Abstract: An automated sanitizing system for a vacuum ice conveyance system generally includes a source of sanitizing solution, a source of ice, an ice hopper for association of the sanitizing solution with the ice and an outlet from the ice hopper for introduction of the association of solution and ice into a vacuum ice conveyance system. The sanitizing solution is produced at the ice hopper by mixing a concentrated sanitizing agent with water, whereafter the solution is sprayed over a harvest of ice as the ice is dropped into the hopper for conveyance through the vacuum ice conveyance system. The system is also adapted to associate clean water with the ice for rinsing from the conveyance system of the sanitizing agent.

Abstract: An automated sanitizing system for a vacuum ice conveyance system generally comprises a source of sanitizing solution, a source of ice, an ice hopper for association of the sanitizing solution with the ice and an outlet from the ice hopper for introduction of the association of solution and ice into a vacuum ice conveyance system. The sanitizing solution is produced at the ice hopper by mixing a concentrated sanitizing agent with water, whereafter the solution is sprayed over a harvest of ice as the ice is dropped into the hopper for conveyance through the vacuum ice conveyance system. The system is also adapted to associate clean water with the ice for rinsing from the conveyance system of the sanitizing agent.

Abstract: A flow director system for transporting ice to a desired locale includes a conduit system and a gas flow gate assembly coupled with the conduit system for directing ice to the desired locale along a desired path defined by the conduit system. The gas flow gate assembly includes a plurality of flow gates disposed along the conduit system and a flow gate controller linked with the plurality of flow gates, whereby the flow gate controller opens and closes the flow gates to route ice flow along the conduit system. In addition, the flow director system preferably includes an ice maker for delivering ice into an ice container. The ice container, in turn, includes a plurality of interface apertures for channeling ice from the ice maker to the conduit system. Moreover, in operation, a gas flow is established through the ice container between the interface apertures to prevent ice blockage about the ice container.

Abstract: A stop assembly for a valve is disclosed. Two stop rings are interfitted by meshing teeth and driven by a valve stem. In one embodiment, an escutcheon provides a mounting for one of the ring members as well as a stop surface for contact with both rings. The stop assembly provides a stop for maximum rotation of a valve member, as well as an adjustable temperature stop function.

Abstract: A liquid humic acid concentrate and a process for making the same is disclosed in which the humic acid is formed by mixing a humic acid bearing ore in a quantity of water and caustic soda for a specified period of time and continuing to mix to form a liquid product of humic acid.