Abstract: In an electrical switch for making and breaking electric connection between an energized electric conductor and a de-energizable electric conductor that are separated by an insulator and are controllable through manipulation of a pivotably movable switch element, a grounding mechanism is provided for connecting the de-energizable electric conductor to ground potential in the open condition of the switch to pass any electric current that might flow through the insulator to ground in the event the insulator might have become defective for any reason to such extent that it allows passage of electric current therethrough. The grounding mechanism may include a grounding connector element that may be connected to ground through a suitable grounding conductor and may also include grounding contact means that establishes electrical contact with the grounding conductor element in the open position of the switch.

Abstract: A low pressure drop adjustable choke has a variably adjustable tapered annular port for metering flow of a fluid. The annular port is defined by a tapered plug extending through a mating, correspondingly tapered seat. The area of the port is selectively varied by axial movement of the plug relative to the seat. The device is mechanically adjustable to a selected flow rate, which may be indicated on a precision indicator.

Abstract: A complete all-ceramic die for use in wire-drawing operations includes a new and novel approach zone, bearing zone and back relief to thereby eliminate lubrication of the die and unwanted lubrication dust and wire scales.

Abstract: Apparatus for effecting magnetic separation of magnetically attractable particles dispersed in a fluid carrier, as for example weakly magnetic discoloring contaminants dispersed in a clay slurry. The dispersion is passed through a ferromagnetic filamentatious matrix within a canister disposed in a magnetic field. The matrix is part of a magnetic separator system characterized by a separation parameter p, where p is a function of the geometry and magnetic and electrical properties of the separating apparatus; and of the rheological and magnetic properties of the dispersion. By determinately setting the controllable parameters associated with the aforementioned properties which effect p, a desired attenuation in the population of contaminant species is achieved. Optimized apparatus configurations are also disclosed, which configurations are based upon the discovered realtionships.

Abstract: In one exemplar embodiment, a valve seat puller is disclosed utilizing a plurality of J-shaped hooks mounted for limited pivotal movement on a hook support block. The hook support block and J-shaped hooks are supported by a threaded rod extending through a central aperture in the support block and secured in place by a lock nut. The J-shaped ends of the hooks are spread to engage the lower rim of the valve seat. The threaded rod passes through an aperture in a pump support plate spaced above the hook support block and is secured to the pump support plate by a drive nut. By applying rotary motion to the rod or the drive nut, the rotary motion will be translated into vertical axial motion of the rod, thus applying a lifting force to the hooks and valve seat to free the seat.

Abstract: A method for effecting magnetic separation of magnetically attractable particles dispersed in a fluid carrier, as for example weakly magnetic discoloring contaminants dispersed in a clay slurry. The dispersion is passed through a ferromagnetic filamentatious matrix within a canister disposed in a magnetic field. The matrix is part of a magnetic separator system characterized by a separation parameter p, where p is a function of the geometry and magnetic and electrical properties of the separating apparatus; and of the rheological and magnetic properties of the dispersion. By determinately setting the controllable parameters associated with the aforementioned properties which affect p, a desired attenuation in the population of contaminant species is achieved. Optimized apparatus configurations are also disclosed, which configurations are based upon the discovered relationships.

Abstract: A method for preparing a coating grade kaolin clay from a crude clay including discoloring iron contaminants in the form of iron pyrites. The clay is roasted in an oxidizing atmosphere to convert at least a portion of the sulfurous contaminants to a form exhibiting increased magnetic susceptibility and increased solubility in chemical leachants. Thereafter, the clay is formed into an aqueous slurry and subjected to a magnetic field to remove at least part of the converted components, and then subjected to conventional leaching and filtering operations.