For Storage Tank Patents (Class 169/66)
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Patent number: 6651751Abstract: A device for securing a fire extinguisher to a welding tank is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, an adjustable retaining strap is connected to a fire extinguisher hanger having opposing flanged members that define a receiving area for the neck of a fire extinguisher. Each flanged member has sections of stepped thickness to provide a press fit for the neck of the fire extinguisher into the receiving area. A utility hook is also attached to the retaining band for hanging hoses, welding masks and respirators. A utility box is also attached to the retaining band to provide storage for smaller objects such as welding tips. Alternative embodiments provide a retaining clip for receiving and retaining the fire extinguisher and a retaining clamp for receiving the welding tank. Other alternative embodiments provide a collar and hanging assembly for attaching the fire extinguisher hanger to the welding tank. A securing strap is also disclosed for securing collared embodiments to the welding tank.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Michael W. Kluczynski
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Patent number: 6619404Abstract: A fire fighting system is installed below deck in a passenger aircraft for protecting freight and baggage loading areas. The system has a fire extinguishing medium storage container connected through a pipe line to one or more medium discharge nozzles. A compartment such as a passenger and/or crew rest compartment installed below deck is linked to the system by a pipe line extension (10, 12, 13) connected to at least one additional fire extinguishing medium discharge nozzles in the compartment.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbHInventor: Thomas Grabow
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Patent number: 6581694Abstract: A system that controls nitrogen pressure in the ullage of a power transformer that has its windings submerged in oil. The pressure is controlled in a narrow range of approximately 0.5 psi to approximately 2.0 psi. A nitrogen generator supplies the nitrogen to a reservoir from which it is distributed to the ullage as well as to accessories such as a load tap changer or a control box. A temperature regulator is provided for substation installations that are located in climates with wide ambient temperature variations to control the pressure of the generated nitrogen in an acceptable range.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2000Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Waukesha Electrical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Thomas M. Golner, Shirish P. Mehta
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Patent number: 6578639Abstract: This invention is geared at attacking the scourge of explosive fires, burns, environmental pollution, or other such hazards associated with the use, transport, and storage of fuels and other hazardous substances, before they occur, including the explosion hazard present in many automotive rear-end collisions. This is achieved by swiftly reacting a “disabler” or “neutralizer” with the hazardous substance, voluntarily or by automation, on the occurrence of predetermined events that position the hazardous substance to threaten a greater than desired risk of harm. According to one of the preferred embodiments of this invention, the formation of combustion vapors in the ullage of fuel tanks is altogether prevented.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2000Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Inventors: Joshua Oghenogieme Osime, Blessing Akhesome Eshiemomoh
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Patent number: 6425283Abstract: The invention relates to a device for long-term leakage monitoring, in particular of flat tank structures, comprising a sensor cable arranged on the outer surface of the tank casing. A collection chamber which, with respect to its height, is arranged at least partially below the bottom of the flat tank structure, surrounding its circumference preferably in an annular manner, and which via an inclined cantilever is connected with the lower end of the outer surface of the tank casing, with the sensor cable being arranged on the cantilever or in the bottom area of the collection chamber. According to the invention, a fire signalling sensor is located above the collection chamber which, in the case of a fire, in cooperation with an extinguishing supply, enables the activation of the automatic foaming of the collection chamber.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2000Date of Patent: July 30, 2002Inventor: Sepp Müller
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Publication number: 20020084080Abstract: A system that controls nitrogen pressure in the ullage of a power transformer that has its windings submerged in oil. The pressure is controlled in a narrow range of approximately 0.5 psi to approximately 2.0 psi. A nitrogen generator supplies the nitrogen to a reservoir from which it is distributed to the ullage as well as to accessories such as a load tap changer or a control box. A temperature regulator is provided for substation installations that are located in climates with wide ambient temperature variations to control the pressure of the generated nitrogen in an acceptable range.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2000Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventors: Thomas M. Golner, Shirish P. Mehta
