Abstract: A method and apparatus for estimating and/or controlling mercury emissions in a steam generating unit. A model of the steam generating unit is used to predict mercury emissions. In one embodiment of the invention, the model is a neural network (NN) model. An optimizer may be used in connection with the model to determine optimal setpoint values for manipulated variables associated with operation of the steam generating unit.

Abstract: A connector for a power module to selectively engage metallic pads positioned on the backplate printed circuit board is disclosed. The connector includes a first set of contacts and a second set of contacts positioned such that the first set of contacts makes engagement with the metallic pads before the second set of contacts make such engagement. The contacts are capable of carrying relatively high current.

Abstract: An electronic integrator for integrating a linear voltage signal utilizes a voltage-to-frequency converter for converting the voltage to input frequency. A binary counter counts pulses of the input frequency. The binary counter generates a first operating frequency which is applied to a scaling circuit and another calibration frequency which has a much higher rate than the operating frequency. Both, however are proportional to the input frequency. The scaling circuit scales the operating frequency to a selected extent to form a counting signal. Using the double pole switch, either the calibration frequency or the counting frequency are applied to a pulse counter which is either used to integrate the input voltage signal by counting up pulses of the scaled counting signal, or the integrator can be calibrated using the calibration frequency which quickly increments the pulse counter.

Abstract: A sensor arrangement for a vortex shedding flowmeter having a flowmeter housing which is exposed to a flowing fluid in a fluid space on one side of the housing, comprises a sensor housing which is connected to the flowmeter housing and which defines an internal sensor space. A sensor beam is connected to the housing and has a first portion extending into the sensor space with a second portion extending through the flowmeter housing into the fluid space. A diaphragm resiliently carries the beam for movement in response to the passage of vortices in the fluid space. A mounting bracket is detachably connected to the sensor housing and carries a sensor element. The sensor element is operatively connected to the first portion of the sensor beam and can be easily engaged and disengaged thereto when the mounting bracket is to be removed. In this way if the sensor element fails, it can be replaced without stopping the flow of fluid or disturbing the sensor beam.