GB180052A - Improvements relating to compressors for air or other gases - Google Patents

Abstract

180,052. Nicholson, A. H. Feb. 17, 1921. Actuating pumps by fluid-pressure motors.- Relates to compressors of the kind in which pistons in the same cylinder are driven in opposite directions on the outward stroke by the combustion of liquid or gaseous fuel compressed and ignited on the inward stroke in the space between the two pistons, the return strokes being effected by air compressed in cushioning spaces on the outward strokes or by compressors. actuated by the pistons. The movements of the main pistons are equalized by hydraulic plungers operated by these pistons or by compressing- devices actuated by them, and communicating by oil &c. pipes with plungers rigidly connected with a plunger reciprocating in a pneumatic cylinder. Fig. 1 shows a compressor which comprises a pair of pistons 2, 3 working in a combustion cylinder 1 and each connected by its rod to a corresponding piston 8, 9 in a compression cylinder 6, 7. Hydraulic plungers 16, 17 secured to the pistons 8, 9 reciprocate within pipes 19, 18 containing oil or other liquid which acts on a synchronizing device comprising plungers 20, 21 secured to a piston 22 moving within a cylinder 23 which is in communication with the ends of the combustion cylinder 2 through a valve 25 with a reservoir 24 or with the atmosphere. The middle space of the combustion cylinder is connected by a pipe 31 with a cylinder 30 containing a piston 29 the rod of which controls the ignition gear or the oil admission, in accordance with the combustion .cylinder pressure, Starting is effected by establishing atmospheric pressure at the end of the combustion cylinder by means of the valve 25. The inlet port 4 of the combustion cylinder may be formed in two parts for separate entry of gas and air, the gas port being the last uncovered. In working, the return stroke is effected by the compressed air in the cylinders 1, 6, 7, 23. In a modified form of apparatus, the ends of the combustion cylinder are connected by a pipe through which air is admitted, this air after compression being led by a pipe to the inlet port; the compressor cylinders are also connected together by a pipe with the valve 25. In a further modification, the compression is effected solely in the ends of the combustion cylinder; these ends are formed with a clearance space providing a cushion of air which effects the return stroke.