The basic process for making gas from coal used in the early 19th century remained essentially unchanged right through until the last coal gas works closed in the 1970s. Coal in a closed tube called a retort was heated in a furnace. The gasses given off – mainly hydrogen and carbon monoxide – passed through a water trap (“hydraulic main”) and were then cooled in a condenser, where tar and some other liquids were removed. The gas then passed through a purifier to remove sulphur compounds and other impurities before being used or stored. When it was realised that it would be more efficient to ma
The basic process for making gas from coal used in the early 19th century remained essentially unchanged right through until the last coal gas works closed in the 1970s. Coal in a closed tube called a retort was heated in a furnace. The gasses given off – mainly hydrogen and carbon monoxide – passed through a water trap (“hydraulic main”) and were then cooled in a condenser, where tar and some other liquids were removed. The gas then passed through a purifier to remove sulphur compounds and other impurities before being used or stored. When it was realised that it would be more efficient to make gas over a longer period and store it the first gas holders just consisted of a “bell” floating in a tank of water. Calibration marks on the floating bell showed how much gas was being made or used, so these devices became “gasometers” (illustrated).
Size: 5698px × 3294px
Location: United Kingdom
Photo credit: © De Luan / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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