid turning motion of the valve at the moment the valve
is being opened and being closed with the required slower motion at each end
of its sweep, and this is effected by the single lever G, with few connections and
little chance of mal-adjustment.

page_text: It will be understood that the steam-valves will usually close still more rapidly
than is provided by this motion, by virtue of their being detached and closed by
self acting means, not shown, but which may be similar to those long approved on
what are known as " Corliss" engines. The quick motion in opening and closing,
and the slower motion at each end of the sweep of the valves is more particularly
important with the exhaust valves; but the quick opening is of considerable
value also for steam valves. The present Invention attains this.
It will be observed that the left pins g', which work the exhaust-valves, move
nearer the axes f of their respective valves, than the corresponding right pins g³,
which work the steam valves. This is important. The exhaust valves should
open and close with a very rapid motion, and dwell with a slow motion, in the
open and closed positions. The steam valves should not possess this peculiarity of
motion to the same extent. It is important in delicately adjusting the point of
cut-off by the governor that the steam valves shall be opened with a more nearly
uniform motion.
The centres g¹ require in this instance to be placed much wider apart at the
upper end of the cylinder than at the lower end, to correspond to the wider apart
position of the valves at the upper end. It will be understood that the parts must
be so designed that the motion will be correct relatively to the valve-centre,
wherever the valve may be placed.
I can make the skeleton lever G in various other forms, as long as the correct
positions of the centres g¹, and consequently, their correct motions are attained.
Modifications may be made in the details by any good mechanic without
departing from the principle. The steam valves may partake in a higher or lower
degree of the quality of moving quickly in opening and closing. I prefer the pro-
portions and conditions represented. It will be understood that this Invention
does not interfere with any of the arrangement of the valves and other parts of
the steam engine which have been used or may be used with this class of valves.
Referring to Figures 8, 9, and 10, A is the lower bearing of an upright shaft I
which is equipped at the top with the ordinary heavy fly-balls 13 and links which
connect to a sleeve 15, which revolves with the shaft I, and is capable of rising and
falling thereon, as controlled by the position of the fly-balls. These parts may be
of the ordinary or any suitable construction.
On the bottom of the shaft I is truly set a large disc 1', having a plane and
smooth under surface, through which the motion is received by friction for inducing
the rotatory motion of the governor.
A5, A6, are fixed bearings supported on the main framing. I is a shaft driven
by the belt from the engine running on the pulley H, so that its rate of rotation
corresponds accurately therewith. The shaft H is supported in the bearings A³, A",
and is capable of being moved axially. It carries a rigidly mounted wheel H',
which is divided to form clamps, betweeen which are confined a series of discs h,
of stout paper or paste board, the edges of which project beyond the outer face of
the wheel H, and are turned to afford a smooth and uniformly adhesive contact
with the plane under face of the disc 1'. Any shifting of the shaft H endwise
changes the distance of the point of contact of the wheel H' with the disc 1', and
correspondingly changes the rate of rotation of the shaft I relatively to that of
the engine, which I will terin the "velocity ratio."
The sleeve 15, which is moved upward and downward by the rising and falling of
the balls, may be of any ordinary form and proportion. The rising of the balls, as
the speed of the governor increases and the sinking thereof as the speed decreases,
induces the ordinary effect by causing a corresponding change of level of the
sleeve 15, and the corresponding turning of the bell-crank lever J, which turns on a
fixed centre j, and by changing the position of the horizontal rod connected thereto
changes the point of cut-off of the engine, or operates a throttle valve or the gate
controlling mechanism of a water wheel by well-known devices.
Jis a lever turning on a fixed centre j, and engaging by one of its arms in the
groove ³. The rising of the balls not only lifts the sleeve 15, and thus by its

page_text: groove changes the point of cut-off of the engine, but it also turns the lever J'.
The lower arm of the lever J is connected by a link K to a lever J' which turns
on a fixed centre , and engages by its lower arm in a groove turned in the
shaft H. The proportions are such that when the speed of the engine is increased
and the rotation of the shaft H is performed in less time, it imparts its quickened
rotation to affect the fly-balls 1, causing them to rise, and this rise not only
changes the position of the rod by the action of the lever, but also through the
lever J' and its connections moves the driving shaft H endwise, so as to cause it
to act in a smaller circle on the under face of the diso 1'.
