Abstract: A joint for coupling light transmissive media mounted in separate housings, at complementary mating surfaces comprising: a pusher including springs attached to an array of spaced pusher arms engageable with a pusher surface connected to one of the light transmissive media; a barrier for engaging the rear of the pusher wherein the pusher exerts a predetermined amount of compression mating force between the mating surfaces of the light transmissive media; and a mechanism for aligning the mating surfaces of the light transmissive media comprising a pilot strap surrounding one of the light transmissive media, the strap including spaced fingers for receiving and aligning the other of the light transmissive media.

Abstract: A method for removing water-soluble inorganic salts and ice from refrigerated heat exchange surfaces by contacting the surfaces with a methanol-water mixture.

Abstract: A start-up method for a methanation process wherein a plurality of catalyst beds are used. The method comprises heating a first catalyst bed to a suitable temperature and thereafter charging a synthesis gas in mixture with an inert diluent to the first catalyst bed. The product stream from the first catalyst bed contains an excess of hydrogen and is passed to a second catalyst bed thereby heating the second catalyst bed. At least a portion of the product stream from the first catalyst bed is recycled to form the inert diluent used with the synthesis gas stream passed to the first catalyst bed.