Patents by Inventor Michael J. Thom

Michael J. Thom 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).

  • Refining of lead-debismuthizing
    Patent number: 4881971
    Abstract: A method of removing bismuth from lead wherein the lead is melted, barium is dissolved in the lead optionally with magnesium, calcium or strontium, the melt is cooled, and dross which contains barium is removed from the melt. The barium is preferably added as a barium lead alloy which is produced by electrolysis of a mixture of barium sulphide, barium fluoride and potassium fluoride.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Inventor: Michael J. Thom
  • Mine support prop
    Patent number: 4712947
    Abstract: A mine support prop which includes a timber load support member which is elongated in the direction of its grain, and includes a zone of reduced cross-section and a sleeve which is preferably made from mild steel, which surrounds the support member over a substantial portion of its length and extends over the zone of reduced cross-section and onto the timber member on either side of the reduced cross-section zone to support the timber member against bending when it is compressed under load in its axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1987
    Assignee: Hunt Leuchars and Hepburn Limited
    Inventor: Michael J. Thom