Cleaning Patents (Class 122/379)
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Patent number: 7637002Abstract: An assembly and a method for removing a removable device from a wall box are provided. The removable device forms a substantially fluid-tight wall box seal with a wall box opening when the removable device is in a first position. The assembly for removing the removable device includes a sealing assembly located adjacent to the wall box opening and forming a substantially fluid-tight seal with a sealing portion of the removable device when the removable device is in a second position with respect to the wall box.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 29, 2009Assignee: Diamond Power International, Inc.Inventors: Stephen L. Shover, Clinton A. Brown
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Publication number: 20090293817Abstract: A detonation combustor cleaning device includes at least one combustion chamber having combustion flow path and including a deflection member. An ignition device is operatively connected to the at least one combustion chamber is selectively activated to ignite a combustible fuel within the at least one combustion chamber to produce a shockwave that moves in a first direction along the combustion flow path, impacts the deflection member, reverses direction and passes into a vessel to dislodge particles clinging to inner surfaces thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 30, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANYInventors: Anthony John Dean, David Michael Chapin, Donnell Eugene Crear
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Publication number: 20090277479Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a surface within a vessel has a combustion conduit extending from an upstream end to a downstream end. The downstream end is associated with an aperture in the wall of the vessel and is positioned to direct a shockwave toward the surface. A source of fuel and oxidizer is coupled to the conduit to deliver the fuel and oxidizer to the conduit. An initiator is coupled to the conduit in position to initiate combustion of the fuel and oxidizer to form the shockwave. A buffer chamber is between the conduit and the source.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2008Publication date: November 12, 2009Inventor: Kirk R. Lupkes
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Patent number: 7585372Abstract: Method and apparatus of producing gas pressure pulses in a dust-deposit cleaning apparatus. The apparatus comprises a combustion chamber and an amplifying horn. According to the method a combustible gas and oxygen is fed into the combustion chamber, which has a generally elongated shape, the gas mixture is ignited for generating a pressure pulse, and the pressure pulse is released from the chamber and conducted to the amplifying horn. The gas mixture is ignited to generate an initial explosion which causes a pressure wave, which is reflected from the inner walls of the chamber end to form a collision zone, in which the initial explosion is at least partially transformed into a detonation. The combustion front is reflected from the gas inlet end and compressed at the other end of the chamber and released to the amplifying horn. By means of the invention, sound levels of about 165-170 dB can be produced at low fuel consumption.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Assignee: Nirafon OyInventors: Pauli Jokela, Kimmo Savolainen
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Publication number: 20090217888Abstract: An apparatus (1) for the cleaning of a boiler (2) by means of a cleaning fluid (3), with at least one cleaning appliance (4) which comprises means for aligning a fluid distribution device (5) with inner regions of the boiler (2), the at least one cleaning appliance (4) being surrounded by a container (6) and being mountable onto a connecting nipple (8) of the boiler (2) by means of at least one connection piece (7). Particularly preferred application possibilities and operating methods are also explained.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2009Publication date: September 3, 2009Applicant: CLYDE BERGEMANN GMBHInventors: Manfred FRACH, Ulrich FRANZE, Jurgen SCHRODER, Stephan SIMON, Michaela WOHLK
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Publication number: 20090211539Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and method for producing a steam and CO2 mixture, as a super heated dry steam mixture. The apparatus includes a rotatable vessel having a combustion section and a steam producing section. There may also be a dry solid removal, a steam production and solid scrubbing vertical vessel, and a heat exchanger. The vessel is partially filled with spherical bodies, and the sections are partially separated by a partition. A discharge section is located at an end of the steam producing section. A homogenizing section has at least one partition wall guiding flow of gases. The process for producing the steam mixture includes mixing a low quality fuel with an oxidation gas, combusting in a rotating drum filled with spherical bodies, and mixing low quality water with a controlled temperature to generate steam. All liquids convert to gas so that there is no liquid discharge.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2008Publication date: August 27, 2009Applicant: EX-TAR TECHNOLOGIES, Inc.Inventor: Maoz Betzer Tsilevich
