IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES, PARTLY APPLICABLE TO STEAM HAMMERS, HYDRAULIC RAMS AND PUMPS, AND TO VALVES FOR REGU- LATING THE FLOW OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE."
Year: 1872

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Walter Charles Church, of 39, Lombard Street,
in the City of London, Consulting Engineer, for the Invention of
“IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES, PARTLY APPLICABLE TO
STEAM HAMMERS, HYDRAULIC RAMS AND PUMPS, AND TO VALVES FOR REGU-
LATING THE FLOW OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE."
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Walter Charles Church
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents, with his Petition, on
the 19th August 1872.
I, WALTER CHARLES CHURCH, of 39, Lombard Street, in the City of
› London, Consulting Engineer, do hereby declare the nature of my said
Invention for "IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES, PARTLY
APPLICABLE TO STEAM HAMMERS, HYDRAULIC RAKS AND PUMPS, AND TO VALVES
FOR REGULATING THE FLOW OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE," to be as follows:-
This Invention relates partly to certain improvements in metallic
expanding and collapsing packing for the pistons and stuffing boxes of
steam, air, gas, or hydraulic motive power engines, applicable also to the .
A

page_text: pistons, rams, or plungers of steam hammers, hydraulic presses, and
pumps, whereby a tight packing is obtained in a more simple and
economical manner than heretofore; also to certain peculiar constructions
and arrangements of circular and rectangular slide valves and exhaust
port for steam and hydraulic motive power engines and steam hammers,
which valves are also applicable for regulating the flow of fluids under
and arrangements of circular and rectangular slide valves and exhaust
port for steam and bydraulic motive power engines and steam hammers,
which valves are also applicable for regulating the flow of fluids under
pressure.
By my improved valves I obtain greater durability and economy in
the cost of manufacture, whilst the power of the engine is increased, and
a consequent saving in fuel is effected.
According to one modification of my improved packing for the pistons
of steam and hydraulic motive power engines and steam hammers, I
employ a piston body having a single annular groove or chamber turned
in the periphery thereof. In this groove thero is fitted so as to be loose
or free to play laterally therein a metallic packing ring, which is kept
pressed against the internal working surface of the cylinder by the
pressure of the actuating steam or other medium in such cylinder. This
ring is of a section, the inner area of which, subject to pressure from
within, outwards, is greater than the area prossed against the internal
working surface of the cylinder. The two lateral reduced surfaces of
the said ring are at each stroke of the piston brought in contact with
the opposite sides, alternately, of the annular groove or chamber. As
the total lateral area of that side of the ring which is not in contact with
the side of the annular groove, and which is subject to pressure, is greater
than the reduced area which is for the time being in contact with the
opposite side of the annular groove, it follows that such ring will be
held in close contact with the forward side of the groove, or that next
the exhaust end of the cylinder. The steam or other medium employed
as the prime mover is admitted into the annular groove in the piston,
through holes or slots made on opposite sides of the piston, at or near its
periphery, so as to be outside the reduced annular surface of the packing
ring. The holes or slots on the exhaust side of the piston are closed for
the time being by the contact of the side of the packing ring therewith.
When the piston is subjected to steam or other pressure on one side
only, as in the case of single acting steam engines, steam hammers, and
air pumps, then the holes or slots in the piston need only be made on
que side thereof. The joint in the packing ring is made good by a seg-

page_text: mental piece. filling the annular recess or rebate on each side of the ring,
such segmental pieces being secured to opposite ends of the ring. Other
segmental picces are secured at convenient intervals round the annular
recess or rebate of the packing ring to prevent lateral buckling, and
these may be applied also to packing rings of an L shaped section.
I sometimes make the sides of the annular groove inclined or bevelled
outwards, and make the reduced lateral surfaces of the packing ring of
the same bevel or inclination in order that the lateral pressure of the
steam or other medium may tend to force the ring outwards against the
internal working surface of the cylinder.
This is equally applicable to pistons containing 2 or more packing
rings of an L shaped section, in which case the central belt alone between
the two grooves is bevelled or inclined.
In some cases the before mentioned packing rings may be made in two
halves, semicircles, or segments, and held outwards when not subject to
steam or other pressure by internal springs, the joints of the half rings
or segments being made good by segmental pieces, as already described.
In some cases the piston may be fitted with junk rings, which will
constitute the outer side of the annular grooves before mentioned.
My improved metallic collapsing packing for piston rods, hydraulic
rams, and similar purposes, consists of one or more metallic rings, half-
rings, or segments of an L section, having their inner surface which is
in contact with the piston rod or ram of a reduced area as compared
with a rectangular ring, and having the contact surface of one side of
the ring also of a reduced area as compared to the full area of the
opposite side subjected to lateral pressure. These rings are contained
within an annular chamber in the cylinder cover, and when more than
one ring is used they are placed one upon the other, each ring breaking
joint with its neighbour, such joints being made good by segmental
pieces fitting the recess or rebate in the ring, as described in reference to
the piston packing herein-before described. These rings, half rings, or
segments are pressed laterally when not subjected to pressure by a spring
or springs, other springs being employed when using half rings or
segments for keeping them in contact with the piston rod or ram.
When steam or other pressure is admitted into the annular chamber
thro' holes made for that purpose in the cylinder cover, such steam,

page_text: by acting upon the increased outer areas of the rings, half rings, or
segments, collapses or presses them against the piston rod or ram, and
by also acting against the increased lateral area of the ring next the
cylinder, such pressure forces the whole of the rings, half rings, or seg-
ments laterally against each other, and presses the reduced lateral area
of the ring which is farthest from the cylinder against the cover of the
annular chamber, which may be either flat or bevelled on its surface, a
corresponding bevel being in the latter case made on the reduced lateral
surface of the adjoining ring, whereby the lateral pressure against the
rings will assist in collapsing or pressing them inwards.
In order to allow a free vent for any steam that may gain access to
the spaces left between the rings, and between the outer or top ring, and
the cover of the annalar chamber, vent holes are made through the
rings and through the cover of the annular chamber communicating
with the atmosphere.
I
My improvements in circular slide valves and exhaust ports to be used
in conjunction therewith for steam and hydraulic motive power engines
and steam hammers have for their main object the reducing or removing
of the direct pressure acting on the back of the valve when the steam or
other medium of pressure is in the valve chest, and also in the case of
condensing engines the reducing the internal area of the valve acted
upon by the vacuum in the condenser and tending to draw the valve
face to the port face.
According to one mode of carrying out this part of my Invention I
form an isolated bearing surface in the centre of the exhaust port which
is flush with the port face. The steam and exhaust ports for my
improved circular slide valve may be made in other respects as fully
described in the Specification of my Patent, No. 563, A.D. 1872. The
valve is formed with an internal bearing surface in the centre of the
exhaust opening, such bearing surface being flush with the valve face
and working upon the isolated bearing surface in the centre of the
exhaust port. The internal central bearing surface of the valve face
reduces the internal area of the valve subjected to the action of the
vacuum in a condensing engine, and in either high or low pressure
engines it increases the bearing surface of the valve face without
increasing the surface acted upon by the pressure of steam in the steam
chest.

