IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANU- FACTURE OF GAS, AND IN THE TREATMENT OF THE RESIDUES THEREFROM; IN THE MEANS OF PURIFYING AND RECTIFYING THE SAME, AND IN THE COMBINATION OR AMALGAMATION OF GASES; FOR THE PRODUCTION OF LIGHT AND HEAT, AND FOR OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES; AND IN THE MACHINERY AND APPARATUS TO BE EMPLOYED THEREIN.
Year: 1872

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Barnabas Russ, of Lime Street, in the City of
London, Engineer, for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS IN THE MANU-
FACTURE OF GAS, AND IN THE TREATMENT OF THE RESIDUES THEREFROM;
IN THE MEANS OF PURIFYING AND RECTIFYING THE SAME, AND IN THE
COMBINATION OR AMALGAMATION OF GASES; FOR THE PRODUCTION OF LIGHT
AND HEAT, AND FOR OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES; AND IN THE MACHINERY AND
APPARATUS TO BE EMPLOYED THEREIN.
"
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Barnabas Russ at
the Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on
the 29th June 1872.
I, BARNABAS Russ, of Lime Street, in the City of London, Engineer,
3 do hereby declare the nature of the said Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS
IN THE MANUFActųrn of Gas, anD IN THE TREATMENT OF THE RESIDUES THERE-
FROM; IN THE MEANS OF PURIFYING AND RECTIFYING THE SAME, AND IN THE
COMBINATION OR AMALGAMATION OF GABES; FOR THE PRODUCTION OF LIGHT AND

page_text: I now proceed to describe the mode of practically carrying out my
Invention. The retorts being charged with coal or other suitable gas
producing materials (one or more retorts being charged with wood, if
required), the vapour resulting passes through the eduction tubes and over
the seals, leaving the contents of the seals free for the further treatment.
The vapour then is conducted to the water tank, whereby a condensation
or deposition of its liquid components or residue is effected and the
results are collected and permitted to overflow into receiving tanks,
suitable tubes being provided at the proper level for such purpose. The
liquid residues thus collected are to be used at will in conjunction
with the residues from the seals, which are conducted to a tank or tanks
and residue retorts for further treatment, as herein-after described, in
order to remove useless or final residue of pitch. The products which
are useful for gas making being separately conveyed (apart from the
gaseous products of the gas retorts, but ultimately reuniting with them)
to the eduction tube of the compounder, as presently described; thus,
the residues of the retorts and the vapour are primarily made use of, and
the purifying of all the residues is effected, leaving nothing but useless
residue.
Before describing the compounder, rectifiers, and purifier, with the
further detail, it becomes therefore necessary to explain the treatment
of the liquid residues, and likewise the treatment of the hydrocarbon oil,
in order that they may enter the compounder in a proper condition, and
that the oil should be rendered non-explosive.
The liquid residues from the retorts and from the water tanks are
conducted to a horizontal vaporizing retort with a fire beneath, such
retort being provided with a shaft passing from end to end in bearings,
and supporting an agitator or stirrer, which is caused to rotate by
suitable gearing, whereby the contents are volatilized as far as possible,
the retort being provided with a clearance valve at each end to aid in
the removal of ultimate residue; the products which are distilled over
then pass into a second similar retort provided with an agitator, where
they are again subjected to heat and are then conveyed to an ammo-
niacal liquor tank, provided with an overflow tube and a small residue
tank, so that any deposit that is made may be collected.
The overflow tube is provided with a tap or cock, so that if there is an
excess of floating residue, some may, if required, be run off into lower

page_text: tanks, and a lower valve or tap from the ammoniacal liquor tank serves
to convey the ultimate residue to a funnel, so that the flow may be
observed and regulated according to its nature. The overflow may then
be reconducted to the residue retorts.
To work the shaft of the agitator I propose to apply a cap or cover
to the face of the retort to keep the bearing air-tight, the shaft being
furnished with a cogged wheel, in which a pinion gears, operated by a
transverse shaft set in plummer blocks on the face of the retort, the
shaft carrying a mitre wheel working in a corresponding bevel in the
pinion, a pulley being keyed on the transverse shaft to receive a strap (a
loose pulley being also applied); these arrangements are also applicable
to the second retort. The various tubes are supplied with necessary
check valves. The vaporizing retorts may be placed vertically if
required.
A fire-place is constructed beneath the ammoniacal liqour tank, and
fire is applied when requisite to heat the ultimate residue for the more
easy removal of the sediment through the outlet pipe to a final residue
tank.
The supernatant contents of the ammoniacal liquor tank with vapour,
are then ready for being conducted to the compounder. Hydrocarbon
oil being supplied from a reservoir to the tank if considered advisable.
I now proceed to describe the treatment of petroleum or hydrocarbon
oil, the object being to prepare the oil so as to prevent explosion when
mixed with the products of distillation, as before mentioned. I effect
this by the agency of superheated steam. I employ a vertical steam
boiler and engine, the boiler with its fire-place being mounted on the
water supply tank, the engine pumps oil from a receptacle to an oil
cylinder, where it is heated by steam conveyed through pipes which are
connected with a steam chamber above and another beneath. The
steam entering the lower chamber traverses the tubes to the upper steam
chest or chamber. The oil being supplied to the cylinder surrounds the
tubes and thus becomes heated to the required degree, an indicator
serving to shew the temperature. A pipe from the lower part of the
cylinder takes the oil to a receptacle for ultimate conveyance to an oil
reservoir for ingress to the induction tube of the compounder. This
process of heating the hydrocarbon oil by steam renders it non-explosive,
and obviates all risk of its being charred in the heating process. Steam

page_text: is also supplied to the oil cylinder to mix with the oil, and an upper
outlet pipe conveys the oil thus treated to a tank, where the steam is
condensed, whence the vapour passes to a holder for direct lighting or
heating purposes.
One or more perforations must be made in the upper disc over the oil,
and short vertical tubes inserted therein, so that the vapour of oil may
commingle with the steam. The vapour and steam are then drawn off
from the bottom chamber by pipes. Or the operation may be reversed,
and the oil may be passed into the tubes of the cylinder and the upper
and lower chambers, or the lower chamber only, and the steam then
surrounds the tubes; this can easily be effected by a modification of the
conducting pipes of steam and oil and the jacketed cylinder.
The boiler is constructed to produce the superheated steam without
danger of the water being below the level of the tubes. I propose to fix
a disc within the boiler, about fifteen inches above the disc in which the
tubes are inserted, such disc being formed of Lowmoor iron or other
superior brand, with a flange wrought in one piece therewith, and
secured to the internal periphery of the cylinder, which forms a jacket,
within which the water can rise to the top level of the boiler and super-
heater, so that there can be no danger of explosion in the tubes by their
becoming overheated. Guages and let-off cocks are arranged to indicate
the level of the water. The chimney enters between the tube disc and
superheater, and a man hole is arranged on the opposite side, the space
between forming the smoke box; there is also a man hole on the side of
the superheater.
10
The tube conducting the gas from the gas retorts and water tank to
the compounder is provided with a valve and with a vertical inlet pipe,
with an oil reservoir fixed above it containing petroleum or hydrocarbon
oil, which has been prepared by heating it, as described. The oil is
permitted to flow into the tube by means of a regulating valve. Another
inlet is formed at the side of the main tube, whereby the produce of the
ammoniacal liquor tank is allowed to pass into the tube of the com.
pounder. The main tube is also furnished with another valve nearer
the compounder, so that there is one valve on each side of the oil supply,
the object being to enable the supply of gas to be checked or stopped
while the oil is flowing, or to shut off the oil from flowing back in the
tube. The main tube thus supplied with gas from the retorts, with

page_text: products from the ammoniacal liquor tank, and with hydrocarbon oil,
enters the head or feeder of the compounder, consisting of a vertical
cylinder, which communicates with a second cylinder by means of elbow
joints near the lowest part of the cylinders, and by two flanged joints
connecting the elbows, between which joints a rising and falling regu-
lating valve is arranged, attached to a piston working in a pipe and
controlled by a chain and weight passing over a whelped boss wheel,
supported by bearings in a standard set on the flange of the slide valve.
The piston is lubricated by a small oil vessel, pipe, and cock. Or the
position of the piston and valve may be adjusted and regulated by a
screw wheel instead of the chain wheel.
These arrangements are in front of the first cylinder, within which I
apply a grating, above which is a disc or plate attached to a lifting rod
with one or more links, the plate being either hinged or capable of being
lifted bodily off the grating. The rod passes through the cylinder, and
is actuated on the same plan as the valve previously described. On the
opposite side of the cylinder, I arrange the mouth pieces for cleansing
the cylinder from residue and removing the grating.
I cast the cylinder with a projecting horizontal square tube, com-
mencing from the midsection of the cylinder, the projection having a
flange thereon. The distance of the projection may be increased as
required, by the attachment of a second flanged tube, but finally I attach
or clamp a cover or plate to the flange, so that the plate may be easily
removed, and the cleansing of the cylinder or removal of the grating
effected.
The compounding cylinder is to be partly filled with charcoal and
lime. The products then pass into the second cylinder, and ascending
to the head, enter a third cylinder, and thence pass to a fourth cylinder
(through their gratings), and are conducted to a water or amalgamating
tank.
The second and third cylinders, which are rectifiers, are supplied with
breeze, marine coal, charcoal, lime, and iron turnings, or borings,
shearings, shavings, or small scraps. The fourth, or ultimate purifier is
supplied with charcoal, lime, and breeze, to increase its effect; lias
may
be added.
The cylinders being set in suitable masonry and brickwork are heated
by two sets of fires, the poner series being in lines of the diameters of