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Publication number: 20090183694Abstract: A method is provided for cleaning crevices between a plurality of tubes and a plurality of tube support plates supporting the tubes in a steam generator. The steps include filling a secondary side of the steam generator with a solvent to a first level above a first tube support plate to be cleaned, draining the solvent to a second level lower than the first tube support plate, and refilling the secondary side of the steam generator with the solvent to a third level above the first tube support plate. A cleaning system is also provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2008Publication date: July 23, 2009Applicant: AREVA NP INC.Inventors: John F. Remark, Sarah E. Evans
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Publication number: 20090173293Abstract: A steam generator chemical cleaning system is provided wherein a concentrated chemical cleaning solution is premixed off-site in sufficient volume and concentration to allow the dilution to proper cleaning level be achieved by slow injection into the generator when filled with demineralized water. The premixed chemicals are transported in a tanker to the generator site and injected therein directly from the tanker.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2008Publication date: July 9, 2009Inventors: John F. Remark, Joseph B. Delrue, Sarah E. Evans
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Publication number: 20090101086Abstract: In the water purification process, apparatus, and method, contaminated water vapor is exposed to liquid solvent, which causes a transfer of contaminants from the contaminated water vapor to the liquid solvent. In an advantageous embodiment, this latter step is followed by a second purification step where the decontaminated water in liquid phase is exposed to water vapor which causes a transfer of solvent remaining in the decontaminated water to the water vapor. The energy freed during the condensation of the vapor can advantageously be used for evaporation of the liquids, optionally by compressing the vapors prior to condensation thereof within heat exchangers.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2006Publication date: April 23, 2009Inventor: Daniel Blanchette
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Publication number: 20090090311Abstract: A sootblowing control system that uses predictive models to bridge the gap between sootblower operation and boiler performance goals. The system uses predictive modeling and heuristics (rules) associated with different zones in a boiler to determine an optimal sequence of sootblower operations and achieve boiler performance targets. The system performs the sootblower optimization while observing any operational constraints placed on the sootblowers.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2007Publication date: April 9, 2009Inventors: John Robert James, John McDermott, Stephen Piche, Fred Pickard, Neel J. Parikh
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Publication number: 20090063113Abstract: A method of controlling soot blowers near a heat exchange section includes generating models of both the ideal clean operating condition of the section and the dirty operating condition. The current operating condition of the section is used to calculate a reliability parameter that provides an indication of the reliability of the ideal and dirty models. If the reliability parameter indicates that the models are reliable, the models are used to help evaluate the cleanliness status of a particular heat exchange section and assist in making decisions on whether to blow the section or not, and whether to make any necessary adjustments to the operating sequence of the soot blowers. If the reliability parameter indicates that the models are unreliable, the models are regenerated using additional process data.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 31, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: EMERSON PROCESS MANAGEMENT POWER & WATER SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventors: Peter N. Francino, Xu Cheng
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Patent number: 7497224Abstract: An apparatus is provided that includes a length of pipe having a passageway for communicating a liquid under pressure therethrough, and at least one nozzle in communication with the passageway. The at least one nozzle is configured to discharge a liquid, a portion of which is discharged in a stream, and a portion of which is discharged in a volume of aspirated spray. The aspirated spray effectively shields the pipe and the at least one nozzle from heat radiating within the enclosure. The apparatus further includes a displacement device for controllably displacing the length of pipe. The length of pipe and at least one nozzle are configured to be extended through an opening in the enclosure for discharging a stream of liquid for cleaning a surface within the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2007Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Inventor: Randy Kahrig
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Publication number: 20080317447Abstract: A humidifier configured to determine when the humidifier requires cleaning. The humidifier includes a tank for containing water, a heater for heating the water in the tank to generate steam, and one or more water level sensors for detecting the level of water in the tank, including detecting water at first level and a second level, where the first level is lower than the second level. The humidifier further includes a drain valve for draining water from the tank and a controller. The controller is configured to open the drain valve to drain water from the tank, measure a time interval required for the water to drain from the second level to the first level, and compare the time interval against a threshold value. If the time interval exceeds the threshold value, then the controller is configured to provide an indication to clean the humidifier. Methods are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2007Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Tracy L. Lentz, Steven R. Hoglund
