Abstract: Embodiments relate to a hydraulic fracturing system that includes a blender unit. The system includes an auger and hopper assembly to receive proppant from a proppant source and feed the proppant to the blender unit for mixing with a fluid. A first power source is used to power the blender unit in order to mix the proppant with the fluid and prepare a fracturing slurry. A second power source independently powers the auger and hopper assembly in order to align the hopper of the auger and hopper assembly with a proppant feed from the proppant source. Thus, the auger and hopper assembly can be stowed or deployed without use of the first power source, which is the main power supply to the blender unit.

Abstract: Hot asphalt recycling system having a mixing hopper where the hot aggregate, exiting the drier, and the RAP are mixed; a pouring hopper which is opened to said mixing hopper from one end thereof and from whose other end RAP is poured, in order to obtain recycled asphalt concrete which is to be used in the production of one of the asphalt layers by using RAP. Said system comprising an air inlet pipe whose one end is connected to the heat source and whose other end is opened to the pouring hopper in order to transfer hot air, which is heated by a heat source, inside the pouring hopper; and at least one drying box in order to provide the RAP inside the pouring hopper to be poured to the mixing hopper in a sequenced manner and step by step.

Abstract: A dryer performance optimization system comprising a dryer having an inner wall and being adapted to rotate at variable speeds and a variable frequency drive being adapted to vary the rotational speed of the dryer. The preferred system also comprises a baghouse having an inlet end being adapted to receive exhaust gas from the dryer and an outlet end and a controller being adapted to control the temperature of the exhaust gas from the dryer. A method for controlling the temperature of exhaust gas in a baghouse comprising providing a dryer performance optimization system as described herein and varying the temperature of the exhaust gas from the dryer by varying the rotational speed of the dryer.

Abstract: A mixing system is provided comprising a first mixing tub, a first actuator to control flow of a carrier fluid, a sensor to determine a rate of flow of the fluid, and a second actuator to control flow of a dry material to form a mixture in the first mixing tub. The system further comprises a second mixing tub, a controller, and a weight sensor to determine the weight of the first mixing tub. The controller modulates the second actuator based on the rate of flow of the carrier fluid, based on the weight of the first mixing tub, and based on one of a sensed height of the mixture in the second mixing tub and a weight of the second mixing tub to provide the mixture at least one of at a commanded density and at a commanded flow rate. The mixture may be provided to a well bore to perform a servicing operation.

Abstract: A mixing system is provided comprising a first mixing tub, a first actuator to control flow of a carrier fluid, a sensor to determine a rate of flow of the fluid, and a second actuator to control flow of a dry material to form a mixture in the first mixing tub. The system further comprises a second mixing tub, a controller, and a weight sensor to determine the weight of the first mixing tub. The controller modulates the second actuator based on the rate of flow of the carrier fluid, based on the weight of the first mixing tub, and based on one of a sensed height of the mixture in the second mixing tub and a weight of the second mixing tub to provide the mixture at least one of at a commanded density and at a commanded flow rate. The mixture may be provided to a well bore to perform a servicing operation.

Abstract: It is disclosed a mixer adapted to mix a base and a catalyst to make a paste for dental castings in which the holding body is adapted to receive the components to be mixed through two inlets (3, 4). Said components are conveyed into a mixing chamber (6) where a dynamic rotor (7) is present which, through suitable fins (12), allows mixing of the two components. Downstream of the dynamic mixing (7) along a feeding direction (A) of the material, a static-mixing structure (9) is also provided which is equipped with a predetermined number of shaped elements (10) to enable further mixing of the materials before the latter come out of the mixer.

Abstract: Methods are provided for determining an estimated volumetric ratio of a material to total materials in a mixing vessel. In various embodiments, the methods may comprise: summing a commanded input flowrate of the material and a volumetric disturbance flowrate of the material being fed to the mixing vessel; estimating the output flowrate of the material exiting the mixing vessel; negatively feeding back the estimated output flowrate of the material to obtain an estimated volumetric rate of change of the material in the mixing vessel; and integrating the estimated volumetric rate of change of the material to compute the estimated volumetric ratio of the material to the total materials in the mixing vessel.