This acting nearer the centre of the circle induces a quicker motion of rotation
in the balls. This quickened motion maintains the balls I at their increased
elevation without necessitating the continuance of the increased speed of the
engine.
And so soon as the velocity of the engine has appreciably decreased, so as to
lower the sleeve 15, that fact not only induces the ordinary change of the point of
cut-off by the action of the lever J, but also changes the point of contact of the
driving wheel H, h, by the action of the lever J' and its connections.
It will now be seen that when the engine is running at its ordinary rate a
diminishing of the speed of the governor does not simply lower the balls and
sleeve Is so as to modify the point of cut-off by the action of the lever J, but also
by the action of the lever J, link K; and lever J' moves the shaft H end wise to
the left, and changes the bearing point of the wheel H', h, to a position further out
from the centre of the disc I. This causes the governor to run slower relatively
to the engine, and thus induces the required change in the position of the cut-off.
When, on the contrary, the speed of the engine becomes materially too high and
raises the balls, it not only causes the proper change of position of the lever J and
the required change of position of the cut-off devices, not respresented, connected
thereto, but also through the connections J, K, J³, moves the shaft H, so as to
bring the bearing point of the wheel H³, h, closer to the centre of the disc I³, and
increases the velocity ratio of the governor.
Such a change in the velocity of the governor, relatively to that of the engine
causes the changes in the actual speed of the engine to impress greater changes in
actual speed of the governor. These changes in the speed of the governor enable it
to perform its functions powerfully and reliably, and to easily effect the required
changes in the position of the lever J and its connections, and consequently in the
point of cut-off or in the position of the throttle, gate, or other device for controlling
the power not represented.
The adjustment of the velocity ratio is important. If the rise of the governor
balls, when the engine quickens its speed, induces too little a change in the axial
position of the shaft H, the improved device will work too much like the ordinary
governor and require a permanent increase in the speed of the engine to induce the
consumption of less steam or water. If, on the contrary, the shaft H moves
endwise too much in consequence of any given increase or diminution of motion of
the engine, the said increase or diminution will go on increasing, and the governor
cannot perform its functions. In this latter case the motion of the engine will
be in "unstable equilibrium." Any change of speed in either direction will be
automatically increased instead of diminished by the action of the governor.
But with the adjustment exactly right the change of speed will be simply met
or balanced by the change in the velocity ratio, and the governor will control the
engine and bring it to the proper velocity without, on the one hand, continuing the
motion of the balls upward or downward, or, on the other hand, requiring them to
return to their original positions.
My levers J and J³, as connected by the movable link K allow such adjustment
with great delicacy. The lower arm of the lever J¹ and the upper arm of the lever
J' are inclined and slotted.
The link K connects pins which are capable of being changed in these slots to as
small extents as may be desired. I can mount micrometer screws to aid in the

page_text: adjustment if desired. I propose in ordinary cases to employ shouldered pins k³, k³,
which may be firmly set in any desired position in the respective slots. :
I have in my experiments used the proportions indicated in the Drawing. While
the ordinary governor requires a velocity much above the normal to hold the
fly-balls in their highest position and to give the engine the minimum steam, and a
velocity much lower than the normal to run the fly-balls in their lowest position
and to give the engine the maximum steam, the improved governor holds the engine
at a uniform speed, or so nearly so that no appreciable difference is observed in
counting the strokes for a minute or more with the governor balls in their highest,
lowest, and in several intermediate positions.
Modifications may be made in the form of the devices H, h, and the disc I'. Tho
latter need not be a plane surface; it may be swelled or hollowed; it may be a
full cono or a hollow cone, care being taken to run the shaft H in the proper
relation thereto, so that the contact shall be maintained as the shaft H is moved
endwise in its bearings. I can use other devices, as a pair of cone pulleys with a
belt automatically shifted by the governor or by suitable connections therefrom.
Or I can mount two cone pulleys with their surfaces nearly in contact, arranged
in reverse positions, and can cause the motion of one to be communicated to the
other at varying rates through an interposed endless belt, rope, or analogous device,
which may be run through the spaco in positions controlled by the governor.
I prefer the form of the details shown. I esteem the paper ha peculiarly well
adapted material for transmitting the motion with the twisting friction to which
it is subjected.
