Pipe, Tubing, Hose, Or Conduit Patents (Class 134/22.11)
  • Patent number: 7504043
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC)-based composition, to the use thereof in refrigeration and/or air conditioning and to a heat-transfer system containing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Arkema France
    Inventors: Gerard Guilpain, Laurent Caron
  • Publication number: 20090000646
    Abstract: A new and useful device and method for cleaning a paint roller cover is provided. A paint roller frame has a longitudinal axis, and is supported in a manner such that the frame can spin freely about its longitudinal axis. A paint roller cover is placed on the roller frame, so that the paint roller cover extends about the longitudinal axis of the frame, and can spin with the frame about the longitudinal axis, thereby forming a frame/paint roller cover assembly that has the same longitudinal axis as the frame. A manifold is adapted to be connected to a source of cleaning fluid (e.g. water), and an array of no more than three spray nozzles are supported by the manifold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventors: Donald G. Durant, Ronald D. Durant
  • Publication number: 20080314412
    Abstract: A self-cleaning injection port assembly that uses a movable wash chamber closure device (26) for opening and closing an injection needle entry passage (34) of an injection port wash chamber. For sample injection, the wash chamber closure device (26) can be moved clear of the path along which the injection needle passes through the wash chamber into the injection port, thereby enabling insertion of the injection needle into the injection port. For washing, the wash chamber closure device (26) is moved to a position closing the entry passage (34) of the injection port wash, after which cleaning fluid may be circulated through the injection port for cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: Paul M. Grippo, Daniel L. Bantz, Frank Sylva, Thomas R. Londo
  • Publication number: 20080313831
    Abstract: A powered hand held drain cleaning tool and method of operation, including a stick tool member with a brush or teeth on a first end, a hex engagement portion on a second end and an elongate, non-uniform, shaft portion extending between the first and second ends. The tool includes a body portion for housing a power supply, a motor for rotating a drive mechanism engaged with the hex engagement portion of the stick tool member, and a trigger switch mechanism for operation of the tool by a user. The body is also engaged with a face piece with an opening for receiving the stick tool member therethrough, and pin members for mating and locking engagement with locking grooves formed in the body portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Inventors: James A. Kovach, Charles J. Mintz
  • Publication number: 20080302393
    Abstract: Devices, including a wash ring assembly, and methods are provided for the removal of excess fluid or solids from the exterior or interior of a probe used to transfer fluids, for instance, in an automated assay device. Typically, a probe is used to aspirate and dispense a sample fluid material such as whole blood or a reagent. The devices and methods provided herein are useful for removing excess fluid from the exterior or interior of the probe so as to prevent dripping and cross-contamination between samples or reagents. It is also contemplated that, utilizing the devices and methods provided herein, washing and/or drying can be performed simultaneously as the probe is in motion, aspirating a sample and/or dispensing a sample.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Nasser Jafari, Lawrence Blecka, Chris Tsai
  • Publication number: 20080289658
    Abstract: A human-interface cleaning device for cleaning human-interface devices commonly used for the treatment sleep apnea. The cleaning device has a solvent-receiving end which connects to a solvent-delivery source such as a faucet or shower head. At the opposite end of the cleaning device is a funnel-like shaped solvent-discharge end which is tapered at its distal end and adapted to easily friction-fit into any receiving aperture of most human-interface devices. As so connected to a solvent-delivery source and to a human-interface device, the cleaning device will enhance the force of the solvent being delivered through the cleaning device and more easily and effectively clean the human-interface device to which attached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Bradley A. Eli
  • Patent number: 7449072
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for removing solid or semi-solid material from within a container, for example removing an energetic material from the casing of an explosive shell. The method is applicable to the demilitarization of aged or obsolete explosive ordnance, for example mortar rounds, and uses ultrasonic energy rather than heat like previous methods. An item to be demilitarized and cleaned is immersed in a fluid contained within a vessel. An ultrasonic probe or wand is inserted into the submerged item, in proximity with the material to be removed. The fluid is the medium for transmitting sonic energy from the probe to the material to fracture and mobilize the material. Mobilized particulates are expelled from the casing, and settle to the bottom of the fluid vessel for collection. At the conclusion of the process, the emptied container shell, now relatively clean, is retrieved from the vessel and salvaged as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: TPL, Inc.