page_text: the cylinders, and the lower series intermediate between each cylinder,
and a fire at each end of the four cylinders; thus there would be five
fires of the lower series and four of the upper series. Or this arrange-
ment may be reversed, if desired, as experience may suggest.
The cylinders are lined with fire-clay or refractory materials for the
purpose of preventing the adhesion of refuse or residue, and between the
cylinders and masonry annular spaces are left for the circulation of heat
from the flues, which communicate with those spaces. The heat is
confined by top plates around the cylinders, the plates being in segments,
and provided with burrs of fire-clay to protect them from excessive heat,
and also to protect the borders of the top plates of the fuel feeders.
The burrs are secured under the plates by bolts, so that both may be
removed together when necessary. Or the heat may be retained by
brickwork, built in the ordinary way, or Stourbridge clay or brick may
be made in dovetail pieces and applied to the annular space with the
same object.
The intermediate feeders of the fires are each made in two divisions,
in such manner that the cylinders are in semicircular pieces, with raised
bars connecting them together, and continuing from the other extremity
of the segments to the sides of the masonry, where they terminate in
overlapping flanges which bind the brickwork and retain the heat.
They are also extended at right angles in the central longitudinal line
of the masonry, and all the flanges are bolted together at suitable
intervals, so as to form in effect solid structures, the object being to
facilitate the construction of the entire system, and permit of expansion
and contraction. Then between these series of bars I arrange another
set in line with the diameter of the cylinders, and extending from the
brickwork to the cylinders, which they strengthen by means of segmental
arms fitting the circumference of the retorts; these flanges would serve
to support a circle of fire-bricks to protect the top plates.
The gas from the purifier is conducted by a horizontal pipe with a
regulating valve to an amalgamated water tank, where it meets and
unites with gas made from a similar series of apparatus at the opposite
side. The gas in the amalgamating tank passes down a duot or main
tube, and is conveyed by a horizontal junction passing over a flanged
syphon recess, and continuing by an outlet pipe through the wall of the
tank. The bottom of the syphon is provided with a small tube and tap

page_text: leading to a residue tank. Or, instead of this arrangement, the main
descending gas tube in the tank may have an elbow junction passing
directly through the side of the tank, and descending to the flanged
syphon, the bottom of which is also provided with a tube leading to a
tank. The gas is then passed through a cylinder or other vessel, heated
by means of a steam jacket, for the purpose of removing any moisture
contained in the gas, such moisture being collected in a syphon, and the
gas is finally passed through a final purifying cylinder or vessel, con-
sisting of a series of rings or sections of metal superposed and bolted
together by flanges, an internal groove being cut within and around
each section or flange for the reception of plates or discs of perforated
metal or gauze, on which layers of oxide of iron, lias lime, and charcoal
(previously mixed) are placed.
The lime and charcoal should be in small pieces, so as to allow the
gas to pass freely through the particles, but must not be pounded into
fine powder, which would tend to hinder the passage of the gas, which
enters the lower part of the cylinder, and ascends through the perforated
plates and purifying materials, and is finally conducted to the holder.
When the purifiers require to be renewed, the cylinders are taken
apart, and the plates, or discs, or gauze removed, and after being supplied
with fresh materials may be again replaced and fixed in a gas-tight
manner by the flanges and bolts, and by packing in the recesses or
grooves.
Charred wood and wood ash may be added to the purifying materials.
In order to conduct the operations with economy, a similar or duplicate a
series of apparatus is constructed from the other end of the one described,
and the retorts being charged with coal the products of each series will
meet in the central amalgamating tank, and being there united will pass
together through the heated cylinder to the final purifier, and thence to
the holder.
But I also propose to use at one end of the apparatus retorts supplied
as follows:-The first with wood, the second with boghead coal or other
coal highly charged with tarry substances, the third with an inferior
quality of coal, the fourth with wood dust, and so on, including peat
or other substances capable of yielding hydrogen and carbon by the 3
action of heat. Any number of retorts may be used as required, the
process of conversion into gas and the treatment of residues being the

page_text: same as before. These substances will aid in producing gas very
suitable for combining or amalgamating with coal gas or with gas made
from retorts chiefly containing coal, one or more being supplied with
wood if desired.
be made from one end only of the apparatus, without
Gas may
amalgamation.
I also propose to convey the gas and vapour from the retorts directly
to the compounder without the intervention of the water tank, in which
case the water tank would be placed beyond the purifier, the gas passing
over the tank into the amalgamating tank (the residues of the residue
retorts and oil being conveyed to the compounder as before), the same
arrangements being made at the other end of the series, the tanks being
always provided with overflow tubes, so that the liquid residues may be
conveyed to the residue tank. Or I take gas, as ordinarily made, from
the holder and conduct it to the compounder with or without residues,
but with the addition of oil, and pass them through the rectifiers and
purifier to the water tank and amalgamating tank, and ultimately to a
holder, as described. Or the gas may be taken from the holder to a
water tank, as in the first process.
In all cases where seals are not used in conjunction with horizontal,
vertical, or other gas retorts, I propose to conduct the entire produce of
the retorts to a tank or tanks by means of dipping tubes, whereby the
liquid components are condensed and stored, the gas or vapour passing
away by outlet tubes from the tank or tanks and finally to the com-
pounder as before. Each tank has an overflow pipe and a lower clearance
valve for removal of heavy residue, a fire being applied to each tank
when required to aid in such removal. Thus, these tanks constitute
seals separate from the retorts; the contents of the tanks being subse-
quently received by a main tank, in which a rotating agitator is placed
for stirring them together as required. A fire may also be applied to
this tank as required. The contents of the main tank being then
pumped or otherwise conveyed to the primary residue retorts for con-
version as before stated, throughout their progress to the compounder,
with the hydrocarbon oil; but otherwise I convey the gas over the
water tank intervening between the gas retorts and the compounder; or
I may dispense with the gas tube from the retorts to the water tank and
the compounder, and in lieu thereof convey the gas and liquid residues

page_text: from the tanks direct to the primary retort, and throughout the system.
described to the ammoniacal liquor tank, and then to the compounder
with hydrocarbon oil, and after rectification and purification, to the
water tank or amalgamating tank as required, and finally through the
heated chamber and ultimate purifier to the holder.
In lieu of using vertical purifying retorts, I also propose to use hori-
zontal purifying retorts; the gas tubes being provided with casings or
jackets in which water is caused to flow for the purpose of preserving
the internal tube from excessive heat. The oil supply pipe descends
within the induction pipe and the oil falls into the retort with the
descending vapour, and after being subjected to the action of the com-
pounder the gas and vapour pass through the purifier as before. This
method of surrounding the outlet or eduction tubes with casings or
jackets containing water is equally applicable to the tubes conveying
gas from the gas retorts to the ammoniacal tanks.
I also propose to combine horizontal gas retorts with vertical purifying
retorts in order to economize heat and fuel in the furnaces.
If I use four horizontal gas retorts I propose to use four vertical
purifying retorts, commencing between the first and second horizontal
retort and terminating beyond the fourth, the heat from the furnaces:
being conducted throughout the entire series by flues of a similar
character to those described in relation to the system of purifiers; by
these arrangements I am enabled to heat a greater number of retorts
without any increase in the number of fires.
I also propose to place a second series of five horizontal gas retorts 2
below the first series, the flues being arranged accordingly. The con-
necting tubes between the compounder, rectifiers, and purifier in this
instance of combination would be arranged as follows:-From the com-
pounder to the first rectifier an arched tube would be brought in front
through the masonry from the lower part of the compounder to the 3
lower part of the rectifier, whence the communication would be made by
an upper tube ascending clear of the masonry to the second rectifier,
thence from the bottom of the second rectifier to the purifier by a tube
passing within the masonry. These arrangements are necessary on
account of the juxtaposition of the horizontal gas retorts and the vertical 3
purifiers.

page_text: In cases where a small quantity of gas is required to be manufactured
one rectifier will be found sufficient.
I also propose to set rotating horizontal gas retorts in bearings in
strong cast-iron plummer blocks, supported at each end of the
masonry.
The feeding end of the retort has a series of teeth or cogs around the
periphery of the flange, and an endless chain with links and pin joints
gives rotating motion to the retort, the power being communicated from
a shaft and small toothed pulley over which the chain works.
Steam or hand power may be used, but as I employ steam power
in the other arrangements described, I prefer to use it to operate the
rotating retort.
The other end of the retort is provided with a horizontal eduction pipe
for the gas and products, which are conveyed to ammoniacal liquor
tanks, the gas ultimately leaving the last tank by an ascending tube;
the overflow of residue passing to the residue tank and being conveyed
to the primary residue retorts for conversion, as in the former examples,
heat being applied to the tank for the purpose of facilitating the removal
of ultimate residue.
In order to permit the horizontal eduction tube to rotate with the
cylinder it is made to enter a casing or elbow pipe attached to the de-
scending tube leading to the first water tank or ammoniacal liquor tank.
The rotation of the retort causes an equalization of heat throughout the
interior of the retort, and the coal being also moved or turned over con-
tinually, a greater production of gas and vapour is the result, and the
retort is easily cleared of the coke. A furnace is arranged at each end
of the masonry, and the retort may also be fed at both ends if required
by a sliding feed shoot or shoots.
I also propose to employ vertical rotating or revolving gas retorts,
constructed in a special manner, for the purpose of producing a larger
quantity of gas and vapour than the ordinary fixed vertical retorts,
the coal being agitated and broken up during its subjection to heat.
The retort is formed of a tapering cylinder, the top of which is made
with a strong and wide flange capable of supporting the entire weight of
the retort and apparatus thereon; the flange being also of such thickness
as to permit a groove to be cut on its under surface for the reception of

page_text: a number of spherical rollers or balls which roll in a corresponding semi-
circular groove cut in the top plate of the masonry within which the
retort is contained. The top plate is flanged so as to bind the masonry.
Thus the retort is steadily supported by the top plate and is free to
rotate on the spherical rollers; a square groove is also cut under the
flange nearer the retort, and a corresponding rim being formed at the
internal edge or periphery of the top plate the products of combustion
from the furnace are prevented from escaping between the flange of the
retort and the top plate.
The rotation of the retort may be effected by steam power or by hand.
As an example, the top of the flange may be provided with a circular
rack operated by a pall motion by means of a hand lever set on a
horizontal stem supported by a standard, which may be bolted on the
top plate clear of the retort flange, such bolts passing through the
masonry and being secured to a lower tie plate. Or the outer circum-
ference of the flange may be furnished with teeth, and a horizontal pall
motion may be applied. Or a bevel wheel may be worked by hand or
power to drive a circle of teeth on the flange. By these means an inter-
mittent motion may be given to the rotating retort, which will be found
advantageous and preferable to a slow or continuous motion.
On the flange of the retort an annular plate is bolted, its internal
diameter being equal to that of the retort at the point of union. This
plate serves to support an arched bearing bar, in the centre of which is a
boss for the bearing of a central vertical shaft or pug which passes from
the summit of the apparatus to the lowest portion of the retort (as:
hereafter described), and on the flange of the bearing bar the feed box is
secured. It is made with oblique sides and provided with a cover plate,
on which a man-hole or other opening is placed with an arched bar and
screw with internal plate in order that when the feed box is charged it
may be hermetically sealed or closed so that no gas or vapour can escape.
The lower part or largest diameter of the retort is also provided with an.
external flange sufficiently wide to admit of the passage of bolts secured
by screw nuts, by which means a lower flange is bolted thereto, and
this flange carries the lower bearing bars of the retort (through which
the vertical central shaft works) by means of a second boss which forms
its bearing, aided by washers to ease its motion, the bearers themselves
working on the supporting boss which bears little weight, because as
before stated, the weight is practically borne by the top flange of the