Abstract: A hot mix asphalt plant for producing hot mix asphalt using a high percentage of RAP comprising a first dryer adapted to receive and mix virgin aggregates and RAP fines and a first burner assembly adapted to produce a burner flame and heat and dry the virgin aggregates in the first dryer. The plant also includes a second dryer adapted to receive coarse RAP and a second burner assembly adapted to produce a burner flame and heat and dry the coarse RAP in the second dryer. The plant further comprises a pugmill adapted to receive the virgin aggregates and the RAP fines from the first dryer and the coarse RAP from the second dryer and mix the virgin aggregates, the RAP fines and the coarse RAP to produce hot mix asphalt.

Abstract: Methods of controlling a volumetric ratio of a material to total materials in a mixing vessel are provided. In various embodiments, the methods may comprise: estimating the volumetric ratio of the material to the total materials in the mixing vessel and an output flowrate of the material from the mixing vessel using a volumetric ratio observer; dynamically recomputing the commanded input flowrate of the material based on outputs of the volumetric ratio observer using a flow regulator; and adjusting an input valve of the material based on the commanded input flowrate of the material using a flow modulator. The mixing vessel may include a first mixing vessel partially separated from a second mixing vessel. In this case, a height of the total materials in the second mixing vessel may be estimated using a height observer.

Abstract: The presently disclosed embodiments are directed to processes for making phase change or solid ink used in ink jet system recording apparatuses (e.g., printer, copying machine, facsimile, word processor, plotter, and the like). More particularly, the embodiments pertain to the preparation of pigment or dye-based solid ink using a rotor-stator style, in-line homogenizer.

Abstract: A novel cement slurry composed of cement and water that can be used in cement stabilization applications. The cement slurry compound itself is chemically treated, by means of a cellulosic or other thixotropic thickening agent(s) to create a thixotropic system wherein the wetted cement remains in suspension and does not settle out prior to use even without further mixing. A chemical retarder/stabilizer is also used to prevent the slurry from prematurely setting during shipping. A novel apparatus and method for mixing the novel cement slurry is disclosed to insure the exact proportioning of all ingredients and the proper wetting of the cement.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing plasterboard and a plasterboard manufacturing unit are provided, the process including feeding hydratable calcium sulphate and water into a first mixer (2) and into a second mixer (3); feeding in a facing (5); preparing a first gypsum slurry in the first mixer (2); preparing a second gypsum slurry in the second mixer (3); applying the first slurry onto the facing and forming a crude surface layer; applying the second slurry onto the crude surface layer and forming a crude core layer with a density lower than that of the crude surface layer; forming a plasterboard; hydrating and drying the board. This process allows the formation of the different layers of gypsum to be controlled independently.

Abstract: A method for continuously batch mixing a homogenized cement slurry is provided that includes providing first and second mix tubs which each perform a process which include: receiving a measured quantity of solid and liquid constituents of a cement mixture; mixing the solid and liquid constituents of the cement mixture into a homogenized cement slurry; and delivering the homogenized cement slurry into a well. In this method, the first and second mix tubs alternate these delivering processes in a synchronized manner such that one of the first and the second mix tubs continually delivering its corresponding homogenized cement slurry to a well pumping system.

Abstract: A mobile grout plant for preparing structural grout comprising a mixer having an opening for receiving at least a portion of the components for preparation of the grout, a remixer located downstream of the mixer, a deck and at least one motor to power the mixer and remixer, wherein the mixer is oriented vertically above the remixer and at a terminal end of the grout plant so that a truck with aggregate can back up to the mixer for offloading directly into the mixer, with the opening of the mixer adapted to be about waist height to a worker standing on the deck.

Abstract: A milled materials processor consists of a self contained, stationary or fully mobile thermal process plant for the thermal processing of 100% recycled asphalt pavement into new hot mix paving material. Mobile units are designed for transportation by vehicle to a job site and rapid arrangement. For example, the milled materials processing unit at the standard legal load or non-permit load size and configuration processes approximately 25 tons per hour of pre-sized recycled asphalt pavement materials, approximately 50,000 lbs gross, having up to 3% moisture content. Larger unit sizes are available in transportable configurations of 10? wide×54? long, and 12? wide×62? long. Alternatively, units are designed and erected as stationary modular systems for higher tonnage capacities from approximately 200 tons per hour to approximately 400 tons per hour and higher.

