Abstract: An electrode steam generator of the type wherein water is directed in free fall from a water distribution device in a stream onto an electrode to generate steam employs a horizontal dish-shaped water distribution device having a circular rim defining a dam to cause a shroud of water to fall onto an electrode of either S-shaped transverse cross section or onto an annular electrode having a convex curvature. The water distribution device receives water from a load proportional supply means and the water overflows the dam in unthrottled manner for all loads of the steam generator. The rim defining the dam is rounded in a downward direction with the curvature thereof extending in each radial plane up to a point with an approximately vertical tangent. A portion of the water falling on the electrode is diverted to provide a gap to allow the release of steam generated within the water shroud.

Abstract: The water distribution device is dish-shaped to receive a flow of water from a load-proportional supply means and defines a dam to permit the water to overflow in unthrottled manner for all loads and to fall onto the electrode below the distributing device. The dam may be defined by slots in the bottom of the distributing device such as Y-shaped slots or slots of involute shape. The dam may also be defined by the rim of the device and in this case is rounded or serrated.