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Patent number: 7464670Abstract: A system for delivering tooling around the annulus of a steam generator without damaging any part of the steam generator is provided where the tooling delivery device travels between the tube bundle and the vessel shell and delivers tooling for cleaning, inspection, retrieval and repair. The device has various types of locomotion system including treads, rollers, magnets and vacuum. The cleaning device has multiple high pressure nozzles that rotate 180 degrees about a horizontal axis and 360 degrees about a vertical axis enabling the device to sweep multiple lanes of tubes simultaneously and also clean the front and back of the annulus floor and tube sheet.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2006Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: Framatome ANP, Inc.Inventors: Eric Leon Hermamdez, George Vick Owen, Kert David Klahn
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Patent number: 7458342Abstract: A controller determines and adjusts system parameters, including cleanliness levels or sootblower operating settings, that are useful for maintaining the cleanliness of a fossil fuel boiler at an efficient level. Some embodiments use a direct controller to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower operating settings. Some embodiments use an indirect controller, with a system model, to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower settings. The controller may use a model that is, for example, a neural network, or a mass energy balance, or a genetically programmed model. The controller uses input about the actual performance or state of the boiler for adaptation. The controller may operate in conjunction with a sootblower optimization system that controls the actual settings of the sootblowers. The controller may coordinate cleanliness settings for multiple sootblowers and/or across a plurality of heat zones in the boiler.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 2, 2008Assignee: NeuCo, Inc.Inventors: W. Curt Lefebvre, Daniel W. Kohn
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Publication number: 20080271685Abstract: An apparatus is provided for cleaning a surface within a vessel. A vessel wall separates a vessel exterior from a vessel interior and has a wall aperture. The apparatus comprises an elongate conduit having an upstream first end and a downstream second end. The conduit is positioned to direct a shock wave from the second end into the vessel interior. A source of fuel and oxidizer is coupled to the conduit to deliver the fuel and oxidizer to the conduit. An initiator is positioned to initiate a combustion of the fuel and oxidizer. The conduit comprises a first portion and a second portion downstream of the first portion. The second portion is extensible and contractible relative to the first portion to selectively position the second end at a desired location within the vessel. The conduit downstream end comprises a centerbody positioned to direct the shock wave essentially axisymmetrically.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2007Publication date: November 6, 2008Inventors: Kirk R. Lupkes, John P. Harty
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Publication number: 20080264357Abstract: An apparatus is provided for cleaning one or more surfaces within a vessel having a vessel wall separating a vessel exterior from a vessel interior and having a wall aperture. The apparatus has at least one elongate conduit having an upstream first end and a downstream second end and positioned to direct a shockwave from the second end into the vessel interior. A source of fuel and oxidizer is coupled to the conduit to deliver the fuel and oxidizer to the conduit An initiator is positioned to initiate a reaction of the fuel and oxidizer to produce the shockwave. At least one sensor coupled to the conduit to detect motion indicative of a detonation. A control system coupled to the initiator, the source, and the sensor for receiving input from the sensor and controlling operation of the initiator and source responsive to said input.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Applicant: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventors: Erik G. Liljegren, Mark W. Parish, Raymond N. Henderson, Donald W. Kendrick, Kirk R. Lupkes
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Publication number: 20080250597Abstract: A sootblower to project a blowing medium into a boiler is disclosed herein. The sootblower includes a hub, a first motor, a second motor, a gear train, and a drive shaft. The hub comprises a first end to receive a lance and a second end to receive the blowing medium. Further, the gear train is configured to convert rotation of the first motor into rotation of the lance, and the drive shaft is configured to convert bidirectional rotation of the second motor into translational motion of the lance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: HOLDEN INDUSTRIES, LLCInventors: Michael C. Holden, W. Wayne Holden