page_text: An annular groove is turned round the periphery of the back portion
of the valve, and in this groove there is fitted an L shaped packing ring
or two half rings interposed between the annular groove and the
internal parallel surface of a cap herein-after mentioned, which cap is
pressed against the inner surface of the cover of the valve chest or
against a central plate situate between the two valves when one steam
chest is employed for supplying two cylinders with steam. The joints
in the said packing ring are made good by segmental pieces fitting the
recess or rebato in the ring, as described in the Specification of my said
former Patent.
When made in two halves I employ two springs for keeping the half
rings in contact with the cap when steam is shut off. By making the
packing ring in two halves or semicircles I am enabled to dispense
with the junk ring on the top of the valve, also mentioned in my said
former Specification.
"In order to prevent the packing ring or half rings from turning in the
groove two or more stop screws are inserted into the body of the valve
and engage into the joints of the packing. To prevent lateral buckling
of the packing ring I attach thereto in the recess or rebate at suitable
intervals segmental picces similar to those at the joints, but secured at
both ends. These segmental pieces are all bevelled on their outer edges
throughout their entire length and depth. On the back of the valve I.
apply a loose cap which is kept central by having a central hollow boss
cast thereon fitting into a corresponding opening formed in the back of
the valve within the internal bearing surface in the centre of the exhaust
opening in the valve herein-before described.
A helical spring bearing at one end on the centre of a loose piece in.
the before-mentioned internal bearing surface of the valve, and at the
other end on the centre of the cap serves to hold the said cap in contact
with the valve chest cover or central plate before referred to when the
steam is shut off. To allow for any angular adjustment of the cap on
the valve owing to want of parallelism between the port face and the
steam chest cover or central. plate I make the external surface of the
central hollow boss rounded in lieu of parallel or cylindrical.
By employing a loose piece in the valve face for taking the thrust of
the helical spring the valve is allowed to fall away from the port face

page_text: when running without steam. The packing ring is pressed against the
upper side of its groove, and also against the inner parallel surface of the
cap by the pressure of the steam in the valve chest, any leakage that
may arise being allowed to pass off through an annular clearance left
between the internal parallel surface of the cap and the circumference
of the back of the valve, and finally to escape through apertures in the
central part of the cap into the atmosphere through a vent pipe in the
valve chest cover or central plate before referred to. The rubbing
surface of the cap is provided with an annular groove or channel and
sunk parts, as and for the purpose described in my said former Specifi-
cation.
Should any steam or water of condensation gain access to the central
chamber in the back of the valve, it is allowed, to escape freely through
special vent holes in the centre portion of the cap over the hollow boss
before referred to.
The hercin-before described circular valve is free to rotate within its
clip or buckle, and in order to keep the valve face clear of the port face
when the engine is running without steam, I employ one or more.
springs cither in the buckle or in that part of the valve which works
upon the isolated bearing surface in the centre of the exhaust port.
According to another arrangement of circular slide valve, I reduce the
area subject to pressure on the back of the valve by making the valve
with two distinct bearing surfaces, the one in contact with the port face,
and the other in contact with a raised bearing surface bolted or other-
wise secured to the isolated bearing surface or support in the centre of
the exhaust port. The latter bearing surface of the valve is contained
within the exhaust opening of the valve. One or more small holes or
apertures are made in the back of the central part of the valve to admit
steam or other medium of pressure into a chamber formed in the raised
bearing surface and beneath the back of the valve, and thereby to
balance the pressure on a considerable portion of the area of the valve,
which valve works perfectly clear of the valve cliest cover.
A bow or
other spring is employed, bearing on the buckle and connected with the
back of the valve for the purpose of lifting the valve clear of the port
face when running without steam.
This last desemibod amencement of wales is also analisable to ano

page_text: engines, hydraulic motive-power engines, and steam hammers. It is
also applicable for regulator and other valves for controlling or regulating
the flow of fluids under pressure generally.
SPECIFICATION in pursuance of the conditions of the Letters Patent,
filed by the said Walter Charles Church in the Great Scal Patent
Office on the 19th February 1873.
TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, WALTER
CHARLES CHURON, of 39, Lombard Street, in the City of London, Con-
sulting Engineer, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by ler
Letters Patent, bearing date the Nineteenth day of August, in the year
of our Lord One thousand eight hundred and seventy-two, in the thirty-
sixth year of Her reign, did, for Herself, Her heirs and successors, give
and grant unto me, the said Walter Charles Church, Her special license
that I, the said Walter Charles Church, my executors, administrators,
and assigns, or such others as I, the said Walter Charles Church, my
executors, administrators, or 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, uso,
exercise, and vend, within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Ireland, the Channel Islands, and Islo of Man, an Invention for
"IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAK AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES, PARTLY APPLICABLE TO STEAM
HAMMERS, HYDRAULIC RAMS AND PUMPS, AND TO VALVES FOR REGULATING THE FLOW
OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE," upon the condition (amongst others) that I, the
said Walter Charles Church, my executors or administrators, by an
instrument in writing under my hand and seal, should particularly
describe and ascertain tho 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 Walter Charles Church, do hereby
declare the nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the samo
is to be performed, to be particularly described and ascertained in and
by the following statement, reference being had to the accompanying

page_text: · · Figure 3 is̟a transverse section taken through the body of the piston,
showing the plan of my improved metallic packing thereof made in two
halves; the rest of the Figures on this Sheet of Drawings. are details,
which I shall herein-after fully describe and refer to..
|
:
:
According to one-modification of my improved packing for tho pistons
of the cylinders of steam.and hydraulic motive-power engines and steam
hammers I employ a piston body A, having a single annular groove or
chamber a turned in the periphery thereof. In this groove there is
fitted, so as to be slightly loose or free to play laterally therein, a metallic
packing ring B, shown in two equal parts in detail at Figures 4, 5, and 6
(Sheet 1), which is pressed against the internal working surface of the
cylinder by the pressure of the actuating steam or other medium in such
cylinder. These half, rings or ring are of a T section, the inner area of
which, subject to pressure from within outwards, is greater than the area
pressed against the internal working surface of the cylinder (see Figure 1).
The two lateral reduced surfaces of the said half rings or ring are at
cach stroke of the piston brought in contact with tho, opposite sides of
the annular groove or chamber a. As the total lateral area of that side
of the half rings or ring which is not in contact with the side of tho
annular groove, and which is subject to pressure, is greater than the
reduced area, which is for the time being in contact with the opposite
side of the annular groove, it follows that such half rings or ring will be
held in close contact with the forward side of the groove, or that next.
the exhausting end of the cylinder, as shown by the arrow in Figure 1'
(Sheet 1). The steam or other medium employed as the prime mover is
admitted into the annular groove a in the piston through holės 'b, b,
Figures 1 and 3 (Sheet 1), made on opposite sides of the piston at or
near its periphery, so as to be outside the reduced lateral annular surfaço
of the packing half rings or ring. The holes on the exhausting side of
the piston are closed for the time being by the reduced lateral area of
the packing half rings or ring being forced by the steam pressure against
the side of the annular groove a,. which is on the exhausting side of the
piston, as shewn clearly in Figure 1 (Sheet 1). When the piston is
subjected to steam or other pressure on onc, side only, as in the case of
single-acting steam engines, steam hammers, and air pumps, then tho
holes & in the piston need only be made on the steam side thereof, and.
in the case of air pumps on the lifting side of the bucket or piston.
'
:

