Abstract: A thermal deck device for weed control. The device includes a chassis having an axle means and a rotatable wheel located adjacent each end of the axle means. An enclosed deck is suspended from the chassis between the wheels and is vertically adjustable. A propane tank is removably attached to the upper planar surface of the enclosed deck. A handle structure is attached to the upper planar surface of the enclosed deck adjacent its rear end. A plurality of propane burners are located within the enclosed deck. Conduits communicate the propane tank with the propane burners via a valve located on the handle.

Abstract: An open flame control device for weed control. The device includes a substantially cylindrical basket having an open framework including a plurality of substantially equally spaced-apart longitudinal struts attached to a plurality of hoops, struts being inwardly and upwardly bent at the upper end of the basket. A hub is located at the upper end of the basket and is attached to the inwardly and upwardly bent struts. An open flame burner is located within the basket and attached to the hub. A porous metal fabric liner surrounds the inside of the basket and is attached thereto. A metal flame reflector is located at the lower end of the basket and occupies the back side portion of the basket. Means are provided for communicating the open flame burner with a supply of propane. Optionally, means are provided to supply water to the bottom of the basket.

Abstract: An open flame control device for weed control. The device includes a substantially cylindrical basket having an open framework including a plurality of substantially equally spaced-apart longitudinal struts attached to a plurality of hoops, struts being inwardly and upwardly bent at the upper end of the basket. A hub is located at the upper end of the basket and is attached to the inwardly and upwardly bent struts. An open flame burner is located within the basket and attached to the hub. A porous metal fabric liner surrounds the inside of the basket and is attached thereto. A metal flame reflector is located at the lower end of the basket and occupies the back side portion of the basket. Means are provided for communicating the open flame burner with a supply of propane. Optionally, means are provided to supply water to the bottom of the basket.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for thermally killing weeds and other unwanted vegetation from areas where their presence is undesirable. The method and apparatus are especially useful for killing weeds located adjacent auto or rail roadways or airport runways. The method of killing weeds involves first spraying the weeds with an amount of water sufficient to cover a substantial portion of the exposed outer parts of the weeds, and then subjecting the water covered weeds to an elevated temperature sufficient for the time of exposure to kill them. The apparatus for thermally killing weeds by this method includes a water sprayer unit and a heater enclosure or box, the water sprayer unit being located in front of the heater box. The heater box has burners located at the forward end thereof that impact a heatable element capable of generating infra-red radiation. A porous apron extends between the bottom of the heater box and the ground to allow exhausting of combustion products and water vapor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for thermally killing weeds and other unwanted vegetation from areas where their presence is undesirable. The method and apparatus are especially useful for killing weeds located adjacent auto or rail roadways or airport runways. The method of killing weeds involves first spraying the weeds with an amount of water sufficient to cover a substantial portion of the exposed outer parts of the weeds, and then subjecting the water covered weeds to an elevated temperature sufficient for the time of exposure to kill them. The apparatus for thermally killing weeds by this method includes a water sprayer unit and a heater enclosure or box, the water sprayer unit being located in front of the heater box. The heater box has burners located at the forward end thereof that impact a heatable element capable of generating infra-red radiation. A porous apron extends between the bottom of the heater box and the ground to allow exhausting of combustion products and water vapor.