    Inventors: Randal Johnson, Catherine Malins
  • Publication number: 20080264451
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing an inside of a pipe which performs various works from an inside of a pipe, includes traveling drive units, a working device, rotation support mechanisms, a coupling mechanism, and suspension devices. The traveling drive units are inserted into the inside of the pipe, and the working device is moved in a circumferential direction along the inside of the pipe by the traveling drive units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Mitsuaki SHIMAMURA, Yutaka Togasawa, Takeshi Maehara, Yasuhiro Yuguchi
  • Publication number: 20080251151
    Abstract: A flexible tubular lining material impregnated with a thermosetting resin is folded and bound with tape to provide a reduced width. Two steel belts are inserted into belt loops and are removably attached so as to sandwich the lining material. During pipeline lining work, first, the steel-belted lining material is inserted into a lateral pipe from the main pipe. The steel belts are then removed from the lining material so that the lining material may remain inside the pipeline. The steel belts are extracted from the pipeline, and the lining material is then made to expand via application of pressure from the inside. While kept in contact with the inner peripheral surface of the pipeline, the lining material is heated in order to cure the thermosetting resin thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Inventors: Fuminori Tanaka, Kenji Fujii
  • Publication number: 20080236629
    Abstract: A cleaning method for a turbo molecular pump, which enables the exhausting ability of the turbo molecular pump to be restored without bringing about a decrease in the productivity of a substrate processing apparatus. A vaporizing gas that vaporizes foreign matter attached to an internal surface of the turbo molecular pump is supplied toward the foreign matter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: TOKYO ELECTRON LIMITED
    Inventors: Eiichi Sugawara, Tsuyoshi Moriya
  • Publication number: 20080223410
    Abstract: The fluid supply apparatus includes a plurality of supply lines (308), each line having an outlet control device (328) configurable to either allow or prevent fluid in the line flowing to a shared outlet conduit (326). A controller (332) sets the outlet control devices of one or more of the plurality of supply lines in accordance with the output of a monitoring device (336), which monitors the concentration of cleaning fluid passing through the outlet conduit, to control the fluid delivered by the delivery device and the one or more outlet control devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Applicant: CleverClear Ltd
    Inventors: Anthony Molloy, Steven James Wheeler, Matthew Molloy
  • Publication number: 20080216872
    Abstract: There is obtained an MOCVD oriented vaporizer which eliminates a phenomenon that thin-film materials are adhered to a portion of the vaporizer near and around a spout thereof. A carrier gas/small amount oxidizing gas supply part supplies a carrier gas, which is supplied through an internally formed gas passage and which contains a material solution, to a vaporization part; a bubble prevention/material solution supply part supplies a material for preventing generation of bubbles of the carrier gas containing the material solution, and the material solution, into the carrier gas; a solvent vaporization restricting/cooling system restricts vaporization of a solvent; and a swirl flow preventing gas supply part supplies a gas for preventing occurrence of swirl flows near a gas outlet of the vaporization part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Hisayoshi Yamoto, Ryoichi Sakai, Masafumi Shoji, Kazuya Akuto, Ken Nagaoka, Hiroshi Watanuki
  • Patent number: 7422640
    Abstract: A method of removing a sticky substance or a waste liquid containing a sticky substance which comprises, mixing a solid substance having inflammability and liquid-absorptivity into the sticky substance or the waste liquid containing the sticky substance wherein these are mixed to allow a liquid component of the sticky substance or the waste liquid containing the sticky substance to be absorbed into the solid substance and to allow the sticky substance to be entangled with the solid substance, and then removing the sticky substance together with the solid substance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohiko Mawatari, Miezi Sugiyama, Yoshiyuki Taniguchi
  • Publication number: 20080190456
    Abstract: Described are an apparatus and a method for examining the holes in a nozzle strip, in which are provided a unit for cleaning the nozzle strip and a unit that is connected thereto and used to automatically detect the state of the nozzle holes, the holes being automatically examined for impurities and/or signs of wear by use of optical methods and optionally subjected to complete or partial aftercleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: M.O.M. TOOLS, LLC