Abstract: A method and system of forming a fire door core are provided. Hydraulic binder and resin are supplied from raw material bins and mixed to provide a submixture. Exfoliated vermiculite is then mixed with the submixture to provide a mixture that is deposited into a plurality of compression molds. Each of the filled molds are pressed in a press at a predetermined temperature at a predetermined pressure for a predetermined period of time sufficient to harden the mixture into a hardened slab. The hardened slabs are then removed from the molds, impregnated with water or steam in a water impregnation assembly and dried in a drying assembly.

Abstract: A method and system of forming a fire door core. Hydraulic binder and resin are supplied from raw material bins and mixed to provide a submixture. Exfoliated vermiculite is then mixed with the submixture to provide a mixture that is deposited into a plurality of compression molds. Each of the filled molds are pressed in a press at a predetermined temperature at a predetermined pressure for a predetermined period of time sufficient to harden the mixture into a hardened slab. The hardened slabs are then removed from the molds, impregnated with water or steam in a water impregnation assembly and dried in a drying assembly.

Abstract: A portable concrete plant for producing ready mix concrete proximate to a location where the ready mix concrete is used. The portable concrete plant includes storage regions for storing components used in the ready mix concrete. The portable concrete plant also includes a slurry mixer for preparing slurry that is used in the ready mix concrete. The portable concrete plant further includes conveying systems for conveying the components from the storage regions and from the slurry mixer to a system discharge port.

Abstract: A system for making extruded cement-based articles. The process can include forming a cement-based feed mixture including water, aggregate and binder and directing the feed mixture to a vacuum zone, wherein sufficient vacuum is maintained in the vacuum zone to remove entrained air and, preferably, excess water, from the feed mixture. The feed mixture is held in the vacuum zone at a negative pressure for a time sufficient to form a vacuum-treated or densified mixture. The vacuum-treated or densified mixture is passed through an extruder at an elevated pressure to provide an extruded cement-based article.

Abstract: A pulper in a stock preparation system includes a housing with a fiber inlet, at least one water inlet, at least one outlet and an inner chamber. A plurality of stationary pulping foils are attached to the housing and extend into the inner chamber. A rotatable shaft assembly extends through the inner chamber. The shaft assembly includes a shaft, an auger positioned around the shaft and relative to the fiber inlet and a plurality of movable pulping foils carried by and extending from the shaft. A conical valve is positioned in association with the outlet and is selectively movable to open and close the outlet.

Abstract: An apparatus for pumping mortar. A hopper for containment of mortar is mounted on a portable frame. A mortar pump has an inlet located within a lower portion of the hopper, and a discharge located outside the hopper. A rotary drive shaft has a lower end attached to the mortar pump, and a median portion passing through the contained mortar. The drive shaft is oriented at a vertical angle sufficient so that an upper end of the shaft extends above an upper level of the mortar. An engine, also mounted on the frame, rotates the upper end of the drive shaft, powering the mortar pump. One end of a mortar distribution hose is connected to the discharge of the pump. The other end of the hose extends to a remote location, and is fitted with a mortar application nozzle. Mortar is pre-mixed in a concrete mixer and poured into the hopper. The mortar pump forces mortar through the distribution hose and out the nozzle, where it is directed by a mason on to joints and into grout lines.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sterilizing water containing pathogen protozoa having shells in a simple manner without negative influencing the environment is disclosed. Ultrasonic waves are applied to drinking water to form fine cavitation bubbles which are used to destroy the shells of pathogenic protozoa. The residual chlorine in the drinking water along with an oxidizing action and effect of the ultrasonic wave, permit not only sterilization but also deodorization and decolorization.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for forming a continuous structure includes the steps of preselecting a liquid reactive resin forming material, a particulate solid additive material and a porous blanket, mixing and encapsulating the additive particles with the liquid resin forming material while tumbling the materials along a cylindrical mixing chamber. The leading edge of the structure is grasped with a gripping device along its entire length and advanced over a horizontal supporting surface. Once a desired length has been formed a cutting device cuts the structure and the cut portion is placed into a final configuration while flexible and adhesive.

