Abstract: A cleaning system for non-ferrous metals for the removal of ash residue and dirt from metals derived from a municipal waste combustor includes an infeed chute for receiving the dirty metals and water from a clean water source. The water and metals are combined in a rotating tumbler for removal of the ash and dirt which is directed to a holding tank. The clean metal is engaged by a rotating upwardly angled drum that includes an internal helix. The metals are moved by the helix to an outlet and pass through a second spray of downwardly directed clean water for further cleaning of the metal. Motor-driven idlers and associated bearings provide for rotation and positioning of the apparatus. A water pump has an inlet from the holding tank and is used to maintain proper level control. An agitation pump prevents the collected ash and debris from settling in the tank.

Abstract: Disclosed are heat-transmitting, anti-friction composites useful for example to reduce sliding friction between the stationary platens and moving belts of continuous hot presses used in the manufacture of consolidated board-like products such as fiberboard. In the disclosed embodiment, the composite comprises a brass sheet perforated in such a manner as to form a multiplicity of rigid prongs projecting transversely from one of its faces. An overlay sheet comprised of polytetrafluoroethylene or other solid lubricant is impaled on the prongs and adhesively bonded to the face of the brass sheet from which the prongs project. The prongs serve to inhibit the tendency of the overlay sheet to undergo plastic flow when subjected to stresses such as are caused by a belt sliding over it. The prongs also serve as paths for efficiently conducting heat through the overlay sheet.