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Patent number: 6412567Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2001Date of Patent: July 2, 2002Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Publication number: 20020020536Abstract: A device for protecting flammable fluid reservoirs, or the regions in immediate proximity thereof, from the hazards due to impact and reservoir rupture, and subsequent potential of fire, corrosion or other damage or injury due to contact with reactive fluids. Such impacts may arise from collisions, such as encountered in transportation systems, or structural or thermal failure and/or rupture of components and systems, or separation of system components. Such a device may be formed as a close-fitting shroud over such components, or surrounding fittings and junctions of mating components in such systems, or mounted near the location of such components in the direction of impact or failure. Such a device may have a pattern of pre-scored lines to facilitate break-up of the device upon impact or thermal stress.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2001Publication date: February 21, 2002Inventor: Joseph Michael Bennett
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Publication number: 20020007954Abstract: A fire fighting system is installed below deck in a passenger aircraft for protecting freight and baggage loading areas. The system has a fire extinguishing medium storage container connected through a pipe line to one or more medium discharge nozzles. A compartment such as a passenger and/or crew rest compartment installed below deck is linked to the system by a pipe line extension (10, 12, 13) connected to at least one additional fire extinguishing medium discharge nozzles in the compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 5, 2001Publication date: January 24, 2002Inventor: Thomas Grabow
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Publication number: 20010042628Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 6237694Abstract: An explosion-protection and extinguishing safety device for inflammable liquid storage tanks. An aperture of a predetermined size located on the top of a tank is controlled by a switch device of an automatic switching system. The switch device of the aperture is closed under normal conditions and automatically opened when the internal pressure of the tank or the temperature of the wall of the tank is above a preset value. Application of heat to the tank results in vapor discharge to prevent explosion of the tank. The discharged vapors are burned above the aperture to eliminate external accumulate of the inflammable vapors.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1999Date of Patent: May 29, 2001Inventor: Hunghon Chan
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Patent number: 6216790Abstract: An improved aboveground system for storing a combustible fluid such as gasoline includes a storage tank that is constructed and arranged to store a combustible fluid such as gasoline and an outer tank to provide secondary containment. An interstitial space is defined between the outer tank and the storage tank. A pipe for communicating with the storage tank extends through the wall of the storage tank, into the interstitial space and through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank, and then through the wall of the outer tank, whereby fluid may be supplied to or withdrawn from the storage tank. Advantageously, access structure is provided for gaining access through the wall of the outer tank to the portion of the pipe that extends through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc. (NV)Inventor: R. Michael Webb
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Patent number: 6216791Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water, or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2000Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 6145599Abstract: Anti-combuation safeguarding of fuel and other combustible material confined in contact with a pre-existing overlying ambient atmosphere supportive of combustion. Such atmosphere is displaced by an underlying blanketing layer of heavier-than-air gaseous carbon dioxide evolving from solid non-combustible carbon dioxide located at a nearby site, from which it is distributed to site(s) of fuel or other combustible material. Such a method, together with apparatus to implement it, is applicable to fuel or other combustible material not only when stored at a fixed location, but also in a transport vehicle or craft of whatever type, and wherever located. Distributive flow of carbon dioxide to fuel sites in air, land, or marine craft may be accelerated in accordance with fuel consumption, and also in the event of occurrence of a spark or other hazard, as by applying radiation to the solid carbon dioxide so as to increase its existing rate of conversion into carbon dioxide gas.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Inventor: Christian F. Mumme
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Patent number: 6131667Abstract: A fire extinguisher which maintains a constantly high pressure inside a shell of the fire extinguisher through out a shelf-life of the fire extinguisher comprising an ejection chamber having internal threads at its lower edge and a shell having external threads at its upper edge to mate tightly with internal threads of ejection chamber where shell contains fire extinguishing agent in an absolutely closed system, and where there is a pressing element presses on top of a plate fillet welded to an inner lower wall of the ejection chamber. Upon destroying pressing element, pressure inside shell causes a hole being formed in said plate allowing ejection of fire extinguishing agent to put out fire.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1997Date of Patent: October 17, 2000Assignee: Safety Inventions, Ltd., Part.Inventors: Mongkol Jesadanont, Apijade Jesadanont, Sukanya Jesadanont
