IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR EXHAUSTING AND CONDENSING THE SPENT STEAM FROM STEAM ENGINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES REQUIRING AN APPROXIMATE OR A PARTIAL VACUUM
Year: 1876

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to William Lloyd Wise, of Chandos Chambers, Adelphi,
(2
in the County of Middlesex, for the Invention of IMPROVEMENTS IN
APPARATUS FOR EXHAUSTING AND CONDENSING THE SPENT STEAM FROM
STEAM ENGINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES REQUIRING AN APPROXIMATE OR
A PARTIAL VACUUM." A communication from abroad by Wilhelm Susemill,
of Eulau, in Germany.
Sealed the 25th July 1876, and dated the 27th May 1870.
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said William Lloyd Wise at the
Office of the Commissioners of Patents on the 27th May 1876.
WILLIAM LLOYD WISE, of Chandos Chambers, Adelphi, in the County of Middle-
Sex. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR EXHAUSTING AND CONDENSING THE
SPENT STEAM FROM STEAM ENGINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES REQUIRING AN
APPROXIMATE OR A PARTIAL VACUUM." A communication from abroad by
Wilhelm Susemihl, of Eulau, in Germany.
This Invention has for its object improvements in apparatus for exhausting and
condensing the spent steam from steam engines, and for other purposes requiring
an approximate or a partial vacuum.
The nature of the Invention will be readily understood from the following
description thereof in conjunction with the accompanying sketches as communicated
to me by way of illustration.
64
One part of the Invention relates to an improved condenser or air exhauster
herein-after designated the pulsometer condenser," and which in character
resembles the class of pumps based on the old principle invented by Savery, and is
similar in construction to the well known Hall's pulsometer.
Referring to the accompanying sketches it will be seen that the principal charac-
teristic differences in construction between this improved condenser and the
pulsometer consist in the addition of a valve 'S (Fig. 2) located in the suction
passage just below the suction valves, thus dispensing entirely with a foot valve
in the suction pipe, also in the peculiar construction of the suction and discharge
valves; also in the peculiar and novel construction of the pumping chambers, the
same being of a spherical shape instead of cylindrical, their necks projecting from
the sphere in the usual manner; also in the construction of the steam inlet valve
O (Fig. 2), which is a circular cone V shaped in section and hollow inside, the
Price Is Sel

page_text: seat of this valve is also a hollow circular cone but its inside is elongated to allow
the steam valve to oscillate to and fro in the plane which cuts through both pump-
ing chambers, it is put separately into the pulsometer and tightened down by the
flange coupling in a peculiar manner. Inside the cone valve near the bottom is
a little ball valve, which opens first and allows a small quantity of steam to enter
the chamber before the main valve shifts.
Another important improvement is that the main part of the vacuum chamber
without altering its position is isolated from the pumping chambers, thus reducing
to a minimum the surface of the pumping chambers which is exteriorly in contact
with cold water.
A further improvement consists in the addition of an opening or port P, P, near
the bottom of each of the working chambers of the pulsometer. Each of these
openings is covered by a separate valve of any suitable construction opening inward.
Behind the said valves is a chest C common to both. From this chest a pipe leads
to the engine, tank, or other space wherein it is desired to utilize a vacuum or a
partial vacuum.
Another part of this Invention as applied to a steam engine consists of an
apparatus D attached to the exhaust port of the engine and through which
apparatus the exhaust steam has to pass. By means herein-after described this
apparatus, in connection with the movements of the engine, divides the steam
exhausted from each end of the cylinder of the engine into two alternate streams
or currents. One of these currents of exhaust steam is led by a suitable pipe,
which is designated the "pressure branch," to the pulsometer condenser or exhauster,
and is utilized to operate the same for circulating the necessary amount of water.
The other current of steam is led into the common chest C above described by a
suitable pipe designated the "vacuum branch," which pipe is the one above referred
to when describing the pulsometer condenser. From the chest C the steam passes
through the openings or ports of the pulsometer condenser before described, and
is there brought into contact with the water circulating in the said pulsometer
condenser and is condensed.
The above-mentioned part D of this Invention, which divides the steam rushing
from the engine into two currents, is a simple apparatus capable of modification
in various ways. Its principle is as follows:-The attachment to the engine con-
sists broadly of a chamber or cylinder of suitable form to contain the mechanism.
This chamber has an opening on one side through which the exhaust steam enters,
and has two outlets from which the steam passes intermittently through the two
branch pipes before described.
The mechanism contained within this apparatus, and by which the exhaust steam
is divided at the proper time, consists in some cases of a series of discs or pistons
arranged upon a rod which is moved to and fro, and is actuated during the passing
of the engine over its dead centres through some connection with the connecting
rod, cross head, or other reciprocating portion of the engine.
The operation of the movements of these pistons is such that the steam which
issues from the exhaust port of the engine at the end of each stroke is temporarily
prevented froin passing into the "vacuum branch of the exhaust, and is compelled
to discharge through the "pressure branch," but soon after the engine has passed its
dead centres these conditions are reversed. The discs or pistons are so moved that
the port leading to the "pressure branch" of the exhaust is closed while the port
leading to the vacuum branch" of the exhaust is simultaneously opened. This
movement allows the steam remaining in the cylinder of the engine to rush into
the vacuum created by the "pulsometer condenser" while the steam which rushed
out through the other openings into the "pressure branch" is prevented from
returning.
In other cases and in other forms of this apparatus the openings leading from this
chamber are each covered by a valve, and the one which covers the opening leading
to the " vacuum branch of the exhaust is held down in its seat temporarily by
means of a suitable mechanical connection with the cross head or other reciprocating
"

page_text: portion of the engine while the engine is passing its dead centres, thereby forcing
the current of steam exhausting from the cylinder to pass the check valve covering
the port leading to the "pressure branch" of the exhaust. Soon after the engine
has passed its dead centres and commences to reverse its stroke the valve, which is
held down on its seat as before described, is relieved, thus allowing the steam
remaining in the cylinder of the engine to rush through the "vacuum branch" of
the exhaust and condense in the chambers of the pulsometer condenser, the operation
of which will be hereafter described. Simultaneously with the relieving of the
valve leading to the "vacuum branch" of the exhaust the check valve covering
the "pressure branch" of the exhaust closes and prevents the return of the steam
from this branch into the "vacuum branch."
3
Various mechanical combinations may be employed to operate on the principle
just described, and which may be thus stated:-The port leading to the "vacuum
branch of the "pulsometer condenser" must be temporarily closed, and the port
leading to the "pressure branch "of the "pulsometer condenser" must be temporarily
opened while the engine is passing its dead centres, thereby allowing the steam to
freely exhaust at the proper time, and permitting these conditions to be reversed
soon after the engine has passed its dead centres, thereby bringing the piston of
the engine under the direct influence of the vacuum during all the effective portion
of its stroke.
In order to combine the "pulsoineter condenser" with the exhaust attachment
before described it is desirable to elevate the condenser some distance above the
tank, river, or other source of water supply, and to connect it with suitable water
suction and discharge pipes. The discharge pipe is by preference returned to the
samme source of water supply, or to a point equally low. The two branches of the
steam exhaust should be connected as herein-before described.
The "
pressure
branch," however, should have a stop valve inserted near the pulsometer condenser
to shut off or regulate the supply of steam, so as to regulate the pulsations of the
said condenser, and also at some point of this branch a branch pipe should be
inserted provided with a back pressure valve which will allow the surplus steam
to escape into the atmosphere or to be utilized for other purposes. There should
also be a small pipe leading from the boiler to the "pressure branch," entering the
latter between the stop valve and the "pulsometer condenser." This pipe should
also contain a stop valve to control the admission of steam into the said condenser
when required.
The operation of this apparatus is as follows:-The "pulsometer condenser
having been put into operation by means of steam taken direct from the boiler in
the usual manner a large current of water is caused to be circulated up through
the suction pipe and down through the discharge pipe, by the operation of which
a nearly perfect vacuum is alternately produced in the working chambers of the
condenser, this vacuum being communicated by means of the two extra valves
before mentioned to the common chamber C and the pipe connected there with
where it is sensible as a steady vacuum. The engine now being started in the
usual manner also starts or puts into operation the connections whereby the exhaust
steam from the engine is divided in the manner before described. Therefore all
steam which is allowed to enter the "vacuum branch" before described is instantly
condensed and a nearly perfect vacuum is perpetually maintained at the exhaust
end of the engine piston during all the effective portion of the stroke. The steam
exhausting through the "pressure branch of the exhaust, as above described, is
then utilized as follows:-The stop valve in the pipe leading to the boiler is
gradually closed while the stop valve in the << pressure branch" of the exhaust is
simultaneously gradually opened, and this is cautiously continued, until the direct
boiler steam is entirely cut off, and all or a suitable portion of the steam in the
pressure branch" of the exhaust is used instead
"
The weight of the column of water being discharged from the pulsometer con-
denser causes a slight or partial vacuum to be continuously maintained on the
pressure branch," the strength of this vacuum depending upon the distance to
<<
1 2

