Corrosion Tester Patents (Class 422/53)
  • Patent number: 5985213
    Abstract: When adsorbed gas is analyzed after metal, ceramics or metallic salt has been left in an environmental atmosphere for a predetermined period of time, an average concentration of specific gas over a long period of time can be accurately measured with an inexpensive small apparatus. Especially, porous metal or ceramics (transition metal oxide) are excellent in selective adsorption properties for NO.sub.x, porous ceramics (rare earth element oxide) are excellent in selective adsorption properties for CO.sub.2, and a specific chloride such as copper chloride and silver chloride is excellent in selective adsorption properties for SO.sub.2. A test kit accommodating such test pieces in a case, a protective case for the test kit to put the test kit into practical use, an umbrella and a forced air blowing unit are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Eiichi Nakajima, Yasuo Udoh, Tsutomu Iikawa, Toshisuke Kitakohji, Teruo Motoyoshi, Takashi Furusawa, Shiori Yamazaki, Masao Nakayama, Michiko Satoh, Shigeru Fukushima, Mayumi Itabashi
  • Patent number: 5952233
    Abstract: A colorimetric method is provided for determining the presence or absence of a corrosion-inhibitory level of carboxylate anion in used aqueous engine coolant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Texaco Inc.
    Inventors: Regis J. Pellet, Leonard S. Bartley, Jr., Paul M. V. Van de Ven
  • Patent number: 5939020
    Abstract: A chemical switch device comprising a film which irreversibly reacts upon exposure to specific chemical components in the environment under the conditions of measurement. The reactions can lead to large changes in the physical and chemical properties of the film which are measurable electrically, optically or by other methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: The Arizona Board of Regents, A Body Corporate of the State of Arizona, Acting for and On Behalf of Arizona State University
    Inventors: William Glaunsinger, Ian Sorensen, Qingcheng Bao, Michael J. McKelvy
  • Patent number: 5891395
    Abstract: A chemical switch device comprising a film which irreversibly reacts upon exposure to specific chemical components in the environment under the conditions of measurement. The reactions can lead to large changes in the physical and chemical properties of the film which are measurable electrically, optically or by other methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents, a body corporate of the State of Arizona, acting for and on behalf of Arizona State University
    Inventors: William Glaunsinger, Ian Sorensen, Qingcheng Bao, Michael J. McKelvy
  • Patent number: 5804140
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the amount of various corrosive gases present in a corrosive environment, which uses a metal plate having a thin metalic film thereon formed by sputtering or deposition, instead of the conventional hand made metal sheet, and which measures the thickness of a corrosion film formed on the metal film by utilizing an X-ray spectrum instead of the conventional cathode reduction method, and without destroying the corrosion film, through use of a calibration curve. The invention also provides a novel casing for holding the metal plate in the corrosive environment during measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Assignee: Yokogawa Engineering Service Corporation
    Inventors: Tadashi Kishi, Xinmin Xu, Nobuteru Sawayama
  • Patent number: 5750406
    Abstract: There is provided a test piece by which NO.sub.x, present in an environment may be visually observed apart from the influence of other gases, and with which qualitative and quantitative analysis may be performed. The test piece has a layered structure prepared by vacuum deposition a metal thin-film (Ag, Pt, Au, etc.) on a metal substrate (Cu, Zn, etc.). The rough amounts of NO.sub.x, SO.sub.x and NH.sub.3 in the environment are determined on the basis of the corrosion products (nitrates, etc.) produced when NO.sub.x, SO.sub.x and NH.sub.3 are collected after the test piece has been exposed to the environment for a prescribed period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Eiichi Nakajima, Yasuo Udoh, Tsutomu Iikawa, Toshisuke Kitakohji, Teruo Motoyoshi, Takashi Furusawa, Shiori Yamazaki, Masao Nakayama, Michiko Satoh, Shigeru Fukushima, Mayumi Itabashi
  • Patent number: 5712559
    Abstract: A combination and unitary corrosion monitor and reference cell for cathodic protection systems includes an elongated tubular metal element of the same material as the structure to be protected and a reference cell on one end of the tubular element, adapted to be buried or submerged in an electrolyte. The tubular element includes resistance connections along its length and a reference resistance element sealed inside. Ratiometric resistance measurements enable the extent of corrosion and corrosion rates to be determined with automatic compensation for temperature changes. Both the resistance measurements and the potential measurements from the cell may be taken from the same test station or location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1998
    Assignee: Rohrback Cosasco Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford G. Moore, Steven L. Stricklin
  • Patent number: 5610068