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Publication number: 20080250598Abstract: A sootblower to project a blowing medium into a boiler is disclosed herein. The sootblower includes a hub, in which a first end of the hub is configured to receive a lance and a second end of the hub is configured to receive the blowing medium. The sootblower further includes a drive assembly configured to convert bidirectional rotation from a drive shaft to bidirectional rotation for the hub. The drive assembly then includes a rotation delay mechanism configured to delay a transition between a first directional rotation and a second directional rotation of the bidirectional rotation for the hub with respect to the drive shaft when the drive shaft is transitioning from a first directional rotation to a second directional rotation of the bidirectional rotation for the hub.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2007Publication date: October 16, 2008Applicant: HOLDEN INDUSTRIES, LLCInventors: W. Wayne Holden, Michael C. Holden
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Patent number: 7434546Abstract: A loose parts collection weir that is a nearly cylindrical structure that is integrally attached to the lower deck plate or sludge collector top plate of a steam generator to retain loose parts along the feedwater and recirculation water transit path to the tube bundle. The weir is a near vertical structure built into the upper drum of the steam generator, near the periphery of the lower deck plate or sludge collector top plate in the vicinity of the downcomer annulus. The weir may contain a radially inwardly projecting lip which forms a pocket for loose parts to collect. As the feedwater flows toward the downcomer annulus, loose parts will tend to deposit onto the lower deck plate aided by gravity and be trapped by the loose parts collection weir.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Co. LLCInventors: Padmanabha J. Prabhu, Robert M. Wepfer
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Publication number: 20080210178Abstract: A boiler of a combustion plant has at least one heat exchanging device which can be traversed by a medium from an inlet to an outlet and is held in the interior of the boiler by means of at least one suspension device, wherein means for determining the temperature of the medium are provided at least at the inlet or at the outlet, and the at least one suspension device has means for determining the weight of the at least one heat exchanging device. Also proposed are a cleaning control device, a cleaning method and a method for operating a combustion plant which permit a considerable reduction in the cleaning expenditure, so that maintenance costs can be kept low.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: September 4, 2008Applicant: CLYDE BERGEMANN GMBHInventors: Manfred Frach, Bernd Mussmann
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Publication number: 20080189992Abstract: A steam ironing system (2) comprises a steam iron (10) and a boiler system (25) having a boiler (30) for generating steam, wherein the steam iron (10) and the boiler (30) are connected to each other through a steam hose (35). During operation of the boiler system (25), scale is formed in the boiler (30). For the purpose of removing the scale from the boiler (30), a rinsing process is performed on the boiler system (25) at regular intervals. During the rinsing process, a rinse valve (38) connected to a water outlet (37) positioned at a bottom of the boiler (30) is opened, and water is discharged from the boiler (30) to a rinse container (55). In the process, scale particles are carried along with the flow of water. Preferably, pressure is built up inside the boiler (30) prior to opening the rinse valve (38), so that the water is forcibly ejected from the boiler (30), whereby the effectiveness of the rinsing process is enhanced.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.Inventors: Mohankumar Valiyambath Krishnan, Swee Loon Michael Tang, Choon Hwee Tan, Mong Hua Tan, Derrick Wai Thong Loke, Kok Wah Ma, Chandra Mohan Janakiraman
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Patent number: 7410611Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for the prevention of fouling of process streams by the application of electric charge on process components. The electric charge may be attractive or repulsive to the foulants, they may be constant or variable and may be applied to any section of the process stream where convenient and wherein their preventive effects are optimized.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Inventor: Dennis L. Salbilla
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Patent number: 7395760Abstract: A device, system and method permitting on-line explosives-based cleaning and deslagging of a fuel burning facility (31) such as a boiler, furnace, incinerator, or scrubber. A coolant, such as ordinary water, is delivered to the explosives (101) to prevent them from detonating due to the heat of the on-line facility. Thus, controlled, appropriately-timed detonation can be initiated as desired, and boiler scale and slag is removed without the need to shut down or cool down the facility.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: July 8, 2008Assignee: NorthAmerican Industrial Services, Inc.Inventors: Francis Zilka, Timothy Zilka, Kurt Prouty, Donald Howard
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Patent number: 7392751Abstract: A port rodder assembly for a recovery boiler includes a duct affixed to and in fluid communication with an air port of the boiler, having a hollow interior, and an air inlet opening. A cutting head is slidably mounted within the duct adjacent to the air port and is adapted to clean the air port. An actuator selectively advances the cutting head though the air port to clean the air port. A wing is pivotally mounted within the duct. The wing interacts with the air inlet opening to control the flow of air through the duct and into the air port and is shaped such that incoming air flows smoothly through the duct to the air port.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2005Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Diamond Power International, Inc.Inventor: Leif Bergmyren