page_text: which the water is delivered below the condenser, and this condition permits of the
utilization of steam at or below the atmospheric pressure. Under the conditions
above described the water will circulate through the pulsometer condenser when
the steam is drawn from the pressure branch of the exhaust just as well as if direct
steam were used to operate the condenser.
It is not absolutely necessary that the water should be returned to the source of
the supply, when it is desired to utilize the water it may be delivered at a higher
point. It is only necessary that the vertical height of the discharge column should
be sufficient to ensure the entrance of a proper volume of steam from the "pressure
branch" of the exhaust.
If it is desired to deliver the discharge water to a point at or above the "pulso-
meter condenser," it is only necessary to weight the back pressure valve in the
branch pipe of the " pressure branch" of the exhaust, or to discontinue the use
of exhaust steam entirely and substitute steam taken direct from the boiler, as first
above described. In either case the vacuum will be produced with equal steadiness
and transmitted to the exhaust end of the piston of the engine continuously and
undiminished.
If it is desirable to use little steam from the "pressure branch" of the exhaust
in order to use the surplus escaping through the back pressure valve in the exhaust
it is necessary to place the "pulsometer condenser" at as great a vertical height
above the source of water supply as is compatible with its efficient working.
If it is desired occasionally to utilize the pumping qualities of the "pulsometer
condenser" to clevate water to a great height, it is only necessary to insert a
branch pipe from the return bend of the discharge pipe and continue said branch
pipe to the desired point of delivery, in which case a stop valve should be placed
both in the delivery branch above and in the return column.
33
near
If for any reason it is found desirable to locate the "pulsometer condenser '
the source of water supply in a vertical sense, it will be necessary to obviate the
too rapid flow of water into the condenser by providing a stop valve or other
suitable means in the suction pipe to enable the supply of water to be regulated
so that the empty chamber will only get filled at the same time that the opposite
one is emptied, thereby maintaining the greatest vacuum in the common chamber.
When the pulsometer condenser is to be used exclusively for pumping, purposes,
it is necessary to insert a stop valve in the "vacuum branch" of the exhaust, and
to disconnect the apparatus which divides the exhaust and allow all the steam to
pass through the back pressure valve in the branch pipe of the "
of the exhaust.
'pressure branch"
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent filed by
the said William Lloyd Wise in the Great Seal Patent Office on the
27th November 1876.
WILLIAM LLOYD WISE, of Chandos Chambers, Adelphi, in the County of
Middlesex. "IMPROVEMENTS IN APPARATUS FOR EXHAUSTING AND CONDENSING
THE SPENT STEAM FROM STEAM ENGINES, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES REQUIRING
AN APPROXIMATE OR A PARTIAL VACUUM." A communication from abroad by
Wilhelm Susemill, of Eulau, in Germany.
This Invention has for its object improvements in apparatus for exhausting and
condensing the spent steam from steam engines, and for other purposes requiring
an approximate or a partial vacuum.
improved condenser and air exhauster,
condenser," and which in character
old principle invented by Savery, and
One part of the Invention relates to an
herein-after designated the " 'pulsometer
resembles the class of pumps based on the
is similar in construction to the well known Hall's pulsometer.

page_text: The principal characteristic differences in construction between this improved
condenser and the pulsometer consist in the addition of a valve located in the suction
passage just below the suction valves, thus dispensing entirely with a foot valve in
the suction pipe; also in the peculiar construction of the suction and discharge
valves also in the peculiar and novel construction of the pumping chambers, the
sane being of a spherical shape instead of cylindrical, their necks projecting from
the spheres in the usual manner; also in the construction of the steam inlet valve,
which is a circular cone V shaped in section and hollow inside; the seat of this
valve is also a hollow circular cone, but its inside is elongated to allow the steam
valve to oscillate to and fro in the plane which cuts through both pumping cham-
bersit is put separately into the pulsometer and tightened down by the flange
coupling in a peculiar manner. Inside the cone valve near the bottom is a little
ball valve, which opens first and allows a small quantity of steam to enter the
chamber before the main valve shifts.
Another important improvement is that the main part of the vacuum chainber,
without altering its position, is isolated from the pumping chambers, thus reducing
to a minimuin the surface of the pumping chambers which is exteriorly in contact
with cold water.
A further improvement consists in the addition of an opening or port near the
bottom of each of the working chambers of the pulsometer. Each of these openings
is covered by a separate valve of any suitable construction opening inward. Behind
the said valves is a chest common to both. From this chest a pipe leads to the
engine, tank, sugar pan, or other space wherein it is desired to utilize a vacuum or
a partial vacuum.
Another part of this Invention, as applied to a steam engine, consists of an
apparatus attached to the exhaust port of the engine, and through which apparatus
the exhaust steam has to pass. By means herein-after described this apparatus in
connection with the movements of the engine divides the steam exhausted from
each end of the cylinder of the engine into two alternate streams or currents. One
of these currents of exhaust steam is led by a suitable pipe, which is designated the
pressure branch," to the pulsometer condenser or exhauster, and is utilized to ope-
rate the same for circulating the necessary amount of water. The other current of
steam is led into the valve chest, herein-before mentioned, by a suitable pipe desig-
nated the " vacuum branch, which pipe is the one above referred to when describ-
ing the pulsometer condenser. From the said valve chest the steam passes through
the openings or ports of the pulsometer condenser before described, and is there
brought into contact with the water circulating in the said pulsometer condenser,
and is condensed.
"
The above-mentioned part of this Invention, which divides the steam rushing
from the engine into two currents, is a simple apparatus capable of modification in
various ways. Its principle is as follows:-The attachment to the engine consists
broadly of a chamber or cylinder of suitable form to contain the mechanism. This
chamber has an opening on one side, through which the exhaust steam enters,
and has two outlets from which the steam passes intermittently through the two
branch pipes before described.
The mechanism contained within this apparatus, and by which the exhaust steam
is divided at the proper time, consists in some cases of a series of discs or pistons
arranged upon a rod which is moved to and fro and is actuated during the passing
of the engine over its dead centres through some connection with the connecting
rod, cross head, or other reciprocating portion of the engine.
"
The operation of the movements of these pistons is such that the steam which
issues from the exhaust port of the engine at the end of each stroke is temporarily
prevented from passing in to the vacuum branch" of the exhaust, and is compelled
to discharge through the "pressure branch," but soon after the engine has passed
its dead centres these conditions are reversed. The discs or pistons are so moved
that the port leading to the "pressure branch" of the exhaust is closed, while
the port leading to the "vacuum branch of the exhaust is simultaneously
opened. This movement allows the steam remaining in the cylinder of the engine
"