    Abstract: A method for determining the adequacy of corrosion prevention treatments applied to metal surfaces is disclosed. The method provides a qualitative determination of corrosion detection using inexpensive equipment. Generally, the method encompasses wetting at least a first and a second absorbent patches capable of retaining a liquid corrosive to metal surfaces to be tested with the corrosive liquid to obtain wetted patches and then contacting a portion of a first metal surface to be tested with the first patch under corrosive conditions and contacting a portion of a second metal surface to be tested with the second patch, wherein the second metal surface having the same composition as the first metal surface has been treated with an effective amount of a corrosion prevention treatment and subjecting the second patch in contact with the second metal surface to the same corrosive conditions as the corrosive conditions applied to the first patch in contact with the first metal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1997
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventors: Christine M. Stuart, Deborah M. Rogers, James R. Van Camp, Michael P. Sowinski
  • Patent number: 5591644
    Abstract: A method for on-line assay in column chromatography of a property that requires appreciable time for sensitive measurement has the steps of separating the effluent into discrete fractions at equal time intervals, sequentially passing each fraction through each of a series of detectors, while preventing each fraction from mixing with another; and, for each fraction, calculating the assay from the information provided by each detector during the time interval the fraction passed through it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1997
    Assignee: Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University
    Inventor: Arthur Karmen
  • Patent number: 5581588
    Abstract: A method for mitigating crack initiation and propagation on the surface of metal components in a water-cooled nuclear reactor. An electrically insulating coating doped with a noble metal is applied on the surfaces of IGSCC-susceptible reactor components. The preferred electrically insulating material is yttria-stabilized zirconia doped with palladium or platinum. The presence of an electrically insulating coating on the surface of the metal components shifts the corrosion potential in the negative direction without the addition of hydrogen. Corrosion potentials .ltoreq.-0.5 V.sub.SHE are believed to be achievable even at high oxidant concentrations and in the absence of hydrogen, although the coatings are believed to be particularly suited to applications where a reductant, such as hydrogen, is present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1996
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Peter L. Andresen
  • Patent number: 5571955
    Abstract: A corrosion monitoring apparatus and method for determining the corrosive effects of a chemical environment, having an environmental pressure, on a vessel containing the chemical environment. A probe is exposed to the environment and is made of a material substantially similar to that of which the vessel is made. The probe has a sealed internal chamber which contains a pressurized fluid which is monitored. A pressure transducer is in communication with the sealed internal chamber of the first probe for translating any pressure change within the chamber into a (preferably electrical) signal which is indicated by an electrical meter or similar device. Stress corrosion cracking of the probe causes fluid leakage and, therefore, a pressure change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: CC Technologies Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Beavers, Neil G. Thompson
  • Patent number: 5556596
    Abstract: A corrosive environment sensor comprises an elongate metal member having a pair of beam portions, each extending in a length direction between first and second ends of the metal member, and having a crack growth portion formed therein and extending in the length direction of the metal member from a crack starting end toward the second end, wherein the crack starting end is at an intermediate position between the first and second ends of the metal member and is between the pair of beam portions, a changeable load member having an expansible chamber disposed between the beam portion around the first end of the metal member and a means for supplying pressurized fluid to the expansible chamber. The changeable load member applies a load to the crack growth portion and the means for supplying pressurized fluid to the expansible chamber is responsible for ensuring that the displacement of the beam portions is accomplished in such a manner so as to provide a constant stress intensity factor at a crack growing point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Hayashi, Satoshi Kanno, Naoto Saito
  • Patent number: 5476636
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing a weather resistance test on a composite material having a metallic, inorganic, or organic base member, and an organic material covering the base member. The apparatus includes a sample holding device disposed in a sample chamber for holding a sample of the composite material. An artificial light source irradiates light substantially in the ultraviolet light area to one surface of the sample. A dipping mechanism dips the sample in a corrosive ionized water, and dew condensation is formed through a temperature control device disposed in the sample holding device, working with a moisture source, for causing dew condensation in the surface of the sample. A cleaning device is provided for cleaning the surface of the sample, and steaming of the sample is performed through the use of a heating element disposed in the sample chamber, and the moistening means, for steaming the sample in an atmosphere of high temperature and high humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignees: Building Research Institute, Ministry of Construction, Dainippon Plastics Co., Ltd., Iwasaki Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Tomiita, Yoshio Kishima, Teruo Iwanaga, Hitoshi Goto
