Improvements in and in Apparatus for the Production of Acetylene.
Year: 1896

page_text: Date of Application, 16th Sept., 1896-Accepted, 20th Mar., 1897
1
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Improvements in and in Apparatus for the Production of
Acetylene.
I, GABRIEL SAVINIEN THEOPHILE GASTINE, of 32 Rue Croix de Regnier,
Marseilles, France, Cheniist, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in
what manner the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained
in and by the following statement:-
This invention relates to improvements in and in apparatus for automatically
producing acetylene, the apparatus being arranged with a view to its use for
domestic lighting purposes, for industrial and various agricultural and other
applications.
My apparatus comprises two distinct parts which can be in juxtaposition in a
single apparatus; or separated one from the other vertically or horizontally, as
desired. Two pipes connect these parts and it is through the medium of the gas
which passes through them, that the two parts of my apparatus react one on the
other to produce an autcmatic working. One of these parts is formed by the
gas generators to the number of two or more; these generators are identical and
work alternatively or successively. The other part is a regulator which reacts
automatically at each moment on the generator in working, to moderate the
production of the gas and render it equal to the consumption, notwithstanding its
variations.
I will first describe these two parts of my apparatus, taking as an example the
apparatus illustrated by Figures 1 to 7 of the accompanying drawings. Figs. 8
to 11 show several secondary modifications introduced in this same apparatus;
Figs. 12 to 20 illustrate apparatus of the same system as the preceding, although
constructed in a somewhat different manner in view of special applications.
Finally by reference to Figs. 21 to 25 I shall describe the adaptation of my
invention to the construction of very large apparatus.
The apparatus illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7 is composed of two receivers A A
placed one near the other (alike but independent). These receivers are enlarged
at the top in the form of basins B B (Figs. 1 and 2).
In the narrow part A of these receivers, which terminate in spherical or conical
bottoms, are fixed uprights or supports formed by three metal strips connected at
suitable distances by rings or hoops. In these uprights, which rise vertically and
form open sided tubes, are placed two movable metal baskets D perforated with
numerous holes, which rest on the top ring of the uprights or supports. These
baskets receive the carbide of calcium. A gas outlet tube E E is fixed in each
receiver A on the inside or the outside of the rings of the uprights or supports,
and rises vertically above the baskets D. If the tube E is inside the uprights or
supports the baskets D have a longitudinal groove or recess which allows the
passage of the tube E see Figs. 2 and 4. The tubes E are open at the top
and come under the dome of a bell-shaped movable cover C (Figs. 1, 3 and 5)
which covers each basket D and its uprights or supports. This cover C is entirely
closed at the top, and near its bottom edge at x (Figs. 1, 3 and 5) has an opening
terminating externally by a tubular prolongation in the form of a projecting spout.
This spout of the cover C is a gaseous overflow outlet which exists in and
characterises all forms of my apparatus, an overflow outlet of which the utility
will be understood later. This same spout serves, independently of the use which
I shall hereinafter describe, to guide the cover C in a fixed position in the.
.

page_text: receiver A, when it is introduced thereinto, by means of a vertical groove of the
same shape as this spout formed by a recess in the metal (b b Figs. 2 and 1)
the position of the said -groove b b being shown by dotted lines in Fig. 1. When
the cover C has reached the bottom of its receiver A, its bottom edge touches that
part of the basket uprights or supports of which the constituent plates are bent
downwards at right angles and secured to the receiver A. By turning the cover C
on a vertical axis a third of a turn, its spout passes from the channel of the
vertical groove b and opens communication with an air-tight compartment X which
rises vertically in the receiver A and in the enlarged part B thereof. The bottom
edge of this compartment X which is marked in Fig. 1, holds the spout of
the cover C. The cover should be turned to the left in the right generator, and
to the right in the left generator to bring ench of the corresponding covers in its
stopping and working position. Finally there is only one grooved position of-
entry for the covers C and only one stop position for fixing them in the gas
generators. These covers C constitute hydraulic fastenings or seals, deep and sure,
above the baskets containing the carbide of calcium. This mode of instantaneous
fastening offers none of the uncertainties, and the slowness of a mechanical
arrangement of whatever kind, such as catches, bolts, screws &c. It will be
evident that this method of fastening the covers in the generators constitutes a
manifest advantage for an apparatus destined for domestic use.
