Corning Of The Powder

When the fulminating matter has been sufficiently drained in the dryer, corn it on a hair sieve fixed above a wooden table, by pressing it slightly with the fingers. This dangerous operation requires as much precaution as above. Too great a friction, especially if it be in the mass some parts too dry, will produce an explosion.

Thus, notwithstanding every care, the mass, which is sifted, can easily arrive at a degree of desiccation which renders it dangerous; it is very important to put on the sieve but very little powder; and, after each operation, dip the sieve into water, and before sifting, when there has been a certain interval between the two operations.

Wo have said that the corning is done on a wooden table. Wo think it will be better to cover that table with a black oil cloth well spread, which permits observation of the small quantities of powder which can be taken out easily with a damp sponge. The operation will be less dangerous by spreading under the oil cloth two or three thick woollen sheets, on which the shock of the sieve or other hard body will be without inconvenience.

The corned powder, mixed with mist, is poured into a sheet iron box of 12 to 14 inches, the angles are covered with wood to avoid the particles of powder penetrating into the corners. Shako this powder to give it a little consistency, and it is good to cover the inside of the box with sheet-tin to render the clean-ing more easy. At last, to avoid explosions which might be produced by grains of powder interposed between the covercle and the box, it is essential to cover the edges with a lamina of lead 1/8 of an inch thick.

Desiccation

To dry the corned powder, put it on sheets of gray paper, in boxes made of white wood, which are carried into the oven, and disposed on shelves.

Separation Of The Powder And The Mist

When the powder is sufficiently dried, it is carried back into the corning shop, where it is poured on a hair sieve which separates the mist.

Preservation Of The Powder In The Magazine

When the separation of the powder and the mist is effected, put the powder into bottles which must not contain more than 10 pounds. These bottles must be surrounded by braids of cane covered with a skin, and placed on shelves conveniently disposed.

When you want to use the powder to prepare the caps, begin to transvase it; pour it with a paste-board funnel from the bottles which contain it into small bottles of varnished leather. They are carried into the shop, and placed in a box covered with leather, near each woman who uses it according to wants.