The wear at the point of contact of the paper h with the under surface of the
dise I rapidly smooths both surfaces.
The dotted lines in Fig. 8 show a mode of working by means of the same governor
differently connected, which is very important in some situations. In pumping
sewage from a large pit, for example, to facilitate the drainage of a city, it is of
importance to regulate the speed of the engine so that it shall neither stop nor go
too fast, and also to vary the rate of speed according to the quantity of water
received from the sowers under different conditions. In a heavy rain the sewer,
even if provided with all tho approved means of taking away such water by lateral
passages, termed "intercepting sewers," will still doliver much more than usual into
the pit. In a dry spell, at night or on Sunday, when workshops are disused, tho
quantity of water to be pumped from the sewer pit is much less.
For such uses my governor is made to vary its speed relatively to that of the
engine, not automatically, as shown by the strong lines, but according to the height
of the water in the pit as indicated by a float. The link K is disconnected, and
the arm J*, which has before been idle, is now made available by engaging it with
the rod L' attached to the float L in the pit. Thus conditioned a rise of the water
will, by raising the float L, shift the pulley H¹, h, outward under the disc I', and
cause the governor to turn slower relatively to the engine, thus lowering the
balls 13 and calling for more steam. The reverse change occurs when the water in
the pit is lowered. With each change the governor will so supply steam to the
engine that the engine will run enough, faster or slower, to cause the governor to
maintain nearly its usual speed.
My Invention relieves the machine in great part from the concussions experienced
when largo punips are worked rapidly. I ascribe the evil commonly observed to a
back flow of water and a sudden stoppage thereof. My Invention tends to prevent
any back flow. It gives a strong force, urging each valve to its seat at the moment
when the valve should close.
It gives the forec elastically, so that the motion of the water may be accommo-
dated if the mechanism is not adjusted perfectly, and allowance may be made for
any solid substance accidentally catching under the valve, and it entirely relieves
the valves from any force holding them down during the main portion of the time
while they should be open. It thus allows the valves to open widely and freely.
Referring to Figures 11 to 13, inclusive, I will indicate the entire fixed work of

page_text: a pump by the single letter M, certain parts being designated when necessary by
additional marks M, M, etc. The plunger is marked S.
Al are the removable bonnets covering apertures sufficiently large to allow the
introduction and removal of the valves. N, N, are shafts mounted in bearings in
the bonnets M², M², having rigidly attached arms N.
Each arm N¹ extends inward through an aperture in the casing M, and takes
hold by a bolt o of the disc valve O.
Another arm N is attached to the projecting end of each valve-shaft N. To the
arm N is pivoted the rod P which leads upward to my mechanism, which by the
aid of this rod aids the working of the valve.
The rod P for the induction valve connects at the top to the outer end of an
elastic lever Q which is pivoted to the plunger S.
When the plunger is down and commences to ascend, the spring lever Q is in
the position shown by the strong lines in Fig. 11, and has no effect except to
contribute by its weight to balance the valve; but when the plunger rises to near
its highest position a stop s³ on the planger S strikes the end of spring lever Q,
and lifts thereon, as shown in dotted lines in Fig. 11.
This lifting action pulls upward on the rod P and closes the valve, the spring
lover Qis therefore a spring tending to close the valvo, but only acting inter-
mittently. During a large portion of each stroke it is idle, but at or near the
highest point of the plunger motion it exerts a strong force, urging the valve O to
its seat. It follows that as the upward motion of the plunger decreases the valve
is urged down with gradually increasing force. The force should be sufficient,
according to the flow of water and the rapidity with which the pump is worked,
to urge the valve to its seat as soon as the plunger has actually stopped its
upward motion and before it has commenced to descend.
The eduction valve is operated in a corresponding manner and by a slightly
different mechanism. The rod p for this valve connects to the arm R¹ on the rock-
shaft R, which latter is mounted to turn in bearings on brackets M; another
arm R, fixed on the same shaft R, is made of steel or other clastic material bent
around the shaft so as to give sufficient elasticity, finally extending inward in the
position represented.
While the plunger S is in its highest position during the main portion of each
stroke this mechanism produces no effect; it should be so constructed as to balance
or nearly balance the valve. When the plunger descends to near its lowest point
the flange on the plunger strikes the arm Q, depressing it, and it pulls upward on
the connected rod P, and urges the suction valve to its seat.