page_text: :
The joint or joints in the packing half rings or ring is or are made
good by a segmental piece or pièces c filling the annular recess or rebate
on cach side of the half rings or ring, such segmental piece being secured
to opposite ends of the half rings or ring, as shewn in Figures 3, 4, 5,
and 6 (Sheet 1); other segmental pieces care secured at convenient
intervals round the annular recess or rebate of the packing half rings or
ring to prevent lateral buckling; and these may be applied also to
packing half rings or rings of an L shaped section (see Figure 7).
I sometimes make the sides of the. annular groove a inclined, or
bevelled outwards, as shown in Figure 1 (Sheet 2), and make the
reduced internal surface of the T shaped packing ring B of the same
bevel or inclination, in order that the lateral pressure of the steam or
other medium may tend to force the ring outwards, against the internal
working surface of the cylinder.
'
:
In some cases the before-mentioned packing rings may be made in
segments or in two halves, as shewn in Figure 8 (Sheet 1), and held
outwards when not subject to steam or other pressure" by internal
springs d, d, the joints of the segments being made good. by segmental
pieces c, c, as already described. The springs, d, d, are kept central to
cach half or segment of the ring by means of stops e, e, secured to or
formed in the inner side of the said half-rings or segments, as shown in
Figure 3, the same arrangement being, applicable to the L-shaped ring,"
as shewn in Figure 7, (Sheet 1).
The piston may be fitted with junk rings which will constitúto the
outer side of the annular groove or grooves before mentioned...
1
+
Figure 1 (Sheet 2) is a similar arrangement to Figure 1 (Sheet 1), with
this difference, that the sides of the annular groove a in the piston are
bevelled outwards, a corresponding bevel being formed on the reduced
' annular áreas on the sides of the packing ring B.
1.
i
'
Figure 2 is an end elevation of the cylinder cover, corresponding to
Figure 1 and Figure 3 is a half elevation and half transverse section of
the piston, which is here shewn as fitted with an entire' metallic packing
ring in lieu of segments or half rings, as in the Figures 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7,
on Sheet 1 of my Drawings. In lieu of the holes b; b, in the body of the
piston I have here shewn slots b, which are made.to admit steam 'into-
the annular groove a on opposite sides of the periphery of the piston A.

page_text: Figure 4 is a side clevation of the metallic packing ring and Figure 5
is a detail of the joint and segment piece c..
1
According to the Drawings of my improved piston rings, shown on
Sheet 2, the inner area is about 29 square inches, exposed to the pressure
of steam or other fluids, and the outer arca which is in contact with the
internal working surface of the cylinder is about 26 square inches.
The lateral area exposed. to pressure at each stroke of the piston is about
30 square inches, and the lateral reduced area pressed against the body
of the piston is about 14 square inches. These proportions also apply to
the half rings or segments of a T or an L shaped section, shewn in
Sheet 1. These proportions can be varied as required, according to tho
width, breadth, and diameter of ring or rings used.
My-improved metallic collapsing packing for piston rods, hydraulic
rams, and similar purposes, is shewn applied to a piston rod in Figure 1,
on Sheets 1 and 2; and in letail on the same Sheets. This packing
consists of one or more metallic rings, half-rings, or segments, shown in
half rings at C³, C³, and C³ on the piston rod of an L-section, having
their inner surface which is in contact with the piston "rod or ram of a
reduced area (see Figure 1, on Sheets 1 and 2, and Figures 9", "11",
on 13", on Sheet 1) as compared with a rectangular sectioned ring, and
having the contact surface of one side or face of the ring also of a
reduced area as compared to the full area of the opposite side or face,
subjected to lateral' pressure.
In Figuro 1 (Sheet 1), I have represented in section three of such
rings applied to a piston rod; and in Figure 1 (Sheet 2), I have shown.
the application of tivo rings only.
:
Figures 8 to 13, on Sheet 1, aro detailed side clevations and corrc-
sponding plans of the three half rings O¹, 0³, and 0³, above referred to,
the several half rings being shown in plan in the relative positions thoy
would occupy round the rod.
:
Figures 9", 11°, and 13" (Sheet 1), are sections of the corresponding.
half rings O¹, C³, and C³, taken in the direction indicated by the positions.
of such sections. These half rings are contained within a chamber D,
shewn detached in clevation and plan at Figures 14 and 15), in the
3 cylinder cover E, and when more than one ring is used they are placed:
one upon the other, cach ring breaking joint with its neighbour, the

page_text: joints in the top ring C₁ being made good by segmental or lateral joint
picces secured to them by a screw or rivet, as shown in Figures 8, 9,
and 9h (Sheet 1); or they may be cast on the half rings, as shewn on
Sheet 2, in Figures 6 and 6º.
Figures 16 to 21 (Sheet 1) represent the packing rings for piston
rods, rams, or plungers, cut through on one side in lieu of being made in
two halves or in segments. In this case the segmental pieceffits into
the recess or rebate in the inner side of the L shaped ring, and is secured
at one end by a single rivet, f,fƒ³, in Figures 9, 11, and 13 (Sheet 1), arc
raised portions cast on the rings C³, O³, and C³, for the purpose of pre- 1
venting any escape of steam past the sides of the joints into the lateral
sunk portions of the rings.
In Figures 19 and 21 I have represented the raised parts f¹as being
secured to the inner sunk part of the L shaped rings by a rivet. These
however are not required when only, one ring is used of the form shewn 1
in Figure 17. The same raised portions f¹, ƒ³, are also shewn cast on
the half rings in Figures 6 and 8 (Sheet 2)..
In making the said rings, Figures 16 to 21 (Sheet 1), it is necessary
to cut them on one side and to spring them open from ¾ in. to ½ in.,
which will vary according to the diameter of the ring before boring 2
them out to fit the diameter of the rod, or before boring the internal
recess to give the reduced lateral area when made in half rings or
segments, as shewn in Figures 8 to 13 (Sheet 1), and Figures 6 to 9
(Sheet 2). I cast them together with a temporary web or bridge
between the joints, which web or bridge is removed after the half 2
rings or segments have been bored and finished to the diameter
required. The said rings, half rings, or segments, are introduced into
the chamber D, as shown in Figures 1 (Sheets 1 and 2), slots or
grooves g being made in the inner sides of the chamber to receive
corresponding projections 9' formed on the outward peripheries of the 3
rings, as shewn in Figures 17, 19, and 21 (Sheet 1) to keep each
ring in its proper relative position. The inherent elasticity of the
rings, Figures 16 to 21 (Sheet 1), produced by the rings being sprung
out previous to boring causes them to collapse round the rod when not
subjected to steam or fluid pressure; but when half rings, or segments, 3
are employed, as shown in Figures 8 to 13 (Sheet 1) and Figures 6
to 9 (Sheet 2), I employ separate springs h for this purpose provided