page_text: to rush into the vacuum created by the "pulsometer condenser," while the steam
which rushed out through the other openings into the "pressure branch" is pre-
vented from returning.
In other cases and in other forms of this apparatus the openings leading from
this chamber are cach covered by a valve, and the one which covers the opening
leading to the "vacuum branch "of the exhaust is held down in its scat temporarily
by means of a suitable mechanical connection with the cross head or other recipro-
cating portion of the engine while the engine is passing its dead centres, thereby
forcing the current of steam exhausting from the cylinder to pass the check valve
covering the port leading to the "pressure branch" of the exhaust. Soon after the
engine has passed its dead centres and commences to reverse its stroke the valve,
which is held down on its seat as before described, is relieved, thus allowing the
steam remaining in the cylinder of the engine to rush through the
branch" of the exhaust and condense in the chambers of the pulsometer condenser,
the operation of which will be hereafter described. Simultaneously with the reliev-
ing of the valve leading to the "vacuum branch" of the exhaust the check valve
covering the "pressure branch" of the exhaust closes and prevents the return of
the steam from this branch into the "vacuum branch."
15 vacuum
Various mechanical combinations may be employed to operate on the principle
just described, and which may be thus stated. The port leading to the " vacuum
branch" of the "pulsometer condenser" must be temporarily closed, and the port
leading to the "pressure branch" of the "pulsometer condenser" must be temporarily
opened while the engine is passing its dead centres, thereby allowing the steam to freely
exhaust at the proper time, and permitting these conditions to be reversed soon after
the engine has passed its dead centres, thereby bringing the piston of the engine under
the direct influence of the vacuum during all the effective portion of its stroke.
In order to combine the "pulsometer condenser" with the exhaust attachment
before described it is desirable to elevate the condenser some distance above the
tank, river, or other source of water supply, and to connect it with suitable water
suction and discharge pipes. The discharge pipe is by preference returned to the
same source of water supply or to a point equally low. The two branches of the
steam exhaust should be connected as herein-before described. The "pressure
branch," however, should have a stop valve inserted near the pulsometer condenser
to shut off or regulate the supply of steam so as to regulate the pulsations of the
said condenser, and also to some point of this branch a branch pipe or chamber
should be connected provided with a back pressure valve which will allow the
surplus steam to escape into the atmosphere or to be utilized for other purposes.
There should also be a small pipe leading from the boiler to the "pressure branch
entering the latter between the stop valve and the "pulsometer condenser."
pipe should also contain a stop valve to control the admission of steam into the
said condenser when required.
"
This
The operation of this apparatus is as follows:-The "pulsometer condenser
having been put into operation by means of steam taken direct from the boiler in
the usual manner a large current of water is caused to be circulated up through the
suction pipe and down through the discharge pipe, by the operation of which a
nearly perfect vacuum is alternately produced in the working chambers of the
condenser, this vacuum being communicated by means of the two extra valves
before mentioned to their common chamber and to the exhaust branch or pipe con-
nected therewith, where it is sensible as a steady vacuum. The engine now being
started in the usual manner also starts or puts into operation the connections
whereby the exhaust steam from the engine is divided in the manner before de-
scribed. Therefore all steam which is allowed to enter the "vacuum branch" before
described is condensed, and a nearly perfect vacuum is perpetually maintained at
the exhaust end of the engine piston during all the effective portion of the stroke.
The steam exhausting through the "pressure branch" of the exhaust as above
described, is then utilized as follows:-The stop valve in the pipe leading to the
boiler is gradually closed while the stop valve in the "pressure branch of the
exhaust is simultaneously gradually opened, and this is cautiously continued until

page_text: the direct boiler steam is entirely cut off, and all or a suitable portion of the steam
in the "pressure branch" of the exhaust is used instead.
The weight of the column of water being discharged from the pulsometer con-
denser causes a slight or partial vacuum to be continuously maintained on the
pressure branch," the strength of this vacuum depending upon the distance to
which the water is delivered below the condenser, and this condition permits of the
utilization of steam at or below the atmospheric pressure. Under the conditions
above described the water will circulate through the pulsometer condenser when
the steam is drawn from the "pressure branch of the exhaust just as well as if
direct steam were used to operate the condenser.
"
It is not absolutely necessary that the water should be returned to the source of
the supply, when it is desired to utilize the water it may be delivered at a higher
point. It is only necessary that the vertical height of the discharge column should
be sufficient to ensure the entrance of a proper volume of steam from the "pressure
branch" of the exhaust.
If it is desired to deliver the discharge water to a point at or above the "pulso-
meter condenser," it is only necessary to weight the back pressure valve in the
branch pipe of the "pressure branch" of the exhaust or to discontinue the use of
exhaust steam entirely, and substitute steam taken direct from the boiler as first
above described. In either case the vacuum will be produced with equal steadiness
and transmitted to the exhaust end of the piston of the engine continuously and
undiminished.
If it is desirable 'to use little steam from the " pressure branch" of the exhaust in
order to use the surplus escaping through the back pressure valve in the exhaust, it
is necessary to place the "pulsometer condenser" at as great a vertical height above
the source of water supply as is compatible with its efficient working.
د"
If it is desired occasionally to utilize the pumping qualities of the "pulsometer
condenser to elevate water to a great height, it is only necessary to insert a branch
pipe from the return bend of the discharge pipe, and continue said branch pipe to the
desired point of delivery, in which case a stop valve should be placed both in the
delivery branch above and in the return column.
If for any reason it is found desirable to locate the "pulsometer condenser" near
the source of water supply in a vertical sense it will be necessary to obviate the too
rapid flow of water into the condenser by providing a stop valve or other suitable
means in the suction pipe to enable the suply of water to be regulated so that the
empty chamber will only get filled at the same time that the opposite one is
emptied, thereby maintaining the greater vacuum in the common chamber.
When the pulsometer condenser is to be used exclusively for pumping purposes it
is necessary to insert a stop valve in the vacuum branch of the exhaust, and to dis-
connect the apparatus which divides the exhaust and allow all the steam to pass
through the back pressure valve in the branch pipe of the "pressure branch
of the exhaust.
"
On Sheet 1 of the Drawings I shew the construction of what I call the "pulso-
meter condenser" in what my foreign correspondent considers to be its most
efficient form.
Fig. 1 being a vertical section taken in the line A, B, of Fig. 4; Fig. 2 an
elevation partly in section in the line C, D, of Figs. 3 and 4, shewing the inlet valves
for the exhaust steam; Fig. 3 a section taken in the line E, F, of Fig. 4; Fig. 4 a
horizontal section taken in the line G, H, of Figs. 1, 2, and 3, shewing the right
hand side slightly higher; and Fig. 5 an enlarged section of the steam valve.
As will be seen this condenser consists principally of two chambers A, A, of a
spherical form cast together side by side with tapering necks projecting upwards
uniting together in the form of an arch, there being at the point of junction of
the necks a common passage for the entrance of the steam. Within the space
between the necks of these two chambers is a third chamber B (to which, apart
from its isolation from A, A, I lay no claim), which chamber while it is cast so as to
be separate from the necks of the chambers by a narrow air space x as shewn, is con

