Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the length and/or width of a piece of material, such as hot aluminum plate. The apparatus has a measuring range defined by a plurality of cameras. A video screen is selectively connectable to the cameras to depict their viewing ranges. The apparatus, after an operator has aligned an indicator with a depicted edge of material, automatically calculates the distance of the depicted edge from a fixed point, such as the centerline of a shear.

Abstract: An improved insulating panel for tank-like vessels, such as chemical reactors, precipitators and the like is disclosed. The outer surface of the panel is designed so that heat paths from the insulated structure are minimized. This is accomplished by means of a dual fastening system in which surface panels are connected to one another by means of stitching fasteners while the entire panel structure is fastened to its supporting girt by means of mounting fasteners which are positioned beneath the surface panels and which are thus not directly exposed to the outside air. These mounting fasteners are the elements which provide a heat path from the insulated structure to the surface panels and the outside air. Employment of this improved insulation system reduces heat losses through the panels while maintaining cooler surface temperatures on the panels. Both of these features result in reduced heat loss due to convection and radiation.

Abstract: An insulating panel structure for tank-like vessels, such as chemical reactors, precipitators and the like is disclosed. The panel structure includes fastening clips which permit a pre-fabricated panel structure to be fastened onto the vessel. These fastening clips permit thermal expansion and contraction of the panel structure with changes in temperature of the vessel without damage to the fastening system.