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Patent number: 6105676Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 1998Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 6062316Abstract: An expandable metal product for use in extinguishing fires and in the prevention of or protection against explosions. The product is a continuous sheet of material having discontinuous slits in spaced apart lines parallel to each other but transverse to the longitudinal dimension of the sheet. The invention is also directed to the expanded form of the product, either in sheets which may be used for preventing fires or explosion or in the form of shaped ellipsoids for use in a passive inerting system for fuel tanks, as flame arresters, as anti-explosion barriers, and as shields against mechanical impact.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1998Date of Patent: May 16, 2000Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 6039123Abstract: An improved aboveground system for storing a combustible fluid such as gasoline includes a storage tank that is constructed and arranged to store a combustible fluid such as gasoline and an outer tank to provide secondary containment. An interstitial space is defined between the outer tank and the storage tank. A pipe for communicating with the storage tank extends through the wall of the storage tank, into the interstitial space and through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank, and then through the wall of the outer tank, whereby fluid may be supplied to or withdrawn from the storage tank. Advantageously, access structure is provided for gaining access through the wall of the outer tank to the portion of the pipe that extends through the interstitial space for a distance so as to extend substantially parallel to at least one of the walls of the outer tank and the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Inventor: R. Michael Webb
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Patent number: 5944091Abstract: A new tank container cooling system for preventing tank containers, especially bulk fuel storage containers, from overheating. The inventive device includes a main conduit fluidly connected to a fluid reservoir. At least one delivery conduit is in fluid communication with the main conduit to permit passage of fluid from the fluid reservoir to the delivery conduit. The delivery conduit is generally ring shaped and has a plurality of outflow nozzles. The delivery conduit is adapted for mounting on a storage container such that fluid passing out of the output nozzles flows on the storage container.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 1998Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Inventor: Todd A. Weber
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Patent number: 5913366Abstract: Improved methods for extinguishing tank fires, in particular of low boiling point and/or low auto ignition point fluids, the improved methods including cooling inner and outer tank wall portions and improving a foam attack from staged nozzles through creating side foot prints at the site and correcting footprint range, footprint length, footprint width or foam run for variations in factors such as wind conditions, nozzle stream width, head pressure, percent of foam concentrate, the burning fluid, the type of foam and the temperature of the burning fluid.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1996Date of Patent: June 22, 1999Assignee: Williams Fire & Hazard Control, Inc.Inventors: Dwight P. Williams, Eric Lavergne
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Patent number: 5904190Abstract: A method for preventing explosions in closed tanks which hold flammable liquids and flammable vapors and air above these liquid fuels comprising filling the ullage with a pressurized gas which not only excludes oxygen from the ullage but also prevents transmission of fire initiating sparks. The method further comprises filling the ullage with an electronegative gas alone or in combination with an inert gas or gases. More specifically, the preferred electronegative gas is sulfur hexafluoride (SF.sub.6) which may also be used in combination with CO.sub.2 and/or N.sub.2. More particularly, the method is directed to the prevention of explosions in aircraft fuel tanks.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1997Date of Patent: May 18, 1999Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventor: C. Kumar Patel
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Patent number: 5845715Abstract: An effective method for diminishing hydrocarbon vapors in fuel tanks and thereby avoiding expensive, complicated and risky procedures for capturing purged hydrocarbon vapors during refueling. The method involves filling the fuel tank with multiple pieces of expanded metal net formed in the shape of ellipsoids, to inhibit the formation of hydrocarbon vapors and to promote condensation of such vapors as may be formed.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1997Date of Patent: December 8, 1998Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 5829533Abstract: A method for extinguishing flammable and combustible liquid tank fires using foam comprising empirically determining a footprint for a plurality of nozzles and configuring and aiming nozzles with respect to a tank such that predicted footprint and foam run would cover a tank surface with foam. Also method and apparatus for extinguishing tank fires including crude and high vapor pressure flammable liquid tank fires that includes applying foam in a footprint to cover liquid surface and cooling portions of the tank wall.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 1996Date of Patent: November 3, 1998Assignee: Williams Fire & Hazard Control, Inc.Inventor: Dwight Williams