I provide for adjusting the tension of the springs, or the force with which each
shall act on its valvo, by either changing the length of the rod P or altering the
position of the abutments St.
Modifications may be made in the details of this part of the Invention by any
good mechanic. The forms of the valves and the arrangement of the levers and
springs may be varied indefinitely.
Fig. 13 shows a modification in the form of the lever, being formed in a closely
coiled helix, which allows it a very elastic action with strong force but with only
a moderate strain upon any portion of the metal.
Referring to Figures 14, 15, and 16, the bearing at each end of the shaft is covered
by a sleeve peculiarly fitted to make a water tight and easily moving bearing.
Exterior to this sleeve is a bushing T.
The hole in the bonnet to receive the bushing T is so large that before the
bushing is received the shaft may be easily introduced.
It is inserted diagonally and rectified in its position after insertion as will be
readily understood.
The bushings T are inserted from the exterior after the shaft and its levers are
in place.
T' are sleeves shrunk or otherwise firmly fitted on the respective ends of the

page_text: shaft N; they, as also the bushings T, are of brass or other incorrodible metal.
The turning motion is between the sleeve T¹ and the bushing T.
The inner end of each sleeve T is formed with a flange T. Next to this I
apply a ring T3, of vulcanized rubbor; next to this again I fit a loose collar T
The outer face of this collar is finished smoothly, so is also the adjacent surface of
the bushing against which it is pressed. The packing being gently compressed
the faces are worked tightly together so as to make a water-tight joint.
Before applying the parts together the sleeves T', packing T³, and movable
collars T, are applied in their proper positions on the shaft, and the bushing T not
being yet in place the shaft N is easily inserted, the longest end being of course
inserted first. Then the bushes T are applied from the outer ends and urged home
to form a tight joint between the rubbing surfaces.
The lever N' is applied after the other parts are in place. It is secured by
expanding the end of the shaft N by the tapering screw N³. The end of the
shaft N is split, as is also the outer end of the sleeve T', to allow their expansion
in this manner. They may be expanded so as to take hold of the arm N² with
sufficient force by friction alone, but a key or similar fastening may be used in
addition if preferred.
Each end of the shaft N is made of equal area, and both ends are purposely left
exposed so as to secure an equilibrium as regards internal hydrostatic pressure,
in order to prevent wear upon the movable collars T and the bushing T.
Referring to the Drawings, Figs. 14, 15, 17, and 18, M³ represents a horizontal
plate of cast-iron, in which is formed the opening for the passage of water controlled
by the valve O is the valvo, and N¹ an arm which connects the valve to a rocking-
shaft N, which is mounted in a concave bonnet M', bolted on the outer case M of
the pump, so that the valve and its attachments may be removed with the
bonnet.
I produce around the edge of the valve seat a shoulder of considerable width,
as indicated in Fig. 15, and place thereon several strips of leather coiled on edge, as
indicated by U. Within this I fix a cut ring of metal, as shown by V (see Figs.
15, 16, and 18). The width of the strip or strips of leather U should be such as to
protrude the upper edge considerably above the upper face of the metal, M³. The
width or height of the ring V should be such as to hold its upper edge about flush
with the top of M³.
Tho cut ring V is of such dimensions that by forcing out, by wedging or other-
wise, it may compress a proper quantity of leather and be sprung into position with
its ends abutting firmly together, as seen in Fig. 18.
The protruding portion of the leather being repeatedly compressed by the action
of the valve, spreads and forms a smooth, uniform, and just sufficiently yielding seat,
on which the valve may strike with much violence, and repeat rapidly with little
concussion or noise. The swelling of the leather in wetting may induce a slight
further tightening of the hold thereon, but my experiments indicato no difficulty
from any excess of strain in wetting, or loosening in drying.
Modifications in the details may be made by any good mechanic. I can make
the valve much thicker, can use rubber or other yielding material instead of
leather, and especially can carry the pliable packing in the valve instead of in the
fixed part. In either position I consider it a valve sent and properly described by
those words. In either position it is a continuous ring of pliable packing, held by
the cut ring forcibly spread within it.
I attach much importance to the bevel or inclination of the rings of leather U.
They dove-tail or lock together the parts.