page_text: nected rigidly at the back to the spherical portions of the said chambers, thus
forming a passage there downward to the suction opening. The lower portion of
each sphere A has an opening, the two openings lead into the common suction
opening which communicates with the chamber B, as before described. Near the
lower portion of the spheres A, A, are located the delivery passages G, G, one to
each sphere, and consisting of a long horizontal opening leading by curved or scroll-
like passages, as shewn, into the chamber containing the discharge valves. On the
opposite side are two openings P, P, one near the bottom of each chamber A slightly
lower down than the passages G, G, through which openings steam enters to be
condensed. These openings P, P, are also covered by curved or scroll-like passages
as shewn in Figs. 2 and 4, which passages lead through two valve openings into a
common chamber H provided for the admission of the steam or vapour to be
condensed or air to be exhausted. The suction opening near its junction with the
chambers A, A, and B is enlarged in order to contain an extra valve, which serves
as a foot valve.
The discharge chamber is provided with a suitable delivery outlet and with suit-
able provision for the connection of a proper discharge pipe. The entrance at the
chamber H is also of suitable form to facilitate the connection of proper pipes for
the admission of steam, gases, or air. The chambers and passages with the openings,
as above described, which constitute the pulsometer condenser, are all cast in one
piece. The valve C which controls the admission of steam is located at the
junction of the upper extremities of the tapering necks of the chambers A, A.
This valve C consists of a hollow inverted cone resting on its apex and fitted
into a suitable seat C¹, which permits it to oscillate in the plane of Fig. 1 from side
to side with a limited motion. The seat of this valve is constructed separately,
and is fitted into a suitable recess of the necks formed when the main casting is made,
and when fitted is held by the cap firmly in the position shown. Near the
apex of the conical valve, and opposite to each other, are two small round holes,
each leading to one of the chambers A, A. These holes are closed alternately by a
small ball inside the cone, but when the ball is left to itself it takes a central
position without closing either of the holes, as shewn in the enlarged view, Fig. 5.
The valves of this condenser which control the admission or discharge of water
and the admission of steam, gases, or exhaust air consist each of a circular disc of
india-rubber or other suitable elastic material, which disc is at its outer periphery
much thicker than at its centre, and these valves may be held in position in a
variety of ways.
The two suction valves D, D, and the foot valve S are shewn
as being held in position by three studs a, a, a, which are keyed firmly into suit-
able recesses in a spherical bracket b projecting from the back of the suction
chamber (Figs. 1 and 3). Upon each stud is formed a star-shaped guard which
supports the central part of the valve on a level with the valve scat, while on the
outer end of each stud for the suction valves D, D, is screwed a spherical-shaped cup
which controls the extent of lift of the valves, while the lifting of the foot valve S
is regulated by a section of the spherical-shaped bracket b. The discharge
valves E, E, are of similar construction, and are suspended by a stud and star to
a hollow hemispherical bracket, as shewn in dotted lines in Fig. 1, and which
brackets are cast or bolted rigidly to the main casting inside of the discharge
chamber. The valves F, F, which control the admission of steam, gases, or exhaust
air into the condenser, are also of similar construction, but in this case each is
suspended from a cup-shaped bracket cast upon the inner side of the lid covering
the opening through which the said valve is inserted.
There is a suitable opening in the suction chamber located centrally between the
suction valves for the introduction, fastening, and examination of the valves D, D,
and S. is a wedge, preferably of wood, driven between the larger ends of the three
studs forcing them firmly into the conical recesses formed in the spherical brackets b
before mentioned, and c is a projection cast upon the suction lid & which holds the
wedge e firmly in its position. The discharge valves E, E, are inserted through
a suitable opening in the discharge box K, which is afterwards covered by a

page_text: lid L. All of the openings for the introduction of the valves are provided with
suitable flanges and lugs for bolts to properly secure the covers or lids in their
places.
f is a small opening on the top part of the chamber B provided for filling the
condenser with water if necessary when commencing to operate the same. This
opening is furnished with a screwed plug, or in some cases with a pipe leading to
a suitable reservoir of water, the admission of which is controlled by a stop valve.
By making the pumping chambers of the form shewn and described with their
main bodies spherical instead of cylindrical, egg-shaped, or otherwise as heretofore
usual, great advantage is gained. This construction not only gives increased
strength to the apparatus in conjunction with reduced weight of metal, but also
there is a reduction in the amount of surface alternately in contact with water and
steam, and thus a considerable quantity of steam is saved which would otherwise be
wasted, owing to the conductibility of the metal and the condensation of steam
which would cone in contact with the surface of such metal. Actual and careful
experiments have shewn a reduction in the difference of temperature between the
water in the suction pipe and the water in the discharge pipe of one third and more,
according to the capacity of the apparatus. The reduction in weight exceeds two
thirds. A pulsometer with cylindrical chambers and capable of circulating one
hundred and fifty cubic feet of water per minute has been found to weigh eighteen
hundredweight, whereas an apparatus of the same capacity with chambers of the
spherical form, shewn at A, A, Sheet 1 of the Drawings, has been found to weigh
only five and a half hundredweight.
Another very important point is that when the apparatus with spherical chambers
is used as a force pump the water can be raised to a higher point with less steam
pressure than with the cylindrical-shaped pumping chambers. In actual practice
with apparatus having spherical chambers, water has been forced up eighty feet high
with three and one-eighth atmospheres of steam pressure in the boiler; whilst with
apparatus having cylindrical chambers, a steam pressure of fifty-six pounds in the
boiler was required to force water sixty feet high only, and a smaller quantity of
water was then delivered, and this at a higher temperature than that delivered by
the apparatus with spherical chambers; both pumps were of equal capacity.
But although the peculiar form of the chambers A, A, and the arrangement of the
steam valve and other parts, as represented on Sheet 1 of the Drawings, present
important advantages, it will be evident that in these respects the apparatus is
capable of modification in various ways without departure from one of the distinctive
features of the Invention, described with reference to the said Sheet of Drawings,
namely, the adaptation and use for producing and maintaining an approximate or a
partial vacuum in a steam engine cylinder during the effective portion of its piston's
stroke, or in a tank, or in a sugar pan, or in other vessel or chamber of pumping
apparatus in which the steam is admitted into the same chamber as the water,
forcing the water out and by condensation producing an approximate or a partial
vacuum.
It will be evident that such apparatus in forms more or less different from that
shewn on Sheet 1 may be provided with openings P, P, with appropriate valves, and
a valve chamber H for the admission of steam or vapour to be condensed or of air
to be exhausted.
On Sheet 2 is illustrated the method of carrying out the Invention in practice
as applied to exhausting and condensing the spent steam from a steam engine.
Fig. 6 being a side elevation partly in section shewing the general arrangement
of the engine, pulsometer condenser, and other parts. Fig. 7 a front elevation partly
in section, and Fig. 8 a plan.
I is the cylinder of a Corliss, engine. 2 is the exhaust divider, which will be
herein-after more particularly described with reference to Sheet 3. 3 is the
pulsometer condenser, as illustrated on Sheet 1. Connected to the exhaust cham-
ber 4 of the steam cylinder by the flange pipe 5 is the exhaust divider 2, which
is bolted firmly and air-tight by its passage 6.