page_text: 1
"
with nipples or paps at which enter holes made in the outer
peripheries of the half rings or segments at right angles or inter-
mediate between the joint openings thereon. These springs have
formed upon each of them the projection for keeping the metallic
3 packing in its proper position in the chamber D. These rings, half
rings, or segments, are pressed laterally, when not subjected to steam
or fluid pressure by a spring or springs F, shown in Figures 1, 22,,
and 28 (Sheet 1), or by adjusting screws F¹, see Figures 1, 10, 11,
(Sheet 2). The said spring F (Sheet 1) or adjusting screws F, Figure 1
(Sheet 2), bear against the rings C, Figures 24 and 25 (Sheet 1) and
Figures 12 and 13' (Sheet 2), which ring is the onc first placed in thọ
chamber D (see Figure 1) (Sheet 1), and Figuro 1 (Sheet 2). Tho
metallic rings, half rings, or segments C³, C³, and C', being then intro-
duced, after which the cover G, shewn in reversed plan at Figure 20.
(Sheet 1) and Figure 14 (Sheet 2) is applied, as shown in Figure 1
on both Sheets. The object of the spring F or screw F" is to keep
the metallic packing rings, half rings, or segments, laterally against
each other, and to keep the outer one C¹ of the set against the cover G
when the steam or fluid pressure is not acting, when steam. or. fluid.
O pressure is admitted into the chamber D through the holes which
communicate with the cylinder, and through the holes or slots in
the periphery of the ring O, Sheets 1 and 2), such steam or fluid
pressure by acting upon the larger outer areas of the rings, half rings,
or segments 0, 0, and. C³, collapses or prosses them against the piston
5 rod, ram, or plunger H, and by also acting against the larger lateral
area of the ring C next; the cylinder and the ring or half rings C³, such
pressure forces the whole of the rings, balf rings, or segments. laterally;
against each other, and presses the reduced lateral area of the ring O'
which is farthest from the cylinder against the cover of the annular
) chamber.
1
In order to allow a free vent for any steam that may gain access-

page_text: passage, when only one metallic ring of the kind, shown in Figure 17
(Sheet 1), is used the vent holes & therein are dispensed with.
When it is required to draw out the chamber D for the purpose of
renewing the packing, I first remove the cover G and then insert
screws, one of which is shewn at Figure 27 (Sheet 1) and Figure 15
(Sheet 2), into the tapped holes. in the flange of the chamber D
containing the metallic packing, the points of such screws bearing
upon the bottoms of conical holes at m, Figure 1 (Sheets 1 and 2),
made to receive them in the flange of the raised portion of the cylinder
cover containing the chamber D. By screwing up these screws the
chamber D will be drawn out.
According to the Drawings of my improved metallic packing for
rods, plungers, or rams, as shewn on Sheets 1 and 2, the inner area.
of cach half ring, Figures 8 to 13 (Sheet 1) and Figures 6 to 9 (Sheet 2)
which is pressed against the rod, ram, or plunger, is about 1½ square
inches, and the outer area of each half ring, acted upon by steam or
other fluid in the chamber, is about 24 square inches, pressing it to the
rod, ram, or plunger. The bottom lateral area of each half ring is
about 5% square inches, and the top lateral area of each half ring is
about 2, square inches. The inner area of cach complete ring, shown!
in Figures 10 to 21 (Sheet 1), which is pressed against the rod, ram, or
plunger is about 7 square inches, and the outer area of each ring, acted
upon by steam or other fluids in the chamber is about 13 square inches,
pressing it to the rod, ram, or plunger. The bottom lateral area of cach
ring is about 9 square inches, and the top lateral area of cach ring is a
about 5 square inches. These dimensions will vary according to the
width, depth, and diameter of rings or half rings adopted.
My improvements in circular rotating equilibrium slide valves and
exhaust ports to be used in conjunction therewith for steam and hydraulic
motive power engines and steam hammers are illustrated on Sheets 3, 3
4, 5, and 6 of my Drawings, and have for their main object the reducing
or removing of the direct pressure acting on the back of the valve when
the steam or other medium of pressure is in the valve chest and also in
the case of condensing engines, the reducing the internal area of the
valve acted upon by the vacuum in the condenser and tending to draw a
the valve face to the port face. This part of my Invention is illustrated
on Sheets 3 and 4 of my Drawings.

page_text: •
Figure 1 (Sheet 3) represents a longitudinal section of one arrange-
ment of my improved circular rotating equilibrium slido valve shewing
the section being taken through, the port face, with the isolated
bearing A in the centre of tho exhaust port on port-face through the
circular slide valvo B, and its projecting surface O in the centre of the
exhaust opening and also through the circular loose picce O' for receiving.
the point of the helical spring F, also through the metallic packing
ring 6 made in two halves and through the cap D which is pressed against
the valvo chest cover E.
:
Figure 2 is a corresponding plan of the port face with the isolated
bearing surface A of an oval form in the centre of the exhaust port; and
Figuro 3 is a detail of the cap.
:
Figure 1 (Sheet 4) represents a plan of the valve in its clip or buckle
with the cap D. removed, a portion of the valve being shewn in hori-
zontal section, this Figure showing the metallic packing ring & made in
two halves, the springs & and the segmental picces c and c¹ hercin-after
described.
Figure 2 on this Sheet is a transverse section of the circular slido
valve C with the loose circular piece O¹, the buckle H, springs d, and
metallic packing ring 6 in two halves, also the segmental pieces c².
Figure 3 is a plan of the annular and circular valve face, and
Figure 4 is a detail plan of the metallic packing ring made in two
halves. In the centre of the exhaust port I form an isolated bearing
surface A (Sheet 8), which is flush with the port face, and the valve B
is formed with an internal bearing surface C in the centre of the exhaust
opening, such bearing surface being flush with the valve. face and
working upon the isolated bearing surfaco A in the centre of the exhaust
port. The internal bearing surface of the valve face reduces the internal
area of the valve subjected to the action of the vacuum in condensing
engines which tends to draw the valve face, to the port face, and in
either high or low pressure engines it increases the bearing surface of
the valve face without increasing the surface acted upon by the pressure
in the valve chest.
An annular groove a is turned round the periphery of the back portion
of the valve, and in this groove there is fitted an L shaped packing