The acetylene gas resulting from the reaction between the carbide of calcium
and the water can follow, according as the case may be, two distinct courses when
it forms under the cover C. It can escape by the tubes E E at the summit of the
dome of the covers, or if this egress is closed it can accumulate under the covers
and, driving away the water which touches the calcium carbide, can escape at the
base of the said covers by the channels or spouts a x of the covers C, each of
which opens into the corresponding air-tight compartment X X receiving the gaseous
overflow from each of the gas generators. This arrangement of my apparatus is
altogether characteristic; all have this gaseous overflow arrangement which
constitutes one of the principal features of the invention. When I come to
describe the regulator further on, the working of my apparatus and the great
importance of these two different routes offered alternatively to the gas produced
by the generator, and determined precisely by the action of said regulator, will be
understood.
I will now further point out several details of the generators. In each of the
compartments X X of the gaseous overflow arrangement, are horizontal perforated
partitions to the number of four or five and which are so placed that the
perforations in contiguous partitions are not opposite to each other. These
partitions are fixed at different levels and serve to burst the gas bubbles and to
delay their ascension, in order to avoid the vibrations which would be caused by
their bursting at the top of the compartments. P P are clearance cocks for
emptying the apparatus; ppare the cleansing cocks surmounted by a bulb intended
to collect the condensation water which forms and accumulates in the sloping
parts of the tubes E E. G G are the valves for the exit of the gas in connection
with the tubes E E, and g g are the valves arranged above the gaseous overflow
compartments X X.
After passing the valves G G the tubes for the exit of the gas unite in a single
pipe which ends at the inlet valve of the regulator. In the same manner, after
passing the valves g 9, the tubes from the gaseous overflow compartments are
united in a single pipe. It is these two pipes G and 9 which arrive after running a
certain distance either horizontally or vertically at the other part of my apparatus
which will now be described.
g
The automatic regulator (Figs. 6 and 7) is formed by a small gasometer of any
shape, composed of a basin H supplied with water in which is plunged a movable
bell cover L with a guided vertical movement. I guide the bell cover L in the
basin H by means of a central bar I fixed on the one part at the bottom and in
the centre of the basin, and on the other in the centre of the framework above.

page_text: The bell cover L is tubed in the centre and slides easily on this central bar I.
Near the centre of the bell cover L and on its dome is attached a traction rope
(metallic) which passes over the grooved guide pulleys N N¹ fixed on the frame-
work. The other end of this rope is fixed on a double-grooved pulley R which
works the spindle of a special valve R¹ called the valve of the regulator. In the
contrary direction to the cable worked by the cover L, this pulley R receives in
its other groove a cable attached to the counterpoise Q. It follows from this that
the spindle of the valve R' is rendered conjointly liable to the vertical movements
experienced by the cover L, under the effect of the gas which comes from.the
generator. In Fig. 7 the direction of the communications is shown by the dotted
lines; the tube G communicates with a small tube or way which conducts the gas
to the spindle of the regulator-valve R'. When the cover L is free from gas, that
is to say, submerged in the basin H the spindle of the valve R' is in the open
position and the gas formed in the generator and passing through the tube GG
enters the cover L following this route. As the bell cover L fills and in
consequence rises in its vat, the valve R¹ gradually closes. The section given to
the orifices of the spindle of the shell of the valve allows the admission of the
passage of the gas during one fourth or even only one fifth of the rising of the bell
cover L. Beyond this position the valve remains constantly closed. The pipe ga
coming from the gaseous overflow compartments X X avoids, on the contrary, the
regulating valve R' and passes to the tube F, a purifying tube which will be
described further on, which communicates with the small tube E' leading the gas
into the cover L. The stop valve F interposed between the tube and the cover L
serves to isolate the gasometer when after a long period of working it is necessary
to grease the valve R. It will be understood that the spindle of this valve is
easily moved by the traction of the reversed cables which act on the controlling
pulley R, traction which consist of a motive couple which can be rendered as
powerful as required by weighing on the one hand, the cover L. by means of lead
or iron discs KK placed on four equidistant pegs fixed on the dome, or on the other
hand, the counterpoise Q. By these same counterpoises KK and Q acting, the
former to augment the pressure of gas, the latter to reduce it, it is easy to determine
this pressure to the quantity convenient for the system to be supplied, and to the
nature of the burners utilised.
Finally the removal of the gas from under the cover L is effected by a tube E"
similar to the tube E' with a cleansing cock p and stop valve S.