    Inventor: Jurgen Heller
  • Patent number: 7410611
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Dennis L. Salbilla
  • Patent number: 7410544
    Abstract: A method for cleaning a metal plating tank is provided herein. In accordance with the method, the tank is exposed to a first acid (103), after which the tank is exposed to a second acid in the presence of a first oxidizing agent (107).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Sam S. Garcia, Edward Acosta, Varughese Mathew
  • Patent number: 7406971
    Abstract: An improved method for flushing the residue from internal surfaces of cavities in, for example, turbine blades. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, provision is made for simultaneously flushing the internal cavities of a plurality of turbine blades, with each blade having a plurality of cavities therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Ramon M. Velez, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20080173332
    Abstract: Provided is a manual system for dredging a heavy-turning pipeline, comprising a pipeline dredger and a water-pressure dredge pipe comprising a rocker and a spring-type dredge pipe connected thereto; wherein a spring-type dredge bit is disposed on an end of the spring-type dredge pipe; the water-pressure dredge pipe is a hollow hose having an back end that may be inserted into a pipeline to be dredged; and a cross section of the dredge bit has a cog or a sharp corner. In a process of dredging a pipeline, the cog or the sharp corner may easily winds blocking objects, so that it is possible to quickly dredge the pipeline and improve dredging efficiency. Furthermore, since an opening having a diameter less than the water-pressure dredge pipe is disposed at an end of the water-pressure dredge pipe, water column with higher pressure may be formed, and sprayed water column has enhanced scouring force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: July 24, 2008
    Inventor: Jiayi ZHANG
  • Patent number: 7401613
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of in place cleaning of an automated food product dispenser comprising an interface connection configured to establish a supply of a milk-based fluid from a reservoir (for example, a container or a bag), a mixing device configured to receive the milk-based fluid and prepare a milk based product, a nozzle in fluid association with the mixing device for dispensing the milk based product, a product flowpath configured for directing the milk based product to flow from the interface connection through the mixing device to the nozzle, and a clean-in-place flowpath assembly located in the dispenser and comprising a supply of cleaning or sanitizing fluid and a flowpath which is configured to deliver the cleaning or sanitizing fluid to or through the product flowpath. The invention also relates to a machine readable program for controlling the automated food product dispenser of the invention and for cleaning the same in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Peter W. Carhuff, Takeshi Masu, Gene Clyde, Edward L. Dickinson, Andrew C. Harvey, Edward M. Kolvek, Michael H. Lago
  • Publication number: 20080142049
    Abstract: An endoscope washer disinfector washes and disinfects an endoscope with a mouth ring communicating with an endoscope duct. The washer disinfector comprises a washing disinfecting bath; a nozzle arranged with the bath, loaded into the mouth ring, and formed to supply fluid to the duct via the mouth ring; a tray on which the endoscope is mounted. In this washer disinfector, a bilateral positioning member positions the endoscope and the tray so that the mouth ring of the endoscope mounted on the tray is located at a given position on the tray; and a trilateral positioning member positions the washing disinfecting bath, the tray, and the endoscope so that, when the tray is loaded into the washing disinfecting bath, the mouth ring of the endoscope positioned at the given position on the tray by the bilateral positioning member is positioned at a position that is across is from the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Applicant: OLYMPUS MEDICAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hideto ONISHI, Eiri SUZUKI
  • Patent number: 7380557
