Abstract: A direct-acting pressure sensor of the elastic type capable of operating effectively in a very low pressure range. The sensor includes a flexible bladder of non-metallic material anchored at one end to a fluid input socket which communicates with the internal chamber of the bladder, the closed end of the bladder having an eyelet therein through which extends a spring wire. One end of the wire terminates at the socket while the free end thereof functions as a scale pointer. When fluid is fed to the bladder through the input socket, the bladder, which in the absence of pressure is coiled to assume a C-shaped configuration, is caused to uncoil to an extent determined by the applied pressure. The wire engaged by the uncoiling bladder is caused to deflect to provide a scale reading indicative of pressure.

Abstract: A sealing compound for pipe joints which has a pastelike consistency and is formulated from inert filler particles, an aqueous dispersion of fluorocarbon particles, an acidic gelling agent and an alkali activator for the gelling agent in a relative quantity producing a neutral pH, the activator including an ingredient which imparts freeze-thaw stability to the compound.

Abstract: A test unit for indicating the presence of water and other contaminants in aircraft fuel. The unit is constituted by a transparent cylinder closed at its bottom and having a filter element therein which divides the cylinder into an upper chamber and a lower chamber. Mounted at the top end of the cylinder and projecting therefrom is a valve-actuating pin adapted to engage the sump drain valve in the fuel tank to be tested to cause a fuel sample to flow into the upper chamber. The filter element is formed of a selectively-permeable hydrophobic material which blocks the flow of water and other contaminants and is permeable only to the fuel whereby should the fuel contain contaminants, the pure fuel will pass into the lower chamber and the contaminants will be retained in the upper chamber.

Abstract: A lubricant having boundary layer properties to minimize friction between contacting metal parts under low-speed, high-load conditions. The lubricant is constituted by an oil intermixed with a dispersion of microfine fluorocarbon particles having an extremely low-coefficient of friction, the dispersion being stabilized by a charge-neutralizing agent such as a silane.

Abstract: The technique for forming on a substrate an abrasion-resistant layer having super-hydrophobic properties. Applied to the face of the substrate which has an inherently hydrophobic micro-pile formation are hydrophobic fumed silicon dioxide particles dispersed in a hydrophobic solvent. Dissolved in the solvent is a resinous binder in a small but effective amount which, by weight, is substantially less than one half the amount of the particles in the dispersion. Upon volatilization of the solvent, the resultant layer is composed primarily of fumed silicon dioxide particles strongly bonded to the face of the substrate.