Abstract: The invention relates to a distillation apparatus, in particular a distillation apparatus configured as a piece of laboratory equipment, having a distillation vessel for receiving a mixture to be distilled, wherein a removal device is provided which is configured for the automated removal of a distillation residue from the distillation vessel.

Abstract: A humidifier comprises a container having an air inlet and an air outlet; a water reservoir in the container; an absorbent mass having extensive upper surface and lower surfaces, the absorbent mass being floatable on the surface of water in the reservoir; a plate disposed on the lower surface of the absorbent mass to limit the degree of immersion of the absorbent mass while it floats in the reservoir; and a blower for drawing air through the air inlet and directing it onto the upper surface of the absorbent mass so that the air can deposit particles thereon, and absorb moisture therefrom, prior to flowing out of the container through the air outlet. The humidifier is highly efficient, quiet in operation and not affected by varying water levels.

Abstract: A portable electric fan assembly for indoor use includes a base member, an upright electric motor mounted in the base member, an upstanding neck extending from the base member, a substantially vertical drive shaft couple to the motor extending within the upstanding neck, a fan head assembly carried by the neck and having at least a part thereof mounted for limited angular movement so as to be settable at a desired orientation, a fan blade shaft carrying a ban blade protruding forwardly from the movable part of the fan head assembly, and a coupling arrangement for drivably coupling the fan blade shaft to the drive shaft.