Abstract: A mortar mixing machine has a frame and a hopper supported by the frame for containing dry mortar. The hopper has an outlet with an outlet opening. A first conveying and mixing tube, connected in a working position thereof to the outlet so as to extend horizontally, has at least one water inlet and is designed for mixing the dry mortar fed into the conveying and mixing tube from the hopper with water introduced via the at least one water inlet to prepare mixed moist mortar. The first conveying and mixing tube has a removal opening for the mixed moist mortar remote from the outlet. A second conveying and mixing tube is connected to the frame for directly receiving in a working position thereof the mixed moist mortar. The second conveying and mixing tube conveys the mixed moist mortar in a direction opposite to the conveying direction of the first conveying and mixing tube. The second conveying and mixing tube has a drive and is slidably retractable into a rest position together with the drive.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a two-stage mixer formed within a single housing and including a first high shear mixer and a second low shear mixer. Plaster slurry is formed in the first mixer. A partition is laid on a first fixing sheet, a portion laid on a second fixing sheet, and the remainder discharged to the second mixer. In the second mixer, foam is added and the formed slurry is laid on the unformed slurry on the first fixing sheet. The unformed slurry in the second fixing sheen is brought to the formed slurry to join the product.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for introducing a metered volume of air into a continuously generated and flowing slurry composed of metered dry cementitious material, metered water and metered air entraining (or foaming) agent and for homogenizing this air into bubbles or cells of relatively small size to produce a uniform cellular product. The apparatus comprises a positive displacement progressive cavity slurry pump driven by a variable speed motor. By driving the pump at a speed in excess of the speed required to accommodate the volume of slurry being generated, the pump will draw air proportionately to this excess of speed. Further elements of the apparatus comprise a closed conduit system for the slurry discharging from the pump, this system communicating with a cylindrical homogenizing apparatus wherein rotating elements homogenize the metered air and slurry with the cooperation of the air entraining agent into a foamed material having relatively small air cells of uniform size.

Abstract: A method of cooling white cement clinker sintered in a rotary kiln includes the following steps: introducing the white cement clinker from the rotary kiln into a first cooling stage; comminuting the white cement clinker in the first cooling stage; quenching the white cement clinker with a coolant in the first cooling stage in a short dwell period in an oxygen-poor environment to a mean temperature of approximately between 650.degree. C. and 750.degree. C.; introducing the white cement clinker from the first cooling stage into a second cooling stage; mixing and simultaneously conveying the white cement clinker in the second cooling stage in an oxygen-poor environment for a period of at least 15 seconds for obtaining a homogeneous mixture of particles of the white cement clinker and for further cooling the white cement clinker to a temperature of approximately between 550.degree. C. and 650.degree. C.

Abstract: An apparatus enabling reaction and post-reaction processing in a single assembly including a reaction chamber and a filtration and/or drying chamber adjacent to one another, the chambers being selectively isolated or in communication. A shaft common to both chambers is capable of rotation and axial movement. An agitator arm is fitted to the shaft in the reaction chamber while a smoothing and pressing arm is fitted to the shaft in the filtration and/or drying chamber. The chambers may be formed in a single cylindrical vessel with an intermediate cross wall providing isolation between the chambers. A U-shaped conduit extends between the chambers and by-passes the cross wall to enable communication between the chambers. The conduit may incorporate a valve/pump to facilitate transfer between the chambers. The shaft is journalled through the cross wall and has a bellows apparatus to protect the bearing from the respective chambers.

Abstract: A method of forming a mixture of powdered material and water includes the step of providing a hopper, a holding tank, a tube intermediate the hopper and the holding tank, and an air-powered auger arranged to feed powdered material from the hopper through the tube to the holding tank. The method proceeds by adding powdered material to the hopper, supplying water to the tube, and operating the auger to feed the powdered material into the tube, to mix it with water in the tube, and then to push the mixture out of the tube to the holding tank. For drywall texturing applications, the mixture may then be delivered from the holding tank under pressure to a spray nozzle. An apparatus for forming a mixture of powdered material and water includes a hopper, a holding tank, a tube intermediate the hopper and the holding tank, and an auger extending from the hopper into the tube.