  • Patent number: 5446369
    Abstract: The corrosion monitor system facilitates the detection and monitoring of material corrosion in remote areas. Sensors, which react to a corrosive environment similar to the material to be monitored, are placed in isolated areas and connected to a central control system via shielded cables. The system consists of a controller board, multiple dual preamp boards, a battery pack, sensors, and corresponding cables. The controller board consists of a microcontroller, memory, data conversion, and other control circuits. The dual preamp boards contain multiple precision instrumentation amplifiers, filtering, and voltage conversion circuits. The system operates on the principal that corrosion of a metallic conductor will cause a corresponding increase in the cross-sectional electrical resistance of that conductor. This change in resistance can be detected and monitored by passing a known constant current through the conductor and comparing the voltage across the conductor with that of a controlled reference conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Mark T. Byrne, Kenneth L. Kimes, John T. Stropki
  • Patent number: 5425267
    Abstract: Apparatus for simulating corrosion activity of a process stream on equipment and transport lines. The apparatus includes a series of modular canisters coupled to a process stream source and a process stream discharge point. A cooling coil is positioned within each canister and the cooling coils are interconnected in series. The first cooling coil is coupled to a coolant source and the last cooling coil is connected to a coolant discharge. The process stream flows thorough the series of canisters and the coolant flows through the coils in counterflow to the process stream to cool and partially condense the process stream. Corrosion activity and temperature within the canister are monitored using corrosion probes and/or coupons. Modular construction of the canisters permits disassembly and reassembly to adapt the simulator to different simulation applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventors: William B. Herrmann, Daniel Mull, John G. Hyatt, Paul Fearnside, Russell C. Strong
  • Patent number: 5411888
    Abstract: Methods for determining the corrosivity of a substance to human skin or membrane are disclosed. In one approach, corrosivity is evaluated by measuring the time required for the test substance to transit a biobarrier that mimics human skin or membranes or the time required to cause a component of such biobarrier to break down and transit the membrane. The invention also envisions alternative approaches which involve series of layers of dyes and corrosive-resistant materials coated onto microspheres or test strips. Use of these methods provides a rapid determination of the corrosivity of test materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Invitro International
    Inventors: Virginia C. Gordon, Soheila Mirhashemi, Rosalind W. Wei
  • Patent number: 5411890
    Abstract: An atmospheric environmental monitoring method utilizes a corrosion test element prepared from a transparent substrate having two opposed surfaces. A corrodable film is applied to one surface of the substrate in the form of a thin wedge of metal and a security coating is applied to the opposite surface of the substrate. The surface of the corrodable film adjacent to the transparent substrate is reflective to radiation when viewed through the substrate. The security layer is designed to reflect radiation in at least the visible region of the spectrum and yet be transparent to radiation in other parts of the spectrum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Westvaco Corporation
    Inventor: Ladislav Falat
  • Patent number: 5405513
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for the simultaneous measurement of the general corrosion rate and the atomic hydrogen permeation rate through at least two like specimens in the same test cell, under the same conditions at the same time.The nonconductive electrochemical test cell is adapted to receive at least two test specimens and associated electrodes and electronic and physical measuring means. One or more chemical additives can be introduced into the cell to determine their effect on inhibiting hydrogen permeation and corrosion rates as reflected by the respective measurements. This procedure can be repeated for other inhibitors, and, from the data obtained, a comparative ranking of the effectiveness of inhibitors can be assigned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 11, 1995
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Arnold L. Lewis, II, Gale B. Farquhar
  • Patent number: 5403550
    Abstract: An electrode for determining corrosion of metal reinforcement in concrete includes a wire surrounded by insulation and made of a metal which is more electro-positive than a metal reinforcement. An electrically active part of the wire is in electrolytic contact with moisture in concrete surrounding the reinforcement. The insulation is disposed along the whole of the electrically active part of the wire in such a way that the insulation keeps this part of the wire separated from the reinforcement and galvanically insulated therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Bernhard Wietek
  • Patent number: 5401661