page_text: The other branches 7 and 8 of the exhaust divider are connected with the
pulsometer condenser in the following manner :-From 7 leads a pipe 9, which I
designate the "pressure branch," to an air-tight compartment or vessel 10 which
serves as a steam reservoir; on the top is a back pressure valve 11 which allows
the surplus steam to escape into the atmosphere. From the steam reservoir 10
leads a steam pipe 12 to operate the pulsometer condenser 3, a steam valve 13 is
inserted in this steam pipe 12. The passage 8 is connected through a pipe 14,
which I designate the "vacuum branch," with a surface condenser 15.
The pipe 14
leads into the upper part of the surface condenser. At the bottom of the surface
condenser is a pipe with a stop valve 16, which pipe leads to the pulsometer
condenser and is connected thereto at the chest 17 (see H, Sheet 1).
At the top and bottom of the surface condenser are suitable connections 18
and 19 to circulate the feed water on its way to the boiler in the usual manner.
20 is the steam pipe leading to the engine. A small pipe 21 leads from 20 to the
pulsometer condenser, and a stop valve 22 is inserted which allows of operating the
pulsometer condenser with live steam when required.
23 is the suction pipe of the pulsometer condenser; 24 is the discharge pipe ;
25 is an air-tight chamber of any convenient form and size. This chamber or
reservoir is connected at the top with a small branch 26 of the discharge pipe, so
arranged that a small portion of the discharging current will flow into it, while
the condenser is in operation, and that it (25) will remain full as a reservoir of
water convenient for charging or priming the pulsometer condenser if necessary
when starting. 27 is a small pipe connecting the lower part of 25 with the
priming opening of the chamber B (see Fig. 3, Sheet 1) of the pulsometer condenser,
and this pipe is provided with a stop valve 28 for controlling the admission of the
priming water. In the discharge is a branch 29 leading upwards to any desirable
height, and controlled by a stop valve 30. 31 is a stop valve in the discharge pipe,
it is to be closed, and 30 is to be opened when the pulsometer condenser is used to
deliver the water at a higher point.
I now describe the means for dividing the exhaust from the steam engine.
I designate as an exhaust the discharge of each cylinder full of steam after its
use in the cylinder. It is desirable that each exhaust shall be divided into two
separate and independent quantities, by means which shall cause the first and
stronger portion to force its way through one passage, herein-before called the
pressure branch, and to do this while the other or vacuum branch is closed, and
shall cause the steam during the remainder of the exhaust to be led through the
vacuum branch when the pressure branch is closed; such mode of operation is very
important when high pressure engines are used in connection with a condenser
for producing a vacuum before the piston. It may also be highly desirable when
the first portion of the exhaust is to be used for heating a large manufactory, or
other useful purpose, under a considerable pressure additional to that of the atmo-
sphere, while the second portion is to be discharged with less resistance directly
into the atmosphere.
Previous inventors, amongst them William Rowan (Letters Patent, No. 2719,
dated 3rd December 1855) and Charles Benjamin Normand (Letters Patent, No.
635, dated 17th March 1856) have described this general mode of working and
have detailed means for carrying it into effect, but they are open to objection.
The present Invention comprises several improved means for effecting the desired
division of the exhaust, and the opening and closing of each division or branch at
the proper time.
On Sheet 3 is shewn the internal arrangement of the exhaust divider marked 2,
in Figs. 6 and 7.
Fig. 9 is a horizontal central section; Fig. 10 is a corresponding vertical section;
Fig. 11 is a cross section in the line E, F, of Fig. 9; Fig. 12 is a cross section in
the line G, H, of Fig. 10.
On Sheets 4, 5, and 6, is shewn the general arrangement in connection with a
Corliss engine of the exhaust divider, shewn on Sheet 3, together with the means for

page_text: actuating the same from the piston rod cross head. In Sheets 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7
an arrow of ordinary length represents the exhaust steam coming from the engine,
a short thick arrow represents the short puff thereof, which is discharged through
the pressure branch of the divided exhausts, and a long slender arrow represents
the prolonged current of rapidly weakening steam which afterwards passes through
the other or vacuum branch.
Referring to Sheet 3, 32 is a casing of cast iron peculiarly formed with tight
fitting cylindrical portions alternating with internally ribbed and practically open
work portions. A stem 33 moving through a stuffing box at one end carries firmly
attached a ring valve 34, and four pistons or discs 35, 36, 37, 38. The discs 36, 37,
are of less diameter and work in sinaller bored portions of the casing 32 than the
discs 35, 38.
The steam is received from the exhaust port of the engine into a chamber 6
which surrounds the cylindrical bore of the casting 32 and opens fully into it,
as indicated (see Fig. 9). Another annular chamber 7 also surrounds the cylindrical
bore, and this, although lying sandwiched between two parts of the chamber 6, has
no communication therewith, except through the interior of the bored cylinder.
The passage of the steam from 6 into 7 is controlled by the ring valve 34.
Referring to Sheets 4, 5, and 6 (Figs. 13, 14, and 15), 32 is the exhaust dividing
attachment above described and illustrated on Sheet 3. The stem 33 is connected
in a suitable manner with a connecting rod 41, the other end of which is connected
with a lever 42 which vibrates on a fulcrum 43. At a distance from 42 nearly
equal the stroke of the main piston is another lever 44, and 45 is a rod connecting
42 and 44. The cross head of the engine is provided with a pin 46 (Fig. 15). At
the end of the stroke this pin 46 engages with the levers 42 and 44, and alternately
moves them to the angle shewn by dotted lines in Fig. 13.
Referring again to Sheet 3. As the stem 33 and connected discs 36, 37, 35, 38,
are moved endwise by the working of the engine, and then allowed to return to
the middle position and rest there, each disc performs a portion of its travel in a
cylindrical and close fitting portion of the casing 32, and another portion of its
travel in a ribbed and openwork portion. The ribs are mainly useful by keeping
each disc in its proper path.
When the rod 33 is thrown out of its central position to the right, the discs 37,
38, are moved into the corresponding close fitting portions of the bore, and become
operative to receive the force of the exhaust steam. The force thus received tends
to move the whole again to the left by the difference of area of the two discs then
in play. When at the opposite end of the stroke of the main piston. the rod 33 is
moved out of its central position in the opposite direction, or to the left, the other
discs 36, 35, enter the corresponding close fitting portions of their respective paths,
and become operative and the force due to the difference of area of these two discs
now pulls the whole to the right. It follows that when at either end of its motions
the tendency of the steam is to pull the parts back to their central position. I can,
if preferred, in any case employ a spring or other device additional to this tendency
of the steam to pull the parts into their normal or central position. But I prefer
in most cases to properly adjust the proportions, and depend upon the force of the
steam alone to eflect this important end.
In the Figures, the ring valve 34 and the several discs, are shewn in an intermediate
position. They indicate a condition of the parts during the act of changing, a con-
dition which is of short duration, but during which both pressure and vaccum
branches of the exhaust are closed. A little further movement to the right moves
the discs 36, 35, into the openwork portion of their enclosing surfaces, and allows
the steam to escape freely past them and go to the pulsometer condenser through
the pipe 14 (vacuum branch), the ring valve 34 having previously covered the
annular connection with the pressure branch passage 7, so that no steam can return
therefrom. This state of things continues till near the end of the stroke of the
main piston when the rod 33 is moved out of its central position to the left, and
the same round of operations is repeated.