    Abstract: A heat exchanger coil pipe is internally cleaned off dirt deposits by forcing ice and water to pass the pipe. A system for carrying out the cleaning comprises a suction pump, a wastewater collecting tank, a suction hose for connection between the waste and wash water collecting tank and a heat transfer medium inlet or outlet of the pipe and an ice-feeding hose provided at one end with a hopper and connectable at the other end to the heat transfer medium outlet or inlet pipe. In the state of the suction hose being connected to the heat transfer medium inlet or outlet and the suction hose being connected to the heat transfer medium outlet or inlet, ice and water are supplied from the hopper and drawn into the ice by suction from the suction pump to flow in the coil pipe and collected into the wastewater collecting tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Tokai Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tadashi Shiraishi
  • Patent number: 7377982
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for the removal of a number of molecular contaminants from surfaces within a device. A purge gas containing oxygen and/or water is introduced into the interior of the device, contacting at least a portion of the interior surfaces. A contaminated purge gas is produced by transferring a portion of the contamination from the interior surfaces into the purge gas. The contaminated purge gas is removed from the device and the process is continued until the contaminant concentration in the contaminated purge gas is below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Alvarez, Jr., Jeffrey J Spiegelman
  • Patent number: 7375065
    Abstract: A composition for cleaning a fluid delivery system includes an agent which controls the rheology of the fluid so that its apparent viscosity decreases as the fluid is subjected to a shear force. In particular applications, the viscosity of the composition is greater than 600 centipoise when it is not subject to any shear and less than 600 centipoise when subject to a shear of at least 10 1/sec. The fluid may be thixotropic or a Bingham plastic, in some instances. In a specific embodiment, the viscosity of the composition is greater than 3000 centipoise when it is not subject to shear, less than 3000 centipoise at a shear of 10 1/sec, less than 1000 centipoise at a shear of 30 1/sec, and less than 600 centipoise at a shear of 60 1/sec. Also disclosed are methods for cleaning a fluid delivery system with these compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Gage Products Company
    Inventors: Jeffrey Maxwell, Stephen Summerfield
  • Publication number: 20080087302
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for a smelt spout of a recovery boiler, which apparatus comprises a motorized cleaning member (7) for cleaning the smelt spout (1). The cleaning apparatus further comprises a path (5) and a cleaning unit, which comprises motorized transfer means for transferring the cleaning unit to the location of the smelt spout (1) along the path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2007
    Publication date: April 17, 2008
    Applicant: Metso Power Oy
    Inventors: Hannu Koskela, Ari Saarela, Kalle Salmi
  • Patent number: 7354484
    Abstract: A cleaning processing apparatus comprises a spin chuck for holding a wafer W, an under plate being positioned to face the back surface of the wafer W with a prescribed gap provided therebetween, a support member for supporting the under plate, and a nozzle hole formed to extended through the plate member and the support member. A chemical liquid, a pure water and a gas can be supplied into a nozzle hole through opening-closing valves, and the chemical liquid and the pure water remaining inside the nozzle hole can be sucked by a sucking device. A pure water remaining inside the nozzle hole is sucked and removed by using the sucking device after the processing of the wafer W with a pure water and, then, a gas is spurted onto the back surface of the wafer W.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Takehiko Orii, Masahiro Mukoyama, Hiromitsu Nanba
  • Patent number: 7337789
    Abstract: The present invention provides for a cleaning apparatus for a vertical exhaust pipe in an exhaust system, the cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning liquid source, an enclosure receiving a cleaning liquid from the cleaning liquid source, and a fluid communication between the enclosure and an inner surface of the exhaust pipe so that the cleaning liquid supplied to the enclosure by the cleaning liquid source is gravity fed into the exhaust pipe through the fluid communication, thereby creating a cleaning liquid film flowing down along at least part of the inner surface of the exhaust pipe, whereby the cleaning liquid film washes the at least part of the inner surface of the exhaust pipe. The cleaning apparatus is thus efficient, has a low risk of failure and is easily accessible for maintenance. A method for cleaning a vertical exhaust pipe in an exhaust system is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Inventor: Minel Kupferberg
  • Patent number: 7338564
    Abstract: A prepackaged, peroxide-based, cleaning composition is described which is suitable for on-site dilution, and for cleaning substrates such as air conditioner coils.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Garman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Garner, Joseph Raible
