I've had this generator for a good many of years and have finally decided it's time to find out more about it. Are any of you familiar with it? It appears complete and in good shape. How does it work, what type of lamp would go with it? Thank you in advance for any and all information.
Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that it produces a measured quantity by adding water to calcium carbide at a measured rate. The clockwork mechanism may have something to do with the rate that water is delivered. Some homes had installed acetylene lighting systems since they provided a very bright and white light. The generator would be centrally located (like a hot water heater) to deliver gas to the lighting fixtures. Someone jump in and set me straight!
What you say makes perfect sence Al, could also be used by a church, public hall etc.etc. . My first thought was workshop use, for welding. I have seen acethylene generators advertised by a German company (the name escapes me at the mo ) up till maybe 20 years ago (or even less). Best regards, Wim
I also thought it might be for welding. It does say portable on the plate which suggests it wasn't meant to be installed as a permenant fixture. Sid.
Acetylene should be handled with outmost care! Be shure that releaf pressure valves are working, since Ac. is prone to ignite at exess pressure (own experience). Mixed with oxygen, acetylene will be prone to ignition at the percentage of 2 - 80 % . No matter what, take care. If you smell garlic, concentration of Ac will now be pretty high... Yours sincerely Ben
Also be aware that lime looking residues are extremely basic, etching away almost everyting made of metal. B