It is easy now to understand the working of my apparatus in its entirety. One
of the baskets D of the generators is charged by supplying it to about two thirds
of its capacity with carbide of calcium. The basket is then placed on its uprights
or supports. It is covered by the cover C by passing its spout into the groove b
of the receiver A. The cover is then turned one third on its vertical axis to
cause the spout to catch under the horizontal edge of the gaseous overflow
compartments X. The clearance cock P likewise the cleanser p are closed. The
valves G and g of the uncharged generator are closed. The valve g of the gaseous
overflow compartment of the charged generator is opened and its escapement valve G
is closed. The basin B is filled with water. If by inadvertence the operator
has omitted to turn the cover C to fasten it, it will rise up as soon as this filling is
commenced by the force of the water, there will then be time to repair this
omission. The apparatus being thus supplied with water up to the overflow of the
basin B is ready to work. No gas will be produced yet as the air under the
cover C prevents the water from penetrating to the basket supplied with carbide of
calcium so that this latter cannot yet be attacked or only very feebly by the action
of the moisture contained in the air confined under the cover. To set the apparatus
in work the valve G is opened. The air contained under the cover escapes by the
tube E and passes into the gasometer L through the regulator R'. The water
penetrates under the cover owing to the higher level which it occupies in the
basin B; it comes in contact with the carbide of calcium and the evolution of the
acetylene gas is established as soon as this contact takes place. The cover L of

page_text: the gasometer rises and soon attains the fifth of its repletion. At this moment the
regulating valve R' which has been gradually closing, is closed entirely. The gas
thenceforward accumulates under the cover C of the generator and drives out the
water which ceases to wet the carbide of calcium. The excess of gas, which is
produced by the reaction of the water retained in the hydrated lime resulting from
the attack of the carbide previously submerged, passes to the gasometer by way of
the gaseous overflow compartment X, the only route left open to it. Little by
little the evolution stops as the water of impregnation is destroyed.
From the movement when the valve G is opened, it will be seen that the
apparatus is able to regulate its production in an automatic manner.
As a matter.
of fact, a more or less considerable number of burners can be lighted, turned off,
relighted &c without troubling about the working of the apparatus. Indeed as
soon as the bell cover L of the gasometer descends a little, however little, below
the level of regulation, owing to the gas consumed in the system, the valve R
will partially open, and the water will be able to penetrate in proportion under the
cover of the generator to reach the carbide of calcium. If the consumption of
gas is reduced and the production too strong, the bell cover L on rising will close
the regulating valve R' and the gas accumulating under the cover C of the
generator will immediately drive off the water, thus limiting the reaction.
Oscillations of the hell cover L scarcely perceptible will mark these successive
states of admission, and of suppression of gaseous evolution, which constitute the
automatic regulation of my system of apparatus. The basin B contains a sufficient
volume of water to absorb the entire quantity of carbide of calcium intr.duced
in the basket D; consequently these acts of regulation will continue until the
completion of the destruction of this product.
If during a course of lighting comprising a large number of burners lighted
simultaneously the consumption is suppressed without transition, then the carbide of
calcium not in immediate contact with the water, but which rests on a layer of
hydrated lime impregnated with water, continues for a certain time to decompose
because this interposed water attacks it little by little by capillary attraction. The
reaction ceases only when this water has been destroyed. It is during this period,
the period of stoppage of the illumination, that the gaseous overflow apparatus,
which characterises my invention, works. The gas which forms accumulates in the
gasometer which has a free capacity of from to of its total capacity at disposal
for this purpose. The evolution of the gaseous overflow, rather quick at first, loses
little by little and somewhat rapidly, its activity. During the periods of prolonged
stoppage of illumination, for example, during the second part of the night and the
next day, is added to these tail-ends of reaction the very weak product of the slow
attack of the carbide by the moisture saturated air in the cover of the generator.
An apparatus working each evening consumes at the cominencement of lighting
these gaseous excesses which have accumulated in the gasometer. It is to receive
them that the latter has been, for the greater part, made of large capacity. In
very hot countries this hygrometric saturation being greater it is necessary to have
bell covers L in proportion a trifle more spacious than in cold or temperate
countries. For a constant illumination however variable in intensity a smaller
gasometer would ensure the same regulation. It is evident moreover that it is easy
to allow a convenient size to the cover of the gasometer and larger than the usual
dimensions when the illumination to be supplied is liable to prolonged suspensions
of lighting. I call the usual dimensions those adopted for my apparatus, and
illustrated in the drawings. This proportion suffices well in temperate countries for
the suspension of lighting during 24 hours and the capacity represented is very
small in comparison with the reproductive power of the generators, about 1 of the
gaseous volume which can be produced by the latter (the two generators).
