GB1264464A - - Google Patents

Abstract

1,264,464. Controlling heating elements in electric kettles. OTTER CONTROLS Ltd., and J. C. TAYLOR. 18 April, 1969 [18 April, 1968], No. 18446/68. Heading H5H. [Also in Divisions A4, H1 and H2] An electric kettle, jug or pan has two easily replaceable thermal control units 1 and 27, 28, of which unit 1 is a safety cut-out and comprises a modified plug of the type described in Specification 1,254,273 and is connected to the hollow mounting head 2 for the kettle immersion heater element 3, whilst unit 27, 28 includes a switch actuated by a bi-metal 47 upon which steam impinges via an outlet 54 from the water container when the water boils, this latter unit being removably mounted on unit 1 and providing a socket for the connection of power to the heater element 3, electric connection between the two units being made automatically upon the mounting of said second unit on unit 1. Steam can be led via a tube 64 to impinge on bimetal 47 (instead of exiting via outlet 54), as described in co-pending Application 19888/69. Separation of contacts 39, 40 causes energization of a neon lamp 46 to indicate that the water has boiled, and a push-button 59 resets the switch and bimetal 47 when depressed. Alternatively, the switch automatically resets. A second heater element (not shown), for simmering purposes may be provided, and is continuously energized or is energized only when the main heater supply is interrupted. The actuating bimetals 47, 18, Fig. 3 (not shown), are as in Specification 657,434 and operate with a snap action. Specification 1,064,643 is also referred to. The shroud 63 enclosing bimetal 47 has a narrow gap 71 between it and the kettle wall 48 for the flow of convection air over the bimetal to evaporate any moisture formed thereon and to accelerate its cooling once it has operated.