Abstract: A method and apparatus for balancing the discharge of liquified gases from a multi-orifice manifold. The manifold includes at least one main conduit each having a central axis, and two or more discharge conduits each having a central axis. Each discharge conduit projects from the main conduit in a manner whereby the central axis of each discharge conduit extends from the central axis of the main conduit. The discharge conduits are positioned about the central axis of the main conduit such that each central axis of a discharge conduit provides with respect to a substantially horizontal plane passing through the central axis of the main conduit, an included angle in the range of about -30.degree. to about -60.degree. relative to the horizontal plane. A discharge orifice is attached to each discharge conduit and is oriented to provide downward discharge.

Abstract: A cyclone separator for generating snow from liquid carbon dioxide comprising a flexible frustoconical member having an open upper end and an open lower end and defining a separation chamber. Injection nozzles having orifices for injecting liquid carbon dioxide located in the upper end of the separation chamber. Each injection nozzle is radially spaced inwardly from the frustoconical member and the orifice of each nozzle is directed outwardly toward the frustoconical member so that liquid carbon dioxide injected into the separation chamber forms a mixture of snow and vapor which is discharged from the open lower end of the frustoconical member. A mechanical impactor mounted at the lower end of the frustoconical member to contact the frustoconical member and loosen snow which builds up in the separation chamber.

Abstract: A nozzle for a carbon dioxide snow cyclone separator shapes the swirling discharge from the separator to form a unidirectional downwardly directed flow. The nozzle passage is defined by an annular series of transversely concave, juxtaposed, elongate surfaces formed in the body of the nozzle, whereby the passage is scalloped in transverse cross-section. In preferred forms, there are four identical, laterally contiguous, surfaces in the annular series defining the nozzle passage, each of which extends through an arc of .pi. radians.

Abstract: A compact, high-efficiency, J-tube carbon dioxide snow hood has a novel diffuser at the discharge end of the J-tube for providing a well-confined, concentrated snow deposit at a reduced exit velocity. The diffuser includes a pair of juxtaposed, axially upright cylindrical baffles which intercept the fine-particle snow discharge from the J-tube in a manner to create counterswirling currents of carbon dioxide snow. An upright cylindrical tube circumscribing the cylindrical baffles, and depending substantially beyond the lower ends of the baffles, forms a mixing chamber where the segregated counterswirling currents of carbon dioxide snow interact to form desired larger-particle snow which is then passed from the chamber in a confined, low velocity, downwardly directly discharge.