Abstract: The present invention is a radiator element composed of a metal foam for use within a radiant burner. The radiator element is comprised of a homogenous network about a plurality of inter-connected cells thereby forming a gas-permeable metal foam. The homogeneous network may be composed of a metal or metal alloy capable of withstanding combustion temperatures typical of fuel-air reactions and resisting damage produced by flashback. Inter-connected cells include irregular-shaped voids, circular-shaped voids, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: The present invention is a radiator element composed of a metal foam for use within a radiant burner. The radiator element is comprised of a homogenous network about a plurality of inter-connected cells thereby forming a gas-permeable metal foam. The homogeneous network may be composed of a metal or metal alloy capable of withstanding combustion temperatures typical of fuel-air reactions and resisting damage produced by flashback. Inter-connected cells include irregular-shaped voids, circular-shaped voids, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: A sieve drum is disclosed that is particularly useful in textile processing equipment, such as a suction drum dryer, for heat-treating of continuous web material. The sieve drum is constructed having a single layer of a close mesh screen cylindrically formed between a pair of end heads to provide support for and transmit torque to web material being processed. The close mesh screen is composed of a plurality of longitudinal and transverse wire lengths of relatively heavy gauge than are sinusoidally woven into a lattice having a multitude of small interstitial openings each with rounded edges to provide smooth, unabrasive support to the web material. The multitude of small openings the aggregate area of which comprises less than 50% of the screen surface provides an even distribution of heated air over the surface of the drum and exposes a high percentage of the supported web to the air for a fast, energy efficient heat-treating process.

Abstract: An improved gas-fired radiant heater is disclosed, particularly useful in drying continuous web materials, wherein a partially compartmentalized manifold chamber is formed beneath an extended series of porous ceramic tiles for evenly distributing a predetermined gas-air mixture of fuel so that upon ignition there is provided a continuous burning surface along the entire length of the tiles. A plurality of baffle members are disposed throughout an elongated manifold housing to compartmentalize lower portions of the manifold chamber and thereby permit the proper flow of fuel through the heater to generate a more uniform radiant heat field. An air jacket assembly surrounding the manifold chamber is further provided and includes an outer casing into which cooling air is injected and circulated throughout the length of the heater.