    Abstract: A method for testing engine lubricating oil under simulated engine operating conditions including a tank with an interior space containing a quantity of engine lubricating oil, an elongated tubular enclosure for passing oil from one end to the other, and an oil pump to cause oil to flow from the tank through the tubular enclosure. The tank includes devices to introduce oil oxidizing agents to the oil. A metal rod extends centrally through the enclosure so that oil passes along its outer surface and the rod is selectively heated so that oxidation deposits form along the rod. Examination and analysis of the rod and its deposits permit rating of a particular oil for its oxidation resistant properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis W. Florkowski, Theodore Selby
  • Patent number: 5378429
    Abstract: A corrosive environment sensor comprises an elongate member having a pair of elongate beam portions and a crack growth portion formed between the pair of beam portions so as to extend axially, and a wedge inserted between the pair of beam portions, wherein the crack growth portion has width thereof defined by quadratic curves extending axially so as to decrease from an axially intermediate portion of the sensor member to an axially intermediate portion of the crack growth portion and increase from the axially intermediate portion of the crack growth portion toward an end of the sensor member. The quadratic curves each consist of a first circular arc with first radius between the axially intermediate portion of the sensor member and the axially intermediate portion of the crack growth portion and a second circular arc with second radius less than the first radius between the axially intermediate portion of the crack growth portion and around the second end of the sensor member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Hayashi, Satoshi Kanno, Naoto Saito
  • Patent number: 5377533
    Abstract: A method of taking erosion/corrosion measurements of a piping system for logging a history of the piping system over time comprises the steps of: (a) Wrapping a template about the pipe component; (b) Aligning the template with a reference marking on the pipe component; (c) Taking a wall thickness measurement at each of the spaced holes; (d) Recording at least the wall thickness measurement at each of the spaced holes and the indicia of the spaced hole location. The template extends circumferentially about the pipe component and has a plurality of spaced holes arranged in a grid pattern which holes extend through the template for receiving a probe for measuring wall thickness of the pipe component. The template has indicia for identifying each of the spaced holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1995
    Inventors: Larry Shaw, William Perrin
  • Patent number: 5373728
    Abstract: The use of a sacrificial anode in a plumbing system or in the cooling system of an internal combustion engine or the like to protect the system against the destructive effects of electrolysis caused by the many different metals employed in modern plumbing systems or engines is disclosed, along with several methods and apparatus for monitoring the condition of the sacrificial anode to indicate when replacement is needed for continued protection of the system. Physical, optical and electrical systems are taught, each designed to indicate the need for replacement of the anode in an easily discernable manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Inventor: William D. Guentzler
  • Patent number: 5361284
    Abstract: A device for creating a corrosive condition and monitoring that condition, adapted for use in active fluid heat exchangers, has a sealed tube having corrosion sites spaced apart on its exterior. Structure positioned on the outside of the tube at the corrosion sites provide crevices for retaining corrosive sludges in contact with the corrosion sites. The interior of the tube is pressurized with a gas to stress the tube thereby accelerating corrosion of the surface. Heat is provided to the corrosion sites from within the tube when placed within a fluid reservoir, such as the secondary side of a fluid heat exchanger. The heat concentrates corrosive chemicals at the corrosion sites, also accelerating corrosion. Electronic probes can be mounted in proximity to the corrosion sites for real time monitoring of the progress of corrosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Allen J. Baum, William M. Cox
  • Patent number: 5359282
    Abstract: A plasma diagnosing apparatus for performing plasma diagnosis witch probes having a high degree of cleanliness by removing contamination caused by reactive plasma, etc., while quantitatively detecting a degree of the contamination of the probes. The disclosed apparatus avoids the disadvantages of conventional apparatuses, in which the voltage-current characteristics of the probes are deteriorated by growth of the contaminant film formed on the probes, making it difficult to measure the parameters of the plasma conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1994
    Assignees: Nichimen Kabushiki Kaisha, Nihon Kosyuha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinriki Teii, Kibatsu Shinohara, Kozo Obara, Tsuku Umezawa
  • Patent number: 5317925
    Abstract: A corrosive environmental crack length measuring apparatus including a double-cantilever beam type test piece having a tapered portion in a portion where the crack grows, a slit, and at least two holes, with the test piece being placed within a corrosive environment. Leads inserted in the holes of the test piece to be spot-welded thereto to supply a direct current to the holes. A current polarity switching device is provided with, a stabilized direct current power supply connected with the direct current supplying leads through the current polarity switching device. Potential difference measuring leads are inserted in holes formed in two outer faces of the double-cantilever beam type test piece parallel to a section of a crack growing portion at a plurality of points along the crack growing direction so as to be spot-welded thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Hayashi, Satoshi Kanno, Naoto Saito