Referring to Figures 19 and 20, M is the main shell or case of the air pump.
S is a plunger worked up and down through a stuffing box around the top, and
M³, M, are respectively the horizontal plates in which are the apertures to be
controlled by valves. Tho water, it will be understood, is received through liberal

page_text: pipes, the suction or receiving pipe being connected to the nozzle m², and the
forcing or delivery pipe being connected to the nozzle m³.
The apertures for the flow of the water up through the plates M³ and M³ are
alike. Each is an annular aperture extending continuously around. I will indicate
each by m³. The metal is strongly supported by webs M below, cast in one
therewith. The upper and lower edges of the webs are sharpened.
The casting M above the uppermost or delivery, which I have termed the
eduction aperture, is also formed with webs across, marked with similar marks
M. Over the aperture m³ each web M' is cut away, as shown by m', to a width
and height to allow the free rising and sinking of the ring valve W.
These ring valves are continuous annular forms of sheet iron or other material, as
light as is consistent with proper strength. For a pump of 36 inches (95 centimetres)
diameter of plunger, the annular apertures m³ may be two inches (5 centimetres)
wide, and the valves W nearly four inches (10 centimetres) wide, and three-
eighths of an inch (1 centimetre) thick. The spaces cut or otherwise produced in
the webs M may be a little more than four inches (10 centimetres) wide and three
inches (7 centimetres) high.
An elastic seat is provided both on the outer and inner edge of each
aperture m³. A brass double ring is formed by casting or otherwise, with cross
braces or bridges to hold them stiffly apart. Each is recessed on its upper face,
and the recess made to receive the body of a ring of vulcanized rubber or
other elastic and suitable material, with its upper edge projecting up above
the metal. The valve at each descent rests on this noiseless and tight fitting
support.
In the most complete development of the Invention I aid the rising or the falling,
or both, by mechanical connections, analogous to thoso above described for the round
valves O. That is to say, each annular valve W is like the valve of the main pump,
partly self-acting, controlled by the tendency of the water first to open it and then
to close it, but the motion thus impelled is further insured and modified by a set of
connections for aiding the lifting or dropping, or both these ends. I have shown
such on the upper valve W alone. W', W, aro lugs formed or bolted thereon, and
X, X, are links connected thereto by transverse pins. The links X are connected
by similar pins at their tops to arms N¹, N', extending inward from a rocking
shaft N. The latter extends out through a stuffing-box, and carries an arm N³,
which is operated by any suitable connections of the working parts of the machine
not shown. This rocking shaft and its arm outside may be similar to but longer
than corresponding parts for the main pump. Like those it may aid greatly in
depressing the valve promptly to its seat, just before the termination of the move-
ment of the plunger, without waiting for the current of water to be reversed, and
to begin to flow downward.
Modifications may be made by any good mechanic. Other materials than those
mentioned and other dimensions may be successfully used.
One modification which I show is to dispense with the connections X and their
attachments, and to work both the upper and the lower valves by the force of the
water alone or aided by fixed springs. O¹, O', represent such springs attached to
and adapted to serve by promptly depressing the lower valve. Another important
modification is to mount the valves with more space between them, and to have
links x, x, and connections for each.
I esteem it important in all cases to provide such spaces m' in the webs M*, as
will allow the valve to tilt to its fullest extent without jamming.
Having thus described my Invention, I would have it understood that I do not
confine myself to the exact details, as shown and described, so long as the peculiar
character of my Invention be retained, substantially as described.
But what I do claim is,-
First. The engine frame described composed of the central castings, A¹, B', side
castings A³, B³, A³, B³, and top castings Ċ, Ơ, combined and adapted to serve, as

page_text: Second. In a steam pumping machine, the contral base-piece D arranged as
shown in combination with the pumps M, masonry D¹, and with the triangular.
framing above, adapted to serve as herein specified.
Third. The triangular framing described made in separate sections, substantially
as herein specified.
Fourth. The condenser described formed in two parts E, E¹, the lower part
receiving the condensing water to condense the steam, and the upper part receiving
the first rush of the steam in combination with a pipe e properly connected for the
passage of feed-water, as hercin specified.
Fifth. In a steam engine, the cylinder A, connections a¹, a², condenser E, E³,
feed-pipe c, and supports E², E³, for the latter, arranged to serve as and for the
purposes herein specified.