At the commencement of the working of the apparatus a certain proportion of
air, that which is contained under the cover of the generator, mixes with the
acetylene. This proportion is insufficient to create any danger whatever on account
of its being heavily charged with acetylene.

page_text: The description given above respecting the charging and the working of one of
the generators corresponds naturally to the other, which can be filled at auy time
during the working of the first. If the illumination to be supplied is very
considerable, the two generators can be charged from the commencement. In this
case when the first of these generators is exhausted, of which warning is given
before the end of the illumination by the descent of the bell cover of the gasometer
below the regulating level, which said descent completes the circuit of an electric
bell arrangement, or starts a spring bell arrangement of some kind, nothing is easier
than to open at the desired noment the valve G of the second generator, after
having closed that of the exhausted generator. Moreover at this minent suffi ient
gas still remains in the gasometer to allow the time necessary to clean and to charge
this generator, if the operation had not been done in advance. The two generators
thus ensure a continuous service of illumination.
The fact that the carbide of calcium is attacked, slowly it is true, but in a
continuous manner owing to the presence of the gas saturated with moisture which
is in contact with it under the cover of the generator, renders imperative a safety
arrangement to allow the gas to be discharged outside the apparatus in case the
bell cover L of the gasometer should become filled. An apparatus may in fact be
left charged, and it is essential that its presence in a place should not create a
danger by the accumulation of gas, being able to cause an explosion by contact
with the air. The arrangement which I employ in such cases is most simple.
Before the stop tap S leading to the burners, I fit in a small diversion tube which
lends to a box half filled with water. This, small tube plunges vertically in the
said box to a height of three or four centimetres higher than that of the normal
pressure under which the gas is distributed in the system. Another tube is
connected with the upper part of the said box and leads to the outside, for example
in a window recess. Thus is constructed a sort of safety valve which does not
allow the exit of the gas whilst under the normal pressure, that is to say, under the
charge given to the cover of the gasometer. In order that this safety pipe shall
work at the right moment, I stop the ascension of the bell cover L by fixing a stop
or projecting peg, on the shaft I over which said bell cover works. This peg is
placed near the top of the shaft at a convenient point, so that the cover striking
against this obstacle furnishes the gas it contains with an excess of pressure of four
or five centimetres. The box of the safety pipe is furnished with a receiver which
maintains a constant water level in an automatic manner. In the basin H of the
gasometer, which is provided with an overflow, the level of the water is likewise
constant, and this overflow is placed at the requisite height to ensure, on the
striking of the cover, the necessary pressure for the safety pipe. Under these
conditions an apparatus left charged for several days, will only lose the small
proportion of gas which corresponds with the slow attack of the carbide of calcium
by the moisture saturated air in the cover of the generator. We shall see further
that it is possible by a peculiar artifice to considerably reduce this slow attack.
We have desired, nevertheless, to mention here a safety arrangement, but its
importance must not be exaggerated. It is useless to an apparatus working
each night which is generally the case. This arrangement is only of use for
apparatus liable to be left charged for several days and again when these
apparatus are installed in narrow places, and without ventilation. The safety
arrangement is superfluous if the apparatus is fixed in a place provided with a
permanent opening, which is the rational case for the installation of gas apparatus
of any kind.
The exhausted generator can be cleaned and recharged in a few minutes. To
do this, the valves G and g which correspond must be closed, the cock P and the
cleanser p are opened to discharge the water contained therein, and which is either
received in some receptacle or run into the drains. The cover C is withdrawn, and
subsequently the basket D. The latter is emptied of the lime which it contains, is
washed and set to dry. All that is now necessary is to reset in the generator a
dry basket furnished with a supply of carbide, to replace the cover in its fixed

page_text: position, to close the cocks Pp and to provide a fresh supply of water. These
operations take less time to carry out than to mention. The same water can be
employed because it has the advantage of being saturated with acetylene gas and
thus effects economy in comparison with fresh water. It will suffice if it is clarified
from the aforementioned weak calcareous precipitate with which it may have become
charged. If the apparatus thus recharged is to remain unemployed the tap gat
the surface must be opened.