page_text: retort resting on the spherical rollers. The boss itself is formed in the
casting of a strong cross bar extending transversely across the masonry
above the receptacle for the coke and other products of the retort, a
moveable grating being applied to receive the coke.
The central shaft which passes through the retort is to be rotated in a
contrary direction by manual or steam power with a slow and ifiter-
mittent motion. The top plate of the feeder is provided with a stuffing
box through which the shaft passes, and after entering the retort it is
gradually increased in diameter to the bottom of the retort when it
tapers to the diameter required for the bearings.
The interior of the retort is provided with a series of projecting cutters
or grinders, and the central pug shaft is also furnished with similar
cutters or grinders in intermediate order, so that the coal descending the
retort is subjected to the action of these cutters and broken into pieces
of any size required, according to the position of the cutters, their pitch,
and distance apart. The coal is thus constantly being moved or shifted
and kept free from choking the retort, which acts as a pug mill and
may consequently be termed a "pug retort."
The cutters are not in a continuous length descending the shaft and
retort in a helico-spiral coil, but are made in short lengths or segments,
so as to pass intermédiately or between each other, that is to
say, those
on the shaft pass between those on the retort, and of necessity cause the
coal to be worked in such manner as to be subjected throughout to an
equal heat, and to part with a large quantity of gas and vapour, leaving
the coke to be collected on the lower grating, the tarry and other
products passing to a lower receptacle, whence they flow by a pipe to a
tank for further treatment.
The receptacle below the retort for the coke and tarry products is
faced with an iron flange for securing the door plate, which may be
clamped thereon to make an air-tight joint; and a luting of clay or
other material may be applied to a recess in the flange on which the
door plate may be securely clamped.
To remove the coke a man-hole is applied to the upper part of the
door plate, another man-hole being supplied to the lower divison of the
door plate to make communication with the tarry or ammoniacal liquor;
but when required the door plate itself may be removed in order to clear
out or repair.

page_text: The gas and vapour pass from the receptacle by a pipe to a series of
ammoniacal liquor tanks for further treatment. Above this receptacle
I form an opening through the masonry; this forms a channel or
passage for access to the lower bearing bars and other working parts.
The apertures are built with iron tubes and with flanges projecting
beyond the masonry, so that they may be secured in a perfectly air-tight
manner by discs or plates and arched clamps with tightening screws.
A slot or channel is cut around the periphery of the flanges of the
lower part of the retort and bearing bars, the slot being cut half in each
flange, and I then apply a series of segmental stops to the groove or 1
channel in such manner that when inserted therein they shall register
together and form a ring fitting the groove as accurately as possible,
their edges of junction being grooved and rebated. A stem or rod is
connected to each segment and passed through the masonry so as to
enable them to be applied or withdrawn; the object being to divide or 1
separate the lower from the upper part of the apparatus and prevent the
gas from passing. Above this I form the furnace and ash-pit, by
preference one on each side of the masonry, and I cause the grate bars
to extend inwards beyond the masonry close to the retort by a flanged
ledge or plate for the purpose of preventing the ash from falling down 2
on the flanges of the retort. The flues are arranged in any convenient
part of the masonry and dampers applied thereto.
By these arrangements of construction it will be evident that without
disturbing the masonry all portions of the apparatus can easily be
accessible for cleaning and repair. The pug retort itself can be lifted 2
out of its bearings by simply withdrawing the top apparatus and requisite
fastenings.
It is not necessary in all cases that the retort and pug shaft should
both rotate, at all events at the same time, and it will be easy to operate
one without the other, as the rotating gear is distinct and separate.
The retort may also be formed without internal cutters and with a
flush surface.
The lower cutters in the retort may be made to project nearly to the
distance of its least diameter in order to facilitate the withdrawal of the
pug shaft.
I also propose to make the pug retort of a true cylindrical form
3
3

page_text: similar to my horizontal retort. The pug shaft may be cylindrical or
tapering in each example.
Gas manufactured on this principle is applicable to engines worked
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent
filed by the said Barnabas Russ in the Great Seal Patent Office
on the 23rd December 1872.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, BARNABAS
Russ, of Lime Street, in the Oity of London, Engineer, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her
Letters Patent, bearing date the Twenty-ninth day of June, in the year of
our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-two, in the thirty-
fifth year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors,
give and grant unto me, the said Barnabas Russ, Her special licence
that I, the said Barnabas Russ, my executors, administrators, and
assigns, or such others as I, the said Barnabas Russ, my executors,
administrators, and assigns, should at any time agree with, and no
others, from time to time and at all times thereafter during the term
therein expressed, should and lawfully might make, use, exercise, and
vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, the
Channel Islands, and Isle of Man, an Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN
THE MANUFACTURE OF GAS, AND IN THE TREATMENT OF THE RESIDUES THEREFROM;
IN THE MEANS OF PURIFYING AND RECTIFYING THE SAME, AND IN THE COMBINATION
OR AMALGAMATION OF GASES; FOR THE PRODUCTION OF LIGHT AND HEAT, AND FOR'
OTHER USEFUL PURPOSES; AND IN THE MACHINERY AND APPARATUS TO BE EMPLOYED
THEREIN," upon the condition (amongst others) that I, the said Barnabas
Russ, my executors or administrators, by an instrument in writing under
my, or their, or one of their hands and seals, should particularly
describe and ascertain the nature of the said Invention, and in what
manner the same was to be performed, and cause the same to be filed
in the Great Seal Patent Office within six calendar months next and
immediately after the date of the said Letters Patent.
NOW KNOW YE, that I, the said Barnabas Russ, do hereby declare
the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to

page_text: I now proceed to describe the mode of practically carrying out my
Invention. The retorts being charged with coal or other suitable gas-
producing materials (one or more retorts being charged with wood, if
required), the vapour resulting passes through the eduction tubes and
over the seals, leaving the contents of the seals free for further treat-
ment. The vapour then is conducted to the water tank, whereby a
condensation or deposition of its liquid components or residue is effected,
and the results are collected and permitted to overflow into receiving
tanks, suitable tubes being provided at the proper level for such purpose.
The liquid residues thus collected are to be used at will in conjunction
with the residues from the seals, which are conducted to tanks and residue.
retorts for further treatment, as herein-after described, in order to remove
useless or final residue of pitch; the products which are useful for gas
making being separately conveyed (apart from the gaseous products of
the gas retorts, but ultimately reuniting with them) to the induction
tube of the compounder, as presently described, thus, the residues of the
retorts and the vapour are primarily made use of, and the purifying of
all the residues is effected, leaving nothing but useless residue.
Before describing the compounder, rectifiers, and purifier with the
further detail, it becomes therefore necessary to explain the treatment of
the liquid residues, and likewise the treatment of the hydrocarbon oil, in
order that they may enter the compounder in a proper condition, and
that the oil should be rendered non-explosive.
The liquid residues from the retorts and from the water tank are con-
ducted to a horizontal vaporizing retort with a fire beneath, such retort
being provided with a shaft passing from end to end in bearings, and
supporting an agitator or stirrer which is caused to rotate by suitable
gearing, whereby the contents are volatilized as far as possible, the retort
being provided with a clearance valve at each end to aid in the removal
of ultimate residue. The products which are distilled over then pass
into a second similar retort provided with an agitator, where they are
again subjected to heat, and are then conveyed to an ammoniacal liquor
tank provided with an overflow tube and a small residue tank, so that
any deposit that is made may be collected.
The overflow tube is provided with a tap or cock, so that if there is an
excess of floating residue, some may, if required, be run off into lower
tanks; and a lower valve or tap from the ammoniacal liquor tank serves

page_text: to convey the ultimate residue to a funnel, so that the flow may be
observed and regulated according to its nature. The overflow may then
be reconducted to the residue retorts.
To work the shaft of the agitator I apply a cap or cover to the face of
the retort to keep the bearing air-tight, the shaft being furnished with a
cogged wheel, in which a pinion or worm wheel gears, operated by a
transverse shaft set in plummer blocks on the face of the retort, the shaft
carrying a mitre wheel working in a corresponding bevel in the pinion,
a pulley being keyed on the transverse shaft to receive a strap (a loose
pulley being also applied). These arrangements are also applicable to
the second retort. The various tubes are supplied with necessary check
valves. The vaporizing retorts may be placed vertically if required.
A fire-place is constructed beneath the ammoniacal liquor tank, and
fire is applied; when requisite, to heat the ultimate residuo for the morb
easy removal of the sediment through the outlet pipe to a final residue
tank.
The supernatant contents of the ammoniacal liquor tank with vapour
are then ready for being conducted to the compounder, hydrocarbon
oil being supplied from a reservoir to the tank, if considered advisable.
I now proceed to describe the treatment of petroleum or hydrocarbon
oil, the object being to prepare the oil so as to prevent explosion when
mixed with the products of distillation, as before mentioned. I effect
this by the agency of superheated steam. I employ a vertical steam
boiler and engine, the boiler with its fire-place being mounted on the
water supply tank. The engine pumps oil from a receptacle to an oil
cylinder, where it is heated by steam conveyed through pipes which are
connected with a steam chamber above, and another beneath. The steam
entering the lower chamber traverses the tubes to the upper steam chest
or chamber. The oil being supplied to the cylinder surrounds the tubes,
and thus becomes heated to the required degree, an indicator serving to
shew the temperature. A pipe from the lower part of the cylinder takes
the oil to a receptacle for ultimate conveyance to an oil reservoir for
ingress to the induction tube of the compounder. This process of
heating the hydrocarbon oil by steam renders it non-explosive, and
obviates all risk of its being charred in the heating process. Steam is
also supplied to the oil cylinder to mix with the oil, and an upper outlet
pipe conveys the oil thus treated to a tank where the steam is condensed,