  • Patent number: 7337788
    Abstract: Uncured solvent-based paint may be flushed from a paint delivery installation using a substantially non-aqueous composition containing one or more organic solvents and a polymer having acid and/or amine functional groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2008
    Assignee: Henkel Kommanditgesellschaft auf Aktien
    Inventors: Neil R. Wilson, Bruce H. Goodreau
  • Patent number: 7331354
    Abstract: In process for cleaning tray columns which are used for the purposes of rectifiying liquids comprising (meth)acrylic compounds, a basic liquid is conveyed downward through the tray column and a gas is passed through the column in countercurrent to the basic liquid at an average gas phase differential pressure over all trays of at least 0.5 mbar/tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Juergen Schroeder, Klaus Joachim Mueller-Engel, Volker Schliephake, Ulrich Hammon, Volker Diehl, Ulrich Jaeger
  • Publication number: 20080023033
    Abstract: A device for collecting debris from a well comprises a fluid injection conduit injecting circulating fluid into the area of the well to be treated, a fluid collection pathway for the recovery of fluid and suspended debris, and a collection chamber for the collection of debris suspended in the fluid. The collection pathway is helical, and typically the collection chamber is also helical. Typically, the boundary between the collection pathway and the helical collection chamber is defined by vanes, typically including a groove capable of forming a watertight seal with a sleeve fitting substantially over the device. Devices may include a baffle located above the uppermost edge of the helical collection pathway to direct matter into the collection chamber. Methods to the use of the device to collect debris from the well can include multiple devices, each adapted to collect debris of different sizes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2007
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald Potter
  • Patent number: 7305998
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of cleaning a workpiece is disclosed. The method comprises providing a mobile flushing unit and servicing the workpiece as follows: a) connecting a flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to one end of the workpiece and connecting another flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to a second end of the workpiece; b) flowing compressed air through each hose and the workpiece; c) pumping a cleaning fluid through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; d) ceasing cleaning fluid flow, followed by purging with air to remove the cleaning fluid from the workpiece; e) pumping water through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; f) ceasing water flow, following by another purge with air to remove the water from the workpiece; and g) disconnecting each hose from the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John Watt
  • Publication number: 20070272276
    Abstract: A method for removing pipe tuberculation includes the initial step of preparing an access point in the existing pipe by digging to the pipe and sawing a section from the pipe or creating an access port. The section of the pipeline to have its tuberculation removed is isolated by closing valves or creating another access point and sealing the end. Then, a reaming tool is introduced to the interior of the pipe. The reaming tool is attached to a hollow rod string capable of producing moderate thrust and pullback force, and must also produce sufficient torque when rotated. A horizontal directional drilling or “HDD” machine on the surface or in a pit dug out for this purpose applies the aforementioned forces to the rod string.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2007
    Publication date: November 29, 2007
    Inventor: Steven W. Wentworth
  • Patent number: 7296582
    Abstract: A connector apparatus is provided which is configured to replace a separation module in a system for dispensing a fluid. When it is desired to purge the system of a dispensed fluid, the connector apparatus, having the same configuration of an inlet and an outlet as the separation module, replaces the separation module and a purging fluid is passed through the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey M. Campbell, J. Karl Niermeyer
  • Patent number: 7293568
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a formulation created by reacting sodium hydroxide, water, and silicon metal which has unique properties and many uses. The instant invention is further directed to methods of producing and using such formulations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Silicon Chemistry, Inc.