Abstract: Apparatus for mixing lightweight concrete includes a main mixing unit which receives volumetrically measured dry aggregate material including polystyrene and wet material which includes cement measured by weight and water measured volumetrically. The wet and dry materials are mixed in the main mixing unit prior to the mixed material being poured into molds for curing.

Abstract: The invention provides apparatus for use in the preparation of gypsum products such as plasterboard from foamed gypsum plaster slurry. The apparatus comprises a first mixing chamber 10 containing a high speed rotor 14 and inlets 18, 19 for gypsum plaster and water. The initial dispersion of gypsum plaster and water foamed in the first chamber passes directly and continuously into a second chamber 25 containing a low speed rotor 29. Preformed foam is introduced into the second chamber through an inlet 33, and the foamed slurry product leaves the second chamber through an outlet 34, to be formed into plasterboard.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for separating and recovering catalyst and oil from a catalyst/oil mix, using the steps of mixing the catalyst/oil mix with a solvent for the oil and dissolving the oil in the solvent, separating the catalyst from the solvent and dissolved oil and recovering the catalyst as a wet powder, and separating the dissolved oil from the solvent, whereby both the oil and the solvent are recovered in reusable form.

Abstract: A controlled method of, and apparatus for, continuously processing initially dry, particulate, cementitious material and fly ash solids and mixing them with a liquid to provide a liquid slurry of consistent proportions. The method and apparatus are concerned with a bin system for the fly ash solids and dry cementitious solids, opposed conveyor flight elements within the bin system leading to a metering valve system, a conveyor system for receiving the fly ash and cementitious material solids in metered proportions and then mixing them with a liquid to form a slurry, a conduit for pneumatically supplying solids entrained in an airstream to the bin system, a pressure controlled system for egressing air from the bin system and separating remaining solids from the air while maintaining the bin system under less than atmospheric pressure, and controls for monitoring the volume of material in the bin system.

Abstract: An asphalt production plant with a drum dryer having two burners and expanded exhaust gas exit area. The dryer has a rotatable dryer drum with an inlet end and a discharge end. A burner is positioned at each end of the dryer drum to produce a stream of hot gases both parallel with and counter to the movement of aggregate through the dryer drum. A dust chamber surrounds a medial dust section of the dryer drum. The dust section of the dryer drum communicates with the dust chamber through slots and perforated angle plates to produce an increased area for the exit of exhaust gases. In addition to the drum dryer, the plant comprises an aggregate feed system for delivering aggregate into the dryer, an exhaust system, a drum mixer, a recycle feed system, a reservoir of bituminous fluid and an asphalt bin. A drag conveyor is provided to transfer aggregate from the dryer into the drum mixer. Recycle material and dust from the exhaust system may be introduced into the drag conveyor as well.

Abstract: A vertical reactor system having a plurality of substantially vertically aligned reaction compartments one on top of the other, the reactant materials (and catalyst and solvent, if desired), flowable from a first top compartment through intermediate compartments, if any, to a bottom compartment from which a desired product of a reaction of the reactant materials is withdrawn, the compartments having inlets for the addition of additional reactants, catalysts, or solvents and outlets for withdrawing by-products, vapors, and water from any compartment, and processes for producing products using such a system. In one embodiment the product is a liquid epoxy resin. Stirring impellers may be provided in any compartment. A liquid seal may be provided on a shaft for the impellers and, in one embodiment the seals in each compartment may be elevated above the liquid in the compartments.

Abstract: A system for mixing cementitious material, liquid and aggregate to form concrete includes a cementitious material measuring device which provides dry cementitious material to an enclosed screw conveyor assembly. The dry cementitious material is thoroughly mixed with a liquid within the screw conveyor to form a flowable slurry without producing external cement dust pollution. The slurry is output by the screw conveyor into a final product mixing chamber where the flowable slurry is mixed together with aggregate to form concrete. The screw conveyor assembly has an in-line input and output, and space-saving diverging/converging conveyor sections, to facilitate the retrofitting of existing concrete mixing plants. The conveyor assembly includes a cement metering function as well as a slurry mixing function. A selectively openable and closable bypass gate permits the dry cementitious material to be sent directly to the final product mixing chamber in the event of conveyor failure.