I have already pointed out a number of advantages peculiar to my apparatus,
for example, the absence of all delicate and uncertain joints. The only joint
which exists is a bydraulic joint instantaneously established by the most
inexperienced person, and of absolute safety with regard to air-tightness. Other
peculiarities are to be pointed out as they characterise my system of apparatus,
and what I now mention, apply also to the modifications which will be described
further on.
The covers of my generators serve as refrigeraters for the quick reaction,
which evolves a great deal of heat from the carbide of calcium on the water.
Surrounded by water, and even covered by water, these covers condense the vapour
produced on their internal walls and their dome. The action of the carbide of
calcium is thus more limited than if this vapour could act on the mass of the
product. The gas leaving the generators is cold and cannot cause any irregularities
in the illumination. If however the generators are put to the test of an excessive
output for their normal force, it will be useful to provide the basins B B with
a cooling worm installed as will be shown later for the large industrial
apparatus.
The regulating gasometer of my apparatus plays several distinct useful parts;
1st, By its vertical displacements and its connection with the regulating valve, the
gasometer cover L moderates the reaction of the carbide on the water and limits
the same as soon as it appears too strong for the consumption to be supplied. This
is the essential and characteristic part played by this regulating mechanism in iny
apparatus. 2nd, It also serves as an accumulator to store the gas given out in
excess by the gascous overflow apparatus during the working, and especially during
the period of stoppage and of reduction of the illumination. This part in a certain
manner is comprised with the preceding. 3rd, It acts finally as regulator for the
pressure on the entire system of illumination. In fact as the bell cover L remains
nearly always at about the same level on its vat, that is, the level of regulation
which corresponds with the arranged opening of the regulating valve R', the
pressure of the gas does not change, it is invariable. Thus the lighted burners
preserve an absolute steadiness as soon as their supply has been regulated by the
-draw-off cock. If during the stoppage period the gasometer cover fills partly with
gas, it produces at the commencement of the illumination a slight excess of pressure,
but too weak in quantity to cause any irregularity in the burners, when the cover
descends and occupies the regulating position. This slight excess of pressure which
is represented by a few millimetres only, decreases moreover insensibly and can
thus occasion no sensible alteration.
F is the tube filled with fragments of coke, pumice-stone, glass, asbestos fibres,
or any other inert substance serving simply as a filter to retain the lime dust or
water which might be carried off by the gas on its exit from the generator.
The apparatus that I have just described can be constructed in various sizes and
shapes.
The apparatus illustrated in Figs. 8, 9, 1 and 11 is almost identical with the
foregoing. The differences to be pointed out are of small importance and do not
modify the working. I have made the tubes E E for the evolution of the gas
pass into the basins B B where they develop in an almost complete spiral to ensure
the cooling of the gas. This arrangement is only useful in the case where the
apparatus is subject to a large output and then it should be completed by a cooling
worm with a circulation of cold water likewise placed in the basins B B. It is a
characteristic of my apparatus to be able if necessary to force the output in

page_text: a considerable manner. Thus an apparatus for 12 to 15 burners constructed for
country houses or villas, may perhaps only supply five or six burners, but it can
also in the case of festivities or receptions supply double and even treble of
the usual illumination, on the sole condition that the basins be cooled and the
generators recharged successively and at shorter periods. This faculty is
invaluable for such installations where the illumination is likely to vary consider
ably. It is well in this case to slightly increase the size of the regulating
gasometer.
In this apparatus the regulating tap E' is worked by a linked chain, by means
of a sprocket wheel fixed on the spindle of the valve, an arrangement which
replaces the metallic traction rope of the preceding apparatus.
Another modification is the addition of a conical diaphragm Y below each of the
baskets D. This diaphragm divides into two parts the compressed atmosphere
confined in the cover C, in order to reduce the rapidity of the hygrometric
exchanges in this atmosphere during the stoppage period of the charged apparatus.