Sixth. The stuffing-boxes, as shown in combination with the condenser and with
the pipe e, and with supports E, E³, for holding the feed-pipe firmly therein, as
herein specified.
Seventh. In a steam engine having circular sliding valves, tho skeleton lever G
rocked, as shown, and having centres g moving near the axes of their respectivo
valves in combination with the links f¹, connecting such centres with the valvo
arms F, all arranged to operate as and for the purposes herein specified.
Eighth. The friction driving device H', I', and means for automatically con-
trolling the position in combination with sleeve 15, or the corresponding part of a
speed regulating device, so as to vary the velocity ratio of the governor and engine
with each change in the speed of the engine, as herein specified.
Ninth. The adjustable link K, K³, K', in combination with a governor, and with.
means for changing the velocity ratio of the governor with oach temporary
change in the velocity of the engine, substantially as and for the purposes herein
specified.
Tenth. The combination in a governor of the ordinary lever J and rod for
controlling the motor, and also the levers J, J2, or their equivalents, for changing
the conditions of the driving means H, I, so as to change the velocity ratio
simultaneously with and to an extent corresponding to the required change in the
power to maintain a uniform velocity, as hercin specified.
Eleventh. A pump having a valve urged to its seat by a spring with abutment
moved by the mechanism of the pump, so as to exert a greater tension when the
closing movement of the valve is to be effected, and to relieve it when the opening
movement of the valve takes place, as herein specified.
Twelfth. In a pump, the valves O connected to the rocking shafts N by arms N¹,
and having arms N adapted to not only indicate to the eye the workings of the
valve, but also to allow the application of mechanism to aid the operating,
substantially as hercin specified,
Thirteenth. In a pump, the removable bonnet M¹ forming the covering to the
aperture for the attachment and removal of the valve, and also the bearing for the
shaft N in combination with such shaft having arms N¹ and N2, with the valvo O,.
with operating means P, and their connections, substantially as herein specified.
Fourteenth. The rocking shaft N with its arms N', N³, valve O, operating
means P, and their attachments worked by the motion of the pump, combined and
arranged as specified, so as to perform the triple functions of indicating to the cyo
the action of the valve contributing to balance the weight of the valve, and
promoting the motion thereof by power applied thereto, substantially as herein
specified.
Fifteenth. The employment in pumps of the adjusting means P, p, in combination
with the self acting valve O, and with means N, N', N2, for communicating forco
thereto, all arranged and adapted to serve substantially as herein specified.
Sixteenth. In combination with the shaft N carrying the arm N¹ and valve O,
as shown, one or more removable bushes T adapted to be inserted from the outside
after the shaft is in position, as herein specified.
Seventeenth. The sleeve T', T2, flanged as shown, the packing, ring T³, and

page_text: movable collar T4, in combination with the bushing T, and with a shaft N having
the arms N, N, and attached valve O, as herein specified.
Eighteenth. The pump described having the casing M, plunger S, valve O, split
shaft N, and split sleeve T', in combination with each other, and with the taper
screw Ns and arm N2, and all arranged to serve as herein specified.
Ninoteenth. The leather or equivalent pliable material Û arranged in a ring in
combination with the holding plate M² and cut ring V, and arranged to serve
relatively to the valve O, as herein specified.
Twentieth. The ring valve W, arranged as shown, relatively to the pump
plunger S, and annular aperture m³, for the purposes set forth.
Twenty-first. The ring valve W in combination with the pump casing M and
radial webs M, having apertures M* for the free rising and falling of the valve, and
adapted to guide the valvo, as herein specified.
Twenty-second. The ring valve W, pump casing M, webs M³ notched, as shown,
and springs 01, 0¹, combined as specified.
Twenty-third. The ring valve W, arranged as shown, to control the annular
aperture M³, in combination with the links X, lever N¹, and shaft N, as shown and
described.
•
Twenty-fourth. A plunger pump having the two ring valves W, W, controlling
the two apertures m³, m³, as shown and described.
In witness whereof, I, the said George Henry Corliss, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Second day of October, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and eighty.
5 Witnesses,
RICHARD ARNOLD BAILEY.
EDMUND WELLS RAYNSFORD.
GEORGE HENRY CORLISS. (L.S.)