page_text: whence the vapour passes to a holder for direct lighting or heating
purposes.
One or more perforations must be made in the upper disc over the oil,
and short vertical tubes inserted therein, so that the vapour of oil may
commingle with the steam. The vapour and steam are then drawn off
from the bottom chamber by pipes; or the operation may be reversed, and
the oil may be passed into the tubes of the cylinder, and the upper and
lower chambers, or the lower chamber only, and the steam then sur-
rounds the tubes. This can easily be effected by a modification of the
conducting pipes of steam and oil, and the jacketed cylinder.
The boiler is constructed to produce the superheated steam without
danger of the water being below the level of the tubes. I fix a disc
within the boiler about fifteen inches above the disc in which the tubes
are inserted, such disc being formed of Lowmoor iron, or other superior
brand, with a flange wrought in one piece therewith, and secured to the
internal periphery of the cylinder, which forms a jacket within which
the water can rise to the top level of the boiler and superheater, so that
there can be no danger of explosion in the tubes by their becoming over-
heated. Gauges and let-off cocks are arranged to indicate the level of
the water. The chimney enters between the tube disc and superheater,
and a man-hole is arranged on the opposite side, the intervening space
forming the smoke box. There is also a man-hole on the side of the
superheater.
The tube conducting the gas from the gas retorts and water tank to
the compounder is provided with a valve, and with a vertical inlet pipe
with an oil reservoir fixed above it containing petroleum or hydrocarbon
oil, which has been prepared by heating it as described; the oil is per-
mitted to flow into, the tube by means of a regulating valve; another
inlet is formed at the side of the main tube, whereby the produce of the
ammoniacal liquor tank is allowed to pass into the tube of the com-
pounder. The main tube is also furnished with another valve nearer the
compounder, so that there is one valve on each side of the oil supply,
the object being to enable the supply of gas to be checked or stopped
while the oil is flowing, or to shut off the oil from flowing back in the
tube. The main tube thus supplied with gas from the retorts, with
products from the ammoniacal liquor tank, and with hydrocarbon oil
enters the head or feeder of the compounder consisting of a vertical.

page_text: cylinder, which communicates with a second cylinder by means of elbow
joints near the lowest part of the cylinders, and by two flanged joints
connecting the elbows, between which joints a rising and falling regu-
lating valve is arranged attached to a piston working in a pipe, and
controlled by a chain and weight passing over a whelped boss wheel
supported by bearings in a standard set on the flange of the slide valve.
The piston is lubricated by a small oil vessel, pipe, and cock. Or the
position of the piston and valve may be adjusted and regulated by a
screw wheel instead of the chain wheel.
These arrangements are in front of the first cylinder, within which I
apply a grating, above which is a disc or plate attached to a lifting rod
with one or more links, the plate being either hinged or capable of being
lifted bodily off the grating. The rod passes through the cylinder, and
is actuated on the same plan as the valve previously described. On
the opposite side of the cylinder I arrange the mouth pieces for cleansing
the cylinder from residue, and removing the grating.
I cast the cylinder with a projecting horizontal square tube com-
mencing from the mid section of the cylinder, the projection having a
flange thereon; the distance of the projection may be increased as
required by the attachment of a second flanged tube, but finally I
attach or clamp a cover or plate to the flange, so that the plate may
be easily removed, and the cleansing of the cylinder or removal of the
grating effected.
The compounding cylinder is to be partly filled with charcoal and
lime. The products then pass into the second cylinder, and ascending
to the head enter a third cylinder, and thence pass to a fourth cylinder
(through their gratings), and are conducted to a water or amalgamating
tank.
The second and third cylinders, which are rectifiers, are supplied with
breeze, marine coal, charcoal, lime, and iron turnings or borings,
shearings or small scraps; the fourth or ultimate purifier is supplied
with charcoal, lime, and breeze to increase its effect; lias may be
added.
The cylinders, being set in suitable masonry and brickwork, are
heated by two sets of fires, the upper series being in lines of the
diameters of the cylinders, and the lower series intermediate between
each cylinder, and a fire at each end of the four cylinders; thus there

page_text: would be five fires of the lower series and four of the upper series. Or
this arrangement may be reversed, if desired, as experience may
suggest.
The cylinders are lined with fire-clay or refractory materials for the
purpose of preventing the adhesion of refuse or residue, and between
the cylinders and masonry annular spaces are left for the circulation of
heat from the flues which communicate with those spaces. The heat is
confined by top plates around the cylinders, the plates being in segments
and provided with burrs of fire-clay to protect them from excessive heat,
and also to protect the borders of the top plates of the fuel feeders.
The burrs are secured under the plates by bolts, so that both may be
removed together when necessary. Or the heat may be retained by
brickwork built in the ordinary way, or Stourbridge clay or brick may
be made in dovetail pieces, and applied to the annular space with the
same object.
The intermediate feeders of the fires are each made in two divisions in
such manner that the cylinders are in semicircular pieces with raised bars
connecting them together, and continuing from the other extremity of
the segments to the sides of the masonry, where they terminate in
overlapping flanges which bind the brickwork, and retain the heat.
They are also extended at right angles in the central longitudinal line
of the masonry, and all the flanges are bolted together at suitable
intervals so as to form in effect solid structures, the object being to
facilitate the construction of the entire system, and permit of expansion
and contraction. Then between these series of bars I arrange another
set in lines with the diameters of the cylinders, and extending from the
brickwork to the cylinders, which they strengthen by means of seg-
mental arms fitting the circumference of the retorts; these flanges
would serve to support a circle of fire-bricks to protect the top plates.
The gas from the purifier is conducted by a horizontal pipe with a
regulating valve to an amalgamating water tank, where its meets and
unites with gas made from a similar series of apparatus at the opposite
side or end. The gas in the amalgamating tank passes down a duct or
main tube, and is conveyed by a horizontal junction passing over a
flanged syphon recess, and continuing by an outlet pipe through the
wall of the tank. The bottom of the syphon is provided with a small
tube and tap leading to a residua tank. Or instead of this arrangement

page_text: the main descending gas tube in the tank may have an elbow junction
passing directly through the side of the tank, and descending to the
flanged syphon, the bottom of which is also provided with a tube leading
to a tank.
The gas is then passed through a cylinder or other vessel
heated by means of a steam jacket for the purpose of removing any
moisture contained in the gas, such moisture being collected in a
syphon, and the gas is finally passed through an ultimate purifying
cylinder or vessel, consisting of a series of rings or sections of metal
superposed and bolted together by flanges, an internal groove being cut
within and around each section or flange for the reception of plates or
discs of perforated metal or gauze, on which layers of oxide of iron,
lias lime, and charcoal (previously mixed) are placed.
The lime and charcoal should be in small pieces so as to allow the
gas to pass freely through the particles, but must not be pounded into
fine powder, which would tend to hinder the passage of the gas, which
enters the lower of the cylinder, and ascends through the perforated
plates and purifying materials, and is finally conducted to the holder.
When the purifiers require to be renewed the cylinders are taken
apart and the plates or disc or gauze removed, and after being supplied
with fresh materials may be again replaced and fixed in a gas tight a
manner by the flanges and bolts, and by packing in the recesses or
grooves.
Charred wood and wood ash may be added to the purifying materials.
In order to conduct the operations with economy, a similar or duplicate
series of apparatus is constructed from the other end of the one described, a
and the retorts being charged with coal, the products of each series
will meet in the central amalgamating tank, and being there united,
will pass together through the heated cylinder to the final purifier and
thence to the holder.
But I also use at one end of the apparatus retorts supplied as a
follows:- The first with wood, the second with boghead coal or other
coal highly charged with tarry substances; the third with an inferior
quality of coal; the fourth with wood dust, and so on, including peat
or other substances capable of yielding hydrogen and carbon by the
action of heat. Any number of retorts may be used as required, the 3
process of conversion into gas and the treatment of residues being
the same as before. These substances will aid in producing gas. very

page_text: suitable for combining or amalgamating with coal gas, or with gas made
from retorts chiefly containing coal, one or more being supplied with
Wood as required.
Gas may be made from one end only of the apparatus without
amalgamation.
I also convey the gas and vapour from the retorts directly to the
compounder without the intervention of the water tank, in which case
the water tank would be placed beyond the purifier, the gas passing over
the tank into the amalgamating tank (the residues of the residue retorts
and oil being conveyed to the compounder as before), the same arrange-
ments being made at the other end of the series, the tanks being always
provided with overflow tubes so that the liquid residues may be conveyed
to the residue tank. Or I take gas as ordinarily made from the holder
and conduct it to the compounder with or without residues, but with
the addition of oil, and pass them through the rectifiers and purifier to
the water tank and amalgamating tank, and ultimately to a holder, as
described. Or the gas may be taken from the holder to a water tank as
in the first process.
In all cases where seals are not used in conjunction with horizontal,
vertical, or other gas retorts, I conduct the entire produce of the retorts
to a tank or tanks by means of dipping tubes, whereby the liquid
components are condensed and stored, the gas or vapour passing away
by outlet tubes from the tank or tanks and finally to the compounder,
as before. Each tank has an overflow pipe and a lower clearance valve
for removal of heavy residue, a fire being applied to each tank when
required to aid in such removal; thus these tanks constitute seals
separate from the retorts, the contents of the tanks being subsequently
received by a main tank in which a rotating agitator is placed for
stirring them together, as required; a fire may also be applied to this
tank as required; the contents of the main tank being then pumped or
otherwise conveyed to the primary residue retorts for conversion, as
before stated, throughout their progress to the compounder with the
hydrocarbon oil. But otherwise I convey the gas over the water tank
intervening between the gas retorts and the compounder, or I may
dispense with the gas tube from the retorts to the water tank and the
compounder, and in lieu thereof convey the gas and liquid residues from
the tanks direct to the primary retort, and throughout the system described

page_text: to the ammoniacal liquor tank, and then to the compounder with hydro-
carbon oil, and after rectification and purification, to the water tank or
amalgamating tank as required, and finally through the heated chamber
and ultimate purifier to the holder.
In lieu of using vertical purifying retorts I also use horizontal purifying
retorts, the gas tubes being provided with casings or jackets in which
water is caused to flow for the purpose of preserving the internal tube
from excessive heat. The oil supply pipe descends within the induction
pipe and the oil falls into the retort with the descending vapour, and
after being subjected to the action of the compounder the gas and vapour
pass through the purifier as before. This method of surrounding the
outlet or eduction tubes with casings or jackets containing water is
equally applicable to the tubes conveying gas from the gas retorts to the
ammoniacal tanks.
I also combine horizontal gas retorts with vertical purifying retorts in
order to economize heat and fuel in the furnaces.
If I use four horizontal gas retorts I use four vertical purifying retorts,
commencing between the first and second horizontal retort and ter-
minating beyond the fourth, the heat from the furnaces being conducted
throughout the entire series by flues of a similar character to those
described in relation to the system of purifiers; by these arrangements
I am enabled to heat a greater number of retorts without any increase in
the number of fires.
I also place a second series of five horizontal gas retorts below the
first series, the flues being arranged accordingly. The connecting tubes
between the compounder, rectifiers, and purifier, in this instance of
combination, would be arranged as follows:-From the compounder to
the first rectifier and arched tube would be brought in front through the
masonry from the lower part of the compounder to the lower part of the
rectifier, whence the communication would be made by an upper tube
ascending clear of the masonry to the second rectifier, thence from the
bottom of the second rectifier to the purifier by a tube passing within
the masonry. These arrangements are necessary on account of the juxta-
position of the horizontal gas retorts and the vertical purifiers.
In cases where a small quantity of gas is required to be manufactured,
onc rectifier will be found sufficient.