In the confined atmosphere of the cover C there is a continual movement of the
moisture in the gas, because, around the basket and in the top part of the cover,
the carbide of calcium which has a great avidity for water, drys the gas with
which it comes in contact, whilst at the bottom of the cover, this same gas has a
tendency to become constantly saturated with moisture, as it is in contact with this
liquid. Such is the phenomenon which during the perio ls of stoppage of the
apparatus keeps up a slow but constant evolution of acetylene, evolution more
abundant if the temperature is high, weaker if it is low, and which depends really
on the different hygrometric saturation according to the temperature. The
diaphragm Y in offering a mechanical obstacle, a partition, imperfect it is true,
below the basket, notably retards the gaseous diffusion and consequently the
transport of moisture. This diaphragm intervenes more efficaciously still by means
of the following artifice; this artifice consists of projecting in the generator, before
putting in the basket furnished with the carbide, a small quantity of paraffin oil,
or some mineral oil, schist oil, for example, more volatile but lighter than water.
This oil remains on the surface of the water when the apparatus is filled, and as it
opposes by its presence the contact of the water with the gas, it prevents or reduces
the hygrometric saturation of the latter. However as the water from time to time
wets the carbide of calcium the floating mineral oil would be quickly absorbed by
the lime, in such a manner that its protective action would disappear. The
diaphragm Y to which I have given the shape of a cone stem or reversed funnel
opposes the ascension of a great part of this oil, which it retains under its concavity.
When the water is driven by the gas towards the bottom of the cover, the oil
retained under the diaphragm is released, it is retaken up by the water and owing
to its capillary tension covers the whole of the surface again. The same result is
obtained by immersing the carbide of calcium in paraffin oil, and letting it drain
before charging the baskets. The carbide retains according to its fragmentary
state 0.5 to 1% of paraffin oil. By employing the diaphragm a much smaller
quantity of paraffin oil will suffice; about To
A lid has been added above the carbide baskets in order to prevent the fall of
drops of water condensed on the dome of the cover. The uprights or supports of
the baskets, the baskets themselves and their lids, have been lowered a little in the
interior of the generator A in order to ensure the complete immersion of the cover
until the end of the operation, and thereby also the complete expulsion of the gas
when the generator is exhausted. Jointing lids, not shown in the drawings, are
placed above the basins B B to suppress the diffusion of the acetylene gas, in
solution in the water of the said basins, which present a large surface for
evaporation.
Figs. 12 and 13 represent a small apparatus. All its essential parts, generator,
regulating gasometer, are arranged on the same support. The generators are
attached to the vat H of the gasometer. They are cylinders without upper
enlargement. The baskets with their uprights or supports are placed in the lower

page_text: part A, and above them and their lids in the space B, is a sufficient supply of water
to refill the said covers C C. The mode of fastening the covers C in the cylinders,
and the arrangement of their gaseous overflows does not differ from that which
exists in the apparatus bereinbefore described, and the same letters of reference
represent the same parts. The gasometer cover L works a linked chain, which
works a sprocket wheel at the top of the framework, which wheel controls the
spindle of the regulating valve R, which serves as its axis. The said valve is
closed when the cover reaches a fifth of its vertical run, it is open or partially
open during the lower part of the run. The working is identical with that of the
preceding apparatus.
Fig. 14 shown a section and ground plan of a hollow dise doubly convex, of
perforated sheet iron, which can be introduced in the baskets to separate the charge
of carbide of calcium into several distinct layers. With two of these discs in each
basket the charge can be divided into three layers. The special shape of these
discs, allows the rising and also the draining off of the water; the action on the
carbide is made layer by layer. Underneath these two views in Fig. 14 is shown
the lid of the baskets.
Fig. 15 shows a sketch of an apparatus of the same arrangement as the fore-
going but reduced to a single generator and supported on a two-wheeled barrow.
This apparatus is intended for the temoorary lighting of open air workshops, or
of industrial or agricultural buildings &c., &c. The duration of the illumination
can be longer or shorter according to the charge of carbide of calcium introduced
in the single generator. The acetylene burner L is enclosed in a lamp glass to
preserve the flame from the influence of the wind. An under grating allows the
access of air to the lamp; and perforated baffle plates allow the products of com-
bustion to escape whilst also affording opposition to the disturbing influence of the
wind. A reflector in enamelled sheet iron with upper rain cover E 3 completes
this lamp, which is kept at a convenient height on a mast or pole, made of steel
tubes, constructed in two pieces, with a sliding air-tight joint allowing the lamp to
be lowered during transpurt, and fixed at any desired height.
The apparatus represented by Fige. 16 and 17 is another small pattern, similar
to that shown in Figs. 12 and 13 but lighter. The basin H is constructed in an
annular form to reduce the weight of water necessary for the immersion of the
gasometer cover L. This cover is fixed on a guided shaft I which moves with it.