  • Patent number: 5292481
    Abstract: A crack propagation test specimen has a base metal and a clad metal. The base metal has an upper surface and a bottom surface with a hole extending from the bottom surface toward the upper surface. The cladding metal is supported on the upper surface of the base metal and has a first slot cut therethrough which is in fluid flow communication with the hole in the base metal. A second slot is cut in the cladding metal adjacent to the first slot for receiving a wedge. The first slot and the second slot define a wall which closes over the first slot when a wedge is forced into the second slot to simulate a hairline crack. A mechanically deformed metal sample is disposed in the hole in the base metal to simulate a stressed base metal supporting a cladding metal subject to hairline cracking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Robert G. Aspden, Thomas G. Bengel
  • Patent number: 5287731
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing engine lubricating oil under simulated engine operating conditions including a tank with an interior space containing a quantity of engine lubricating oil, an elongated tubular enclosure for passing oil from one end to the other, and an oil pump to cause oil to flow from the tank through the tubular enclosure. The tank includes devices to introduce oil oxidizing agents to the oil. A metal rod extends centrally through the enclosure so that oil passes along its outer surface and the rod is selectively heated so that oxidation deposits form along the rod. Examination and analysis of the rod and its deposits permit rating of a particular oil for its oxidation resistant properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis W. Florkowski, Theodore Selby
  • Patent number: 5281535
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are provided for testing parts and materials in a controlled environment, especially an atomic oxygen environment. The apparatus includes a housing which has sample station located in its interior to receive a test sample. A contact element contacts a surface of the test sample, and a drive reciprocates the contact element so that the surface is subjected to wear along a wear path. At least one testing fluid is introduced and removed from the interior with the locations of introduction on removal preferably being such that the testing fluid flows across the test sample. The drive may be a carriage operated through the housing sidewall by a ferromagnetic coupling, and the sample station may be a turntable rotated by a ferromagnetic coupling. A second sample station may be included so that different wear path configurations are possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1994
    Inventors: Ronghua Wei, Paul J. Wilbur, Samuel C. Wu
  • Patent number: 5278071
    Abstract: A bench-test method which correlates well with other more costly engine test methods, and which can be used to screen oleaginous formulation prior to performing expensive engine tests. The method comprises a) contacting ball bearing(s) having a smooth surface area with an oleaginous fluid to be screened; b) treating the oleaginous fluid during contacting with corrosive vapor for a period of time and at a temperature sufficient to form a metal oxide coating on the ball bearing(s) surface; and c) visually rating the metal oxide coating on the ball bearings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Ethyl Corporation
    Inventors: Cheng-Chueh Kuo, David M. Marchand
  • Patent number: 5260218
    Abstract: An improved short-term autoclave (10) test for ex-reactor evaluation of in-reactor corrosion resistance of zirconium alloy members (16) for use in pressurized water reactors and pressurized heavy water reactors by:providing a heat flux to initiate hydride precipitation close to the metal-oxide interface of the tube outside surface by means of a resistance heater (20) and a directed flow of aqueous coolant in the water phase to only the outside surface which is one of two specimen (16) opposed surfaces; providing the inside surface with access to the coolant from the flow but not in the flow; reducing the distance between the opposed surfaces of specimen (16);regulating coolant flow from inlet port (12) to outlet port (14) and power of autoclave (10) to optimum saturation condition of 360.degree. C..+-. 5.degree. C. and pressure 2700 p.s.i..+-. 100 p.s.i.;providing a coolant chemistry which simulates a rector's;removing most of the oxygen from the coolant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Combustion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Anand M. Garde
  • Patent number: 5260024
    Abstract: A test specimen for evaluating crack propagation and associated wear and corrosion on cladded piping is provided. The test specimen simulates the hairline crack conditions found on the inner cladding layer of a piping system. The test specimen is useful in analyzing the effects that a certain process fluid has on an exposed cracked cladding layer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Robert G. Aspden, Thomas G. Bengel
  • Patent number: 5254310