page_text: Many modifications may be made in the proportions and in the forms of the
parts without sacrificing the advantages of the Invention. Some will. readily
suggest themselves, as, for example, making the openwork or cage portion of the
path of the discs by bars which are inclined or spiral instead of straight. Additions
may be made, as, for example, the introduction of a light check valve in the
passage 7 to restrain any backward motion of the exhaust steam therein in case the
passage 7 is open too long in advance of the reception of the exhaust. The parts
should be so proportioned and so adjusted that the passage 8 will be completely
covered, and the passage 7 commence to open only a very brief period in advance
of the admission of the exhaust from the engine into the chamber 6.
It is proposed in some cases to employ a relief valve 47 (Fig. 10) to deliver a
portion of the exhaust into the passage 7 when required, as, for example, when the
condenser is not at work.
On Sheet 7 I have illustrated several modifications of exhaust dividing apparatus.
In one of these (shewn in Figs. 16, 17, and 18) I employ a check valve for the
first division and a set of discs, two large discs and two smaller ones, keyed on
a single stem and moving a little longitudinally to control the vacuum branch.
The casing in which the discs are enclosed is so formed that as the rod and the
attached discs are moved the several discs are alternately in the close fitting and
in the openwork portions of the casing. The pressure of the exhaust steam in its
endeavour to flow to the condenser tends to pull the stem and its attached discs
into a central position. In this position all the discs are in the openwork portions
of the casing, so that the steam can pass round their edges and rush to the con-
denser with freedom. When the stem is pushed to either extreme of position it
brings two discs, one large and one small, into the tight fitting portions of their
paths. In this position all access of the steam to the condenser is stopped by the
(lises and the steam is compelled for a brief interim to escape by the pressure
branch. So soon as the stein and the attached discs are released from external
influence however they instantly assume the middle position by means of the
difference of area of the two discs which receive the pressure.
Fig. 16 is a longitudinal vertical section, and Fig. 17 a corresponding horizontal
section. Fig. 18 is a cross section in the line L, M.
The pressure branch is controlled by a single poppet valve 48 fixed on the stem 49
and urged downward by a coiled spring 50.
51 is a casing of cast iron peculiarly formed with tight-fitting cylindrical
portions. A stem 52 moving through a stuffing box at each end carries, firmly
attached, four discs 53, 54, 55, 56. The discs 54, 55, are of less diameter than
the discs 53, 56.
Certain portions of the interior of the casing 51 are bored and smoothly finished
and adapted to match, steam tight, to the 'peripheries of the small discs 54, 55, as
described with reference to Sheet 3. Other portions of the interior of the casing
close adjacent are bored and finished to a larger diameter, and adapted to fit, steam
tight, to the peripheries of the larger discs 53, 50. The remaining portions of the
interior of the casing 51 allow the steam to pass freely. In order to better guide
and steady the discs I rib the interior of the other portions of the casing, the ribs
being indicated by 57.
The stein 52 is furthermore guided by steadiments 58, 59, bolted on the covers
which forin the ends of the casing.
60 are nuts or stops fixed adjustably on the rod 52. They are adjustable by
means of set screws 61. 62 are tappet arms carried on the cross head or some
commected part of the engine not represented. They are mounted at such a
distance apart that each touches the corresponding stop 60 only when the piston
approaches near one end of its stroke. At other periods the stem 52 and its
attachment are left free. When the piston approaches one end of its stroke one
of the arms 62 (represented as the one on the right side) presses against the corre-
sponding stop 60, and moves the stem 52 and its attached pistons forcibly to the
left. This movement brings the large disc 53 and also the small disc 55 into the

page_text: For
corresponding tight-fitting portions of the casing, as shewn in the figure. In this
condition the exhaust is received from the engine entering through the pipe 5 and
filling the space in the interior of the casing 51 between the discs 53 and 55.
a brief interval these discs 53 and 55 forbid the passage of the exhaust steam, and
during this interval it raises the light valve 48 in opposition both to its gravity and
the force of the quick spring 50, and a quantity of the exhaust steam flows upward
past this valve 48, and out through the passage 7 into the pressure branch.
the main piston of the engine commences its return stroke, and the tappet arm 62
being fixed thereto ceases to press against the stop 60. This allows the excess of
area of the disc 53 to induce a prompt movement of the stem 52 and its connee-
tions back to the central position.
Now
I have introduced no figure to shew the condition in the central position, but it
will be readily understood that both the small discs 54 and 55 stand within the
openwork portion of the casing guided only by the ribs, which extend longi-
tudinally near the centre of the length thereof, and that the larger discs 53, 50,
stand correspondingly in the openwork portions correspondingly provided with
guiding ribs near each end of the casing. Immediately that the discs emerge from
their tight-fitting portions of the casing the exhaust steam rushes vigorously past
them into the condenser, and the valve 48 instantly shuts to prevent any return of
the steam previously exhausted into the pressure branch.
A side channel 63 connects the two ends of the casing 51. A pipe 14 leads from
the centre of this side channel to the pulsometer condenser.
There is a possibility that under some circumstances as, for example, when the
engine works very rapidly the stem 52 with its connections may be thrown too far.
I prevent this by introducing two collars 64 fixed in the proper position on the
rod 52, and adapted to respectively strike against the steadiinents or guide
pieces 58, 59, and arrest the motion whenever it tends to proceed too far. Face
pieces of vulcanized rubber or analogous yielding material may be employed to
soften the concussion at all the striking points. I employ wood presenting the
end of the grain to the blow to receive the check valve 48.
Many modifications may be made in the proportions and in the forms of some of
the parts without sacrificing the advantages of the Invention.
Some such may
readily suggest themselves, as, for example, making the openwork or ribbed
portions of the path of the discs with bars or ribs which stand inclined to the
motion of the disc instead of directly longitudinal, as represented. Such a con-
struction is desirable to prevent wearing grooves in the edges of the discs.
In another modification (Figs. 19, 20, and 21). I employ three slides, each prefer-
ably in a ring form, screwed firmly together with spaces between them, and after
compelling them to move a little in one direction or the other, as the piston arrives
at each end of the stroke, bring them forcibly back to their ordinary position
the moment the piston returns.
I will represent this return motion as effected by a sufficiently powerful spring.
Fig. 19 is a central longitudinal section. Fig. 20 is a cross section in the line N, O.
Fig. 21 represents an extension of the central stem with the parts adjacent
thereto which guile and operate the same.
51 is a casing o cast iron or other suitable material. 6 is a cylindrical chamber
therein which receives the steam from the exhaust port of the engine through
the pipe or passage 5. 7 is the passage to the pressure branch. Through this the
steam is free to flow to operate the pulsometer condenser during the brief period
while the annular aperture which communicates therewith from the chamber 6 is
uncovered. 8 is the vacuum branch or passage through which steam passes after-
wards to the pulsometer condenser. The motion of the steam through both
divisions or branches 7 and 8 is controlled by the position of the stem 52 and its
attachments. A spring 65 preferably formed of leaves or flat plates of steel engages
in an adjustable block 66 secured on the stem 52 by a set screw. Whenever the
stem 52 is set free the spring 65 moves it into the position represented whereby
the second passage 8 is open. The stem 52 is supported in guides 67 which are

page_text: sufficiently wide apart to allow an arm or tappet 02 fixed on the cross head, not
represented, to traverse casily to and fro on the rod 52. When the main piston
is near the end of a stroke the tappet 62 strikes one of the adjustable stops 68, 69,
and moves the rod 52 and its connections a little endwise.
When, for example, the tappet 62 moves to the right, so that it strikes the
stop 68, it moves the rod 52 to the right to a just sufficient extent to cause the
openwork piston or ring 70 to completely close the vacuum branch 8, and also
causes the openwork piston or ring 71 to uncover the pressure branch 7. In this
condition of the parts the blast of exhaust steam is received in the chamber 6, and
a quantity thereof passes through the first passage 7 out to operate the pulsometer
condenser. When by the continued motion of the engine the tappet arm 62 has
moved to the left again and released the rod 52 the latter is promptly urged by
the action of the spring 65 into its original position, thereby closing the pressure
branch 7 and opening the vacuum branch 8. Thus conditioned the remaining
steam rushes through the passage S to the pulsometer condenser and a vacuum is
formed and maintained in the main cylinder until the contact of the tappet 62
with the stop 59 moves the stem 52 and its connected parts 71, 70, 72, in the
opposite direction so as to close the second passage 8 by the ring 72, and to again
open the pressure branch 7.
In this condition the next exhaust is received and is distributed with the same
effect as before.
Many modifications may be made in the proportions and in the forms of the
parts without sacrificing the advantages of the improvement. Additions may be
made, as, for example, the introduction of a light check valve in the passage 7 to
restrain any backward motion of the exhaust steam therein in case the passage 7
is uncovered too long in advance of the reception of the exhaust. The ports should
be so proportioned and adjusted that the second passage S will be completely
covered, and the first passage or pressure branch 7 commence to open only a very
brief period in advance of the admission of the first blast of the exhaust into
the chamber 6.
It is preferred to properly adjust these parts and dispense with check valves of
any kind.
The exhaust will be divided very efficiently and satisfactorily by the
three rings represented.
I can vary the form of the spring 65 within wide limits. The other portions
of the apparatus may be worked successfully by employing other means than the
spring; but it is important that it be means suflicient to throw the stem 52 and
its connections into the proper position when released by the tappet 62. There is
a marked advantage in the ring form of the valves and in the corresponding
annular form of the passages, but I can operate with some success and realize
some of the advantages by using other forms. 1 propose in some cases to employ
a relief valve to deliver a portion of the exhaust into the passage 7 or into the
atmosphere through an independent channel not represented. Such a precaution
may be important in case an engine is liable to prine or work water in any
considerable quantities.
This modification gives the advantage that it is very simple and gives with few
parts a suflicient and reliable means of directing the exhaust.
In another modification (Figs. 22, 23, 24, 25,) I employ a self-acting valve always
ready to open and discharge the steam into the atmosphere. This valve controls
what I call the pressure branch. The vacuum branch I control by a valve con-
nected to mechanism outside. It is operated thereby so that it closes when the
exhaust commences, and is opened later in the stroke and remains open until near the
end of the stroke, and then closes again. The mechanism acts through toggle levers.
Fig. 22 is a vertical section in the plane passing through both the valves.
Fig. 23 is a cross section in the plane of the valve controlling the pressure
branch.
Fig. 24 is a cross section of a corresponding apparatus in the plane of the valve
controlling the vacuum branch.