In its upper portion the said shaft I is cut ratchet shape and works the toothed
wheel k, which works the spindle of the regulating valve. The apparatus has only
one generator cylinder, long and narrow, but similar to that of the foregoing
apparatus, that is without upper enlargement. The instrument is shown on a fixed
wooden framework; it can also be mounted on a wheel-barrow. Fig. 18 shows a
plan of the same apparatus arranged with two generators for the illumination of
workshops, apartments, &c., that is for an illumination very variable in its duration,
and in the number of burners. This apparatus with two generators, should have
a larger gasometer than the apparatus with only one generator. The apparatus
with a single generator is useful for the lighting of workshops, fair stalls, some-
times factories, that is to say, wherever the duration of the illumination is foreseen
and fixed, in such a manner that it suffices to charge the basket D with a proportion
of carbide of calcium capable of ensuring this duration exactly. The cover of the
gasometer now only serving for the purpose of regulation can be of small dimensions
as shown in Fig. 16.
I have realised for agricultural applications a more simple apparatus than the
foregoing and which can be moved by hand, from place to place. Figs. 19 and 20
show this apparatus of which the generator D is placed eccentrically in the
cylindrical body A resting on a basis of sufficient size. Above, the cylinder
finishes with an enlarged basin B as in my ordinary apparatus. This arrangement
has the advantage of giving a larger diameter to the overflow compartment X
which is affixed to the cover C.
The latter which is pierced at the top with a central hole is surmounted by the

page_text: purifier F the top of which bears the valve G for the gaseous evolution, whilst the
valve g is adapted to the upper part of the overflow compartment X.
In this cylinder A is introduced a basket D of perforated metal soldered as a
fixture on its upright or support with four arms d' d' d' d' and this support is again
soldered at its base to the bottom of a metallic box U the external diameter of
which is almost equal to the interior diameter of the cylinder A. The diaphragm Y
the function of which I have already described is fixed between the arms of the
support, underneath the basket.
Thus the basket D its supports d' d' d, and the lower box U, form simply one
and a single piece which can be placed in the cylinder A and withdrawp. from this
cylinder to be cleaned.
The small quantity of lime which falls through the basket D falls into the
box U so that the cleaning of the apparatus is easily effected by moving this piece.
A long cover C pierced with holes at its base, covers the basket and its support
and penetrates into the box U. The said cover is fixed in the cylinder A-by three
pegs or bolts which correspond with small ribs soldered to the cover to maintain it
in the cylinder.
The pegs or bolts are fastened by turning the cover under three feet soldered to
the bottom of the receiver B.
Figs. 21, 22 and 23 show industrial apparatus for large illuminations.
The special arrangement of my system of apparatus is applicable to apparatus
of very great power as well as to those of medium or weak production as already
described.
:
Preserving all the essential parts of my apparatus and their particular arrange-
ment, I augment their producing power as desired by giving to the generators the
shape of elongated cases which allows me to increase their capacity without
modifying the conditions of the reaction as far as the masses of carbide of calcium
in working are concerned. The heat developed in these high power generators is
not greater in comparison with that developed by my medium apparatus. The
volume of the enclosing water, the surfaces of radiation, that of contact of the
water with the carbide of calcium, these remain in effect nearly the same as in my
medium apparatus.
In place of the cylindrical vessels as hereinbefore described, the generators for
large output are made of narrow but very long cases of sheet iron; see Figs. 21, 22
and 23 which represent an apparatus the two charged generators of which are
equal to the production, (without recharging) of 36 cubic metres of acetylene, that
is to say, a proportion of gas sufficient to supply for seven' hours, two hundred
burners consuming each 25 litres per hour. The transverse section, Fig. 23, of
these generators shows their similarity of construction with my ordinary generators.
There we again see, in fact, the narrow part A surmounted by a large basin B.
But these receivers can have a length of several metres (Fig. 22). In the narrow
part A is a support which occupies almost the entire length of the case, this support
is formed of vertical shafts connected above' with a metallic bend which serves as
support to the basket D.. The latter organ (the basket) is an elongated reservoir
of perforated sheet iron occupying also almost the entire length of the case A.