    Abstract: The installation comprises a selective liquid-feeder assembly, a selective gas-feeder assembly for feeding gas under pressure, a mixing and preheating assembly itself comprising a vaporizing stage, a mixing stage, and a preheating stage to raise the gas-vapor mixture to a temperature of about 150.degree. C. to about 300.degree. C., and a distributor assembly for distributing the flow of gas-vapor mixture to a plurality of high temperature generalized corrosion test circuits. Each test circuit comprises a reactor including an intermediate preheater stage for preheating the gas-vapor mixture applied to the reactor to a temperature of about 400.degree. C. to about 600.degree. C., and a final heater stage containing at least one sample of material to be tested which sample is put into contact with the gas-vapor mixture flow from the intermediate preheater stage, and raised in the final heater stage to a temperature lying between about 700.degree. C. and about 850.degree. C.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1993
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventor: Joelle A. Bressan
  • Patent number: 5208162
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for using a coated piezoelectric crystal to monitor and report corrosion in terms recognized as conforming to an industry standard is disclosed. The present invention provides a method of and system for monitoring corrosion in a corrosive atmosphere, comprising and carrying out the steps of exciting in the atmosphere a crystal, coated with a corrodible metallic substance and having a known vibration frequency; measuring the change in the frequency of vibration resulting from corrosion of the corrodible substance during each of a plurality of intervals of time, including a reference interval and at least one subsequent measurement interval; generating a thickness signal representing the thickness of corrosion corresponding to the measured change in frequency during the measurement interval; and converting the corrosion thickness signal for the measurement interval to a reference signal representing the thickness of corrosion accumulated during the reference interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Assignee: Purafil, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael W. Osborne, William G. England, Xiuyi Zhang
  • Patent number: 5178822
    Abstract: In combination with a steam generator having a plurality of generator tube support plates, each generator tube support plate having a plurality of openings and a plurality of generator tubes, each tube passing through aligned openings in the support plates, a corrosion monitoring system is provided including a mockup probe, comprising a probe tube support plate having an upper side and a lower side and having substantially the same thickness and being constructed of substantially the same material as the generator tube support plates, having at least one opening of substantially the same size and shape as the openings of the generator tube support plates; at least one probe tube having an upper end and a lower end and having substantially the same diameter as the generator tubes and being constructed of substantially the same material as the generator tubes, the probe tube passing through the opening of the probe tube support plate; and wherein the mockup probe is adapted such that it may be inserted and seal
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Assignee: Arkansas Power and Light Company
    Inventors: Albert C. Buford, III, Donal W. Moore, James E. Nestell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5171524
    Abstract: Apparatus for detecting corrosive conditions in pipelines comprises a wire having an electric potential different from the electric potential of the pipeline. The wire is disposed in the pipeline in a housing which prevents it from coming into contact with a pig used to clean the interior of the pipeline. The wire is spaced from the interior of the pipeline so that it normally is not in direct electrical contact with the pipeline. The wire extends out of the pipeline and is electrically connected to an indicator. The indicator is also electrically connected to the pipeline. When corrosive fluid, such as briny water, is present in the pipeline and comes into contact with the wire and the interior of the pipeline, an electric current is electrochemically produced due to the difference in electric potential between the pipeline and the wire. The indicator detects this current and indicates that corrosive conditions are present in the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Spencer L. Niolon
  • Patent number: 5171517
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring corrosion to members within the core of a nuclear reactor, particularly fuel rod cladding. A sensor means is submerged inside the core of a nuclear reactor near the member or fuel rods. The sensor means is comprised of a generally cylindrical section having an outer surface that is subject to corrosion and radiation, and has a cross-sectional area A.sub.1. The sensor means additionally has a reference section subjected to radiation but not to corrosion, and having a cross-sectional area A.sub.2. At least one pair of first probes, separated by a length L.sub.1, is placed in electrical contact with the cylindrical section. At least one pair of second probes separated by a length L.sub.2, is placed in electrical contact with the reference section. A current is passed throughout the sensor means to produce a potential gradient in the cylindrical section and reference section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Harvey D. Solomon, Gerald M. Gordon
  • Patent number: 5170661