Abstract: A chemical handling and mixing apparatus is disclosed, consisting of a chemical loading apparatus in which bulk chemical is mixed with water into an aqueous solution or slurry and an agitation apparatus which receives the aqueous solution or slurry from the chemical loading apparatus and further mixes the solution or slurry to ensure even mixing and delivers the mixed chemical to a pump for storage or use.

Abstract: A vertical reactor system having a plurality of substantially vertically aligned reaction compartments one on top of the other, the reactant materials (and catalyst and solvent, if desired), flowable from a first top compartment through intermediate compartments, if any, to a bottom compartment from which a desired product of a reaction of the reactant materials is withdrawn, the compartments having inlets for the addition of additional reactants, catalysts, or solvents and outlets for withdrawing by-products, vapors, and water from any compartment, and processes for producing products using such a system. In one embodiment the product is a liquid epoxy resin. Stirring impellers may be provided in any compartment. A liquid seal may be provided on a shaft for the impellers and, in one embodiment the seals in each compartment may be elevated above the liquid in the compartments.

Abstract: A device for moving solid particles, especially one designed as cooling mixer, has a substantially horizontal jacketed tank (11), in which a shaft (14) is seated for rotation. The shaft (14) is equipped with mixing tools. Bulk material can be introduced into the tank (11) through a charging opening (23), and the processed material can be extracted from the tank (11) through a discharge opening (26). The product space of the tank (11) is equipped with partition walls which subdivide the product space into processing zones. The solid-particle mixer (10) is particularly well suited for quasi-continuous operation. Processing of the bulk material is carried out in the pile and product feeding toward the discharge opening (26) is effected in the state of a mechanically generated fluidized bed, or a product toroid.

Abstract: A mixing method uses, and a colloidal grout mixing apparatus comprises, an upright cylindrical vessel in which a mixer is located. The mixer comprises a shaft extending substantially co-axially with the longitudinal axis of the vessel, and a paddle assembly mounted on the shaft. The paddle assembly produces a vortex in liquid in the vessel, and also provides a high shear region near the base of the vessel. A non-shear pump is connected to the base to discharge grout from the vessel. The grout may be discharged to a drum containing radioactive waste and mounted on a vibratory platform.

Abstract: Dispersions of hydrophobic substance e.s. resin emulsions, usually having a relatively low average particle size can be continuously and speedily prepared by feed a hydrophobic substance in the liquid state into at least two static mixers, arranged in a series. The resin is introduced at a temperature above 50 degrees C. but below its degradation temperature of hydrophobic substance and water under pressure is introduced into the first mixer. The mixture of resin and water is passed to another mixer maintained at a temperature lower than that prevailing in the first mixer and below the boiling point of water. Optionally aqueous solution of surfactant under pressure instead of water is introduced into the first mixer and optionally aqueous surfactant is introduced into the second mixer.

Abstract: An asphalt production system utilizing a pair of rotatable drums for producing an asphaltic composition is provided. The asphaltic composition is produced by separately heating a volume of virgin aggregate material in a countercurrent drum dryer and heating a volume of recycle material in a parallel flow drum mixer. The hot virgin aggregate material is mixed with the heated recycle material at an intermediate location within the parallel flow drum mixer. A ducting system is provided for interconnecting the ends of the drums such that the hot exhaust gases from one drum are circulated into the other drum thus producing a common flow of exhaust gases between the drums.

Abstract: A curdling tank includes two upright, mutually intersecting, circular tank sections, each of the circular tank sections having a concentrically operated stirring system. The bottom portions of each of the circular tank sections are shaped to include sloping sides to form respective concentric bottom grooves with a downwardly pointed cross section, the lowermost portions of the grooves meet or overlap each other midway between the two shafts. The grooves are arranged in the shape of a figure of eight and the grooves achieve an effective emptying through a single outlet.