page_text: and 4 (Sheet 4), which packing, ring, is interposed between the annular
groove a and the internal parallel surface 9 of the cap D, as shewn in
Figure 1 (Sheet 3), herein-after mentioned, which cap is held in contact
with the inner surface of the cover E of the valve chest, or with a'
central plate situated between the two valves when ond valve chest is
employed for supplying two cylinders with steam by the helical spring F.
when the pressure is out of the valve chest; but when the pressure is
admitted into the valve chest such pressure acting upon the annular arca
of the cap D next the valve B presses the cap D.against the valve chest
cover. On the back of the valve I apply the loose cap D, which is kept
central by having a central hollow boss f cast thereon fitting into a.
corresponding opening formed on the back of the valve B within the
internal bearing surface in the centre of the exhaust opening in the said
valve, which boss or opening is turned slightly spherical to accomodate
for any want of parallelism between the port face and the surface of the
steam chest cover or central plate when one valve chest is employed for
supplying both cylinders and also to allow the valve to lift from the port
face in case of compression in the cylinder caused by the condensed.
water remaining in the cylinder or by the boiler priming, such clearance
being shown to allow the valve to lift from the port face in Figure 1
(Sheet 3).
r
I
+
.
The metallic packing 6 is of an L. section, as shown in Figure 1
(Sheet 3) and Figure 2 (Shect 4), made in one ring, and afterwards cut
in two halves, cach half of the reduced outward area of the ring being.
kept outwardly pressed against the internal bored parallel. surface g of
the cap D by the bow spring-d, as shewn in plan, Figure 1, and section.
Figure 2 (Sheet 4), when the pressure is out of the valve chest. When
the pressure is admitted into the valve chest it enters through the slot.
or opening m, shown in section, Figure 2 (Sheet 4), filling the annular.
groove a, and acts upon the internal arca of each ring, and forces the
outward reduced area against the internal bored parallel surface 5 of the
cap D, thereby causing the said surface in contact to become perfectly
tight so long as the pressure remains in the valve chest, while at the
same time the pressure acts upon the lateral area of the half ring next
to the valve, thereby pressing the reduced lateral area of the said ring
against the upper or faced surface of the groove a turned in the back of
the valve B. The segmental pieces c, c, Figure 4 (Sheet 4), for covering
and making the junction of the half-rings steam-tight, fill the groove_or.

page_text: !
rebate turned in the ring, such groove or rebate serving the purpose of
reducing the outward arca in contact with the internal bored parallel
surface of the cap, and also of reducing the lateral area, which is
pressed against the faced surface of the annular groove a. Theso seg-.
6 mental pieces are secured at one end to each half ring by two rivets p
the other end overlapping the other half ring; as shown in scotion,
Figure 1 (Sheet 3), and in plan, Figures 1 and 4 (Sheet 4). These
segmental joint pieces aro bevelled throughout their entire length and
depth, as shown in section and plan át Figure 1 (Sheet 3), and at
Figures 1 and 4 (Sheet 4).
i
Other segmental pieces c³ of the same form as these described aro
attached at intervals on the ring, and are secured to it by two rivets p',
one at each end of the segmental piece, so as to prevent lateral buckling
in cach half ring, as shown in Figures 1 and 4 (Sheet 4) of my
Drawings.
יו
The number of these segmental pieces.c' will vary according to the
diameter of the ring employed. Two stop screws e, e, are tapped into
the upper part of the valve, but in the lower part of the chamber a, as
shewn in Figuro 1 (Sheets 3 and 4), and are for the purpose of preventing
cach half ring from turning in the annular groove a, so as to keep the
springs at right angles to the junction of the half rings, as shown in the
plan, Figure 1 (Sheet 4)..
A helical spring F bears at one end on the centre of the loose picco C¹
in the before-mentioned internal bearing surface c of the valve face, as
shown in section in Figure 1 (Sheet 3), and in plan, Figures 1 and 3
(Sheet 4). The other end of this spring bears on the centro of the
cap D, and serves to hold the said cap in contact with the valvo chiest
cover E or central plate before referred to, when the pressure is' out of
the valve chest, and by employing the loose picce O in the valve face
for taking the thrust of the helical spring F, the valve is allowed to fall.
away from the port face when the steam is shut off (as in the case of
locomotive engines running without steam), thereby preventing any
back pressure from being realized in the cylinder by the piston travelling
to and fro.
Should any steam or water of condensation gain access to the central

page_text: in the centre portion of the cap D, over the hollow boss f before referred
to. On the working face of the cap D, an annular groove /' and holes /
are made, which groove in conjunction with other channels i, serve
as free vents for any steam that may leak behind the cap D, and the
steam chest cover E, when first put to work on the engine for the steam 5
escaping through the pipe G to the atmosphere, as shown in Figures 1
(Sheet 3).
.
The upper part of the back of the valve B is turned to a less diameter
than the internal bored surface of the cap D, so as to allow a free
vent to the atmosphere through the pipe G of any steam that may
escape between the outward roduced area of the half rings band the
internal bored parallel surface g of the cap D, as also between the
reduced lateral surface of the said half rings and the faced surface of
the groove a, which is turned in the back of the valve B, as shown in
section, Figure 1 (Sheet 3). The pressure removed from the back of ]
the valve by this arrangement is due to the area of the internal diameter
of the cap D, which must bo of a smaller diameter than that of the
valve B, as shown on the Drawing, Figure 1 (Sheet 3).
The form of the metallic packing rings may be modified, as shewn in
plan, Figure 3 (Sheet 1) of my Drawings, and of an L section, shown
in Figure 7 (Sheet 1), so as to dispense with the stop screws already
referred to and shown in Figure 1 (Sheet 8) of my Drawings.
When the metallic packing ring 6 is required to be made of a large
diameter, as would be the case in large stationary or marine engines, it
may be made in the form of an entire ring, cut through on one side, and
sprung into the annular groove a, in which case the joint may be made
good, as described in my former Specification, No. 563, A.D., 1872. It
will be scen by referring to Figure 1 (Sheet 3), and to Figures 1 and 2
(Sheet 4), that the clip or buckle H surrounding the circular slido
valve B is bored out, so as to be an easy fit over the back part of the
valve to allow the valve to rotate freely within it. The semicircular ends
of the buckle H are struck with the same radius as the diameter of the
valve face B, each being struck from a separate centre, for the purpose
of giving a greater sectional area on the longitudinal section, as shown in
Figure 1 (Sheet 3), so as to keep the clip or buckle H from springing,
and thereby allow the valve B to rotate freely within the buckle H
during the reciprocal motion of thic valve.

