Abstract: An architecture and method of operation for servicing data queries within a distributed data warehouse system composed of a plurality of physical servers housing the data to be accessed. Queries are generated by data accessing and processing applications executing on client computers within the distributed data warehouse system. The method enables queried data to be requested by, and delivered to respective client computers without having to pass through a middle-tier server. The method further provides a manageable and scalable system architecture which will readily support a variety of physical servers, including legacy databases, and query format translations when required.

Abstract: An exothermic welding jig, molds for the jig, and a method of forming and manipulating the mold parts is disclosed. Upper and lower mold parts are included with a crucible fitted on and clamped to the upper mold part. The upper mold part and crucible may be moved as a unit to open and close the mold and also inverted when open for cleaning and inspection. The crucible can quickly be removed or snapped in place for mold or crucible change out. The jig will fit in cramped quarters and has a handle which may be used as a cane or supporting device. A toggle opens and closes the mold set and will hold the molds at any position where released. A mold system with diagonal sleeving makes it easier to form X-connections and other connections in tight or restrictive locations. The method includes the attachment and manipulative steps.

Abstract: A two part exothermic weld mold assembly is horizontally split through a weld cavity. The upper single mold port includes a crucible offset from the weld cavity. The tap hole from the crucible to the weld cavity includes a vertical section and a slanted or inclined section, the latter being a through-hole from the weld cavity to the exterior of the mold. The inclined through-hole serves to vent gasses during welding and also enables the tap hole and adjoining weld chamber more easily to be cleaned for reuse.

Abstract: A mold assembly and method for lap welding a conductor to a vertical bar or rod features two vertically split mold parts having a major parting surface in which are formed a crucible, tap hole, sleeving for the conductor and a weld chamber. An offset parting surface forms a sleeving passage for the vertical bar or rod, and a portion of the weld chamber. The offset parting surface is formed in an interfitting tongue and groove which assists in the assembly of the mold parts.

Abstract: Exothermic welding apparatus includes a toggle frame jig for supporting vertically split molds. The toggle includes a post projecting parallel to the main pivot of the jig on which telescopes a crucible support. The crucible support includes a handle extending above the crucible when secured to the support. A quick acting toggle connects the support and post enabling the crucible to be assembled, cleaned, or prepared remote from the molds and then quickly installed and locked in position.

Abstract: An improved thermite reaction containment vessel and method of using the same includes a filter assembly which serves to filter the gases evolving from the thermite reaction and reduce the amount of smoke, fume and the like by-products emitted. In one preferred embodiment the filter assembly comprises a primary filter and a secondary filter. An air gap may be provided between the primary and secondary filter so as to provide additional cooling of the gases before they enter the secondary filter. The invention further provides a remote electrical ignition system which is capable of igniting thermite reaction materials without the use of a starting material. The ignition system may include an ignition fuse having an aluminum core and an outer coating comprising palladium and ruthenium or hot wire.

Abstract: An improved thermite reaction containment vessel and method of using the same includes a crucible in which the exothermic material is contained and which is connected at its lower end via a tap hole to a weld chamber in which the parts to be welded are positioned. On top of the crucible is positioned a baffle assembly which includes a plurality of expansion chambers which allows the escaping gas to expand and be reduced in velocity. As the gases move from one expansion chamber to the next the gases change direction. The expansion, direction change and the large surface area of the baffle assembly allows the gases to slow and cool before being exhausted leaving behind molten metal spatter or flame and greatly reducing the amount of smoke exhausted since particulate matter is accumulated on the baffle interior surface. Several forms of baffle assembly are disclosed using inverted stacked metal cups.