so simple and slight that noise and wear are reduced to practically nil. The two thermostatic power elements, one in the boiler and one in the evaporator, control the water flow by a snap action in a simple and unique manner. The starting and stopping of the boiling period as well as three different water flows are accomplished: First, the water flow during the boiling period; second, a strong flow during the first part of the absorption period through the absorber to cool the machine down quickly, and third, a minimum amount of water flows during the most of the absorption period to extract the heats of evaporation and association. <Callout type="tip" title="Simplicity Reduces Wear">This simplicity reduces noise and wear, making the system more reliable.</Callout> The advantages of this non-electric control are manifold. First, it regulates the length of the cycle automatically according to the required amount of cold. Second, it is completely foolproof—<Callout type="important" title="Automatic Safety">if for example the power element in the evaporator should not operate due to an overload in the evaporator, the control of the machine would automatically be operated by the thermostat in the boiler.</Callout> The length of the absorption period would be determined by the rate of radiation from the boiler. This condition would last as long as there is an overload in the evaporator and thereafter the evaporator thermostat would automatically start its normal operation again. Third, it is selfstarting, that is, it does not matter during which operating condition the machine was shut off as it shifts automatically to the proper starting position. Fourth, the elimination of the necessity for any electric connections in the machine, or the elimination of the possible failure of the electrical current. Fifth, the elimination of the possible failure of the many intricate electrical parts such as wiring, contacts, switches, pilot wires, etc., all of which also require an electrical knowledge in the servicing. There is a safety pilot light which automatically lights the gas whenever it is turned on. Unburned gas cannot escape, due to the automatic gas shut-off of the safety pilot; if for instance, the pilot light should go out. The gas burner cannot be lit unless cooling water flows through the system. As long as the cooling water flows through the system it is impossible to attain abnormal or dangerous pressures in the system, and in order to comply with the Safety Code there <Callout type="risk" title="Pressure Regulation">is a rupture device which would exhaust the refrigerant with the cooling water in closed pipes at a safe pressure below the bursting pressure of the weakest part of the system, which bursting pressure is more than twelve times the maximum normal working pressure.</Callout> The normal working pressure during the refrigeration period range from 10 to 35 pounds gauge. The maximum normal working pressures during the heating periods are from 125 to 175 pounds per square inch, all of which vary according to room and cooling water temperatures. The machine can be manufactured in all sizes. One size is on the market which has an ice making capacity of about 23 pounds per cycle. The maximum capacity is therefore about 92 pounds in 4 cycles per 24 hours. <Callout type="beginner" title="Automatic Defrosting">The Sorco machine automatically defrosts the evaporator each cycle.</Callout> The box temperature increases 5 to 6 degrees Fahrenheit during the boiling period. The Sorco needs little servicing as it contains no movable parts beside the control and every machine, even when it is continuously operating, must have a control unless it is not fully automatic. The average operating cost of the Sorco refrigerator is 11 cents per day, on one dollar gas and water at one dollar per thousand cubic feet. The third of this cost is for water and two-thirds for gas. The Sorco Model E consumes from 40 to 80 cubic feet of gas per day according to conditions and the required refrigerating effect. <Callout type="gear" title="Gas Consumption">The average water consumption is under 200 gallons per day.</Callout>
Key Takeaways
- The non-electric control mechanism reduces noise, wear, and the risk of electrical failures.
- It automatically adjusts the cycle length based on required cooling needs.
- Safety features include automatic gas shut-off and pressure regulation.
Practical Tips
- Understand that simplicity in design can lead to fewer mechanical issues and higher reliability.
- Regularly check the safety pilot light for proper operation to prevent gas leaks.
- Monitor water consumption as it significantly impacts operating costs.
Warnings & Risks
- Be cautious of potential overloads in the evaporator which could disrupt normal operations.
- Ensure that cooling water flows through the system at all times to avoid dangerous pressures.
- Regular servicing is crucial, even for fully automatic systems, to maintain efficiency and safety.
Modern Application
While the specific technology described here may be outdated, the principles of simplicity in design, automatic safety features, and efficient resource management are still relevant. Modern survival techniques often incorporate these concepts into more advanced systems, ensuring reliability and safety even under challenging conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the non-electric control mechanism ensure safety during operation?
The system includes a safety pilot light that automatically lights the gas whenever it is turned on. Additionally, unburned gas cannot escape due to the automatic gas shut-off of the safety pilot if the pilot light goes out.
Q: What are the key advantages of using this non-electric control mechanism?
The main advantages include reduced noise and wear, foolproof operation even in case of an overload, self-starting functionality, elimination of electrical connections, and fewer intricate parts that require electrical knowledge for servicing.
Q: How does the Sorco machine handle defrosting?
The Sorco machine automatically defrosts the evaporator each cycle, ensuring that ice buildup is managed without manual intervention.