Better still and as shown in the drawings each support receives a row of
baskets D D D &c., square or cylindrical, placed side by side in a series. This
latter arrangement obviates the complication of a washing apparatus, the baskets
remaining perfectly easy to be handled individually. Beneath the baskets is a.
diaphragm Y also lengthened, the function of which has already been pointed out
in connection with the apparatus shown in Fig. 8. The cover. C of elongated form
covers the whole of the baskets and their supports; its spout of the gaseous over-
flow placed at one of its extremities in the direction of the larger axis, penetrates
into the compartiment X at one of the ends of the case A. To fix the spout of the
cover C uuder this vertical conduit open at its base, the cover C is pushed several
centimetres towards the narrow part of the receiver A where is arranged this
overflow channel. The cover C is maintained in place by the bolts vv vv, Fig. 22,
B

page_text: COMPLETE SPECIFICATION.
Improved Clip for Carrying Light Articles, such as Inflators, Walking
Sticks, or the like, upon Cycles, Motor Cars, and other Light
Carriages.
1, JAMES KIRBY of 1 Broadgate, Lincoln, in the County of Lincoln, Cycle-
Manufacturer, do hereby declare the nature of this invention and in what manner
the same is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and by
the following statement :-
My invention consists of an improved clip for carrying light articles such as
inflators, walking sticks, or the like upon cycles, motor cars and other light
carriages its object being to provide perfect security and ease of attachment
combined with cheapness, durability and freedom from rattling or damage to the
tubes or bars to which it may be attached.
In order, to more fully and effectually explain ny said invention I have caused
to be attached to this specification a sheet of drawings to which I shall refer in
the following description.
Figure 1 being a view of part of a bar or tube of a cycle having attached to
or depending from it an inflator secured by means of my clips.
Figure 2 is a section of the same through one of the clips.
Figure 3 is a plan of the band or strap.
Figure 4 is a view of the device when not in use and
Figure 5 a view of the pin and head.
In carrying out my invention I take a narrow strip of thin rubber A, which
may or may not be strengthened by canvas, of sufficient length to pass readily
around both the tube forming part of the cycle or the like such as the bar or
tube B and the inflator C or other article to be held thereon and at each end
of said strip or band AI form holes or slots D, D. I also provide a block E of
indiarubber, felt, wood, ebonite or other light material covered if necessary with
some soft substance and arch shaped at its top and bottom so as to correspond
more or less to the contour of the tube A and the inflator B or other article to
be held, respectively. I attach the said block to the strip by means of a headed
pin F shewn by Figure 5 passing right through the strip and block and projecting
slightly at the opposite side, the end being threadel to receive a screwed butt in
or head H. The clip is now ready for use as shewn by Figure 4 and as follows.
The block E is laid against or under the tube or bar B on which the article C
is to be carried and the end of the strip is passed and stretchel tightly aroun!
same and fastened by passing hole or eyelet D over button or heal H. A second
clip may be also attached in like manner each so arranged that the strip is in
tension when in position thus ensuring its being held firmly. The article has now
to be applied against under side of blocks E and the other or free ends of the clips
stretched over and round same and secured by the eyelets to the buttons or
heads H when the article will be firmly fixed in position. I may provide several
eyelets or button holes D at each end of strip for regulating length of hold of
strip and so accommodate various sized tubes or articles. When not in use the
clips can be carried in the pocket or wallet. In place of the buttoning device
described, hooks or other fasteners may be used or leather straps and buckles may
take the place of the eyeletted rubber strip and secured to the block as before.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said inven-
tion and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is :-
1. A clip, or fastener composed of a strip of rubber or suitable material such

page_text: as A attached at or near its centre to a doubly arched block such as E by means
of a headed pin such as F. baving a button screwed on its projecting end such
as H, as and for the purpose herein before described with reference to the accom-
panying sheet of drawings.
2. The clip or fastener arranged and constructed substantially as hereinbefore.
described (or any mere equivalent thereof) and as illustrated by the accompanying.
drawings.
Dated this 11th don of T
1007
STANLEY, POPPLEWELL & Co.,
7 & 8, Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane, London,
Chartered Patent Agents.

page_text: I believe I am able to call my apparatus by the style of automatic and domestic
apparatus, but they are also à fortiori, industrial apparatus.
Having now particularly described and ascertained the nature of my said inven-
tion, and in what manner the same is to be performed, I declare that what I
claim is ;-
The combination of parts forming my improved apparatus for the production of
acetylene, arranged to operate substantially in the manner bereinbefore described
and for the purposes stated.
F. W. GOLBY,
36 Chancery Lane, London, W.C., Patent Agent for the Applicant.