In the annexed cut we have represented a steam safety valve, which is
the invention of M. Schmidt, M. E., of Zurich, Switzerland. It consists
of a lever terminating in two prongs, one of which extends downward and
rests upon the cap, closing the top of the tube through which the steam
escapes. The other prong extends upward and catches under a projection
of the steam tube, and forms the fulcrum for the lever. The opposite end
of this lever is provided with an adjustable screw pressing upon a plate
that rests on the top of a spiral spring, which keeps the valve closed
by pressing the outer end of the lever upward. As soon as the pressure
of the steam overcomes the pressure of the spiral spring the valve will
be raised, permitting the steam to escape. The apparatus is contained in
a case having a central aperture for the escape of steam.
[Illustration: IMPROVED SAFETY VALVE.]
* * * * *