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Patent number: 5826664Abstract: The fire and explosion suppression system is mounted external to a tank and injects a suppressant medium into the tank via a preformed opening in the tank wall. The fire and explosion suppressant system includes a container for housing a suppressant medium which includes an opening removably connected to the predefined opening in a tank wall. The fire and explosion suppressant system also includes an actuator, such as a detonator, for activating the suppressant medium upon detection of a fire or explosion within the tank. The fire and explosion suppressant system further includes a reclosable valve for sealing the predefined opening in the tank wall. The valve includes a valve housing having at least one port and mounted over the opening in the tank wall. The valve further includes a piston disposed within the valve housing for sealing the tank wall opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1996Date of Patent: October 27, 1998Assignee: McDonnell Douglas CorporationInventor: Steven Dallas Richardson
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Patent number: 5816332Abstract: An expandable metal product for use in extinguishing fires and in the prevention of or protection against explosions. The product is a continuous sheet of material having discontinuous slits in spaced apart lines parallel to each other but transverse to the longitudinal dimension of the sheet. The invention is also directed to the expanded form of the product, either in sheets which may be used for preventing fires or explosion or in the form of shaped ellipsoids for use in a passive inerting system for fuel tanks, as flame arresters, as anti-explosion barriers, and as shields against mechanical impact.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 1995Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 5794707Abstract: A highly efficient flame arrester adapted for use in preventing an external flame from backflashing upstream in a pipe, or a conduit, or a stream carrying a flammable substance. The flame arrester comprises a contained layer of nested spheroids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil. The arrester is useful in fuel tanks, combustion systems, sea-going tankers, hot water or space heaters, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 1997Date of Patent: August 18, 1998Inventor: Shaikh Ghaleb Mohammad Yassin Alhamad
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Patent number: 5575339Abstract: An expandable metal product for use in extinguishing fires and in the prevention of or protection against explosions. The product is a continuous sheet of magnesium alloy foil having discontinuous slits in spaced apart lines parallel to each other but transverse to the longitudinal dimension of the sheet. The invention is also directed to the expanded form of the product, either in sheets which may be used for preventing fires or explosion or in the form of shaped ellipsoids for use in a passive inerting system for fuel tanks.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 1995Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Inventor: Shaikh G. M. Y. Alhamad
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Patent number: 5573066Abstract: A remote fuel station designed for fuelling of equipment in potentially hazardous situations such as in mines comprises an enclosed container that is adapted to receive a fuel tank or bladder and which includes a containment volume capable of holding the entire contents of the tank or bladder in the event of rupture of the latter. The station also includes a door arrangement adapted to effectively seal the interior to cut off air supply if a fire should develop, and also includes a sprinkler system or a chemical fire suppressant arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1995Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Assignee: Valcom Mechanical LimitedInventors: Greg Vaillancourt, Donald Sissons
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Patent number: 5566766Abstract: A method for extinguishing flammable and combustible liquid tank fires using foam comprising empirically determining a footprint for a plurality of nozzles and configuring and aiming nozzles with respect to a tank such that predicted footprint and foam run would cover a tank surface with foam.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1995Date of Patent: October 22, 1996Assignee: Williams Fire And Hazard Control, Inc.Inventor: Dwight Williams
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Patent number: 5562162Abstract: An improved portable fueling facility for aircraft or ground vehicles includes, in the disclosed embodiments, at least one storage tank, an outer tank for providing secondary containment about the storage tank, a number of saddle members for supporting the outer tank on a flat horizontal surface, and a pump for dispensing fuel. In one embodiment, a system is provided for suppressing combustion that might otherwise occur within the storage tank. To minimize heat transfer from outside the facility into the storage tank, fire-retardant insulation material is positioned between the storage tank and the outer tank. In addition, a heat sink may be positioned between the two tanks to intercept heat that would otherwise flow to the storage tank.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 1994Date of Patent: October 8, 1996Assignee: U-Fuel, Inc.Inventor: R. Michael Webb
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Patent number: 5540285Abstract: A highly efficient fuel containment medium which is adapted to protect neighboring facilities against fire or explosion of flammable materials accidentally released from above-ground storage tanks. The fuel containment medium has special applicability for use in diked areas surrounding fuel storage tanks. The medium effectively suppresses flame heights and spread rates in pool fires in said diked areas. The containment medium comprises a mineral aggregate mixed with a flame-effects modifier such as fragments of expanded metal net made from magnesium alloy foil. In a preferred embodiment, the aggregate is sand or gravel, and the flame-effects modifier comprises ellipsoids formed from expanded metal sheets made from magnesium alloy foil.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 1994Date of Patent: July 30, 1996Inventor: Shaikh G. M. Y. Alhamad
