GB653465A - Improvements in sectional electrolytic cells of the diaphragm type - Google Patents

Abstract

653,465. Electrolytic cells. INTERNATIONAL ELECTROLYTIC PLANT CO., Ltd., WOOD, W., and BOWEN, C. E. June 22, 1948, No. 16755. [Class 41] A sectional electrolytic cell unit of the diaphragm type adapted for multiple assembly with other units comprises two frames, one for laterally enclosing an anodic compartment containing the anode, and the other for laterally enclosing a cathodic compartment, a perforated. cathode plate clamped (together with the diaphragm if desired), between the adjoining faces of these frames, a division plate adapted to be clamped against the opposite face of one or of each frame for separating the cell unit from an adjacent unit, or as a closure, and tubular manifold sections separate from the frames, each section substantially equal in length to the combined thickness of the components mentioned above and adapted to communicate if required endwise with similar sections of adjacent cell units. In the multiple cell construction shown, for alkali-chlorine electrolysis, each cell unit comprises carbon anodes 1, a perforated steel cathode 2 and an asbestos diaphragm 3, and is enclosed by frames 5 and 6. The units are separated by division plates 4 from which the anodes may be suspended. The units and plates are clamped by rods between frames 9 which also clamp together manifolds for circulating brine through the cell units and for withdrawing caustic effluent and gases. The manifold 11 for introduction of brine through a pipe 11e is provided with ports 11b, flow therethrough being controlled by valves 11c. Manifold 12 for withdrawing spent brine and evolved chlorine is provided with an outlet pipe 12g and inspection plugs 12c. Manifold 13 for removal of caustic effluents and hydrogen is provided with outlet pipes 13e, 13g. The cathodes 2 and division plates 4 are provided with lugs for connection to the source of electric power. In a modified arrangement shown in Fig. 7, the cathode 2 is provided with stems 2b which depend into mercury cups 7a provided on the anode 1 of the unit below. The division plates 4 are non-conducting. External leads for electric supply are fitted only to the anode of the top cell and the cathode of the bottom cell.