Abstract: In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, methods and apparatuses for designing and configuring dissimilar material retention, specifically a valve plug assembly, are disclosed. The methods and apparatuses enable the application of a wider range of materials in a valve plug assembly than previous valve plug assemblies, and also increase the operational temperature range of the valve plug assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, a valve plug assembly comprises a plug head, a collet surrounding the plug head, a plug base adjacent to the collet, and a retainer surrounding the tapered outside surface of the collet and the plug base, where the plug head extends past the collet and the retainer. The valve plug assembly is configured to create an interference fit of the various components.

Abstract: A composition having high density and low toxicity suitable for use as a shotgun pellet, a bullet or armor piercing projectile and a method for manufacturing such composition is described. This material and product are developed to economically address the toxicity problems inherent in lead shot and bullets. This composition, in its present embodiment, is also suitable for use in any product requiring high-density and low toxicity. One present embodiment maintains the magnetic properties of the projectile if desired.

Abstract: A nozzle design and method for designing such a nozzle being adapted for three phase slurry flow from the choke into the flash tank during pressure let-down in autoclave mining operations that uses a selection of the expansion ratio in the choke to select a nozzle dispersion angle to select a spread of the flow over the slurry pool in the flash tank, to generally maximize the use of the pool for energy dissipation without causing undo wear and tear on the tank walls.

Abstract: A nozzle design and method for designing such a nozzle being adapted for three phase slurry flow from the choke into the flash tank during pressure let-down in autoclave mining operations that uses a selection of the expansion ratio in the choke to select a nozzle dispersion angle to select a spread of the flow over the slurry pool in the flash tank, to generally maximize the use of the pool for energy dissipation without causing undo wear and tear on the tank walls.

Abstract: A valve plug design is disclosed that uses a plug head band and a retaining ring to restrain a valve plug head to a valve plug stem. This invention is specifically directed to providing valve plugs where the plug head material is different and distinct from the plug stem material and where each material is selected to optimize its performance. Moreover, this invention is provided with a means for fixing and removing the plug head to and from the plug stem that can easily be worked in the field without special purpose manufacturing equipment, thereby making the maintenance, repair and replacement of plug head easier for users. This valve plug design subjects the plug head to reduced stresses thereby enhances the operating life of the valve and valve plug. This valve plug design provides a shock absorbing, compliance barrier around and/or under the plug head.