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Water powered air compressor

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Dave_93
Dave_93 Member Posts: 1
in THE MAIN WALL
I have been a plumber for many years and 20 some odd years ago I removed a water powered air compressor from a residential hot water heating system in a turn of the century mansion. The entire home had cast iron radiators with the exception of what looked like a office/library where the air supply went to. The compressor was mounted to a wooden post sitting vertical with a 3/8" water supply to it and a 1/2" drain/discharge going to a 4" cast Iron soil line next to it that simply has a hole drilled and tapped.
This was a working system when I removed it. The boiler was being replaced and my job was to remove this for a upgrade. The data plate says Johnson system of temperature regulation. I have never seen another heating system like this. I am looking for more information on this.

Thanks
Dave....

Comments

  • Steamhead (in transit)
    Steamhead (in transit) Member Posts: 6,689
    Dave, welcome to the Wall

    There were probably indirect radiators in that library. They consisted of special cast-iron sectional units mounted in ductwork under the floor, and may have had outdoor air intakes. I see quite a few of these setups in large houses of that era.

    The Johnson pneumatics probably controlled dampers in the ducts or modulating valves on the radiator supplies.

    Check out the other sections of the site- The Library and Hot Tech Topics are my two favorites. The Books and More page has many titles on it that may interest you. And the Find a Professional page is a good place to advertise- ask me how I know that ;-) .

    To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"
  • john_27
    john_27 Member Posts: 195


    Steamhead is correct....when that old mansion was coal fired, the johnson system provided room zoning(ie. if the constant
    low firing of the system caused discomfort in part of the house, the Johnson system closed a vent in the basement, thereby modulating the flow of heat(and moisture, depending on the system) into the room......i actually have remnants of one where I live......neat system......!
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