VERTICAL RETORTS AND CHAMBER OVENS 161
side outlets were dispensed with, and the system assumed the form, more or less, in which. it exists to-day. In comparison. with the two previously mentioned systems, the chief points to notice are that as the retorts are inteTmittently charged no con-tinuously operating machinery is necessary. The retorts are built in two sizes,. having a capacity of 18| cwts. and 32 cwts. of coal respectively per day.
The top and bottom lids on. the retorts are opened or closed as required by a system of hånd levers, bottom doors on the large retorts being operated by hydraulic
Fig. 82.—Glovek-West System. Top of Retort Besch, showing Charging Arrangements and Gas Outlets.
power. These are only used at charging times ; therefore suft'er little wear and tear, and have a long working life. One advantage of the intermitteat system of charging is that the retorts are open for inspection every twelve hours.
The coke discharged does not fall heavily, but rather glides steadily from the retorts into its receptacle without stock, which minimizes the wear and tear of apparatus, and avoids depreciation in market value due to crushing or breakmg, with formation of small and dirt.
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