    Abstract: Generally, the invention provides a fouling probe apparatus. The fouling probe including a heat transfer conduit having a first portion formed as a loop which is removably attached to a second portion which extends linearly. A hollow housing encases the apparatus. The housing has an open forward portion and an open rear portion. The open forward portion is attachable to an oil quench tower about an opening in the quench tower and the open rear portion is adapted to be securely attached to the linearly extending second portion of the heat transfer conduit. A fouling grid is attached to the first portion of the heat transfer conduit. The fouling grid is super-heated to accelerate fouling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Nalco Chemical Company
    Inventors: Vincent E. Lewis, David J. Ciarella, David G. Comer, Robert D. McClain
  • Patent number: 5164160
    Abstract: The invention concerns an installation for carrying out continuous measurements in real time of masses of metals in an acid solution and measuring the acidity of this solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Thierry Pelletier, Jacques Gontier
  • Patent number: 5147802
    Abstract: A test specimen for evaluating crack propagation and associated wear and corrosion on cladded piping is provided. The test specimen simulates the hairline crack conditions found on the inner cladding layer of a piping system. The test specimen is useful in analyzing the effects that a certain process fluid has on an exposed cracked cladding layer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Robert G. Aspden, Thomas G. Bengel
  • Patent number: 5106580
    Abstract: A probe retraction tool including a threaded split shaft connected to a packing gland in coaxial relation to a probe inserted therein. The shaft has a longitudinally coextensive slot and axial bore within which the longitudinal axis of the shaft extends in parallel relation thereto. A spinner nut is threadably connected to the shaft and has a slip ring concentrically mounted thereon for relative rotational movement. A member for securing the probe to the spinner nut is connected to the slip ring and extends within the channel to detachably connect with an upper end of the probe. A handle is connected to the spinner nut for rotating the same, thereby urging the spinner nut, the slip ring and the probe in coaxial vertical movement along the longitudinal axis of the split shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Metal Samples Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Sai S. Mudiam
  • Patent number: 5104809
    Abstract: An improved method of electroanalytical detection of residual hydroquinone in boiler feedwater employing adding an ionic base and a copper chelant to the feedwater sample. Na.sub.3 PO.sub.4 and ethylenediamine are representative chemicals when square wave voltammetry (SWV) is used as the electroanalytical technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Betz Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger D. Moulton
  • Patent number: 5100780
    Abstract: A membrane perfusion apparatus and method for determining the effective rase rates of soluble biologically active chemical agents from a surface. A test cell houses a porous membrane so as to expose one surface of the membrane to a fluid containing at least one organism potentially reactive with a chemical agent of interest being perfused through the membrane at predetermined rates. In the context of antifoulant chemical agents, the invention permits the determination of the minimum effective release rates for biocides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Elizabeth G. Haslbeck, William C. Banta, George I. Loeb
  • Patent number: 5095977
    Abstract: A coupon holder apparatus for measuring the rate of corrosion caused by formation fluid contained downhole in a borehole. The apparatus is useful when used in conjunction with a pumping unit of the type having a pump located at the bottom of a borehole and a sucker rod string extending downhole through a tubing string to actuate the pump. The apparatus has a main body which is connected in the rod string and suspended downhole in the borehole where it is in contact with the well fluids. An axial chamber is formed within the main body and radial ports extend through a sidewall of the main body to communicate the axial chamber with the borehold fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: Michael B. Ford
  • Patent number: 5075235
    Abstract: A process is described for direct determination of complex corrosive environmental conditions, which comprises exposing a glass surface to the environment and examing the glass surface before and after exposure using a measurement method based on radiation, in particular a IR-spectroscopic method, in order to determine corrosion effects, in particular water absorption and ion exchange. Glass sensors suitable for use in this process are likewise described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1991
    Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Dieter Fuchs, Gelmut Patzelt, Gerhard Tunker
  • Patent number: 5068196
    Abstract: There is disclosed a portable apparatus and process for using same including a test conduit assembly and related conduit valve and fluid flow assemblies for conecting to a process unit for fluid flow communication with the test conduit assembly for passing a fluid to be evaluated for corrosive effect on such test conduit assembly wherein the test conduit assembly includes a test conduit of a predetermined length disposed in a transparent conduit section for passing the fluid therethrough and wherein a heating unit of a predetermined length is disposed in the test conduit wherein the heating unit is of a length of at least about 2 inches and comprises less than about 50 percent of the predetermined length of the test conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Assignee: Ashland Oil Inc.