page_text: Fig. 25 is an outline shewing one of the means by which the toggle lever con-
trolling the first valve may be operated from the main shaft.
51 is a casing of cast iron, and 6 is a chamber therein which receives the exhaust
from the engine through the passage 5; 7 is the pressure branch, and S is the
vacuum branch. A first fraction of each exhaust is discharged past the first valve
86 which is a sphere made of light and elastic substance so as to work rapidly and
tightly. The second valve is in the form of a flanged disc 87 with a stem S8 and
guides 89. It is capable of only a vertical motion fitting like a piston into its
seat when depressed.
Two links 90 are operated togglewise to depress the stem 88 and its connections
for short periods at the proper time. The abutment of the toggle 90 is formed by a
yoke or frame 91, arranged as shewn.
A rod 92 sliding in fixed bearings 93 is by a duplex cam 94, 95, on the shaft 96
of a steam engine, not represented, thrust to the left as the main piston approaches
close to either end of its stroke. It is allowed to move back again to the right as
the piston commences to return. The movement of the rod to the left partially
straightens the toggle 90 and depresses the stem 88 and valve 87 so as to close
the second passage 8. In this condition the exhaust steam is received in the
chamber 6, and after a portion has escaped past the valve S6 into the passage 7 to
go to the pressure branch, the rod 92 moves again to the right and lifts the valve 87
and opens the communication from the chamber to the pulsometer condenser
through the passage 8. A good vacuum is maintained in the cylinder until near
the end of the stroke, when the movement of the rod 92 to the left again closes the
valve 87 and the round of operations is repeated.
The details may be modified in dimensions and to some extent in form and
arrangement without sacrificing the advantage of the improvement; but it is
important that as the main piston reaches each end of its stroke and the exhaust
commences the passage 8 is closed by the temporary straightening of the toggle, and
that the return of the main piston shall allow the toggle 90 to resume the bent
position shewn.
The movement of the rod 92 may be effected by various means. One of the
simplest is the double cam 94, 95.
In another modification (Figs. 26, 27, 28,) I employ means which are entirely
automatic or independent of any mechanical connections by rods or otherwise to the
nechanism of the engine. The exhaust steam in its rush through the apparatus
effects the necessary movements of the distributing mechanism which opposes so slight
a resistance to the motion of the exhaust steam as to be practically inappreciable.
On the commencement of each exhaust the rush of steam is received on a piston,
or a light part analogous in its operation thereto, which yields easily to the pressure
and carries with it, and thereby closes a valve which controls the vacuum branch.
A liberal opening is provided in what I have here termed the piston, which
opening is controlled by a light valve of large area turning on a spindle in a manner
analogous to a stove pipe damper, but with the shaft one side of the centre. When
the blast of exhaust steam is received this valve stands in such a position that its
wider side receives the force of the steam and the valve is turned into a horizontal
and consequently closed position. In this condition the force of the exhaust steam
lifts the piston, and as before stated shuts off the vacuum branch. The same motion
of the piston uncovers an annular opening and allows a quantity of the steam to
flow into the pressure branch of the exhaust by lifting a light check valve. The
lifting motion of the piston causes the valve therein to strike against a fixed stop,
which initiates the movement for opening it. After a portion of the exhaust steain
has escaped into the pressure branch the opening of the valve in the piston allows
the steam to flow up through the piston and cause an equal pressure above and
below. In this condition the piston and its attached valve drop into their original
position thereby uncovering the second division of the exhaust and allowing the
remainder of the steam to rush to the condenser.

page_text: Fig. 26 is a central vertical section; Fig. 27 is a horizontal section in the line P, Q;
Fig. 28 is a horizontal section in the line R, S.
51 is a casing of cast iron, different points in which will be designated by other
numbers when necessary. 6 is a chamber in the base thereof which receives steam
through the pipe 5 from the exhaust port of the engine. The interior of the casing 51
is bored and smoothly finished to receive a close-fitting ring valve 73, which is fixed
by arms to a stem 74, guided in a steadiment 75 above. The stem 74 is connected
by branching arms 76 to a light piston 77, which plays up and down in an approxi-
mately tight-fitting portion of the interior of the casing. This piston 77 is little
more than a hollow ring. Its entire interior is open whenever the turning valve,
sometimes called a butterfly valve, 78 turns on its axis 79, which is considerably on
one side of its centre, and is so mounted in the light piston 77 that it is free to turn
by the gravity of its broader side and assume an upright position. This valve 78
controls the opening in the interior of the piston 77.
An annular opening S0, interrupted only by narrow connections or bridges across,
leads out to one side and allows any steam which is received to pass off by lifting
the light check valve 81, which is mounted in a side chamber and guided by vertical
ribs 82 at the sides, and restrained from rising too high by a ring 83 above.
The exhaust steam on first rushing into the chamber 6 through the pipe 5 strikes
the lower half of the valve 78 causing it to turn and shut the passage through the
piston 77. The piston is then immediately moved upward. This movement carries
the ring valve 73 across the annular opening above, thus stopping the passage to the
condenser. Simultaneously with the completion of this upward movement of the
stem 74 and its connections the turning valve 78 is opened again by its contact with
the stop rod 84, which is fixed on a stationary part above. So soon as this valve 78
has sufficiently opened the steam passes upward through it, so as to completely fill
the small space above and induce equal pressure above and below the piston 77.
The rod 7+ now sinks by gravity, thus moving downward the ring valve 73 to its
original position and uncovering the annular opening to the exhaust passage 8
through which the exhaust now flows freely to the condenser until the end of the
stroke.
In the meantime there has been a period of appreciable length while the valve 78
was closed, and the piston 77 elevated above the annular opening 80 during which
the steam exhausting had been allowed to move out laterally and escape into the
pressure branch or atmosphere through the check valve 81.
This valve 81 is provided on both sides with a ring of vulcanized india-rubber or
analogous elastic material. The rubber facings are held in dovetailed grooves, as
shewn. When the valve 81 is urged violently upwards the facing of rubber
thercon strikes the ring 83. When the valve 81 is sucked violently down again
upon its seat the lower facing of rubber receives the concussion in that direction.
This valve may be turned over and worked the other side up if desired.
The bridges across the openings 80, 8, are denoted by 85. The dome-like
chamber above the apparatus above the ring valve 73 may be taller so as to
avoid any perforation to allow the proper travel of the stem 74. A stop may be
provided on the stem 74 above where it plays through the steadiment 75 to
prevent too low a descent of the stem 74 and its connections.
This apparatus gives the advantages that it obviates any mechanical connections
with the reciprocating motions of the steam engine.
The details may be modified to some extent in form and arrangement, but it is
important that the valve 78 be so formed and adjusted that the strong force applied
thereon by the exhaust steam when first rushing through the passage 5 shall raise
the stem 74 and its connections. And it is also important that the impulse
received afterwards by the discharge of the steam into the condenser when the
vacuum branch of the exhaust is opened by the descent of the rod 74 and its
connections shall not cause the valve 78 to again close. A neglect of this pre-
caution will involve a liability of the rod 74 and its connections to make two or
more jumps or upward movements for each exhaust which might consumo the