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Patent number: 5497833Abstract: The performance and throw distance of a nozzle discharging a water stream is enhanced by injecting a liquified gas, suitably liquid nitrogen or liquid carbon dioxide, into the water entering the nozzle at a point sufficently upstream from the nozzle to allow complete vaporization or solidification of the liquified gas before it leaves the nozzle. A second material, that may be a foam producing composition or a particulate solid, may be introduced into the water entering the nozzle simultaneously with the introduction of the liquified gas.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1994Date of Patent: March 12, 1996Assignee: Valkyrie Scientific Proprietary, L.C.Inventor: Joseph B. Kaylor
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Patent number: 5464065Abstract: Fires in tanks storing combustible liquids are extinguished using water from a settled layer at the tank bottom to form a foam that is transported to the top of the combustible liquid by the lifting action of an inert gas stream introduced into the tank at a location below the liquid surface. A stream of water is removed from the tank, mixed with a foam-forming concentrate, merged with a flowing stream of inert gas, and circulated back to the tank at a point below the surface of the stored liquid to form an upwelling foam column which explodes upon the liquid surface and spreads across that surface to extinguish the fire and prevent its reignition.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1994Date of Patent: November 7, 1995Assignee: Valkyrie Scientific Proprietary, L.C.Inventor: Joseph B. Kaylor
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Patent number: 5425886Abstract: A system and process for on-demand generation of inert, non-flammable gases and water vapor to decrease the available atmospheric oxygen in the ullage of a hydrocarbon fuel storage tank to a level that will not support combustion of the hydrocarbon fuel, is disclosed. One, or more, of a variety of non-Halon, fire suppressor charges are selectively contained in one or more gas generating cartridges. The gas generating cartridge(s), when activated, cause release of these charges to promote rapid chemical reactions and supply inert, non-flammable gases and water vapor to the tank ullage. Activation is accomplished in aircraft by, either pilot action or, by pressure and temperature sensors contained within the hydrocarbon fuel tank.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 1993Date of Patent: June 20, 1995Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Benjamin D. Smith
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Patent number: 5423385Abstract: Methods and related systems for extinguishing a fire in a volume which includes pre-positioning a fire extinguishing medium in or near the volume. The medium includes at least two reactants, typically an oxidant and a reducing agent which are activated manually or automatically in response to the fire causing the two reactants to react with each other and to form an aerosol capable of interacting with the propagation centers of the fire, interrupting the propagation of the fire, and thereby extinguishing it. The methods and systems further include various mechanisms for cooling the gases formed upon the reaction of the two reactants so as to enable the gases to disperse more evenly and more effectively over the fire.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1993Date of Patent: June 13, 1995Assignee: Spectronix Ltd.Inventors: Anatoly Baratov, Iousef Myshak, Yechiel Spector, Esther Jacobson
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Patent number: 5377765Abstract: Fires in tanks storing combustible liquids are extinguished by injecting a mixture of water, a foam-forming concentrate and an inert gas into the tank at a point below the surface of the stored liquid forming an upwelling foam column which explodes upon the liquid surface and spreads across that surface to extinguish the fire and prevent its reignition.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 1993Date of Patent: January 3, 1995Assignee: Valkyrie Scientific Proprietary, L.C.Inventor: Joseph B. Kaylor
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Patent number: 5330009Abstract: A kind of built-up inner floating ceiling, equipped with instant fire extinguishing devices, for use in an oil storage tank, consisting of a skeleton formed by girders, cover plates, radial beams, peripheral beams, plastic buoys, plate fixing beams, etc., said plastic buoys being made into a hollow structure, forming hollow chambers, where steel vessels filled with high-pressure inert gas are placed, said steel vessels being connected through connecting pipes fitted with left-handed screw caps and lock washers. As said screw caps are made of a low melting point material, in case of a fire, the will be melted at once, thus releasing the inert gas in said vessels, and extinguishing the fire.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1992Date of Patent: July 19, 1994Inventor: Feng-Qiu Zhang
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Patent number: 5090482Abstract: A method of extinguishing a fire by generating an intense electric field and/or a gaseous plasma constituted of a body of electrically-charged particles, and directing the electric field and/or plasma to the base of the fire until the fire is extinguished.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1990Date of Patent: February 25, 1992Assignee: Spectronix Ltd.Inventors: Reuven Baron, Esther Jacobson, Yechiel Spector
