Abstract: Methods and apparatus for reducing pollutant emissions, and in particular, for reducing NO.sub.x and particulate emissions, from spreader-stoker-fired furnaces. A combustible material is introduced into the spreader-stoker-fired furnace and combusted while the stoichiometric ratio of oxygen to combustible material in different regions of the furnace is carefully controlled. Control of the stoichiometric ratio is accomplished by controlling the amount of air injected into different regions of the furnace and by controlling the amount of smaller particles of combustible material or fines introduced into the furnace.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reducing pollutant emissions, and in particular, for reducing NO.sub.x and particulate emissions, from a spreader-stoker-fired furnace and from a fluidized bed combustor. A combustible material of various sized particles is obtained and those smaller particles which would normally combust during the suspension phase of the spreader-stoker-fired furnace or fluidized bed combustor are separated from the larger particles. The larger particles of combustible material are then introduced into the spreader-stoker-fired furnace or fluidized bed combustor and combusted to produce heat.

Abstract: A system suspended from a helicopter is utilized for unrestricted launching f cylindrical bodies and recovering these bodies while they are floating in a horizontal position. The system comprises a cage having a pair of axially separated U-shaped clamps with panels extending from the open portion of the clamps. Pivotable wedgs protrude to the inside of each clamp, allowing a cylindrical body to slip into the cage and be captured. In addition an electrical circuit is connected to bomb shackles in the system for providing the launch capability.