page_text: I also set horizontal rotating gas retorts in bearings in strong cast-
iron plummer blocks supported at each end of the masonry.
The feeding end of the retort has a series of teeth or cogs around the
periphery of the flange, and an endless chain with links and pin joints
gives rotating motion to the retort, the power being communicated from
a shaft and small toothed pulley over which the chain works.
Steam or hand power may be used; but as I employ steam power
in the other arrangements described, I prefer to use it to operate the
rotating retort.
The other end of the retort is provided with a horizontal eduction pipe
for the gas and products which are conveyed to ammoniacal liquor
tanks, the gas ultimately leaving the last tank by an ascending tube,
the overflow of residuo passing to the residue tank and being conveyed
to the primary residue retorts for conversion, as in the former examples,
heat being applied to the tank for the purpose of facilitating the removal
of ultimate residue.
.
In order to permit the horizontal eduction tube to rotate with the
cylinder it is made to enter a casing or elbow pipe attached to the
descending tube leading to the first water or ammoniacal liquor tank.
The rotation of the retort causes an equalization of heat throughout the
interior of the retort, and the coal being also moved or turned over con-
tinually a greater production of gas and vapour is the result, and the
retort is easily cleared of the coke. A furnace is arranged at each end
of the masonry, and the retort may also be fed at both ends, if required,
by a sliding feed shoot or shoots.
I also employ vertical rotating or revolving gas retorts, constructed in
a special manner for the purpose of producing a larger quantity of gas.
and vapour than the ordinary fixed vertical retorts, the coal being
agitated and broken up during its subjection to heat.
The retort is formed of a tapering cylinder, the top of which is made
with a strong and wide flange capable of supporting the entire weight
of the retort and apparatus thereon; the flange being also of such
thickness as to permit a groove to be out on its under surface for the
reception of a number of spherical rollers or halls, which roll in a
corresponding semicircular groove out in the top plate of the masonry
within which the retort is contained. The top plate is flanged so as

page_text: to bind the masonry. Thus the retort is steadily supported by the top
plate, and is free to rotate on the spherical rollers. A square groove is
also cut under the flange nearer the retort, and a corresponding rim
being formed at the internal edge or periphery of the top plate the
products of combustion from the furnace are prevented from escaping
between the flange of the retort and the top plate.
The rotation of the retort may be effected by steam power or by
hand. As an example, the top of the flange may be provided with a
circular rack operated by a pall motion, by means of a hand lever
set on a horizontal stem supported by a standard, which may be
bolted on the top plate clear of the retort flange; such bolts passing
through the masonry and being secured to a lower tie plate, or the
outer circumference of the flange may be furnished with teeth, and a
horizontal pall motion may be applied. Or a bevil wheel may be
worked by hand or power to drive a circle of teeth on the flange.
By these means an intermittent motion may be given to the rotating
retort, which will be found advantageous and preferable to a slow or
continuous motion.
On the flange of the retort an annular plate is bolted, its internal
diameter being equal to that of the retort at the point of union; this :
plate serves to support an arched bearing bar, in the centre of which
is a boss for the bearing of a central vertical shaft or pug, which
passes from the summit of the apparatus to the lowest portion of the
retort (as hereafter described), and on the flange of the bearing bar
the feed box is secured; it is made with oblique sides and provided?
with a cover plate on which a man-hole or other opening is placed
with an arched bar and screw with internal plate, in order that when
the feed box is charged it may be hermetically sealed or closed so that
no gas or vapour can escape. The lowest part or largest diameter of
the retort is also provided with an external flange, sufficiently wide a
to admit of the passage of bolts secured by screw nuts, by which means
a lower flange is bolted thereto, and this flange carries the lower bearing
bars of the retort (through which the vertical central shaft works) by
means of a second boss which forms its bearing aided by washers to
ease its motion; the bearers themselves working on the supporting boss a
which bears little weight, because, as before stated, the weight is
practically borne by the top flange of the retort resting on the spherical
rollers. The boss itself is formed in the casting of a strong cross bar,

page_text: extending transversely across the masonry above the receptacle for the
coke and other products of the retort, a moveable grating being applied
to receive the coke.
The central shaft, which passes through the retort, is to be rotated in
a contrary direction by manual or steam power with a slow and inter-
mittent motion. The top plate of the feeder is provided with a stuffing
box through which the shaft passes, and after entering the retort it is
gradually increased in diameter to the bottom of the retort, when it
tapers to the diameter required for the bearings.
The interior of the retort is provided with a series of projecting cutters
or grinders, and the central pug shaft is also furnished with similar
eutters or grinders in intermediate order, so that the coal descending the
retort is subjected to the action of these cutters, and broken into pieces
of any size required, according to the position of the cutters, their pitch,
and distance apart.
The coal is thus constantly being moved or shifted,
and kept free from choking the retort, which acts as a pug mill, and may
consequently be termed a "pug retort."
The cutters are not in a continuous length, descending the shaft and
retort in a helico-spiral coil, but are made in short lengths or segments
so as to pass intermediately or between each other, that is to say, those
on the shaft pass between those on the retort, and of necessity cause the
coal to be worked in such manner as to be subjected throughout to an
equal heat, and to part with a large quantity of gas and vapour, leaving
the coke to be collected on the lower grating, the tarry and other pro-
ducts passing to a lower receptacle, whence they flow by a pipe to a tank
for the further treatment.
The receptacle below the retort, for the coke and tarry products, is
faced with an iron flange for securing the door plate, which may be
clamped thereon to make an air-tight joint; and a luting of clay or other
material may be applied to a recess in the flange on which the door plate
may be securely clamped.
To remove the coke a man-hole is applied to the upper part of the door
plate, another man-hole being supplied to the lower division of the door
plate to make communication with the tarry or ammoniacal liquor; but
when required, the door plate itself may be removed in order to clear

page_text: my
I also make the pug retort of a true cylindrical form, similar to
horizontal retort; the pug shaft may be cylindrical or tapering in
each example.
Gas made according to this Invention is applicable to motive power
engines actuated by gas, and to other useful purposes.
Sheet 1 of the Drawings shows an elevation of the apparatus for
treating the residues collected in the seals or tanks referred to. a shews
the tank into which the residues are conveyed by means of pumps or
otherwise from the various tanks in which the residues are collected
during the passage of the vapour from the retorts to the compounder, as
before described; b and c shew the first and second cylinders, retorts,
or chambers containing the rotating stirrers or agitators. The contents
of the tank a are kept in a heated state by means of a fire-place, as
shewn at d; e is an inlet tube conducting the residues to the tank; fis
the upper outlet tube conveying the vapour from the tank to the first
residue agitating retort 6; f¹ being a tube for conveying the liquid
contents from the tank to the retort, as required; suitable valves are to be
applied to the tubes; g is a connecting tube from the retort 6 conveying
the vapour generated to the second retort c; g', g³, shew two lower
residue tubes which convey the heavy residues to the tank h, which is
also heated by a fire, valves being applied as required to the tubes.
Each cylinder or retort is heated by a fire-place as shewn, suitable
brickwork and flues being constructed, and gauges applied to register
the temperature. Safety valves and man-holes are also provided, man-
holes being also applied to the various tanks and outlet valves for the
withdrawal of sediment or refuse when necessary.
The cylinders or retorts each contain an agitator or stirrer, which
revolves or rotates on a shaft b³, c', passing through the centre, and
operated by a worm wheel i gearing with worm wheel j keyed or
otherwise attached to the shaft; the worm wheel is set on the shaft i
supported in bearings in front of the cylinder, and derives motion from
pullies, as shewn, or they may be otherwise actuated. Bevil and mitre
wheel gearing may also be used if desirable. Fast and loose pullies are
arranged so that the action of the agitator may be regulated as required
without interfering with the other parts of the work. Then from the
second cylindrical retort the pipe ³ conveys the vapour and products
into the final tank K, suitable valves being arranged throughout the

page_text: 1
series of tubes for regulating the flow of the products of the cylinders;
and the tube g' shews the outlet of the products to be conveyed to the
main tube and purifying apparatus; shows the situation of the hydro-
carbon oil reservoir with the tube descending to the final tank, so that
the oil may be supplied to the contents arising from the primary and
secondary agitating cylinders or retorts; but in some cases I dispense
with the application of the oil vessel to the final tank, and apply it to
the first tank a, or it may be applied to both. A fire-place is provided
under the final tank, so that the requisite temperature of the products
may be maintained, say 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
The agitators may be made of any ordinary construction capable of
stirring the contents of the cylinders, but I prefer to make them in the
form of beaters or dashers set on arms radiating from the central shaft,
the beaters consisting of a series of curvilinear metal strips or bars,
which by their rotation agitate and mix the residues, so that they
become converted into vapour by the aid of heat, the heavier portions
being ultimately conducted to the tank for collection and further.
treatment.
The speed at which the agitator of the second cylinder should rotate
would be much greater than that of the first, the gearing being arranged
accordingly; for this purpose the first agitator is worked by a worm
wheel motion, the second by toothed bevelled wheels ³, j³, as shown.
A lubricating receptacle is placed beneath each toothed driving wheel,
as shewn.
A main shaft should be set in bearings above the apparatus to carry :
the necessary driving pullies to work the gearing of the agitators and
pumps, each tank being provided with a pump for withdrawal of any
ultimate residue when required, outlet valves being also provided at the
bottom of each tank, the shaft being driven by a steam engine, which is
used in other purposes, as hereafter described, in regard to the treatment a
of the hydrocarbon oil for admixture with the vapour and residues, and
for direct lighting, as explained.
Sheet 2 represents the apparatus for the treatment of the hydrocarbon
oil, or oily and fatty matter, including the steam boiler, whereby the
oil is rendered non-explosive, and fit for mixing with the vapour and a
products of the residue retorts before entering the compounder, and