    Inventors: George F. Hays, James A. Coyle
  • Patent number: 5039612
    Abstract: The present invention is a method of determining oxidation on a titanium aluminide material. An aqueous saturated solution of oxalic acid is prepared. The saturated solution of oxalic acid is combined with a minor portion of hydrofluoric acid solution. The resultant oxalic acid/hydrofluoric acid solution is mixed. The titanium aluminide material is immersed in the mixed solution for a sufficiently long period to allow exposure of the oxidized surface followed by inspection thereof for a white layer indicating the presence of oxidation on its surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1991
    Assignee: Rockwell International Corporation
    Inventor: George W. Stacher
  • Patent number: 5034190
    Abstract: Both an improved method and apparatus for determining, on an accelerated basis, the susceptibility of a nickel-based alloy to suffer stress corrosion cracking within a steam generator environment is disclosed herein. The method generally comprises the steps of subjecting a mechanically stressed specimen of the alloy to a mixture of steam and hydrogen at a temperature of between about 365.degree. C. to 435.degree. C., wherein the partial steam pressure is between about 10.4 MPa to 30.4 MPa, and the partial hydrogen pressure is between about 32 kPa to 500 kPa. The improved testing apparatus of the invention generally comprises a vessel for containing a stressed specimen and a pressurized atmosphere formed of steam and hydrogen, and an inlet cell for injecting a selected amount of hydrogen into the pressurized atmosphere of the vessel which includes a diffusion membrane which is permeable to hydrogen but impermeable to the remainder of the pressurized atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: George Economy, Richard J. Jacko, Fredric W. Pement, Alfred W. Klein
  • Patent number: 4942135
    Abstract: A system for analysis of trace concentration of contaminants in air includes a portable liquid chromatograph and a preconcentrator for the contaminants to be analyzed. The preconcentrator includes a sample bag having an inlet valve and an outlet valve for collecting an air sample. When the sample is collected the sample bag is connected in series with a sorbing apparatus in a recirculation loop. The sorbing apparatus has an inner gas-permeable container containing a sorbent material and an outer gas-impermeable container. The sample is circulated through the outer container and around the inner container for trapping and preconcentrating the contaminants in the sorbent material. The sorbent material may be a liquid having the same composition as the mobile phase of the chromatograph for direct injection thereinto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 17, 1990
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Solomon Zaromb
  • Patent number: RE33346
    Abstract: There is disclosed a novel mobile apparatus and process therefor including a heat transfer test assembly and related conduit and valve assemblies for connection in fluid flow communication to a heat transfer apparatus for in-situ testing of the fluid passing therethrough and including monitoring and recording apparatus. The heat transfer test assembly includes a heating member for controlled heat input and thermocouples to measure the surface temperature of heating member to permit fouling determinations at varying flow rates with simultaneous monitoring and recording thereof together with data, such as corrosion, pH, conductivity, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Assignee: Drew Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: James G. Knudsen, Nicholas J. Brindak