page_text: whole period of the stroke, and defeat a great portion or the whole of the purposes
of the Invention.
In another arrangement of apparatus (Figs. 29, 30, 31,) I provide a self-acting
valve to control each passage or branch. I make such valve to control the pressure
branch light and with little inertia as possible in proportion to its area. I make
the second heavy so that it shall possess a great amount of inertia.
I so arrange
both valves that they shall offer but little ultimate resistance to the motion of the
steam past them respectively; but while the valve for the pressure branch yields
instantaneously to the first gust of the steam the valve controlling the vacuum
branch yields more slowly because of the greater mass of matter to be set in motion.
The parts are so proportioned that the heavy valve controlling the vacuum branch
shall offer but little or no resistance to the passage of the steam after the first gust
has passed. It remains open and allows the steam to flow past it into the condenser
with freedom during the principal portion of the stroke.
Fig. 29 is a longitudinal section; Fig. 30 is a cross section on the line T, U;
and Fig. 31 à cross section on the line V, W.
51 is a casing of cast iron or other suitable material made in several pieces for
convenience of construction and access. Its parts will be referred to when neces-
sary by different numbers. 6 is a chamber which receives the steam from the
exhaust port of the engine through the passage 5, which should be as short as is
practicable. 7 is a passage through which the strong steain is discharged by lifting
and passing a light valve 97, which in this case is automatic, closing as soon as
the first blast or puff of the exhaust has escaped. It is formed with a stem which
is guided in a steadiment 99. 8 is the second passage through which the weaker
steam passes at a later period in each exhaust; it leads to tho pulsometer condenser
for maintaining a vacuum. The flow of the steam through the second passage 8 is
controlled by a heavy valve 100 opening in a nearly horizontal direction. The
valve 100 is in this instance a sphere of lead or of brass or other material filled
with lead. In opening and closing it moves on an inclined track 101, and in case
the valve shall under any circumstances tend to move too far up the incline it is
stopped by a cage or series of bars 102:
Both the valves 97, 100, present a liberal surface to the action of the exhaust
and yield with certainty thereto; but the valve 97 should have as little inertia as
is consistent with the proper strength, while the valve 100 should have great inertia.
It follows that when a strong torrent of steam rushes into the chambers 6, and
both valves 97, 100, are about equally acted on thereby, the valve 97 will open
promptly and allow the steam to rush past it and out through the primary passage 7,
while the valve 100 having much more inertia will yield more slowly, and will
not be fairly opened until after a sensible lapse of time. The valve 100 when
finally set in motion will be slow in returning to its seat. The parts should be so
proportioned that when the engine is working at its usual rate the valve 100 will
roll slowly up the incline nearly to the bars or openwork stop 102, and then roll
slowly back again, arriving at its seat in time to prevent the passage of the first
portion of the next exhaust.
After the valve 100 has moved away from its seat, and the light valve 97 has
closed, the steam flows freely through the secondary passage S, and is condensed so
as to maintain a good vacuum in the cylinder during the middle portion and
concluding portion of each exhaust.
A coating of rubber or other soft material may be used on each valve or on the
seats, and both may be subjected to great modifications in form. There are im-
portant advantages due to attaining the desired motions by the difference in
inertia in the valves, as described. The device may by this means be not only
entirely automatic or independent of any connections with the engine, other than
that due to the intermittent reception of steam therefrom, but may also be simple
and cheap.
In Fig. 29 the valve 97 is represented as open and as being urged to its seat
not only by gravity but also by a rubber spring mounted on its back, which by

page_text: striking against the steadiment 99 tends to urge it moro promptly down to
its seat.
The valve 100 is shewn in strong lines commencing to open.
circlés represent the valve 100 at the two extremes of its motions.
The two dotted
Having described the nature of the said Invention, and explained the mode of
carrying it into practical effect, as communicated to me by my foreign corre-
spondent, I desire to have it understood that I do not claim broadly the use of
chambers provided with valves for admitting water and holding it against its
return, and also with valves for allowing it to be expelled through a pipe to be
'conducted to an elevated reservoir or to such other point as may be desired, the
operations of being filled with water and being discharged succeeding each other
by reason of a change of position of a steam valve or valves governing the admission
of steam from a boiler or steam generator.
Apparatus of this class is well known, as, for instance, under the denomination of
"the pulsometer," and various forms thereof are described in the Specifications
of prior Patents, including No. 2885 of 1872, No. 2026 of 1875, and No. 3867
of 1875..
Furthermore, I do not claim per se the dividing the exhaust steam from a steam
engine, previous inventors having, as herein-before stated, proposed so to do and
described means to that end.
Nor save and except as herein-after mentioned, do I intend to claim any of the
mechanical parts herein-before shewn and described when taken separately and
apart from the combination or application thereof in manner and for the purposes
herein described.
But what I consider to be novel and original, and therefore claim as the
Invention secured to me by the herein-before in part recited Letters Patent is as
follows:-
First. The adaptation and use of apparatus operating as described with reference
to Sheet 1 of the Drawings for maintaining an approximate or a partial vacuum in
a steam engine cylinder during the effective portion of its piston's stroke, or in
other vessel or chamber as above set forth.
Secondly. The use in combination with a steam engine of the pulsometer con-
denser and apparatus for dividing the exhaust steam on its way from the engine
to the said condenser, substantially as described and shewn on Sheet 2 of the
Drawings.
Thirdly. In pumping apparatus wherein steam is admitted into the same
chambers as the water forces such water out, and by condensation produces an
approximate or a partial vacuum, I claim the combination with the said chambers
and their steam and inlet and outlet valves of additional openings P, P, with
appropriate valves, and a valve chamber H for the admission of steam or vapour
to be condensed or of air to be exhausted, substantially as herein-before described.
Fourthly. The peculiar construction of the india-rubber valves D, E, F, and S,
and their relative arrangement, as shewn,
Fifthly. The combination of parts constituting the pulsomcter condenser, con-
structed, arranged, and operating as shewn on and described with reference to Sheet 1
of the Drawings.
Sixthly. In an exhaust steam dividing apparatus the utilization of the pressure
of the exhausted steam acting on dises of different areas to return the dividing
mechanism to a central position at each stroke of the engine in the manner shewn
and described.
Seventhly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus constructed, arranged, and operating as shown in and described with
reference to Figs. 9, 10, 11, and 12 (Sheet 3) of the Drawings.
Eighthly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus, constructed, arranged, and operating as shewn in and described with
reference to Figs. 16, 17, and 18 (Sheet 7) of the accompanying Drawings.

page_text: Ninthly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus, constructed, arranged, and operating as shown in and described with
reference to Figs. 19, 20, and 21 (Sheet 7) of the accompanying Drawings.
Tenthly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus, constructed, arranged, and operating as shewn in and described with
reference to Figs. 22, 23, 24, and 25 (Sheet 7) of the accompanying Drawings.
Eleventhly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus, constructed, arranged, and operating as shewn in and described with
reference to Figs. 26, 27, and 28 (Sheet 7) of the accompanying Drawings.
Lastly. The combination of parts constituting the improved exhaust dividing
apparatus, constructed, arranged, and operating as shewn in and described with
reference to Figs. 20, 30, and 31 (Sheet 7) of the accompanying Drawings.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Lloyd Wise, have hereunto set my
hand and seal, this Twenty-seventh day of November, in the year of our
Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-six.