Abstract: A papermaking deaeration apparatus including a receiving chamber, and a plurality of cleaning and deaeration wings extending therefrom. A baffle is provided in the chamber of the receiver proximate the opening of each wing which communicates deaerated paper stock into the receiver chamber. The baffles redirect downrushing deaerated paper stock such that it is dispensed in a "knifing shape" into the pool of paper stock contained in the chamber of the receiver. Hence, standing waves and splashing in the pool of paper stock in the receiver is reduced. The static pressure head created by the pool of paper stock is more uniform such that fluctuations in the static head are reduced. Mechanical vibrations which can reach the paper machine headbox and the primary cleaner supply pump are reduced such as the quality, consistency and caliper of the paper manufactured by the headbox is improved.

Abstract: The invention comprises a broke pulping system including a pulper tank and a reel stand located above the pulper tank. The reel stand further comprises apparatus for cradling a reel of paper on a mandrel for rotation about a horizontal axis, and apparatus for braking in order to control the rotation. The reel stand further includes a hold and the braking apparatus cooperates with the mandrel so as to cause the reel to rotate, unwind and fall through the opening into the pulper tank when the brake is released after the reel is slit across its width direction. When the brake is applied, the reel will stop rotating. The broke pulping system of the invention will preferably include an enclosure apparatus for preventing people or other objects from accidentally falling through the opening in the reel stand.

Abstract: Cold weather operation of a heat exchanger which utilizes ambient air to cool a process stream containing water is monitored by a series of thermocouples placed in the heat exchanger tubes subjected to the coldest air. A scanner monitors the thermocouples and alerts operators to unsafe or potentially freezing temperature conditions in the tubes.

Abstract: A fluid cat cracker process and apparatus including at least one shutoff valve having improved valve stem guide apparatus. The valve stem guide apparatus comprises a guide member adapted to be attached within the valve body through which the valve stem is disposed. A plurality of annular grooves positioned one above the other are provided in the interior of the guide member and a plurality of expansible seal rings are disposed in the grooves. The seal rings are of a size and shape such that a seal is provided between the valve stem and the surfaces of the grooves whereby pressurized materials within the valve body are prevented from flowing through the valve stem guide apparatus.