This consists of modifications of appliances which have long been used.
Simple as it is, and presenting only mechanical problems, the cutting,
cleaning, and evaporating apparatus is likely to be the source of more
delays and perplexities in the operation of the sugar factory than any
other part.
The diffusion battery in good hands works perfectly; the clarification
of the juice causes no delays; the concentration to the condition of
semi-sirup may be readily, rapidly, and surely effected in apparatus
which has been brought to great perfection by long experience, and in
many forms; the work at the strike pan requires only to be placed in the
hands of an expert; the mixer never fails to do its duty; there are
various forms of centrifugal machines on the market, some of which are
nearly perfect. If, then, the mechanical work of delivering, cutting,
cleaning, and elevating the cane can be accomplished with regularity and
rapidity, the operation of a well adjusted sugar factory should proceed
without interruption or delay from Monday morning to Saturday night.