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Patent number: 7383790Abstract: A statistical process control system employs a consistent soot blowing operation for a heat exchange section of, for example, a fuel burning boiler, collects heat absorption data for the heat exchange section and analyzes the distribution of the heat absorption data as well as various parameters of the heat absorption distribution to readjust the soot blowing operation. The statistical process control system may set a desired lower heat absorption limit and a desired upper heat absorption limit and compare them, respectively, with an actual lower heat absorption limit and an actual upper heat absorption limit to determine the readjustment to be made to the soot blowing operation. Alternatively, the statistical process control system may be used to determine permanent slagging of the heat exchange section.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignee: Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Peter N. Francino, Xu Cheng
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Publication number: 20080110417Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of disposing of produced water and to a produced water disposal apparatus including a container for receiving and holding produced water; and a burner having a combustion chamber, wherein at least a portion of the combustion chamber is submerged in the water and the submerged portion of the combustion chamber comprises a sparger tube through which combustion gases emerge into, mix with and agitate the water. The present invention further relates to a mechanism for removing debris from the produced water disposal apparatus. In one embodiment, heat is supplied from an externally operated combustion system, rather than the submerged combustion. In one embodiment, the apparatus provides a concentrator, in which a solute can be removed and recovered from an aqueous medium containing the solute.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Inventor: David G. Smith
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Patent number: 7367079Abstract: An integral packing housing and packing material unit; a method for packing replacement, boiler cleaning; and a method for maintenance of a desired boiler output rating. The integral packing unit includes a housing for removably holding a sacrificial packing material that is configured to form a steam seal between a sootblower steam tube and lance spindle when the packing unit is installed in an operative position in association with the steam tube and the spindle and the packing material is loaded by applying compression to the packing material. A compression unit is typically coupled to the housing unit to apply such compression to load the packing material while the packing unit is installed in the operative position. The packing unit may also includes a detent mechanism, such set screws, for unloading the packing material to facilitate installing the packing unit on, and removing the packing unit from, the operative position.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Assignee: Clyde Bergemann, Inc.Inventors: Hans Schwade, Bruce Townsend, Michael W. Stewart
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Patent number: 7367288Abstract: An upper bundle cleaning system of steam generator is disclosed which can clean heat transfer tubes and a plurality of tube support plates that support the heat transfer tubes and have slots, using a cleaning device transferred along a guide rail installed to an upper hand hole of the steam generator. The cleaning device is installed to an ascending/descending mechanism which is vertically transferable. The cleaning device includes a frame, at least one or more guide component, a spray component, and a hinge unit, such that the cleaning device is ascended and descended by the ascending/descending mechanism to clean the heat transfer tubes and the tube support plates.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Inventor: Kyung-sub Kim
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Patent number: 7360508Abstract: A sootblower for cleaning a plurality of surfaces within an interior volume of a combustion device is provided. The sootblower includes a combustion assembly configured to generate a pressure wave and a delivery assembly having an outlet for delivering the pressure wave into the interior volume of the combustion device.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2005Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Diamond Power International, Inc.Inventors: Tony F. Habib, Brett R. Burton, Steven L. Shover, James H. Hipple
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Publication number: 20080041322Abstract: An embodiment in accordance with the present invention provides a device and method for removing ash from an interior surface of a radiant synthesis gas cooler. The device for removing ash includes a rapper actuator, a striker pin coupled to the rapper actuator including a proximal end and a distal end, and a striker target assembly disposed such that a proximal surface of the striker target assembly is in contact with the distal end of the striker pin and a distal surface is in contact with the surface of the radiant synthesis gas cooler.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Applicant: THE BABCOCK & WILCOX COMPANYInventors: Steven R. Fry, Harry E. Hillegass, David L. Kraft
