Abstract: The invention provides processes for decontamination of organic halides in asphalt-containing wastes, such as PCBs in asphaltic potting compounds. The processes may use hydrocarbon solvents to dissolve the asphaltic waste, and an alkali metal reactant, such as a sodium dispersion, to destroy the organic halides in the dissolved mixture.

Abstract: The invention provides processes for decontamination of organic halides in asphalt-containing wastes, such as PCBs in asphaltic potting compounds. The processes may use hydrocarbon solvents to dissolve the asphaltic waste, and an alkali metal reactant, such as a sodium dispersion, to destroy the organic halides in the dissolved mixture.

Abstract: A tracer material is embedded in a component of electrical equipment to detect excessive wear of the component when it is exposed to an electrical arc. As the component wears, the tracer material becomes exposed to the electrical arc and emits electromagnetic radiation, which is monitored continuously. The tracer material is selected so that it emits electromagnetic radiation when it is exposed to an electrical arc that is distinct from electromagnetic radiation emitted by any other parts of the component. A fluorescent tracer material may also be used.

Abstract: This invention is in the field of gas detection for sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) gas decomposition products, particularly for the detection of thionyl fluoride (SOF2) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). The invention relates to a novel portable handheld instrument that can readily detect SOF2, SF4 and SO2 in SF6 gas filled electrical equipment and in air. An apparatus for detecting SF6 decomposition products comprising: (a) an inlet for receiving SF6 gas containing SOF2 or SF4; (b) A chamber connected to the inlet and containing a catalyst which converts SOF2 or SF4 into SO2; and (c) an SO2 detector connected downstream of the chamber.

Abstract: A tracer material is embedded in a component of electrical equipment to detect excessive wear of the component when it is exposed to an electrical arc. As the component wears, the tracer material becomes exposed to the electrical arc and emits electromagnetic radiation, which is monitored continuously. The tracer material is selected so that it emits electromagnetic radiation when it is exposed to an electrical arc that is distinct from electromagnetic radiation emitted by any other parts of the component. A fluorescent tracer material may also be used.

Abstract: A tracer material is embedded in a component of electrical equipment to detect excessive wear of the component when it is exposed to an electrical arc. As the component wears, the tracer material becomes exposed to the electrical arc and emits electromagnetic radiation, which is monitored continuously. The tracer material is selected so that it emits electromagnetic radiation when it is exposed to an electrical arc that is distinct from electromagnetic radiation emitted by any other parts of the component.

Abstract: A tracer material is embedded in a component of electrical equipment to detect excessive wear of the component when it is exposed to an electrical arc. As the component wears, the tracer material becomes exposed to the electrical arc and emits electromagnetic radiation, which is monitored continuously. The tracer material is selected so that it emits electromagnetic radiation when it is exposed to an electrical arc that is distinct from electromagnetic radiation emitted by any other parts of the component.

Abstract: The invention provides processes for decontamination of organic halides in asphalt-containing wastes, such as PCBs in asphaltic potting compounds. The processes may use hydrocarbon solvents to dissolve the asphaltic waste, and an alkali metal reactant, such as a sodium dispersion, to destroy the organic halides in the dissolved mixture.

Abstract: The present invention monitors and removes contaminants from dielectric fluids by utilizing an apparatus having a chamber and tube configuration. The chamber encloses a plurality of tubes which include porous hollow fibers with an inert polymer coating. Conduits route the dielectric fluid to and from operative equipment. An atmosphere control device creates an atmospheric condition within the chamber that causes contaminants within the dielectric fluid to migrate through the tubes into the chamber, thereby producing refined dielectric fluid. The method of the present invention removes contaminants from a dielectric fluid. The dielectric fluid is routed from operative equipment and passes through tubes enclosed within a chamber. An atmospheric condition is created within the chamber to cause contaminants within the dielectric fluid to migrate into the chamber. A refined dielectric fluid is produced which is directed back to the operative equipment.

Abstract: This invention relates to power transformers. More particularly, this invention pertains to a method and apparatus for detecting the degree of degradation of paper insulation in a transformer by determining the concentration of furaldehyde in the transformer oil. A reagent for detecting the presence of furaldehyde in transformer oil comprising: (a) a primary amine selected from the group consisting of aniline, toluidine, anisidine, aminophenol or an amine; (b) a second component having about 3 mL of about 15 to 33 (weight to volume) percent of acetic acid alone, or in combination with citric acid; from about 67 to 85 (volume) percent of a halogenated hydrocarbon selected from the group consisting of dichloromethane, chloroform, carbontetrachloride, dichloroethane, trichloroethane, tetrachloroethane, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene; about 4 (weight to volume) percent of salicylic acid; and about 1 (weight to volume) percent of an anti-oxidant; and (c) a third component having about 1.