Abstract: An apparatus and method utilizing a strip solution for removing gold from the loaded activated carbon used to accumulate such gold leached from gold bearing ore, and for electrically removing such gold from the strip solution by electrowinning. The apparatus includes a pair of strip columns fillable with loaded activated carbon. The strip columns are connectable individually and in series in respective continuous loops using a valved crossover pipe assembly to an electrowinning device, with the strip solution being pumped therethrough.

Abstract: An apparatus and method utilizing a strip solution for removing gold from the loaded activated carbon used to accumulate such gold leached from gold bearing ore, and for electrically removing such gold from the strip solution by electrowinning. The apparatus includes a pair of strip columns fillable with loaded activated carbon. The strip columns are connectable individually and in series in respective continuous loops using a valved crossover pipe assembly to an electrowinning device, with the strip solution being pumped therethrough.

Abstract: A mercury retorting apparatus, a retorting system, and a method for continuous removal of mercury from dry, semi-granular, and sludge materials contaminated with mercury without shutting down the system for removal of accumulated liquid mercury, water, and dust particles. The retorting apparatus comprises a powered screw feed assembly having a feed tube with a closely fitting feed screw therein. The screw feed assembly feeds the material from the lower portion of a hopper configured to contain a quantity thereof into a rotatably powered retorting tube in which a vacuum is drawn. The material forms a seal within the powered screw feed assembly against vacuum loss in the retorting tube during operation thereof. A first rotatable seal between the feed tube and retorting tube prevents vacuum loss therebetween. An elongate electric kiln encloses the mid-portion of the retorting tube.

Abstract: An electrowinning cell and a cathode for use therein for removal of gold or other precious metals from a solution thereof in a suitable electrolyte. The cathode comprises a perforated steel plate wrapped in layers of woven wire mesh secured thereto. The cathode design is such that the cathode may be cleared of deposited gold sludge by use of an ordinary garden hose spray nozzle without its removal from the cell, making the electrowinning process faster and more economical.

Abstract: An apparatus for retorting granulated material containing mercury such as ores and precipitates wherein the granulated material is stirred by means of a plurality of paddles while under vacuum and at high temperature within a drum of the apparatus. The vaporized mercury is drawn from the drum and condensed for recovery thereof. Multiple retorting apparatuses can be used for a continuous retorting operation.

Abstract: A retorting device for mercury containing material, with an oven, mercury trap and condensers capable of operation at pressures from atmospheric pressure down to 50 Torr with simultaneous temperatures up to 1500.degree. F. A dam within the mercury trap permits removal of liquid mercury separate from condensed solid amalgams, sludges and the like. The trap has provisions for removal of the sludges and amalgams from beneath the surface of water within the trap.

Abstract: A rotating seal device for a rotary drum kiln. A rotating seal member is welded about the drum near each of its ends, each sealing against a rotationally stationary seal member joined with the associated kiln end hood through a flexible gas tight bellows. The stationary seal rides on a pair of rollers each bearing upon a track, preventing its rotation. The bellows accommodates longitudinal expansion and contraction of the drum. Hanging weights are used with pulley wheels and flexible cables to urge the non-rotating members against the rotating members with unvarying force.

Abstract: A device for electrolytic production of elemental magnesium by electrolysis of magnesium chloride in a molten salt bath, including a magnesium transfer trough comprising a semicircular section of a standard steel pipe mounted straddling the upper edge of a steel cathode plate, with cross slots for utilization of the full channel, the trough everywhere curving away from its nearest approach to the anode surface, to minimize production of unwanted magnesium on its exterior surface. The method entails the use of a destructible spacer for placing the anode accurately in place between a pair of opposing cathode plates.