page_text: A flat surfaco R, Figuro 1 (Sheet 4), is provided on each side of the
total depth of the buckle 1, so as to form a guide between the projecting
surface R on each side of the valve chest, as shewn in plan, Figuro 2
(Sheet 3) of my Drawings, so as to keep the valve B always central over
the port, and thus prevent any lateral motion of the buckle H by the
rotation of the valve B. These projecting surfaces R, R, aro suitably
faced on the inner side, and serve to impart a rotating motion to the
valve when travelling without pressure by reason of the periphery of the
face of the valve rolling against one or other of the said surfaces.
The same rotating motion of the valvo B is also obtained when under
pressure if one side of the valve face or port face should become more
dry for want of lubrication than the other side, as a greater amount of
friction will be caused on that part of the port face or valve face through
a deficiency of lubrication, thereby creating a greater amount of cohesion
between the parts in contact; and by the reciprocal motion of the
valve B tho excess of cohesion on one side of the valve face over tho
other will cause the valve B to rotate in the buckle H, thereby causing
a uniformity of wear between the surfaces in contact.
The cap is also free to rotate independently of the valve, which would
be produced by similar causes to that described for the circular valve,
thereby causing a uniformity of wear between the cap and steam chost
cover or central plate placed between the backs of the two valves when
one valve chest supplies both cylinders.
According to the Drawing of my improved metallic packing half rings
or rings for circular slide valves, as shown on Sheets 3 and 4, the inner
area of the ring acted upon by steam pressure is about 18 square inches,
and the outer reduced area pressed against the internal bored parallel
surface g of the cap D is about 12 square inches, and the lateral area of
the said rings next the valve is about 23 square inches, and the reduced
lateral area of the same pressed against the faced surface of the annular
groovo a is about 12 square inches. These proportions will vary
according to the width, breadth, and diameter of half rings or rings
adopted.
All the required parts of the herein-before described valve can be

page_text: The rings, half rings, and segments of the metallic packings, as shown
on Sheets 1, 2, 3, and 4 of my Drawings, can be made either of brass,
gun metal, copper, white metal, cast or wrought iron, or any other
suitable metal.
Sheets 5 and 6 of my Drawings illustrate another arrangement of my
improved circular rotating equilibrium slide valve."
'
Figure 1 (Sheet 5) is a longitudinal section taken through the cylinder
port face, the raised seat cast on to the cylinder in the centre of the
exhaust port, the valve, the valve clip or buckle, and the valve chest,
and showing the steam and exhaust ports, with an isolated circular seat
or bearing D in the centre of the exhaust port on the port face for
supporting the raised table or bearing surface C secured to it by a stud a
and nut b. Figure 2 is a corresponding plan of the cylinder valve chest
and port face, shewing the isolated seat or bearing D in the centre of the
exhaust on the port face, the valve chest cover being removed.
"
Figure 1 (Sheet 6) is a transverse section taken through the line a, b;
as shewn in dotted lines.
I
".
-
Figure 2 (Sheet 6) is a plan of the raised bearing surface on the
isolated circular seat or bearing table D; and Figure 3 is a plan of thé
valve A in its clip or buckle E.
$1:
According to this part of my Invention. I reduce the arca subject to
pressure on the back of the valve by making the valve with two distinct
bearing surfaces A and B, as shown in Figure 1 (Sheet 5), and Figure 1'
(Sheet 6); the surface A being in contact with the port face, and t
surface B in contact with a raised bearing surface O.
i'
1
F
tho
The raised bearing surface C is secured by a stud a and nut 6 to the
isolated bearing surface D in the centre of the exhaust port, as shown'on'
Figure 1 (Sheet 5), and Figure 1 (Slicet 6); c, c, are stop pins, one on
each side of the central stud a, formed with a collar to prevent them
coming out, which is recessed into the isolated bearing surface D; as
shown in Figure 1 (Sheet 6), the other end of these pins c being fitted
into corresponding holes in the raised bearing surface O to keep it in' its
proper position. The holes in which the pins c fit into are shown in plan
on Figure 2 (Sheet 5), in the isolated seat or bearing in the centre of
the exhaust port, and the corresponding holes in the raised bearing
surface are shown in plan on Figure 2 (Sheet 6), of my, Drawings.

page_text: The annular surface A of the valve bears upon the port face, and the
internal annular surface B bears upon the raised table or bearing surface C,
as shewn in Figure 1 (Sheet 5), and Figure 1 (Sheet 6) of my Drawings.
The central part of the back of the valvo enclosed within the clip or
buckle I prefer making of a dome shape, as shown in section, Figure 1
(Sheet 5), and Figure 1 (Shect 6), so as to increase the strength of that
portion of the back of the valve which is not in equilibrium. A pro-
jecting boss surrounds the dome, which boss is turned on its outer
periphery for the buckle or clip E to fit over.
The holes d (shown in Figure 1, Sheet 5), Figure 1, Sheet 6, and in
plan, Figure 8, Sheet 6), on the dome shaped part of the valve enclosed
within the clip on buckle E are for the purpose of admitting pressure into
the recess or chamber e, cast in the face of the raised bearing surface O,
so that the recessed area c, (shown in section, Figure 1 (Sheet 5),
also in section, Figure 1 (Sheet 6), and in plan, Figure 2 (Sheet G),
represents that area of the back of the valve which is in equilibrium.
When the valve is in the central position, as shown in Figuro 1
(Sheet 5), and Figure 1 (Sheet 6), but as the valve moves towards its
extremo position in either direction from its central position for opening
the steam port the area in equilibrium on the back of the valve increases
up to the point of its farthest throw.
It will bo scen by referring to the sections, Figures 1 (Sheets 5 and 6),
and the plan, Figure 3 (Sheet 6) of my Drawings, that the clip or
bucklo E surrounding the projecting or raised boss on the back of the
valve A is bored out so as to be an easy fit to allow the valve to rotate
freely within it during the reciprocal motion of the valve. The outer
periphery of the valve A is turned, as shown at R', R', Figures 1
(Sheet 5 and 6); and a flat surface R, R., is provided on each side of tho
valvo chest suitably faced up so as to form a guide to keep the valvo ▲
always central over the ports.
The rotatory motion of the valve is obtained when under pressure of
steam or other fluids. When working if one side of the annular valvo
face and port face, or one side of the internal annular surface B in the
valve A, and one side of the raised table or bearing surface O should
become dry for want of more lubrication than the other, on either of
these surfaces a greater amount of friction will be caused on those parts

