AN IMPROVED REFLUX CONDENSER I)'
In tne refluxing of systems containing ether, alcohol, or other volatile solvents, considerable danger is sometimes encountered by the fact that the condensed liquid in running down the condenser tube may shut off the passage of the rising vapor. As a result of the gas pressure formed in the system, the condensed liquid collects in the condenser tube and at times may spout out the tube at the top, pushed by the rising vapor. This liquid spouting out of the condenser becomes a serious fire hazard, particularly as i t is often advantageous to leave a set-up refluxing when the operator is absent. This trouble may be completely overcome by blowing a small hole in the side of the inner tube of condenser about 2-3 cm. above the lower end. This same type of trouble sometimes occurs in the condenser tube above the gas-generator flask of a carbon dioxide apparatus and may be remedied in the same manner.
