Gas Generators - Kipp's Apparatus

On-Demand Gas Production Using Kipp's Apparatus Principle

You know those moments when you need a steady stream of H₂S or CO₂ but don't want to mess with gas cylinders? That's where Kipp's apparatus really shines. It's basically the original "set it and forget it" gas generator that's been around since the 1800s, and honestly, the design still holds up today.

Three-Chamber Reaction Vessel Design

The genius here is in the three-bulb setup—you've got your lower reservoir holding the acid, a middle chamber where the magic happens with your solid reagent, and an upper funnel that feeds liquid down when you need it. Ground glass joints keep everything sealed tight, which is crucial when you're dealing with nasty gases like hydrogen sulfide. The borosilicate construction handles pretty much anything you throw at it, temperature-wise we're talking -10°C to 200°C range. When you're setting up, make sure those joints are properly greased—learned that one the hard way when doing precipitation reactions at 2 AM.

Controlled Gas Generation from Solid-Liquid Reactions

Here's what makes it brilliant: the gas pressure actually controls itself. When you open the stopcock, acid flows down to contact your solid reagent—zinc for hydrogen, marble chips for CO₂, ferrous sulfide for H₂S. Close the stopcock and pressure builds up, pushing the acid back down and stopping the reaction. It's like having a Pumps system but purely mechanical. You'll want Glass sticks handy for stirring and checking your solid reagent levels. Capacities run from 250ml up to 2000ml depending on how much gas you need.

Safety Features and Pressure Relief Systems

Safety-wise, you've got built-in pressure relief through the design itself—excess pressure just pushes liquid back into the reservoir. Still, you'll want proper ventilation, especially with H₂S work.

• Always check ground glass joints for cracks before use
• Keep a Watering pumps setup nearby for emergency neutralization
• If you're doing reflux work afterward, pair it with a Dimroth condenser or Coiled-straight condenser,double layer for efficient cooling
• Monitor pressure with calibrated volume markings on the glass

Way more convenient than dealing with cylinder regulators, and you're generating exactly what you need when you need it.