    Inventors: Ben Elledge, Richard Okun, Robert Kulperger, Glen Davies
  • Patent number: 7293569
    Abstract: Compositions and methods for cleaning deposition systems utilizing alkylsilanes are described herein. In an embodiment, a method of cleaning a semiconductor fabrication system comprises flushing the system with a solvent comprising at least one alkylsilane. In another embodiment, a method of removing at least one chemical precursor from a semiconductor fabrication system comprises forcing a solvent containing at least one alkylsilane through the semiconductor fabrication system and dissolving the at least one chemical precursor in the solvent. The solvent may also contain mixtures of different alkylsilanes and other organic solvents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Air Liquide Electronics U.S. LP
    Inventors: Ravi Laxman, Ashutosh Misra, Jean-Marc Girard
  • Patent number: 7287534
    Abstract: A process for cleaning apparatus in which (meth)acrylic acid-containing organic solvents have been treated and/or generated and contain fouling and/or polymer and residues of organic solvent, in which the apparatus contents are subjected to a steam distillation in the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: BASF Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Volker Diehl, Ulrich Jäger, Jürgen Schröder, Joachim Thiel
  • Patent number: 7276023
    Abstract: In order to check endoscope channels, a predetermined quantity of liquid is led, at a predetermined pressure, through the channel that is to be checked, and the period of time for this is measured and evaluated. The predetermined quantity of liquid is determined via the volume of a liquid container whose outlet is capable of being connected to the channel that is to be checked. A compressed air source subjects the liquid in the container to a predetermined pressure. A sensor registers whether the liquid level in the container has dropped below a predefined value. A control unit measures the period of time within which the predetermined volume of liquid has flowed through the channel that is to be checked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: BHT Hygienetechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Karl Heinz Annecke
  • Patent number: 7252096
    Abstract: On-Line and Off-Line methods of simultaneously cleaning and disinfecting an industrial water system are described and claimed. The methods involve the addition to the water of the industrial water system of a Compound selected from the group consisting of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and mixtures thereof; and an acid, followed by allowing the water in the industrial water system to circulate for several hours. The reaction of the alkali salts of chlorite and chlorate and acid produces chlorine dioxide in-situ in the water of the industrial water system. The chlorine dioxide kills microorganisms and the acid acts to remove deposits upon the water-contact surfaces of the equipment. An alternative method involves the use of a chelating agent and a biocide. Other possible cleaning and disinfection reagents may be added as needed including corrosion inhibitors, chelating agents, biocides, surfactants and reducing agents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Jasbir S. Gill, Amit Gupta
  • Patent number: 7252720
    Abstract: Prion infectivity adsorbed onto substrates (for example, chromatographic columns used to fractionate blood plasma) is removed by treatment with 2M sodium chloride. Optionally, the substrate is further washed with 0.1 M sodium hydroxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Common Services Agency
    Inventors: Peter Reynolds Foster, Brenda Doreen Griffin, Ronald Vance McIntosh
  • Patent number: 7252095
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of cleaning a workpiece is disclosed. The method comprises providing a mobile flushing unit and servicing the workpiece as follows: a) connecting a flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to one end of the workpiece and connecting another flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to a second end of the workpiece; b) flowing compressed air through each hose and the workpiece; c) pumping a cleaning fluid through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; d) ceasing cleaning fluid flow, followed by purging with air to remove the cleaning fluid from the workpiece; e) pumping water through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; f) ceasing water flow, following by another purge with air to remove the water from the workpiece; and g) disconnecting each hose from the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John Watt
  • Patent number: 7219675
    Abstract: A novel cleaning composition comprises a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider. The dilutant is preferably water. The wetting agent is alkoxylated alcohol. The chelating agent is an acrylic/maleic acid copolymer. The alkaline builder is sodium hydroxide. The chlorine provider is sodium hypochlorite. A method comprises the steps of partially filling the whirlpool tub with water, activating the whirlpool pump to circulate the water, adding to the circulating water a cleaning composition comprising a dilutant, a wetting agent, a chelating agent, an alkaline builder, and a chlorine provider, running the whirlpool pump for a predetermined time to circulate the water and cleaning composition thoroughly through the internal plumbing, and draining the whirlpool tub completely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventor: Robert Brust
  • Patent number: 7211194
    Abstract: A gravity pressure vessel (GPV) for processing a fluid stream containing organic materials provides several improvements to the art. In one embodiment, a GPV of the present invention sustains the heat energy requirements of a hydrolysis GPV by including therein, a first reaction chamber for conducting an exothermic reaction, and subsequently providing a second reaction chamber for hydrolysis of certain organic materials refractory to the exothermic reaction. Another embodiment provides for the perpetual cleaning of the heat transfer surfaces of the GPV. Still another embodiment provides for selective alteration of a hydrolysis reaction within a GPV independent of the flow of the fluid stream through the GPV.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Assignee: Eau-Viron, Inc.
