Abstract: An apparatus and method for the low temperature carbonization of a continuous tow of polymeric material fiber, such as PAN or other carbon fiber precursor materials at atmospheric pressure in an inert gas (usually nitrogen or argon) is disclosed. A pair of antennas are arranged within an electromagnetic cavity and face each other in an edgewise fashion for direct electromagnetic heating of the fiber tow as it passes between them. Supplemental background heating increases the dielectric loss of the fiber tow in order to improve absorption of electromagnetic energy and prevent arcing. The invention produces a higher density low temperature carbonized fiber in a shorter residence time compared to conventional low temperature carbonization.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for electromagnetically and thermally treating polymeric materials, including PAN and other carbon fiber precursors at large scale at atmospheric pressure, while measuring the temperature in the closed environment of the process chamber. The apparatus is designed for continuous processing, and to be compatible with other stages of existing carbon fiber production lines. It provides direct electromagnetic coupling to the fiber tow(s) in the near-field region of one or more microwave waveguide launchers and also provides direct radiative or IR heating from susceptor plates located on the opposite side of the tow from the waveguide opening for processing a band of multiple tows of fiber. It produces low-temperature-carbonized (LTC) fiber with shorter residence time and higher density compared to the conventional process. Its design is inherently scalable to larger production. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted bilge pump small enough for the crowded spaces below decks in the engine and pump room of a boat which can also function as a transfer pump, a crash pump and a fire extinguisher. The pump comprises two chambers and is internally configured to aid in the separation of gas and liquid increasing pump throughput.

Abstract: A vacuum assisted bilge pump small enough for the crowded spaces below decks in the engine and pump room of a boat which can also function as a transfer pump, a crash pump and a fire extinguisher. The pump comprises two chambers and is internally configured to aid in the separation of gas and liquid increasing pump throughput.

Abstract: A gas turbine by-pass system is used between a gas turbine generator outlet nozzle and the inlet of a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG). The system allows operators to divert gasses from the HRSG in combined cycle mode to a silencer assembly to operate in simple cycle mode. The system thereby allows maintenance to be performed to the HRSG by crew of human workers without danger of an encounter with hot lethal gasses. The system includes a monorail and a series of hoists which operators use to position a blank off plate and an expansion joint as necessary with respect to the HRSG and diverter box. Consequently, the system provides for safe operation of a gas turbine in both combined cycle mode and simple cycle mode.

Abstract: A gas turbine by-pass system is used between a gas turbine generator outlet nozzle and the inlet of a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG). The system allows operators to divert gasses from the HRSG in combined cycle mode to a silencer assembly to operate in simple cycle mode. The system thereby allows maintenance to be performed to the HRSG by crew of human workers without danger of an encounter with hot lethal gasses. The system includes a monorail and a series of hoists which operators use to position a blank off plate and an expansion joint as necessary with respect to the HRSG and diverter box. Consequently, the system provides for safe operation of a gas turbine in both combined cycle mode and simple cycle mode.

Abstract: A hot melt adhesive that exhibits distinct gellation properties at application temperatures at some time following application to a substrate. Adhesive having gellation properties are particularly useful in the manufacture of pleating articles, such as pleated filters.