Abstract: A grinder roller assembly and a method of forming a grinder roller assembly are provided. The grinder roller assembly includes an elongated shaft that comprises a shaft outer surface. The grinder roller assembly further includes an insert plate. The insert plate has a plate outer surface that is noncircular and substantially smooth. The insert plate further has a plate opening that defines a plate inner surface and is configured to receive the elongated shaft. The grinder roller assembly further includes a roller having a roller opening that defines a roller inner surface that cooperates with the plate outer surface. The grinder roller assembly further includes at least one fastener that attaches the insert plate to the elongated shaft.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a valve for controlling the flow of abrasive particles along a predetermined path from the outlet of a hopper to a conveying line in a particle collection or transportation system. The design of the valve reduces the occurrence of erosive wear resulting from contact with the flow of abrasive particles. A method of making the valve that enhances the hardness of localized areas in the valve that are subject to high wear conditions is also disclosed.

Abstract: A grinder roller assembly and a method of forming a grinder roller assembly are provided. The grinder roller assembly includes an elongated shaft that comprises a shaft outer surface. The grinder roller assembly further includes an insert plate. The insert plate has a plate outer surface that is noncircular and substantially smooth. The insert plate further has a plate opening that defines a plate inner surface and is configured to receive the elongated shaft. The grinder roller assembly further includes a roller having a roller opening that defines a roller inner surface that cooperates with the plate outer surface. The grinder roller assembly further includes at least one fastener that attaches the insert plate to the elongated shaft.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a valve for controlling the flow of abrasive particles along a predetermined path from the outlet of a hopper to a conveying line in a particle collection or transportation system. The design of the valve reduces the occurrence of erosive wear resulting from contact with the flow of abrasive particles. A method of making the valve that enhances the hardness of localized areas in the valve that are subject to high wear conditions is also disclosed.

Abstract: A component comprising an anodized aluminum surface comprising a diamond-like carbon sealant. In a preferred embodiment, the diamond-like carbon sealant substantially fills pores in the anodized aluminum surface, and the pores are substantially free of gas. The anodized aluminum surface and sealant form an interface which preferably is substantially free of imperfections attributable to water molecules remaining adsorbed to the surface during application of said sealant.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for easily and effectively removing adsorbed water molecules from an anodized surface using low intensity ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The present invention also provides a method for sealing an anodized aluminum surface which does not result in hazardous byproducts. The method involves, in vacuum: (1) vaporizing a selected precursor fluid; (2) condensing a flux of said precursor vapor onto the anodized aluminum surface; (3) and, bombarding said condensed precursor vapor with an energetic beam of ions to convert the porous anodized surface into an inert, solid, impermeable, and mechanically strong surface.