page_text: referred to, which will cause the valve to rotate freely within its clip or
buckle E. The reciprocal and rotating motion of the valve combined
causes the internal annular face of my circular valve B to wear equally.
throughout its entire face on the raised table or bearing surface C, and
also between the valve face A and port face, thereby causing a
uniformity of wear and longer duration on the entire surface in contact.
The projecting surfaces R, R, serve to impart a rotatory motion to the
slide valve travelling when the pressure is out of the valve chest by
reason of the turned periphery R' of the valve A rolling against one or
other of the said surfaces R, R, during the reciprocal motion of the
valve, moro especially upon locomotive engines when running with the
steam shut off.
"
"
In condensing engines the area of the exhaust opening of the valve,
which is subjected to the vacuum drawing the valve face, to the port.
face, is reduced to an extent equal to the entire area of the raised sur.
face O, as shewn in section in Figure 1 (Sheets 5 and 6) and the plan,;
Figure 2 (Sheet 6) of my Drawings. The said valve A can be made in
one or two parts, as required, to admit of a larger raised surface O; but
in all cases the diameter of the raised surface C'must be smaller than
the diameter of the valve face A. The said valve can be turned up and "
finished in a lathe, consequently its construction is rendered simple and
economical.
A bow or disc spring can be employed bearing upon the buckle' E,
and connected centrally to the dome shaped part of the valve surrounded
by the clip or buckle E for the purpose of lifting the'valve A slightly
clear of the port face, so as to prevent 'the reciprocal motion of the
piston in the cylinder acting as an air pump when the engine is running
with the steam shut off, as in the case of locomotive engines.
I
This last-described arrangement of valve, shewn on Sheets 5 and 6,,
will be found especially useful for condensing engines, hydraulic motive-
power engines, and steam hammers; and is also applicablo by a slight
modification for regulators and other valves, which I havo illustrated on
Sheet 7 of my Drawings.
Sheet 7 of my Drawings illustrates another modification adopted for.

page_text: Figure 1 (Sheet 7) is a longitudinal section of my improved regulator..
valve taken through the valve and port faces; Figure 2 is a corresponding.
plan of the same; Figure 3 is a transverse section of the valve and port
faces; Figure 4 is a corresponding plan of the scating; Figure 5 is a
front elevation of the valve; Figure 6 is a plan of the valve buckle and
spindlo; and Figuro 7 is a detail side elevation of the buckle detached.
The port opening a in the port face is of an annular form, as shown
partly in black, see Figure 4; and the bearing surface of the port faco:b,
which is of an oblong or oval form, is raised slightly, as shown in
Figures 1 and 3, to allow of the outer periphery of the valvo face c to
travel over the port face when being opened or closed, so as to insure
uniformity of wear of both port and valve faces. The válvo face c´is
also circular and annular, and the valve A is dome shaped on the back,
as shown in section; Figures 1 and 3, for the purpose of strengthening
the annular face c. Holes d, d, are made in the dome for the passage
of the steam or other fluid, as shown by the arrows in Figure 3. The
back of the valve A is formed with a central hollow boss B turned on
the outer periphery, so as to receive the clip or buckle O, which allows
the valve to rotato freely within it as the valve is opened or closed.
The opening and closing of the valve may be effected in various ways..
In my Drawing I have represented a screw spindle D for this purpose,
working on an internally screwed boss E in one piece with the buckle C..
The valvo is kept central by working between the parallel projecting
surfaces F, F, cast on each side of the valve cover or casing suitably.
faced up, and shown in section in Figure 3, and in dotted lines in.
Figures 1 and 2. In order to prevent any canting of the buckle Ơ,.
and consequent jambing or setting of the valve therein when the scrow
spindle is rotated for the opening or closing of the valve, I attach to or
form on the buckle the cross guides 0, 0, shown in Figures 3, 6, and 7,
which bear upon the upper face of the projecting surfaces F, F. The.
rotation of the valve is insured by the existence of any extra friction on
one side of the valve face over the other, or by the contact of one or
other side of its periphery against either of the inner sides of the pro-
jecting surfaces F, F.
When the valve is being opened the water, steam, or other pressure
passes past the outer periphery of the back end of the annular valve
face through the port a,, and at the same time passes past the inner edge
of the opposite side of the annular port, as shown by the two arrows in.
0

page_text: Figure 1, the fluid or other pressure gaining access to the interior of
the valve by the openings B and d, as shown by the arrows in Figure 3.
When the valve is closed the pressure is exerted only upon the annular
area C, C, of the valve face pressing it against the port face b, b, by tho
steam or other medium in the valve chest, the area contained within the 5
diameter of the faces C, C, of the valve A being in equilibrium.

page_text: Secondly. The use of a recessed or rebated metallic packing ring
of a T section when the ring is divided only at one point, in combination.
with segmental joint, picces and with other segmental pieces to prevent
lateral buckling, the annular groove having sides that are inclined. or
bevelled or in some cases rectangular, when arranged and operating
substantially as hercin-before described and illustrated on Sheet 2 of the
Drawings annexed.
Thirdly. The use of metallic collapsing packing for piston rods,
hydraulic rams, and similar purposes, composed of one or more metallic
rings, or of two or more metallic half rings or segments of an L shaped
section, having their inner surfaces which are in contact with the piston
rod or ram of a reduced area as compared with a ring of a rectangular
section, and having the contact surface of one side of each ring, half
ring, or segment, also of a reduced area as compared to the full area'
of the opposite side subjected to lateral pressure, such rings, half rings,
or segments being provided with segmental joint pieces or their cqui-
valent, and contained within a chamber in the cylinder cover, the whole
being arranged and operating together substantially as herein-boforo
described and illustrated on Sheets 1 and 2 of the Drawings annexed.
Fourthly. The combination with the before-mentioned metallic
collapsing packing rings, half rings, or segments of segmental, joint
pieces or their equivalent, substantially as and for the purpose herein-
before described and illustrated on Sheets 1 and 2 of the Drawings
annexed.
Fifthly. The combination with the before-mentioned metallic collapsing
packing rings when used in the form of half rings or segments of springs
for keeping them in contact with the piston rod when not subjected to
steam or fluid pressure, substantially as herein-before described and
illustrated on Sheets 1 and 2 of the annexed Drawings..
Sixthly. The use in the manner and for the purpose herein described
of the before-mentioned metallic collapsing packing rings, whether used
in the form of rings, half rings, or segments, in combination with helical
or.other spring, or of adjusting screws for holding them laterally
together, as illustrated on Sheets 1 and 2 of the Drawings annexed.
Seventhly. The uso of vent holes through the before-mentioned
metallic collapsing packing rings, half rings, or segments when moro

