Abstract: A vacuum assisted vapor recovery system and method using a processing unit to process excess vapors collected during vehicle refueling with a bellowless nozzle. The system and method can be divided into two sequences of operation. The first sequence is the collection of vapors from the automobile during refueling. The second sequence is the return of vapors to a product storage tank with the processing of any excess vapors that would otherwise increase the pressure inside the storage tank. A single collection unit is used to collect the vapors as well as to send them to the storage tank and the processing unit. An improvement provides a recirculation loop in the collection unit to also control vapor growth in the underground storage tank. Pressure sensitive switches maintain a pressure level in the storage tank by activating the system if the pressure in the storage tank exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

Abstract: A flow meter for determining rates of fluid flow in a fluid conduit where the flow rates are low. The flow meter comprises a parallel combination of a controllable valve and a pressure differential sensing device coupled to the conduit. The flow meter operates by maintaining equal pressure on both sides thereof. When pressure unbalance occurs, the flow meter and associated control apparatus measures the amount of fluid necessary to equalize pressure. The frequency of fluid replenishment necessary to equalize the pressure determines flow rate.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing the efficiency of the vapor recovery of a liquid dispensing and vapor recovery system wherein the system uses a spout with vapor recovery apertures. The apparatus includes a device for receiving the spout and its vapor recovery apertures with a space located therebetween. A sealing device is connected to the spout receiving device for providing a chamber which is sealed about the spout and vapor recovery apertures. A device is connected to the spout receiving device for responding to flow through the chamber about the vapor recovery apertures. With this arrangement the volume of air recovered can be determined and compared with the volume of liquid dispensed to indicate the efficiency of the vapor recovery system.

Abstract: A bellowless gasoline dispensing nozzle having coaxial conduits to reduce the vapor leakage from gas tank vent tubes. The reduction in vapor leakage is accomplished by a set of holes in the outer conduit sized and positioned to draw in vapors from the outlet of the gas tank vent tube on vehicles in which this outlet is placed outside the no-lead restriction plate.

Abstract: A method for detecting leaks in a fluid pipeline where the pressure supply pump remains ON during the test procedure and pressure on both sides of a closed shut-off valve in the pipeline is maintained equal. A novel flow meter is provided comprising a parallel combination of a solenoid value and a pressure differential switch connected across the shut-off valve.

Abstract: An optimized thermal/catalytic combuster for the efficient oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOC) in air. As an example, the invention is directly applicable to remedial action for clean-up of ground sites contaminated by spills or leaks of gasoline, organic paint solvents and the like, by a process known as air extraction. A thermal combuster and a catalytic oxidizer are interconnected by piping and control valves so that when one such element operates, the other is quiescent, depending on the concentration of combustible vapors in the extracted air. A dilution air valve, a heat exchanger, an electric heater, or a connection to a supplemental supply of clean-burning fuel, or all these devices, may be provided to ensure efficient operation. In an alternative embodiment, an internal combustion engine may be used in place of the thermal combuster. The engine can be used to supply power for other uses within the system or for external use.

Abstract: Apparatus for measurement of average temperature change in the liquid in a storage tank. A series connected plurality of discrete, temperature sensitive elements, at predetermined spacings in the liquid provide a direct output reading representing average temperature change of the entire volume of liquid in the tank. The invention also includes the method for measuring the average temperature change of the liquid in the storage tank.

Abstract: A constant level automated liquid volume monitoring system and method for determining storage tank leak rate. Volume changes necessary to maintain storage tank liquid level, and volume changes due to temperature changes, are substantially constantly measured and calculations are made frequently and averaged periodically to provide updated leak rate indications for a system operator. By use of this system, real time statistical analysis can be achieved.

Abstract: An automated liquid volume monitoring system and method for determining storage tank leak rate. Volume changes necessary to maintain storage tank liquid level, and volume changes due to temperature changes, are substantially constantly measured and calculations are made to determine actual leak rate. Leak rate calculations are made frequently and averaged periodically to provide updated leak rate indications for a system operator.

Abstract: The valve in the vapor recovery conduit of a gasoline dispenser system is located between the hose portion of the vapor recovery conduit and the rigid portion thereof to free the nozzle of all valves and to make room for a retainer spring on the nozzle, thereby substantially reducing the weight of the nozzle, making it easier to handle, and protecting the valve from wear. A long nozzle sealing the boot which provides a good vapor seal with light pressure (e.g. 15 pounds) eliminates the need for an interlock on the nozzle.

Abstract: A gasoline vapor recovery system which includes a gasoline pump, a gasoline dispenser, a gasoline line with a flow sensor in it, and a gasoline vapor line with a pressure responsive valve in it which is operated by differential pressurefrom the flow sensor. The flow sensor is located in the gas dispenser and the pressure responsive valve is located below the gas dispenser to eliminate one of the impact valves which were heretofore required to provide a safer construction.