page_text: whereby through the admixture of steam with oil a gas is produced for
direct lighting purposes.
It is necessary, as before stated, that the oil should be prepared in
such manner as to obviate the risk of explosion when mixed with the
other products to be conveyed to the compounder, rectifiers, and purifier.
This object is effected by subjecting the hydrocarbon oil to the influence
of superheated steam generated in a boiler specially constructed for
such purpose; the oil after treatment becomes suitable for admixture
with the vapour from the retorts, and the products of the residues.
The Drawing shews a longitudinal vertical section of the apparatus.
a is the boiler mounted on the water tank 6; the engine pumps oil by
means of the pump c to an oil cylinder d (the oil being supplied to the
pump c by the tube e from any suitable reservoir); the oil cylinder is
heated by the superheated steam generated by the boiler, and conveyed
therefrom by the pipe f; g, g¹ are the upper and lower chambers apper-
taining to the cylinder. The steam enters the lower chamber by the
pipe f, and traverses the tubes g³ to the upper chamber g, and conse-
quently heats the oil contained within the cylinder; an indicator h serves
to denote the degree of heat to which the oil is subjected; ' is a pipe.
for conducting the oil from the lower part of the cylinder to the tube.
leading to the compounder, or to a tank not shewn, from which the oil
may be conveyed by the tube h² and pump h³ to the main tube leading
to the compounder; 7 is a pipe for conveying the vapour of oil mingled
with steam to the reservoir i for direct lighting.
•
One or more perforations or outlets should be made in the disc or
cover plate of the oil cylinder to admit of the admixture of steam with
oil or vapour of oil when required for direct lighting; or the oil may be
supplied to the tubes and the steam to the cylinder, so as to surround
the tubes and heat the oil contained therein by the tube j. ƒ³, ƒª³, are
supplementary tubes, the first for taking the oil mingled with steam
from a lower level of the cylinder, the second for removing the products
of condensation from the bottom of the cylinder; is a pressure gauge
for steam; 1, the exhaust pipe conveying steam to the boiler tank b;
m, the force pump.
The internal construction of the boiler will be clearly understood by
the Drawing. n, n, are the tube discs; o, the upper disc; o¹, the water
level of the superheater; p, the smoke box. The positions of the man-

page_text: holes are shewn. The furnace, fire-bars, ash-pit, and other parts need
no description. Suitable gauges for levels and pressure gauges are
applied. A pressure gauge q is shewn in regard to the superheater.
The engine is placed behind the boiler. The main shaft r is shewn
carrying the fly wheel and the requisite excentrics and gear for the
pumps.
The pressure of the steam should be raised so as to produce the
requisite degree of heat in the oil-cylinder, say up to 500 degrees or
more Fahrenheit.
But instead of using a tubular apparatus as described for the treat-
ment of hydrocarbon oil, I also use a receptacle consisting of a jacketed
cylinder, which may be egg-ended or dome shaped, or it may be in a
spherical or globular form; the steam surrounding the inner vessel
containing the oil, suitable inlet and outlet tubes being provided for the
oil and steam. By these arrangements I dispense with a tubular
cylinder, and employ a jacketed cylinder or vessel instead. Any suitable
form of receptacle or vessel may however be employed, the principle and
object being the same.
Sheet 3 represents an elevation (partly in section) of the water tank,
and the arrangement of the compounder, rectifiers, and the purifier. In
this view the cylinders are shewn fixed or attached to longitudinal
chambers, wherein the gas or vapour from the retorts is received,
together with the products of the residues and the hydrocarbon oil.
According to this construction the vapour always ascends through the
purifying cylinders, but if the chambers are dispensed with the gas
would pass into the top of the cylinder forming the compounder,
and would then ascend through the second cylinder, which forms
the rectifier, thence traversing from the second cylinder downwards
through the third cylinder, and finally through the fourth cylinder,
through which the vapour or gas ascends and finally travels or passes to
the holder. In this example the various tubes, outlet flanges, and valves
would remain as described.
•
Fig. 1 shews the water tank, Fig. 2 being the purifiers, shewing the
outlet pipe to the holder with or without the intervention of the further
water tank (as hereafter described in relation to the other processes. In
Fig. 1 the water tank is shewn with the main tube a leading to the
feeder or supply tube of the compounder b. In this Drawing the sliding

page_text: tube cis shewn capable of being raised or lowered by the rods and nuts c³,
so as to enable the tube to dip to any extent or level required in order to
permit the vapour from the retorts to come in contact and pass beneath
the surface of the water before its passage down the tube e, and thence.
outwards through the side of the tank, upwards by the pipe f into the
main tube a. The tank is shewn partly in section in order that the
descending tube may be seen with the internal sliding tube.
Suitable valves are applied, as shewn in the Drawing, for the inlet of
the vapour, the valve d serving to regulate the flow to the water tank
by the tube d', conducting the vapour or carbon from the retorts.
d³, d, shew vertical slide valves on the water tank and purifying
cylinders. The dotted line g indicates the level of the water, which is
maintained by an ordinary supply pipe not shewn, but which may be
brought within the tank from any suitable source in order to supply
water at a defined level, from which it cannot rise beyond or above the
level of the overflow tubes, one of which is shewn at g¹. Now this
arrangement of overflow is for the purpose of removing the ammoniacal
residue; the heavy residue sinks to the bottom of the tank, whence it
may be removed by any convenient arrangement of tubes or conduits
for treatment by the rotating agitators. h is a tank to receive the
ammoniacal residues, although if required these residues may overflow
into a final tank (as presently described), the ammoniacal residue being
subsequently withdrawn for treatment as required. A junction e' is
made with the pipe f, and a syphon f¹ is formed whereby the liquid
products or the results of condensation are collected from the ascending
tube in the tank h', a valve or cock being supplied, as shewn, to the
small tube f, and another to the tank '; the first is intended to be
opened or closed as required; the second is for the withdrawal of the
residue for further treatment, consequently by the intervention of this
water tank the primary results or products of the retorts are separated,
the ammoniacal residues float on the surface of the water, the heavy
residues containing the tarry matters are precipitated, and the vapour
alone escapes and passes to the purifiers, meeting with the products of
the residues and the hydrocarbon oil prior to its entrance to the com-
pounder. The tube which conducts the products of the residues to the
main tube is shewn by the Drawing at i immediately beneath the
hydrocarbon-oil cylinder j, which derives its supply from a reservoir, the
flow being regulated by means of valves situated above and below the

page_text: cylinder as shewn. The products being thus united pass to the com-
pounder, but instead of entering the head or top of the compounder (as
they may be caused to do in accordance with the method already
described) they are conducted to the chamber k by means of the
descending tube 7. The compounder m is supported on this chamber,
and the products being subjected to heat by means of the fire-place n
ascend through the grating o into the compounder. p is the damper
which is actuated by the rods as shewn.
The compounding cylinder, being that which first receives the products,
is supplied with charcoal and lime, and the vapour traversing through
the compounder is conducted by the horizontal tube q to the descending
tube on the other side of the apparatus (shewn in dotted lines) in
order that the vapour may be carried to the first rectifying chamber k¹.
The grating and damper are also shewn by similar letters.
It will be observed always that valves are shewn to regulate the
supply of oil or of vapour according as the work proceeds.
From the first rectifying chamber /¹ the gas or vapour ascends
through the rectifying cylinder m³, and thence is conducted by the
horizontal tube q¹ to the descending tube P leading to the second
rectifying chamber ²; the vapour or gas then ascends through the
cylinder m³, and traverses the horizontal tube q³ to the final chamber k³
which constitutes the purifying chamber; thence the gas ascends through
the cylinder m³, and is conducted to the holder by the outlet tube q³
either directly or by the intervention of the final purifier and the heating
or cooling cylinder hereafter described. The damper rods are enclosed
in tubes extending from the chambers to the upper level of the brick-
work, having stuffing boxes at top and bottom, and supplied with lubri-
cating materials. The rectifiers are supplied with breeze, marine coal,
charcoal, lime, and iron turnings, borings, shearings, shavings, or small
scraps. The fourth cylinder or purifier is supplied with charcoal, lime,
and breeze, if necessary; lias may be added.
A fire-place is arranged beneath each end of the chambers, which are
closed by plates and screw clamps.
Sheet 4 shews in elevation (partly in section) a view of the combina-
tion of water tanks and amalgamating tank. The same letters denote :
the same parts in respect of each water tank, as previously described;

page_text: but it will be observed that the position of the inlet and outlet tubes is
reversed.
The amalgamating or central tank is especially constructed for
receiving gas made from opposite ends of the apparatus, but it is evident
that it may be used when working from one end only. Its construction
is similar to that of the water tanks; but its outlet pipe serves to convey
the gas to the holder, the gas being subjected to final treatment by the
ultimate purifier and the heating or cooling chamber, or otherwise, as
may be considered advisable. The valves provide for the contingency
that would arise from working from one end, because the communication
between the amalgamator and either of the water tanks can be closed at
will. And, moreover, the amalgamating tank may occupy the position
of either of the side tanks and perform the same work, with the addition
of the conveyance of the gas to the holder under the methods described.
In the Drawing, the pipes f.f, which ascend from the tanks, convey
the gas to the main horizontal pipes q, q, and thence to the head of the
supply tube 6 of the amalgamator, thence the gas passes to the tube q³,
and thence to the holder. The overflow tubes g¹ are shewn in the
Drawing from each side tank and the amalgamator descending into a
final tank h¹, from which tank the residues are taken by means of pumps
or otherwise to the agitating retort as first mentioned for further con-
version. This final main residue tank may also be provided with a stirrer
or agitator, and a fire-place is to be arranged beneath the tank to main-
tain the requisite temperature.
Sheet 5 represents at Fig. 1 an end view of the compounding cylinder
with its chamber and tubes. p¹ are the screws which raise the damper
and maintain its position. Similar letters denote corresponding parts,
as in Sheet 3. In this Drawing the plate or cover is shewn for closing
and opening the chamber k; the plates or covers may easily be removed,
as they are simply secured by screw clamps, so that the grating may be
removed and the chamber cleansed from any residue or settlement.
The oil cylinder is shewn as before, supplying hydrocarbon to the
descending tube /; also the inlet pipe i for the products of the residues.
Sheet 6, Fig. 1, shows a vertical section of the final or ultimate
purifier. a, a, represent the separate sections of the cylinder which are
bolted together by the flanges a¹, a¹; these sections (being superposed)
clamp between them a series of perforated metal sieves, plates, discs; or
02