page_text: than one ring or its equivalent is used, and through the cover of the
chamber containing the same, substantially as and for the purposó
herein-before described and illustrated on Sheets 1 and 2 of the Drawings
annexed.
"
Eighthly. The construction and use of a circular equilibrium slide
valve for steam and hydraulic motive-power engines and steam hammers,
provided with an internal bearing surface in the centre of the exhaust
opening in the valve, in combination with an isolated bearing surface in
the centre of the exhaust port flush with the port face, substantially as
and for the purpose herein-before described and illustrated on Slieets 3
and 4 of the annexed Drawings.
Ninthly. The making an isolated bearing surface in the centre of the
exhaust port of the cylinder, and flush with the port face, substantially
as and for the purpose herein-before described and illustrated on Sheets 3
and 4 of the Drawings annexed.
I
..
Tenthly. The use of the before-mentioned loose cap held by a spring
in contact with the valve chiest cover or central plato when the steam or
fluid pressure is shut off, in combination with a loose picce in the
manner and for the purpose herein-before described and illustrated on
Sheets 3 and 4 of the Drawings annexed.
1
Eleventhly. The use of a valve with two distinct bearing surfaces, tho
one being in contact with the port face and the other in contact with a
raised bearing surface secured to an isolated bearing surface or support
in the centre of the exhaust, as and for the purpose herein-before
described and illustrated on Sheets 5 and 6 of the Drawings annexed.
Twelfthly. The reducing the pressure on circular regulator or other
valves for controlling and regulating the flow of fluids under pressure,
by making them with an annular valve face working in conjunction
with an annular port or opening, and providing apertures in the back
of the central part of the valve for the admission of steam or other
medium of pressure into a chamber formed between the back of the
valve and the surface over which it works, substantially as and for the
purpose herein-before described and illustrated on Sheet 7 of the
Drawings annexed.
Thirteenthly. The making the before-mentioned circular regulator
•

page_text: spindle, substantially as and for the purpose herein-beforo described and
illustrated on Sheet 7 of the Drawings annexed.
In witness whereof, I, the said Walter Charles Church, havo to
this my Specification set my hand and scal, the Eighteenth day
of February One thousand eight hundred and seventy-threo.

page_text: LETTERS PATENT to Walter Charles Church of 39 Lombard Street in the
City of London Consulting Engineer-for the Invention of "IMPROVEMENTS
IN STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES PARTLY APPLICABLE TO STEAM HAMMERS,
HYDRAULIC RAMS AND PUMPS AND TO VALVES FOR REGULATING THE FLOW
OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE
"
PROVISIONAL SPECIFICATION left by the said Walter Charles Church
at the Office of the Commissioners of Patents with his Potition on the
19th August 1872.
WALTER CHARLES CHURCH of 39 Lombard Street in the City of London
Consulting Engineer "IMPROVEMENTS IN STEAM AND HYDRAULIC ENGINES
PARTLY APPLICABLE TO STEAM HAMMERS, HYDRAULIC RAMS AND PUMPS AND TO
VALVES FOR REGULATING THE FLOW OF FLUIDS UNDER PRESSURE
"J
This Invention relates partly to certain improvements in metallic expanding and
collapsing packing for the pistons and stufling boxes of steam, air, gas, or hydraulic
motive power engines applicable also to the pistons rams or plungers of steam
hammers bydraulic presses and pumps whereby a tight packing is obtained in a
more simple and economical manner than heretofore; also to certain peculiar
constructions and arrangements of circular and rectangular slide valvos and
exhaust port for steam and hydraulic motive power engines and steam hammers
which valves are also applicable for regulating the flow of fluids under pressure.
By my improved valves I obtain greater durability and economy in the cost of
manufacture whilst the power of the engine is increased and a consequent saving
in fuol is effected.
According to one modification of my improved packing for the pistons of steam
and hydraulic motive power engines and steam hammers I employ a piston body
having a single annular groove or chamber turned in the periphery thereof. In
this groove thero is titted so as to be loose or free to play laterally therein a
metallic packing ring which is kept pressed against the internal working surface

page_text: of the cylinder by the pressure of the actuating steam or other medium in such
cylinder. This ring is of a T section the inner area of which, subject to pressure
from within outwards is greater than the area pressed against the internal working
surface of the cylinder. The two lateral reduced surfaces of the said ring are at
each stroke of the piston brought in contact with the opposite sides alternately of
the annular groove or chamber. As the total lateral area of that side of the ring
which is not in contact with the side of the annular groove and which is subject
to pressure is greater than the reduced area which is for the time being in contact
with the opposite side of the annular groove it follows that such ring will be held
in close contact with the forward side of the groove or that next the exhaust end
of the cylinder. The steam or other medium employed as the prime mover is
admitted into the annular groove in the piston through holes or slots made on
opposite sides of the piston at or near its periphery so as to be outside the reduced
annular surface of the packing ring.
The holes or slots on the exhaust side of the piston are closed for the time being
by the contact of the side of the packing ring therewith-When the piston is
subjected to steam or other pressure on one side only as in the case of single
acting steam engines, steam hammers and air pumps then the holes or slots in the
piston need only be made on one side thereof.
The joint in the packing ring is made good by a segmental pieco filling the
annular recess or rebate on each side of the ring such segmental pieces being
secured to opposite ends of the ring.
Other segmental pieces are secured at convenient intervals round the annular
recess or rebate of the packing ring to prevent lateral buckling and these may be
applied also to packing rings of an L shaped section. I sometimes make the sides
of the annular groove inclined or bevelled outwards and make the reduced lateral
surfaces of the packing ring of the same bevel or inclination in order that the
lateral pressure of the steam or other medium may tend to force the ring outwards
against the internal working surface of the cylinder.
This is equally applicable to pistons containing two or more packing rings of
an L shaped section in which case the central belt alone between the two grooves
is bevelled or inclined. In some cases the before mentioned packing rings may be
made in two halves semi circles or segments and held outwards when not subject
to steam or other pressure by internal springs, the joints of the half rings or
segments being made good by segmental pieces as already described.
In some cases the piston may be fitted with junk rings which will constitute the
outer side of the annular grooves before mentioned.
My improved metallic collapsing packing for piston rods, hydraulic rams and
similar purposes consists of one or more metallic rings half rings or segments of
an L section having their inner surface which is in contact with the piston rod or
rain of a reduced area as compared with a rectangular ring and having the contact
surface of one side of the ring also of a reduced area as compared to the full area
of the opposite side subjected to lateral pressure-These rings are contained within
an annular chamber in the cylinder cover and when more than one ring is used
they are placed one upon the other each ring breaking joint with its neighbour
such joints being made good by segmental pieces fitting the recess or rebate in the
ring as described in reference to the piston packing herein before described―These
rings half rings or segments are pressed laterally when not subjected to pressure
by a spring or springs other springs being employed when using half rings or
segments for keeping them in contact with the piston rod or ram-When steam or
other pressure is admitted into the annular chamber thro' holes made for that
purpose in the cylinder cover such steam by acting upon the increased outer areas
of the rings half rings or segments collapses or presses them against the piston rod
or rain and by also acting against the increased lateral area of the ring next the
cylinder such pressure forces the whole of the rings half rings or segments laterally
against each other and presses the reduced lateral area of the ring which is farthest
from the cylinder against the cover of the annular chamber which may be either