Abstract: A process for producing micropellets of lightweight aggregate having a substantially spheroidal configuration which includes continuously mixing ceramic clay and liquid in a high speed rotating pin mixer to encapsulate substantially all other non-volatile inorganic solid materials present in micropellets having a diameter not exceeding about six mesh. The spheroidal micropellets are then fired at a temperature of at least 2,000.degree. F. to oxidize all volatile organic compounds present. The lightweight aggregate of micropellets can advantageously be used to replace sand in a cement or concrete matrix, as a well as for numerous other uses.

Abstract: A system and method for reclaiming unused portions of mixed concrete by adding a chemical agent to retard the hydration state of the concrete for up to several days. When the stored concrete is again desired for use, a chemical accelerating agent is added to the mixed concrete which returns the hydration state to normal, once again allowing the concrete to set. The concrete can then be poured at a construction site or alternatively, the stored concrete can be added to a new batch of newly mixed concrete before pouring.

Abstract: A mixing apparatus comprises two or more tubs in which mixtures can be mixed to obtain averaging of a particular property, such as density. Two recirculation lines are used. One recirculates between an initial mixing tub and a mixing inlet, and the other recirculates from the additional, secondary averaging tub(s) and the mixing inlet. Computer control responds to densities of fluids recirculated through both of the recirculation lines. In a preferred embodiment, the computer is also responsive to pressure of one of the inlet substances. In response to these measured inputs and other data entered through a data entry terminal, the computer generates control signals for controlling the inputs of both of two inlet substances. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and a corresponding method utilize displacement tanks both as averaging tubs and as conventional displacement tanks.

Abstract: An ultrasonic fluid processing method is provided for cavitation and processing a first fluid with a second fluid in a sonication or cavitation zone. The method is useful for preparation of emulsions for chemical and pharmaceutical applications, to gasify liquids for purification, for chemical reactions, to accelerate chemical and physical reactions, and to suspend fine particles. The method includes the steps of, forming a vibration element having an axis and with an adjacent sonication or cavitation zone, enclosing the element and zone in a sealed cavity having a first fluid passage, forming a second fluid passage coaxially with the vibration element and disposed adjacent to the sonication zone, and forming a third fluid passage coaxially with the vibration element and disposed adjacent to the sonication zone. With this method, problems with the control of proportions and amounts and uniformity of parts of fluids being mixed or processed are avoided.

Abstract: An aerated cementitious composition is produced by feeding a mixture comprising cement and foaming agent to a mixing chamber open to atmosphere together with a feed of liquid. The ingredients are mixed and the wetted mixture pumped to a desired site, the capacity of pumping being greater than the feed rate of the ingredients into the mixing chamber such that air is drawn into the mixing chamber.

Abstract: A continuous process aggregate drying and mixing plant for producing a hot asphaltic material, such as is used for paving highways or the like, includes a combination of a drum drier and a pugmill. Both the drum drier and the pugmill are supported by a common trailer frame. The pugmill is coextensively mounted at the discharge end of the drum drier towards the rear of the frame. The drum drier discharges dried and heated virgin aggregate material through a feed and transfer chute directly into a first, pre-mix region of the pugmill. The feed and transfer chute also provides for the addition of recycled pavement to the heated and dried aggregate and for the side discharge of such heated and dried aggregate. A second region of the pugmill within which liquid asphalt is added to the mixed aggregate is substantially separated from the first, pre-mix region. The space above the second region of the pugmill is substantially enclosed and coupled directly to a secondary air supply of a burner for the drum drier.

Abstract: A drum mixer having an countercurrent flow drying zone and a parallel flow mixing zone is provided for producing an asphaltic composition. The drum mixer utilizes a heat source located at an intermediate position therein for generating three streams of hot gases. The first stream of hot gases is directed towards the receiving end of the drum mixer in a countercurrent direction to the flow virgin aggregate entering the drying zone of the drum mixer. Recycle material is introduced into the drum mixer between the heat source and the discharge end thereof. The recycle material and the heated virgin aggregate are combined within the mixing zone. As both materials travel towards the discharge end of the drum mixer the second stream of hot gases is directed towards the discharge end of the drum mixer in a parallel direction to the flow of the mixing materials for heating said materials.