Patents Represented by Attorney Robert P. Bennett
  • Patent number: 5777229
    Abstract: An automated sensor transport system for non-destructive inspection of a weld through the use of ultrasonic waves produced by an electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT). The system includes: a computer control unit; a transport apparatus having a first EMAT for producing an ultrasonic SH shear wave and a second EMAT for receiving an ultrasonic SH shear wave reflected from a weld and a calibration means. The computer control unit, which is in electrical communication with a welding apparatus, the transport apparatus and a data acquisition unit, coordinates the weld test with completion of the weld. An edge detection sensor, which is affixed to the transport apparatus is used to automatically position the transport apparatus for a weld scan and to signal completion of the scan. The system includes an electrostatic shield to protect the second EMAT from electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: The Babcock & Wilcox Company
    Inventors: Daniel P. Geier, Kenneth R. Camplin
  • Patent number: 5767393
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a leak in the storage tank which includes a transducer for detecting and converting a mechanical wave into an electrical signal, a support tube having an upper end extending outside of the tank and a lower end extending inside the tank into the fluid medium. The transducer is affixed to the lower end of the support tube. A signal processing unit for processing the electrical signal, and electrical cable for transmitting the electrical signal from the transducer to the signal processing unit is also present. A method of using the apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Assignee: McDermott Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael O. Robertson
  • Patent number: 5755567
    Abstract: A spin vane for burners and over fire air ports in a furnace comprise a sheet-like vane element having a base and an extension extending perpendicularly off the base on the low pressure side of the vane element. The extension reduces the formation and propagation of vortices on the low pressure side of the vane, increasing flow efficiency and reducing pressure loss across the spin vanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: The Babcock & Wilcox Company
    Inventors: Morten Licht, Robert J. Giammaruti, Steven A. Thoma
  • Patent number: 5708354
    Abstract: A variable power source is provided having multiple power modules each of which can produce a portion of the total range of voltage required for pulsed operation of an electromagnetic acoustic transducer electromagnet. The power modules are connected in series, and controlled by individual potentiometers which are simultaneously adjusted. Selector switches are provided for enabling or disabling each module. The output of the power modules is connected to a pulser/controller for wave forming prior to sending the output signal to the electromagnet. A noise filter can be placed between the power modules and the pulser. LED-type indicators on the selector switches may be used to indicate the operational status of the modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Assignee: McDermott Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy W. Hancock, Daniel T. MacLauchlan, Charles B. Overby