Abstract: A silencer for reducing the noise emitted by the venting of a gas flow includes a tubular gas flow member having a sidewall, an open first end for connection to a gas supply, a closed second end and an opening in the sidewall for passage of gas from the interior of the gas flow member. The tubular gas flow member is surrounded by a porous noise-reducing member at least at the location of the opening in the sidewall of the gas flow member. A shell surrounds the noise-reducing member, and is provided with an opening for passage of gas which is spaced circumferentially from the opening in the sidewall of the gas flow member. In one embodiment, the noise-reducing member can be a wire mesh which is wrapped around the tubular gas flow member.

Abstract: An apparatus for skimming oil from the surface of a liquid is disclosed. The apparatus includes an endless belt which is formed from the loop portion of a loop and hook type fastener. The belt is supported to move in a path of travel with a portion of the belt disposed within the liquid. As the belt travels, oil is captured within the material of the belt. A scraping mechanism is provided for scraping an initial amount of oil off of the belt. Rollers are provided for squeezing out the remaining oil on the belt. Oil which is removed by the scrapers and the rollers is captured in a pan and collected.