Patents by Inventor Jeffery L. Hofacre

Jeffery L. Hofacre has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 11027237
    Abstract: This disclosure provides an apparatus and method for reducing emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from a combustion source. For example, a method and apparatus for injecting a urea solution directly into the flue gas stream of a coal-fired power plant that utilizes Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to lower NOx emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: American Electric Power Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren C Hanby, Jeffery L Hofacre
  • Publication number: 20210016225
    Abstract: This disclosure provides an apparatus and method for reducing emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from a combustion source. For example, a method and apparatus for injecting a urea solution directly into the flue gas stream of a coal-fired power plant that utilizes Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to lower NOx emissions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2019
    Publication date: January 21, 2021
    Applicant: American Electric Power Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren C. Hanby, Jeffery L. Hofacre
  • Patent number: 8425850
    Abstract: Embodiments describe an arrangement for reducing the amount of LPA that reaches a NOx reducing apparatus such as a SCR system. The arrangement includes deflection elements, screens, means for dislodging any LPA that might become lodged in the screens, an aperture for removing the ash through, hoppers or collection means and an ash conveyance system. The arrangement is positioned in a region of ductwork with a reduced gas flow such as the SCR reactor. The screens are positioned relative to one another to direct the LPA downward toward an aperture for removal. In one embodiment the positioning of the screens creates a half-trough or inverted pyramid appearance when placed next to a vertical wall in the flue gas ductwork or the SCR reactor. The low point of the trough is in communication with the aperture allowing the LPA to exit the flue ductwork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: American Electric Power Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Chao P. Lin, Darren C. Hanby, Jeffery L. Hofacre, Thomas E. McCartney, James Silk