We made our own hydrogen generator out of common parts we got from the local
hardware store. We used well water as the source of hydrogen. The set-up
that is described here was a prototype and is certainly not the ultimate
design in hydrogen generation. However, it is a convincing example of the
energy that is available from water as a fuel source for the doubters.

As with any flammable gas, when it is collected in an enclosed area, it can
explode, as demonstrated in the northeast by propane leaks in some poorly
installed furnace applications. Our construction and equipment was all done
outdoors with plenty of ventilation.

We used two 4 inch PVC pipe Tees and lengths of 4" schedule 40 pvc pipe. The
basic design was to connect the two Tees in series, and cut pipe for two
vertical 4 foot gas collectors. We capped the tops of the two vertical gas
collectors, and drilled holes in the tops to attach two valves to open and
close. One of the vertical tubes will accumulate hydrogen and the other will
accumulate oxygen. We drilled holes in the sides of these gas collectors,
inserted right angle 1/4 inch plastic elbows and connected an additional
plastic tube on the outside for water/gas level observation.

We capped the ends of the base chamber (two Tees in series). One end we
drilled and mounted a water hose connection with an on/off gate-valve. We
drilled the bottom of the Tees, and mounted two 3/4 inch by 8 inch stainless
steel bolts directly under the centers of the two 4 foot riser gas tubes.
Only the head of the bolts were visible at the bottom of the Tees, to
connect the electrical power cable which we used ordinary battery jumper
cables. Sealing washers were used when mounting these to bolts to prevent
water from leaking.

The other end of the base Tee assembly, we drilled and mounted a pressure
gauge as would be used on an ordinary shallow well water pump. Before final
closing of the generator we put at least 4 cups of canning salt to create
the electrolyte for electric current to flow when the generator is started.

Before starting the generator, we bleed all the air out of the assembly by
opening the valves on the tops of the gas collectors and connecting the
water hose and allowing the water to rise in the gas tubes until water comes
out the tops of the tubes. Shut off the incoming water pressure from the
water hose. Close the valves on top of the vertical gas collectors. When
looking

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