Abstract: Presented is an electrically charged heating element configured as a twin reversed spiral or other flat shape for high power density during cross current fluid flow. In one embodiment the element material is wound clockwise in a spiral inwardly to a point and then wound counterclockwise in a spiral outwardly from that point on the same plane as the clockwise winding, and between the clockwise windings, to a point past the beginning of the outer clockwise winding. Hot fluid generators employing such elements singly or in multiple stacked configurations are presented as well.

Abstract: Presented is an apparatus and a means to more broadly apply a projected fluid to a surface by the passing of the fluid through a convergent diffuser. The use of a convergent diffuser runs counter to the present state of the art which suggests the use of a divergently configured diffuser. A preferred embodiment teaches a construction of the diffuser employing mesh configurations in various shapes. Another embodiment envisions a diffuser configured of a coil of material formed in a donut shape through which a fluid passes and is dispersed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the application of labels to packaging employing the application of superheated steam or other fluids in an enclosed space at atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus and method will more effectively, efficiently and safely attach shrink labeling to consumer packaged goods (CPG) with enhanced time, water and energy savings.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the instant generation of superheated steam at normal atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus includes a water source, a means to convert the water to a mist or atomized droplets and a means to superheat the mist for application onto surfaces and objects. The apparatus and method are based upon the unique properties and behavior of misted water when it comes into contact with a heated surface, such behavior and properties resulting in the efficient and expansive release of energy and superheated steam. Such an apparatus can produce this steam at one atmosphere without the need of a boiler or other required high pressure fixtures or piping.

Abstract: A device to generate and direct electric heat 10 for use over risers, drains, pathways and pour cups during solidification in which less than 2% plasma is utilized, comprising an outer shell 20 having one open heat delivery end 25, at least one lip 30 located at the open end 25, one closed end 35, at least one electric heating element 80 affixed within the closed 35 end and refractory material 60 surrounding the electric heating element 80. A method, employing the device 10, to improve the properties of cast alloys which comprises the heating and blanketing of a molten cast surface with an atmosphere of less than 2% plasma during solidification, the atmosphere of less than 2% plasma thereby controlling temperature during the solidification and shielding the molten cast surface from the affects of oxidation.

Abstract: Presented is a heating element, and method for producing same, comprised of strip material having a length, width and depth where the strip material is twisted at least once axially relative to its length and bent at least once across its width resulting in a generally flat profile. The twists and bends provide for expansion and contraction of the heating element and thereby provide stress relief during heating and cooling.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the application of labels to packaging employing the application of superheated steam or other fluids in an enclosed space at atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus and method will more effectively, efficiently and safely attach shrink labeling to consumer packaged goods (CPG) with enhanced time, water and energy savings.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the instant generation of superheated steam at normal atmospheric pressure are presented. Such an apparatus includes a water source, a means to convert the water to a mist or atomized droplets and a means to superheat the mist for application onto surfaces and objects. The apparatus and method are based upon the unique properties and behavior of misted water when it comes into contact with a heated surface, such behavior and properties resulting in the efficient and expansive release of energy and superheated steam. Such an apparatus can produce this steam at one atmosphere without the need of a boiler or other required high pressure fixtures or piping.

Abstract: Presented is a heating element, and method for producing same, comprised of strip material having a length, width and depth where the strip material is twisted at least once axially relative to its length and bent at least once across its width resulting in a generally flat profile. The twists and bends provide for expansion and contraction of the heating element and thereby provide stress relief during heating and cooling.

Abstract: A device to provide improved anti-smudging, better gripping and longer shelf-life to products and surfaces includes an electric superheated steam generator and an electric low-ion plasma generator to provide superheated steam and low-ion plasma to the surfaces of products including plastics. One embodiment envisions the superheated steam generator and the low-ion plasma generator being contained in a housing while another embodiment anticipates a conveyor means positioned in front of the superheated steam generator and the low-ion plasma generator. A method for the improving of anti-smudging, gripping and shelf-life for properties includes the application of superheated steam and low-ion plasma by means of a superheated steam generator and a low-ion plasma generator to products for specific periods of time and at specific distances to attain desired surface and bulk properties. The superheated steam and low-ion plasma may be applied individually, simultaneously or sequentially.

Abstract: A device to provide improved anti-smudging, better gripping and longer shelf-life to products and surfaces includes an electric superheated steam generator and an electric low-ion plasma generator to provide superheated steam and low-ion plasma to the surfaces of products including plastics. One embodiment envisions the superheated steam generator and the low-ion plasma generator being contained in a housing while another embodiment anticipates a conveyor means positioned in front of the superheated steam generator and the low-ion plasma generator. A method for the improving of anti-smudging, gripping and shelf-life for properties includes the application of superheated steam and low-ion plasma by means of a superheated steam generator and a low-ion plasma generator to products for specific periods of time and at specific distances to attain desired surface and bulk properties. The superheated steam and low-ion plasma may be applied individually, simultaneously or sequentially.

Abstract: A device to generate and direct electric heat 10 for use over risers, drains, pathways and pour cups during solidification in which less than 2% plasma is utilized, comprising an outer shell 20 having one open heat delivery end 25, at least one lip 30 located at the open end 25, one closed end 35, at least one electric heating element 80 affixed within the closed 35 end and refractory material 60 surrounding the electric heating element 80. A method, employing said device 10, to improve the properties of cast alloys which comprises the heating and blanketing of a molten cast surface with an atmosphere of less than 2% plasma during solidification, said atmosphere of less than 2% plasma thereby controlling temperature during the solidification and shielding the molten cast surface from the affects of oxidation.

Abstract: A novel flexible infrared device is provided for heating surfaces in a uniform manner not available previously. The heater is designed in a manner so as to allow “hugging” of the surface by attaching the heater module to at least two swivel points located above the heating plane. In this manner the common problems encountered with heating dies by IR heaters is overcome.

Abstract: A novel flexible infrared device is provided for heating surfaces in a uniform manner not available previously. The heater is designed in a manner so as to allow “hugging” of the surface by attaching the heater module to at least two swivel points located above the heating plane. In this manner the common problems encountered with heating dies by IR heaters is overcome.