From the lower end of the cylinder there is a passage
which, by means of a rotating or reciprocating slide, is alternately
put in communication with inlets for gas and air (regulated by suitable
cocks or valves) and with a strong receptacle. As the piston, makes its
upstroke, air and gas are drawn into the annular space surrounding its
trunk, and the mixed air and gas are compressed by the downstroke of
the piston, and delivered into the receptacle, in which considerable
pressure is maintained. The receptacle is made of cylindrical form, with
a domed cover of thin sheet metal; so that in case of excessive internal
pressure it can operate as a safety-valve to save the body of the
receptacle from damage. From the upper end of the cylinder there is
a passage that, by means of a rotating or reciprocating slide, is
alternately put in communication with the receptacle and with a
discharge outlet. In this passage are fixed a number of wire gauze
screens or pieces of metal with interstices. These constitute a
regenerator of heat, and also prevent a communication of flame from the
cylinder to the receptacle. In the upper end of the cylinder or of the
piston shield are provided electrodes which give an electric spark, or
a platinum wire which is rendered incandescent by a current from an
inductor or other source of electricity to ignite the combustible charge
of the cylinder.
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