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Patent number: 5069291Abstract: Apparatus for suppressing explosions comprises a reservoir containing hot pressurized water which is heated by a heater. On explosion conditions occurring in an enclosure a high speed differential pressure diaphragm is fractured to release a charge of hot pressurized water into the enclosure. When the water enters the enclosure portion it is converted into water droplets to suppress the flame front of a deflagration and a portion of the water flashes off as flash steam to reduce the oxygen concentration and suppress the explosion. A differential pressure diaphragm 40 comprises a pair of bursting diaphragms having a space therebetween which is maintained at a balance pressure. When explosion conditions occur the balance is disturbed and the diaphragms burst under the higher pressure.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1990Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Inventor: Michael O. O'Connell
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Patent number: 5052494Abstract: A device for suppressing explosions that may occur in process enclosures such as those for handling of grain, manufacture of pharmaceuticals and similar processes. The unit includes a cylindrical housing having one end thereof communicating with the process area and the opposite end thereof communicating with a pressure vessel, with a fire retardant containing canister slidably arranged therebetween and a valving member in sealing position against the pressure vessel. The canister is in controlling position to open the valving member, under the action of and purposely dependent upon a predetermined level of pressure increase within the process area, and thus to release pressure from the pressure vessel. The canister includes a detonating device which will cause explosion of the canister simultaneously with release of the pressure and dependent upon release of the pressure from the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1990Date of Patent: October 1, 1991Assignee: Advanced Innovations, Inc.Inventor: Theodore E. Larsen
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Patent number: 5031701Abstract: A suppressant delivery and release nozzle structure is disclosed for an explosion protection system. The nozzle is a reducing elbow, concentric or eccentric mounting a rupture disc at its small end. A selectively actuatable detonator housed in the nozzle adjacent the disc permits substantially instantaneous opening of the disc upon command for release and delivery of suppressant to a zone to be protected from an explosion hazard. The configuration of the nozzle assures unimpeded discharge of suppressant from the system in a minimum of time without significant two-phase flow. The nozzle is equally adaptable for liquid or powdered suppressant compositions.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1988Date of Patent: July 16, 1991Assignee: Fike CorporationInventors: Bruce McLelland, Robert L. DeGood, Ian Swift
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Patent number: 4993497Abstract: A fire fighting device having a funnel shaped jacket that attaches to a rib framing system that is strapped around a bulk storage tank, the ribs attached to a relief channel located at the base of the tank, the jacket is held away from the tank shell by the ribs, the void created between the funnel jacket and tank shell is the waterway, fire stream cooling water is collected at the top of the tank by the funnel, the water is then gravity fed through the waterway, the flow rate of the water is controlled by the size of the relief ports located in the relief channel. As the water travels across the face of the tank within the waterway, it absorbs the heat radiated into the tank by an outside heat source. The heat transferred water enters the relief channel through inlet ports. The heated water is then released outside the waterway system through relief ports. Cool fire stream water enters at the top of the funnel; heat transferred water exits the system at the base of the tank.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 1990Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Inventor: Oscar R. Majors
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Patent number: 4986366Abstract: Apparatus for suppressing explosions comprises a reservoir means containing hot pressurized water which is heated by a heating means. On explosion conditions occurring in an enclosure a high speed differential pressure diaphragm is fractured to release a charge of hot pressurised water into the enclosure. When the water enters the enclosure portion it is converted into water droplets to suppress the flame front of a deflagration and portion of the water flashes off as flash steam to reduce the oxygen concentration and suppress the explosion. A differential pressure diaphragm 40 comprises a pair of bursting diaphragms having a space therebetween which is maintained at a balance pressure. When explosion conditions occur the balance is disturbed and the diaphragms burst under the higher pressure.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1989Date of Patent: January 22, 1991Inventor: Michael O. O'Connell