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Publication number: 20080022948Abstract: A system for delivering tooling around the annulus of a steam generator without damaging any part of the steam generator is provided where the tooling delivery device travels between the tube bundle and the vessel shell and delivers tooling for cleaning, inspection, retrieval and repair. The device has various types of locomotion system including treads, rollers, magnets and vacuum. The cleaning device has multiple high pressure nozzles that rotate 180 degrees about a horizontal axis and 360 degrees about a vertical axis enabling the device to sweep multiple lanes of tubes simultaneously and also clean the front and back of the annulus floor and tube sheet.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventors: Eric Leon Hernandez, George Vick Owen, Kurt David Klahn
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Patent number: 7302917Abstract: A Nuclear Steam Supply Stem (NSSS) Mode 5 Steam Generator Chemical Cleaning system is disclosed which applies chemical cleaning solvent (formulated to remove SG deposits) to the secondary side of the SG using primary side supplied heat during NSS Mode 5 shutdown to maintain the desired application temperature. Mixing is achieved via nitrogen sparging.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Framatome Anp, Inc.Inventors: John F. Remark, Sarah E. Evans
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Patent number: 7267134Abstract: A shockwave cleaning apparatus cleans one or more surfaces within a vessel. A sensor senses one or more thermodynamic properties associated with the vessel. A control system is coupled to an initiator and a fuel/oxidizer source to control the firing of the apparatus responsive to input from the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2004Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: James R. Hochstein, Jr., Michael J. Aarnio, Donald W. Kendrick, Thomas R. A. Bussing, Robert R. Niblock
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Patent number: 7204208Abstract: A robotic apparatus for the cleaning and maintenance of coal fired boilers, which is designed to operate in the high temperature environment of the combustion gasses to effectively clean and remove slag deposits of the boiler heat transfer surfaces by use of a precision directed, low pressure, low flow rate water stream. The robotic cleaning apparatus is comprised of lightweight carbon fiber structural elements, attached to the exterior of the boiler, and cooled by annular pressurized water sheaths impingent on a thin metal skin covering the lightweight structural elements. Multiple articulated joints allow for complete access to the heat transfer surfaces of the boiler. A variety of payloads can be delivered to specific points within the boiler, including imaging systems, cutting, and welding apparatuses. A mathematical state space control matrix allows for optimal positioning and feedback control of motions.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2003Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: S.A. RoboticsInventors: Samuel A. Johnson, Daniel S. Johnson
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Patent number: 7162981Abstract: A system is provided for delivering tooling, suction pickup, and alignment platforms to a stay dome region of a stem generator or the tube-free lane regions adjacent to the stay dome region and includes a suction device positioned in the stay dome region of a steam generator capable of rotating 360° about a vertical axis which also acts as a platform for mounting inter-bundle tooling and alignment devices used to position the suction device radially at any given tube location around the stay dome region to align it with an annulus based spray nozzle tube cleaning system.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Assignee: Framatome Anp, Inc.Inventor: Eric Leon Hernandez
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Patent number: 7109446Abstract: A system for analyzing the impact of operating soot blowers in a heat transfer section of a power plant determines a steam temperature influencing sequence and calculates a feed-forward signal to be applied to a steam temperature control system of the heat transfer section. The system operates a group of soot blowers for a number of times and collects quantitative data related to the steam temperature during and after each soot blowing operation. A computer program used by the system analyzes the quantitative data, generates a number of statistical parameters for evaluating the impact of operating the soot blowers according to a given sequence on the steam temperature, and determines whether the given sequence is a steam temperature influencing sequence.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2005Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Emerson Process Management Power & Water Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Xu Cheng, Richard W. Kephart
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Patent number: 7104223Abstract: An apparatus and methods are provided for cleaning a surface within a vessel. A vessel wall separates a vessel exterior from a vessel interior and has a wall aperture. An elongate conduit has an upstream first and a downstream second end and is positioned to direct a shock wave from the second end into the vessel interior. A source of fuel and oxidizer is coupled to the conduit to deliver the fuel an oxidizer to the conduit. An initiator is positioned to initiate a reaction of the fuel and oxidizer to produce the shock wave within the conduit for generating the shock wave. A source of purge gas is positioned to introduce the purge gas to the conduit to drive reaction products of the fuel and oxidizer downstream.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Thomas R. A. Bussing
