Abstract: A method for removing solids via coagulation and flocculation from aqueous solutions that are generated in the process of producing corn flour called nixtamalization. This method for separating liquids/solids is especially effective in removing solids via coagulation flocculation in the process called nixtamalization in which maize is processed at high temperatures in a highly alkaline solution. A source of carbonate alkalinity is first introduced into the waste stream (called nejayote) that is generated in the process of the nixtamalization of corn, which causes a drop in pH, and is then followed by an anionic flocculant and last of all followed by a cationic flocculant which creates a solid floc of superior strength, which allows the solids to be separated (dewatered) from the water with a high efficiency.

Abstract: A quick cleaning method for hydrocarbon processing is described which avoids using the time honored steamout as a cleaning step by isolating the equipment to be cleaned from the rest of the hydrocarbon processing units, establishing a circulation loop and by pumping through the equipment an aqueous solution at an elevated temperature, of an extractant, such as a terpene, and a surfactant mixture which extracts and traps contaminants in an emulsion which is normally subjected to a high shearing step before recirculation to the equipment.

Abstract: An electrically powered service vehicle having a plurality of programmable electrical stations is exemplified by a food service vehicle for use with food serving trays including internal heating elements for providing localized areas of heat on the trays for maintaining food placed thereon at a desired temperature. The vehicle has a plurality of storage compartments, each of which holds a plurality of the food serving trays in vertically spaced relation to each other. An on-board d-c. power source is connected to the heating elements within the trays via a plurality of electrical contacts within each storage compartment. A d-c. drive motor for propelling the vehicle is selectively connected to the power source through a drive control. The electrical contacts within the storage compartment are positioned to engage corresponding contacts on the trays when the trays are inserted into the storage compartments.

Abstract: A storage system for a plurality of food trays includes one or more storage modules each having multiple pairs of horizontal rails for supporting a plurality of trays with the hot food positioned along one side wall of the module and the cool food along the other side wall. Forced air inlet means in the rear wall and adjacent the side wall on the hot food side of the tray produces a forced air stream flowing forwardly through the module over the hot food on the trays. A door covers the front of each module and forms air outlet means adjacent the module side wall on the hot food side of the trays so that the forwardly flowing air stream exits through the door. This system is particularly suitable for use with trays which have electrical heating elements embedded in one side of the tray for heating the hot foods thereon.