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Patent number: 4925057Abstract: A plurality of resilient bladders filled with an inert gas line the walls of a fuel tank to protect fuel in the tank from explosion or leakage in the event that the tank is punctured by a ballistic projectile. The thickness of the bladders is controlled by a plurality of cords extending from one side of each bladder to the other. The inert gas is continuously supplied to the bladders so that the gas escaping from a puncture in a bladder prevents fuel from leaking from the tank through the puncture. During normal operation, the gas is vented into the tank to fill the ullage space of the tank with the insert gas. A conduit extends into the tank through the bladder. The walls of the bladder are sealed to each other around the conduit, thereby making it unnecessary to seal the walls of the bladder to the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 1989Date of Patent: May 15, 1990Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: James J. Childress, John Holtrop
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Patent number: 4893681Abstract: A firefighting installation for floating roof hydrocarbon storage tanks comprises a series of vertical pipes disposed regularly around the tank. A sprayer at the top of each pipe is adapted to form a flat jet of extinguishing foam directed towards the interior of the tank along its inside wall. A pressurized water supply is connected to the pipes through an emulsifying agent feed system. An air injector on each pipe near the sprayer favors the formation of the foam. Each sprayer includes two nozzles set at an angle to each other and directed towards the floating roof. Each nozzle incorporates a longitudinal slot in its end portion opposite the free end and facing towards the floating roof.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1988Date of Patent: January 16, 1990Inventor: Rene Flandre
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Patent number: 4838356Abstract: Function and integrity testing of remotely controlled and automatic foam generating fire suppression equipment is provided. By remote systems, the entire functionality of such installations can be assessed without the requirement for direct physical access commonly required for such equipment. In addition, the seals employed in the system to isolate the fire extinguishing equipment from the protected environment are subjected to non-destructive testing, providing for protection of the environment from the testing procedure, as by the release of the generated foam.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 1987Date of Patent: June 13, 1989Assignee: Tokyo Bosai Setsubi Company, LimitedInventor: Yukio Akatsu
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Patent number: 4781252Abstract: Apparatus for fighting fires within storage tanks includes a frame movably coupled to the lip of the storage tank. The frame includes rotatable members by which the frame may be moved around the lip of the storage tank. Attached to the frame is a holding device adapted to hold a fire extinguisher nozzle on the interior of the storage tank so as to direct fire extinguishing agents down the inside face of the storage tank. The apparatus may include a fire detector to detect the presence and location of the fire, propulsion means to automatically move the apparatus around the storage tank to a location adjacent to the fire source, and a storage tank for storing fire suppressing agents be used to extinguish the fire.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1988Date of Patent: November 1, 1988Assignee: Citgo Petroleum Corp.Inventors: Thomas G. Wilburn, William C. Gray, William E. Myers, Richard P. Bauer
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Patent number: 4664199Abstract: A method of extinguishing a fire burning above and fueled by a flammable liquid stored in a storage vessel and including the steps of providing a supply of a halogenated fire extinguishing agent, detecting the presence of combustion products above the surface of the flammable liquid, and discharging the extinguishing agent into the storage vessel and below the surface of the flammable liquid.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 1985Date of Patent: May 12, 1987Assignee: Kidde, Inc.Inventors: Casey C. Grant, Parker Peterson
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Patent number: 4637473Abstract: A fire suppression system including a housing for receiving particulate matter and defining an inlet opening and an outlet opening, an input duct connected to the inlet opening, an air mover for forcing air through the input duct into the housing and out of the outlet openings, and filter means disposed in the housing and sealed between the inlet opening and the outlet opening so as to remove in the housing the particulate matter entrained by air entering through the inlet opening. Also included are an inlet sensor providing an inlet output signal dependent on the inlet temperature of combined gas and particulate matter entering the housing through the inlet opening, an outlet sensor providing a discharge output signal dependent on the outlet temperature of air discharged through the outlet opening, and a difference circuit receiving the inlet and discharge output signals and providing a difference signal in response to a predetermined minimum difference therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1986Date of Patent: January 20, 1987Assignee: Kidde, Inc.Inventors: Joseph P. Gillis, Norval M. Jess
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Patent number: 4594167Abstract: This invention provides a foam fire-extinguishing composition containing (a) dibenzylidene sorbitol, dibenzylidene xylitol or the derivative thereof substituted at the nucleus, (b) a surfactant, (c) a stabilizer, (d) a polar organic solvent and (e) water. The composition of the present invention is suitable for extinguishing a fire of organic solvents, particularly polar organic solvents.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1984Date of Patent: June 10, 1986Assignee: New Japan Chemical Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toshiaki Kobayashi, Shizuo Terasawa, Giichi Akazome, Koichi Murai