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Patent number: 7086353Abstract: Disclosed is a lance system for inter-tube inspecting and lancing as well as barrel spraying of heat transfer tubes of a steam generator in a nuclear power plant, so that foreign substances piled up around heat transfer tubes in the steam generator are removed using high-pressure water.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2004Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Korea Electric Power CorporationInventors: Kwon Sang Hwang, Hyung Jin Sung, Woo Tae Jeong, Sung Yull Hong
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Patent number: 7026598Abstract: A method for controlling the positioning of a stream of pressurized fluid against a surface zone of a stream generator to clean contaminants. The coordinates of a plurality of points of the surface zone to be cleaned are first determined. The coordinates are measured with respect to a fixed coordinate system with origin point at the location where the lance water cannon penetrates the cannon wall of the steam generator. The determined boundary points are converted into corresponding angles with respect to the horizontal plane and the cannon wall. These angles are then used directly to control the position of the lance with respect to the fixed coordinate system. The stream of pressurized fluid is directed against the surface zone in a predetermined pattern by monitoring and controlling the angle of the lance through axial resolvers.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Clyde Bergemann, Inc.Inventors: Hans Schwade, M. Ishaq Jameel
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Patent number: 7011047Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for cleaning a surface within a vessel. A fuel/oxidizer charge is provided within a combustion conduit. An initial deflagration commenced in a first portion of the charge produces a final detonation at least in another portion of the charge to expel a shockwave from the conduit which impinges upon the surface. The deflagration-to-detonation transition may be encouraged by mechanical enhancements and/or by making the first charge portion more detonable than the second.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Michael J. Aarnio, Donald W. Kendrick, Thomas R. A. Bussing
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Patent number: 6935281Abstract: An on-line method and a device for cleaning of contamination such as caking or slag deposits from surfaces in vessels and combustion installations by means of blasting technology. An explosive gas mixture is made to detonate in the proximity of the deposits and thereby clean the deposits from the surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2002Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Assignee: Bang & Clean GmbHInventor: Hans Ruegg
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Patent number: 6925969Abstract: A wall box coupled with a wall port of a combustion device is provided. The combustion device includes a wall and an interior volume defined by the wall. The wall box includes a cooling chamber surface defining a cooling chamber located adjacent to the wall port. A cooling fluid enters the cooling chamber via an inlet and exits the cooling chamber via an outlet, and the inlet is located exterior from the combustion device, the outlet is located the exterior from the combustion device.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2004Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Assignee: Diamond Power International, Inc.Inventors: Clinton A. Brown, Stephen L. Shover
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Patent number: 6907847Abstract: A bearing system for a water lance of a water lance blower contains a ball joint having a ball with a surface and a diameter. The ball further has a passage, on and/or in which the water lance can be disposed. The bearing system is characterized in that a ball seat is provided and contains two axially interspaced bearing shells each of which has an opening, whereby the ball protrudes at least partially into the openings. A method for operating the bearing system that seals gaps, which can occur as the ball rotates, between the surface of the ball and the spherical contact surface of the at least one bearing shell. The bearing shells enable the bearing system to be easily assembled, and the small contact surfaces reduce the amount of friction during operation. In addition, the bearing system is also suited for use as a seal.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2003Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Clyde Bergemann GmbHInventors: Franz Bartels, Klaus Eimer, Stephan Simon
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Patent number: 6892679Abstract: A multi-media rotating sootblower that includes multiple rotating and individually controlled cleaning fluid applicators, such a set of steam nozzles and two sets of water nozzles, and an automatic boiler cleaning system using these sootblowers. The boiler superheater typically includes a system of these sootblowers to clean a number of large platens that are arranged in rows. The boiler may also include additional boiler cleaning equipment, including water cannons to clean the furnace, and conventional steam sootblowers to clean other heat exchangers of the boiler. A number of sensors, including heat transfer gauges that measure the heat transfer at the furnace wall, strain gauges that measure the weight of slag deposits on platens, and boiler cameras are used to monitor slag accumulations within the boiler. A control system uses this sensor data to automatically operate the boiler cleaning system to implement an automatic boiler cleaning regimen.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: May 17, 2005Assignee: Clyde Bergemann, Inc.Inventors: Mohomed Ishag Jameel, Bruce Townsend, Hans Schwade
