Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Supplement/Oil

OIL.—In April, 1792, a patent was granted to Mr. Cha. Gower, for his method of depurating and improving animal oil. He directs equal quantities of oil, and of water previously acidulated with a due proportion of vitriolic acid, to be poured into a barrel or other vessel, which must be placed near a fire, and briskly agitated, in order to unite the two fluids. The liquor is then passed into pans, with a view to complete the solution of the gelatinous parts; and that the water may sink to the bottom; when the clear oil is decanted. Should, however, the oil intended to be purified have a turbid, or ropy appearance, the patentee directs equal parts of such liquid, and pure water, to be mixed with a little yeast, and shaken in the manner above-mentioned. When the fermentation ceases, the whole must be poured into similar pans, where all feculent particles will subside, and the pure oil float on the surface, whence it may be drawn off for use.