page_text: sheets of gauze b, containing layers of oxide of iron, lias lime, and
charcoal c; charred wood and wood ash may be added.
Although I have mentioned certain materials and combinations of
materials for the purpose of purifying the carbon or vapour, I do not
restrict myself to the use of these special materials, as others may be
used if desired, but I prefer to use those described. d is the inlet of the
gas and e the outlet, f being a tube for the purpose of withdrawing any
liquid or product of condensation which may occur in the cylinder. This
ultimate purifier may or may not be used as already referred to. The
old condenser and lime vat may be used as required.
Fig. 2 represents an elevation in section of the apparatus for heating
and drying or cooling the gas prior to its reception by the gas holder.
This apparatus also may or may not be used as experience may require.
a is the outer cylinder; b, the inner cylinder, or chamber; the space c be-
tween the two receiving the steam or cold water in accordance with the
object sought; d is the inlet for the steam or cold water, and a the
outlet or escape; e is a tube for the withdrawal of any condensation of
steam, or for other withdrawal, as necessary; fis the ingress tube of the
gas leading to the internal cylinder 6, and 9 is the exit tube of the gas
after it has been subjected to the action of heat or cold, generated as 1
described; h represents an archimedean screw fan or blower, which acts
as an exhauster and draws the gas from the ingress tube to the upper
part of the chamber 6, whence it passes out by the exit tube to the
holder. Any other construction of exhauster suitable for the purpose
may be used, the object being the same. The exhauster is set on a
vertical shaft i, passing through stuffing boxes j,j, and deriving motion
by the level gearing k, k, actuated by the shaft 1, a fast and loose pulley
being applied thereto.. An endless strap or band serves to communicate
power from shafting driven by a steam engine. e¹ is a small tube for
withdrawing any moisture which may be left in the inner cylinder.
Fig. 3 represents an agitating cylinder for working residue and slack,
in order to convert the liquid residues in conjunction with slack or small
coal. It shews a longitudinal vertical section of the cylinder a, with
the agitator or stirrer consisting of the shaft b, on which the arms or
blades c, c, are secured by screw nuts as shown. The blades are set at
suitable angles for the purpose of mixing the contents of the cylinder
and forcing them to the shoot outlet i. The shaft 6 derives motion from
3

page_text: the worm wheel c and worm c¹, and is set in bearings at each end of
the cylinder, the worm being actuated by the shaft d on which fast and.
loose pulleys are placed to be driven by band gearing. e is a hopper or
feeder by means of which the slack, small coal, and residues are supplied
to the cylinder, but if required a tube or tubes may be applied to the
cylinder for the purpose of introducing the liquid residues, tar and
ammonia, and oily and fatty residues, and hydrocarbon oil if desired.
Fig. 4 is an end view of the cylinder shewing the worm, worm wheel,
and gearing for operating the central agitator, and f is a lubricating
vessel or receptacle to contain lubricating matter for the worm teeth;
shews the position of a fire-place for heating the contents of the.
cylinder while under treatment. Fig. 5 is a front view of the cylinder,
shewing a boss g supported by straps h, h, secured by screws to the
cylinder, the boss forming the bearing of the central shaft of the
agitator. In this view two of the four agitating blades or arms are
shewn partly in elevation and partly in dotted lines. i, Figs. 3 and 5,
represents a shoot for the purpose of removing the contents of the retort;
or cylinder after their treatment, when they are to be conveyed to a gas.
retort for conversion into gas, which will consequently be increased in
quantity and illuminating power.
•
The agitating shaft with its blades may be easily removed from and
replaced in the cylinder as required, and any blade or arm may be
removed by unscrewing the nut from the stem passing through the
bossed shaft; i, j, are wings or flanges forming part of the shoot i, for
the purpose of attaching it to the front part of the cylinder.
The temperature should be maintained at about 700 or 800 degrees
Fahrenheit, and the contents removed to the retorts while in a heated
state.
By these arrangements the gas retorts may be worked at a lower heat,
say about 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.
In working from both ends of the general system of my apparatus, the
gas retrots may be supplied at one end with coal alone, and the retorts
at the other end with wood, boghead coal, or other coal, highly charged
with tarry substances, with an inferior quality of coal, with wood dust,
and so on, including peat or other substances capable of yielding hydrogen
and carbon by the action of heat, as previously described. The materiala
=

page_text: may, however, be varied as experience may suggest, as, if desired, coal
may be used at both ends, or coal may be mixed with other materials and
used at each end, there being no restriction as to the method of working;
but it will be clear that by the system of amalgamation or combination
referred to, different materials or combinations of materials may be used
at each end of the apparatus, and the products ultimately combined in
the amalgamating or combining tank assisting each other in the pro-
duction of gas of a high illuminating power with increase of quantity.
From the foregoing description the modifications in the procedure
will easily be understood. They have already been referred to, as for
example, the carbon or vapour may be conducted from the retorts
directly to the compounding cylinder without the intervention of the
water tank, which would then be placed beyond the purifying apparatus,
allowing the gas to pass to the amalgamating tank and thence to the
holder, whether the gas were also made from the other end of the series
or not, and whether it were made according to any one or other of the
methods of procedure herein described. So also there need be no
limitation to the number of water tanks, those herein mentioned as
being necessary would however be generally sufficient for the reception
and collection of the liquid residues.
Wherever the water tanks are used the overflow tubes and lower
outlet valves will serve to convey the ammoniacal and heavy residues to
the final tank, where, after being agitated and thoroughly mixed by aid
of heat, they are ultimately conveyed to the residue retorts or cylinders,
as described in relation to the general treatment of residues. Of course
the products of the residue retorts are in this case also conveyed to
the main tube, thus following out the order of procedure with this
modification.
In accordance, therefore, with the principles of this Invention, it will
be obvious that gas made in the ordinary manner may be conducted
from the gas holder to the compounding cylinder of my system of
purifiers, and this may be done either with or without the addition of
the products of the agitating residue retorts, but it is preferable that they
should be added'; at all events the hydrocarbon oil should be supplied to
the main tube; thus, after compounding, rectifying, and purifying, the
gas would pass into the first water tank, leaving its impurities in the
way of liquid residues, and would then pass or flow, as before described,

page_text: example, may serve, as it is competent to do, merely as a second water
tank, whence the gas is conveyed to the holder, as before stated. But
if it should be desired or required to amalgamate the purified gas thus
produced from an ordinary holder (such gas being made according to the
process hitherto used) with gas made upon the principle of my Invention,
this may be effected, because the two gases, as in all other examples,
however made, may be brought into combination in the central
amalgamating tank.
It is necessary to detail these modifications of procedure, for although
there will be no change in the construction of the apparatus a change in
the relative positions of the purifying apparatus and water tanks will be
necessary.
So also in working from both ends of the system it will be clear that
the position of the purifying cylinders will be reversed although the
details will be the same.
As a further modification, the gas from the ordinary holder may be
conveyed to the water tank, and thence to the compounder as in the
first process, the hydrocarbon and products of the residue retorts being
added as required.
So also I convey the gas vapour or carbon from the retorts, of what-
ever construction they may be, together with the residues, direct to the
primary agitating retort, and thence to the second retort without the
intervention of the water tank, whence the products are conducted to the
compounder, rectifiers, and purifier, with the addition of hydrocarbon oil,
and thence to the water tank and amalgamating tank. In this case the
amalgamator may either be used as the final tank for the collection of
ammoniacal residue or other liquid deposition should such exist; or, in
another instance, gas may be made from the other end of the series from
of the materials mentioned, and by any of the methods described, in
order to amalgamate with the gas produced in accordance with this
modification. Or, if considered necessary, the products of the gas retorts
of whatever kind, and residue retorts, may be passed over a water tank
prior to their entrance into the compounder, the liquid residues being
thus collected and transferred to the residue tanks for further conversion,
in accordance with the main principles on which my Invention is
any
hacad

page_text: I also use purifying retorts set horizontally, and arrange the tubes on
the same principle. I provide the tubes with casings or jackets in which
water is caused to circulate for the purpose of protecting the tubes from
undue heat, or of preserving a defined degree of temperature, and con-
sequently of preserving the gas.
In other instances I adopt the same principle if required, such for
example, as regards the tubes conveying vapour from the retorts to the
ammoniacal tanks.
I have detailed the modifications of the process and the consequent
changes in the positions of some portions of the apparatus, more
especially in regard to the water tanks, purifiers, and the treatment of
residues; but in respect of the relative positions of the retorts and
purifiers, I modify the same by forming a combination thereof, so that
the heat of the furnaces may be rendered serviceable for both, thus
economizing fuel and space. In this instance I may, for example, arrange
four horizontal gas retorts in conjunction with four vertical purifying
retorts. The four vertical cylinders being placed between the horizontal
retorts, in so far as the first, second, and third cylinders are concerned,
the fourth cylinder would therefore extend beyond the fourth retort, the
heat from the furnaces being conducted by suitable arrangements of
masonry and flues, so as to heat the cylinders and retorts; but in case
I use any further number of retorts or cylinders, the same arrangements
may be employed.
By these modifications I am enabled to heat a greater number of
retorts without increasing the number of fires. A second series of five
horizontal gas retorts may
be placed below the first series of four or
other numbers, as required, on the same principle.
The conducting tubes would be arranged in accordance with either of
the methods previously described.
.I have already described the arrangements of the compounder,
rectifiers, and purifiers in relation to the corresponding chambers on
which the four cylinders are placed.
r
The Drawing referred to exhibits the process with the addition of the
chambers; but in the event of my not using the lower chambers I can
make use of the cylinders, either according to the plan first described,
by causing the vapour or carbon to enter the head or top of the com-