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Publication number: 20040255872Abstract: A robotic apparatus for the cleaning and maintenance of coal fired boilers, which is designed to operate in the high temperature environment of the combustion gasses to effectively clean and remove slag deposits of the boiler heat transfer surfaces by use of a precision directed, low pressure, low flow rate water stream. The robotic cleaning apparatus is comprised of lightweight carbon fibre structural elements, attached to the exterior of the boiler, and cooled by annular pressurized water sheaths impingent on a thin metal skin covering the lightweight structural elements. Multiple articulated joints allow for complete access to the heat transfer surfaces of the boiler. A variety of payloads can be delivered to specific points within the boiler, including imaging systems, cutting, and welding apparatuses. A mathematical state space control matrix allows for optimal positioning and feedback control of motions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Inventors: Samuel Alan Johnson, Daniel Sutton Johnson
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Patent number: 6833032Abstract: An automatic deliming process for a steam oven cooker is described. The process initiates a deliming procedure after a predetermined time of normal operation, which period of time is determined by the hardness of the water in the local area. Upon the expiration of this period of time a microprocessor signals an operator to shut down normal operation of the oven, and initiate the deliming process. The microprocessor then activates a peristaltic pump which injects a predetermined quantity of deliming liquid from an external reservoir into the generator. After the deliming time has passed and the generator contents have cooled to 140° F. the microprocessor automatically activates a drain pump to drain the deliming solution from the generator. Subsequently the microprocessor activates a fill-solenoid opening and inlet from a reservoir of rinse water into the generator to rinse the same. The microprocessor then again opens the drain to drain the rinse water, and normal operation is resumed.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Assignee: Blodgett Holdings, Inc.Inventors: Scott Douglas, John Bardeau
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Publication number: 20040244729Abstract: A controller determines and adjusts system parameters, including cleanliness levels or sootblower operating settings, that are useful for maintaining the cleanliness of a fossil fuel boiler at an efficient level. Some embodiments use a direct controller to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower operating settings. Some embodiments use an indirect controller, with a system model, to determine cleanliness levels and/or sootblower settings. The controller may use a model that is, for example, a neural network, or a mass energy balance, or a genetically programmed model. The controller uses input about the actual performance or state of the boiler for adaptation. The controller may operate in conjunction with a sootblower optimization system that controls the actual settings of the sootblowers. The controller may coordinate cleanliness settings for multiple sootblowers and/or across a plurality of heat zones in the boiler.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Applicant: NeuCo, Inc.Inventors: W. Curt Lefebvre, Daniel W. Kohn
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Patent number: 6820575Abstract: An upper bundle steam generator cleaning, inspection, and repair system includes a deployment and support device receivable within the steam generator configured to raise and position a distal end of said device to the upper bundle region of the steam generator, a head subsystem connected to the distal end of the deployment and support device for at least one of cleaning, inspection, and repair of said upper bundle region, and a lateral support subsystem deployable to support said head subsystem within the upper bundle region of the steam generator and retractable to deploy said head subsystem up to the upper bundle region and to withdraw said head subsystem therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Assignee: Foster-Miller, Inc.Inventors: Augustus J. Ashton, III, J. Timothy Lovett, Daniel Fischbach, Steven K. Ruggieri, Alan Brightman, Steven Jens
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Publication number: 20040216698Abstract: A device, system and method permitting on-line explosives-based cleaning and deslagging of a fuel burning facility such as a boiler, furnace, incinerator, or scrubber. A coolant, such as ordinary water, is delivered to the explosives to prevent them from detonating due to the heat of the on-line facility. Thus, controlled, appropriately-timed detonation can be initiated as desired, and boiler scale and slag is removed without the need to shut down or cool down the facility.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2004Publication date: November 4, 2004Applicant: NorthAmerican Industrial ServicesInventors: Francis Zilka, Timothy Zilka, Kurt Prouty, Donald Howard, Christopher Scaringe, William Youngs