Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for directing steam distribution in a steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, steam is directed through a steam cooker by a plenum that is in fluid communication with a steam chamber. As steam is generated within the steam chamber, the steam fills the chamber where it is directed to the plenum. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is formed to extend vertically along an interior wall of the steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is defined between an interior wall of the steam cooker and a steam distributor that has a plurality of openings formed therein. The openings in the steam distributor allow for steam rising within the plenum to exit into the cooking chamber by passing through the openings. A pressure switch may be utilized to turn off the steam generator in the steam cooker.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for directing steam distribution in a steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, steam is directed through a steam cooker by a plenum that is in fluid communication with a steam chamber. As steam is generated within the steam chamber, the steam fills the chamber where it is directed to the plenum. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is formed to extend vertically along an interior wall of the steam cooker. In one exemplary embodiment, the plenum is defined between an interior wall of the steam cooker and a steam distributor that has a plurality of openings formed therein. The openings in the steam distributor allow for steam rising within the plenum to exit into the cooking chamber by passing through the openings. A pressure switch may be utilized to turn off the steam generator in the steam cooker.

Abstract: A vaporization device including a housing, a container, a wick, a heating element and an adjustment mechanism. The wick is fixed to the container and extends therefrom. The heating element is positioned in the housing proximate a portion of the wick. The adjustment mechanism interconnects the container with the housing.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyric acid having improved color, odor and lower viscosity. 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyric acid which is also known as 2-hydroxy-4-(methylthio) butanoic acid, is hydrolyzed with sulfuric acid having an initial strength of between about 50% by weight and about 70% by weight on an organic-free basis, thereby producing an intermediate aqueous hydrolysis product solution containing 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyramide. The 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyramide is hydrolyzed with sulfuric acid having a strength of between about 30% by weight and about 50% by weight on an organic-free basis to produce an aqueous hydrolyzate containing 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyric acid. The hydrolyzate solution is contacted with a substantially water-immiscible organic solvent in a liquid-liquid extraction system to produce an extract comprising the solvent and 2-hydroxy-4-methylthiobutyric acid transferred from the hydrolyzate. The acid product is then recovered from the extract.