page_text: pounding cylinder, to traverse the materials and pass from the bottom of
the compounder to the bottom of the first rectifier and so on upwards to
the top of the second rectifier, and thence downwards to the bottom of
the purifier, and upwards to and through the purifier; or I can so
arrange the tubes with their inlets and outlets that the vapour or carbon
shall traverse each of the four cylinders from the bottom to the top, and
ultimately to the holder, as described. In the latter case the tubes
would be arranged in a somewhat similar manner to that shewn in the
Drawing, where the chambers are used, but the tubes would respectively
enter the lower part of each cylinder.
Sheet 7 represents at Figure 1 a longitudinal elevation of a horizontal
rotating retort with its appliances, part of the brickwork being in section,
Figure 2 being a front view. Similar letters denote corresponding parts
where such occur in each respective Figure. a shews the horizontal
retort set in bearings consisting of plummer blocks 6 secured to the
masonry as shewn; "c" is the feeding and drawing end. The band din
the centre of the retort is for the purpose of preventing the warping
or buckling of the cylinder; and acts as a strengthening ring. The
cylinder may also be strengthened by two supporting iron brackets or
standards protected by fire-brick, one on each side of the ring. The
eduction of the cylinder with its tube is shewn at e, e², with shoulders e³,
which are received in corresponding recesses of the retort, thereby
forming gas-tight connections. The endless chain faffords the power
from a driving shaft for the rotation of the cylinder. The tube or pipe e¹
is shewn withdrawn from the retort, and is supported by the chain f
attached to the loose collar g, the chain being counterweighted, as
shewn, in order to relieve the weight of the tube when withdrawn from
the retort and also in working; the chain and weight being drawn along
the horizontal guide h by means of the strap i containing the pulley ; of
the chain and the grooved roller k. is the cylinder or receptacle of the
products of the retort or retorts (five or other number being set in one
bed and supplied by one or more fires as required). The tuble e¹ slides
along the plate or bed m, which is supported by the standard m' (or
other equivalent arrangement), and the flange of the tube is tightened
to or loosened from the bed by pins and nuts passing through slots in
the bed. By these means the retort may be freed from the eduction
tube as required; but when the eduction tube is in position over the
vertical tubon the products of the retort are free to pass to the cylinder b,

page_text: and the liquid contents or products of condensation are removed by the
pump p by aid of the tube p¹ descending nearly to the bottom of the
cylinder, the residues being conveyed to tanks for the further treatment
described. o is a tank in connection with the cylinder 7. The ex-
hauster then serves to exhaust the gas or vapour from the tube q¹ and 5
cylinder, and propels it to the water tank or compounder as in other
examples.
The pump p is worked by an excentric, or other suitable motion, by
means of a shaft and fast and loose pullies, or by other equivalent
means capable of affording a reciprocating motion; the piston rod p³ 1
works in a boss ps supported by the four vertical guide rods p*, in order
to avoid oscillation.
The ohain which drives the retort may be made with suitable links
to act on teeth or pin joints, or may be after the manner of a whelped
boss wheel. is a scraping rod for the tube e¹; & being a corresponding 1
plate to that shewn at e³ with a collar t to receive the tube e¹. This
collar may be secured to the tube by countersunk screws, or other
suitable means.
The temperature of the retort may range from 1400 to 1500 degrees
Fahrenheit, as required, and it will be evident that from the con- 2
struction of the retort and its rotary motion the coal will be subjected
to an equal degree of heat by reason of its motion and contact with
the varying internal surfaces of the retort to which the coal is sub-
jected.
The top of the retort may be covered or enclosed by an arched iron 2
cover, provided with strengthening ribs and flanges in substitution for
brickwork, so that the retort may be readily removed from its bearings
when required, and all retorts may be lined with clay.
Sheet 8 shews sectional elevations of the vertical rotating retorts
with plan views of the same. In these Figures the retorts are shewn g
in the form of tapering cylinders a, the upper part being made with a
wide flange b. c is the top plate; the plate and flange are each pro-
vided with a groove within which spherical rollers d are placed. The
retort is consequently supported on the top plate and is free to rotate,
a square groove is cut under the flange, and the rim or shoulder e fits a
therein, so that the gaseous products of the retort cannot escape between
the flange and top plate.

page_text: Figure 1 shews the retort provided with internal cutters, Figure 2
being a similar retort without internal cutters, Figures 3 and 4 boing
plans. fshews the circular rack, which may be operated by the pall
motion 9, and the hand lever set on a horizontal stem and standard
bolted on the top plate, as shewn; or a horizontal pall and circular rack
motion may be applied.
In Figure 2 a bevel wheel is shewn to actuate the toothed flange, which
may be operated by hand or may be driven by power, by means of the
fast and loose pullies h, h, and by driving bands, or other equivalent
means. is the annular plate bolted to the flange and supporting an
arched bearing har j; the central vertical shaft or pug k passes through
a boss in the bearing bar, and the feed box is fixed on the top of the
plate by a suitable flange; the feed box is made with oblique or
tapering sides to aid the delivery of the coal to the retort, and is covered
with a plate on which a man-hole is placed.
The pug shaft is turned by hand or it may be actuated by steam power
by means of suitable gearing, or it need not be turned but be caused to
remain stationary; it passes through a stuffing box in the top plate or
cover of the feed box or hopper. m is the lower flange of the retort and
is bolted to a similar flange connected to the bearing bars n of the retort,
the central tapering pug shaft passing through a boss n¹ which forms its
bearing aided by washers; the boss is cast in the cross bar o which is
fixed transversely in the masonry above the receptacle p for the coke
which falls on a moveable grating p³, a lower grating being arranged to
receive the smaller particles. q, q, shew an example of the form of the
cutters or grinders respectively on the pug shaft and interior of the
retort; but in Figure 2 the retort is shewn without internal cutters.
The form of the cutters may be varied as well as their numbers,
dimensions, and distances apart, according to the coal to be treated and
the size of the particles required to be produced, the result of the
operation being to cause the coal to be broken up and brought into
more free contact with the internal surface of the retort at all parts
than would be the case with a stationary or fixed retort, all portions
of the coal being successively subjected to an equal degree of heat,
3 whereby more carbon vapour and gaseous products are evolved and
eliminated and a saving of time effected in comparison with those
produced from fixed retorts. The tarry and other products pass to a

page_text: lower receptacle r, and the vapour and liquid products are conveyed
away for further treatment, as described by the tubes 71, 7³.
The coke may easily be removed by means of a man-hole s or other
arrangement in the upper part of the door plate &¹, and the lower
man-hole ³ serves to effect communication with the liquid products.
The door plate is shewn placed against the brickwork, being removed
from the fire-place. Above this receptacle a passage or channel t is
formed, an opening on each side of the masonry being built, within
which the tubes ¹ are set and which project outwards, being provided
with flanges on which moveable cover plates t³ are secured by screw
clamps or other equivalent means.
At the junction of the lower flange of the retort, and the flange of the
bearing bars, a slot or groove is cut (half in each flange), as shewn, for
the purpose of receiving a series of segmental plates or stops u, which
can be inserted and withdrawn at pleasure; when inserted they form a
compound ring plate, which closes the communication between the
passage and the flue surrounding the retort; when they are with--
drawn the retort is free to be disengaged from the brickwork by the
removal of the fastenings, and may be lifted out by suitable gearing.
The plates or segmental stops are formed with rebated edges and corre-
sponding surfaces to aid their junctions, and a stem or rod is connected
to each segment, so that they can be actuated as required. to shews the
fire-place (on each side of the retort); x, the ash-pit; the fire-bars y
being extended by a ledge or plate close to the retort to prevent the ash
from falling down on the flanges of the retort, and clogging or impeding 2
the rotary action.
The exit flues are not shewn; they may be arranged in any convenient
manner.
Sheet 9. represents a similar arrangement of vertical rotating retorts,
the figures and letters corresponding with those just described; but in 3
these examples the retorts are made cylindrical instead of tapering, the
objects and results obtained being carried out in the same manner. The
pug shaft may however be made tapering if required in the cylindrical

page_text: shew the means by which the temperature of the residues is maintained
from their primary production to their collection, utilization, and con-
version into gas. This maintenance of temperature is an essential
feature in carrying out the objects of this Invention in regard to the
treatment of residues, because if the residues when collected were
allowed to become cool they would lose their nature or primary con-
dition, to which they could not properly be restored by the new
application of heat. But nevertheless the residues, even if allowed to
become cool, may be treated according to the process described, in so far
as their reception into a tank is defined prior to their treatment in the
agitating retorts.
Now in the collection or condensation of the liquid products from the
gas retorts ammonia is deposited on the surface of the water, the heavy
residues falling or descending to the bottom of the tanks; but then in
the collection of the residues the ammonia is conveyed to the residue
tank as well as the heavy residue, or the heavy residue alone may be
conveyed to the residue tank without the ammoniacal liquor. Now if
the ammoniacal residue is withdrawn (which it may be) into a separate
tank or reservoir for ultimate use or conversion into colouring matters,
or for other uses, the heavy residues alone would be used in the residue
retorts for conversion into gas, and it is evident that from these heavy
residues the ultimate hydrocarbon gas must be made or produced; but
it should be borne in mind that although the ammoniacal residues are
not requisite, nor can be converted, they will nevertheless be useful in
combination with the heavy residues, and will facilitate their conversion.
The ammoniacal residues being separated by the after process for further
utilization, as may be required, the ammoniacal residues serve
liquefy the heavy residues, and aid their conversion. Then the residues
being converted into hydrocarbon vapour the addition of the hydro-
carbon oil adds to the richness of the products, the hydrocarbon oil
being added at any suitable stage of the process, so long as its admixture
with the gas and residues in the main tube is concerned, or its ad-
mixture with residues in the tanks, and their subjection to heat in
combination with residues for conversion, the consequence being that
coke is the only residue of the whole process.
to
Having now described the nature of my said Invention, and the
manner in which the same is to be performed, I would remark that I do
not limit myself to the precise details or configuration of parts expressed

page_text: 11th. The method of treating residues with small coal or slack, and ·
the apparatus in connection therewith, in order to prepare the same for
the gas retorts, as described and shewn, Sheet 6, Figs. 3, 4, and 5.
12th. The use, construction, and application of the horizontal rotating
or revolving retort, and the apparatus in connection therewith, as shewn
at Sheet 7, Figs. 1 and 2.
13th. The use, general construction, and application of vertical rotating
cylindrical or tapering retorts, to the interior of which may be attached
cutters or teeth as required, and containing a vertical shaft to which are
also attached cutters or teeth, as shewn at Sheets 8 and 9. .
14th. The combination of the archimedean screw or exhauster with a
jacket enclosing the screw or exhauster, for the purpose of drying, heating,
or cooling the gas as it passes through the exhauster, as described and
shewn at Sheet 6, Fig. 2.
15th. The construction and application of the ultimate purifier, as
shewn at Sheet 6, Fig. 1.
16th. The various modifications in the order of process of the manu-
facture of gas by the means and apparatus and machinery described and
shewn, all substantially as and for the purposes herein specified.
In witness whereof, I, the said Barnabas Russ, have hereunto set
my hand and seal, this Twenty-third day of December, in the
year of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-two.
Witness;
H. C. COBBOLD,
Sol.,
18, New Bridge Street,
Blackfriars.
BARNABAS RUSŞ. (L.S.)