Abstract: Modal frequencies of known good sample parts (SN) are analyzed to determine a pattern which will identify acceptable material and dimensional variations. The data obtained by analysis is then archived. Production parts are then measured at the modal frequencies and the production parts are accepted or rejected after pattern analysis of each part by comparing the production part with response to the pattern identified as acceptable for material and dimensional variations. Production part data is archived for future testing. This procedure is repeated throughout the lifetime of a part, and may be used on parts which are part of an assembly, including other unmeasured parts.

Abstract: A method of resonant ultrasonic measurement frequencies to determine materials properties is combined with the use of a finite element model and empirical data made from an actual prototype part to create a validated finite element model. The validated finite element model is then used as a standard for comparison to additional production parts, and production part measurement data is stored and archived by part serial number for future comparison to part tests performed during periodic maintenance of equipment utilizing the part after shipment to customer.

Abstract: An apparatus for the treatment of 100% reclaimed asphaltic pavement (RAP) uses low temperatures and no direct radiation from a burner flame to the RAP. The RAP is first heated in a counter flow drum which is supplied with hot combusting gases generated by a remote low NOx burner. The temperature of the drum input gases is preferably around 1100 degrees F and the output temperature of the gases may be 100 degrees F or less greater than the input temperature of the RAP. The RAP may be heated with a microwave oven to raise the RAP to a final temperature, although this step is not absolutely necessary in the counterflow design of this invention.

Abstract: A method of incorporating used automobile tire scrap into asphalt uses a step of saturating rubber particles with an aromatic oil. The rubber particle containing oil does not absorb additional oils from the asphalt binder materials and the integrity of the asphalt mix is not compromised.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the angular velocity and slope angle of a hot mix asphalt drum as a function of the temperature gradient across the drum outlet. Uneven gas outlet temperature indicates that the veil of RAP (Recycled Asphalt Pavement) in the drum is insufficient. The veil is increased by increasing drum speed. The complete recycled asphalt pavement hot mix asphalt plant uses uneven gas outlet temperatures to change drum operating parameters.

Abstract: A process for the production of hot mix asphalt (HMA) by the treatment of virgin material alone or adding reclaimed or recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) (up to 100% of the HMA). The HMA is first heated in either a parallel or a counter flow rotating drum which is supplied with hot combustion gases generated by a remote low NO.sub.x burner. The process is controlled by a micro-processor which controls RAP temperature, mixture gradation, emissions and production rate as a function of measured drum conditions such as temperature at the drum inlet, drum speed, drum slope, drum RPM, output hydrocarbons, drum gas outlet temperature, and amount of aggregate added.

Abstract: Apparatus which controls recycled asphalt production rate, emissions, mix and output temperature in an asphalt mixer. Computer flow charts show control decisions based upon measured parameters which include drum slope, drum RPM, gas volume into the drum, gas volume out of the drum, drum inlet gas temperature, drum outlet gas temperature, hydrocarbons in the exhaust, and recycled asphalt outlet temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of destroying electronic surveillance devices inside building structures by the use of radio frequency energy is shown and described. Microwave energy is generated by a magnetron and directed to the building structure either by continuous waves of by short bursts of energy.