    Inventor: James A. Titmas
  • Patent number: 7204258
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method, whereby a cleaning and disinfecting circuit is established for the vacuum channels of an upper sealing tool (1) and a lower sealing tool (2). In the present case, the vacuum pump (3) is switched off and the connecting line to the sealing station is sealed or disconnected from the flanges at the point (10). The vacuum channels of the upper sealing station (1) are connected to the vacuum channels of the lower sealing tool (2) by means of an adapter (13) in a fluid-tight manner. The fluid circuit is closed by a pump (14), a fluid container (15) and the associated pipes, which are connected to the flanges (11), (12). Said pump (14) pumps a cleaning and disinfecting fluid, in the present case active chlorine, into the vacuum channels of the upper sealing station (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Convenience Food Systems Wallau GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Herrmann Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7198052
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention, a method of cleaning a workpiece is disclosed. The method comprises providing a mobile flushing unit and servicing the workpiece as follows: a) connecting a flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to one end of the workpiece and connecting another flexible hose of the mobile flushing unit to a second end of the workpiece; b) flowing compressed air through each hose and the workpiece; c) pumping a cleaning fluid through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; d) ceasing cleaning fluid flow, followed by purging with air to remove the cleaning fluid from the workpiece; e) pumping water through each hose and the workpiece for a predetermined amount of time; f) ceasing water flow, following by another purge with air to remove the water from the workpiece; and g) disconnecting each hose from the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: John Watt
  • Patent number: 7195022
    Abstract: There are disclosed a production apparatus for producing a gallium nitride semiconductor film by HVPE process, a cleaning apparatus for cleaning exhaust gas coming from the above apparatus and an overall production plant for producing a gallium nitride semiconductor by HVPE process. Therein exhaust piping for exhaust gas in the production apparatus, introduction piping for the cleaning apparatus and exhaust gas piping which connects the production apparatus and the cleaning apparatus are each composed of an electroconductive corrosion-resistant material and are each electrically grounded, thereby surely preventing electrostatic charging due to friction between ammonium chloride powders in the exhaust gas and inside walls of exhaust gas piping, and markedly enhancing operational safety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignees: Japan Pionics Co., Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Otsuka, Naoki Muranaga, Kikurou Takemoto
  • Patent number: 7195678
    Abstract: A method of installing an inspection port on a pipe having asbestos insulation extending therearound in which the method has the steps of positioning the inspection port within a glove bag, affixing an opening of the glove bag onto a surface of the pipe, removing a section of asbestos insulation from the pipe, installing the inspection port onto the pipe within an area of the removed section, and removing the glove bag from the surface of the pipe. An air flow through the bag removes heat from the interior of the glove bag. The interior of the glove bag is maintained at a pressure below ambient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Inventor: Howard Wall
  • Patent number: 7189291
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for the removal of a number of molecular contaminants from surfaces within a device. A purge gas containing oxygen and/or water is introduced into the interior of the device, contacting at least a portion of the interior surfaces. A contaminated purge gas is produced by transferring a portion of the contamination from the interior surfaces into the purge gas. The contaminated purge gas is removed from the device and the process is continued until the contaminant concentration in the contaminated purge gas is below a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Entegris, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Spiegelman, Daniel Alvarez, Jr., Allan Tram, Russell Holmes
  • Patent number: 7189289
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning agent for heater tubes, which is capable of eliminating deposits such as soot particulates in tubes installed in industrial heaters that typically use oil, coal or gas. The cleaning agent of the present invention is prepared by formulating a chemical composition comprising ammonium nitrate into pellets. Also, the present invention discloses a method of cleaning heater tubes using the cleaning agent. When being utilized for cleaning the heater tubes, the cleaning agent can improve mechanical and chemical cleaning effects, thus shortening of working time and reducing a required amount of the chemical composition, as well as preventing rapid evaporation of the chemical composition, thus increasing cleaning effect. In addition, the cleaning agent can eliminate the cementing effect of sulfur oxides or vanadic oxides in the heater tubes and thus control stably emission of NOx, by selectively containing other additives including magnesium and urea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: SK Corporation
    Inventors: Jeon-Keun Oh, Wha-Sik Min, Sam-Ryong Park, Gi-Won Park
  • Patent number: 7183246
    Abstract: A composition and method for cleaning surfaces having deposits, such as drink water tanks, supply water wells, water filter systems, and distributor water lines. The composition contains in combination a cleaning solution and a disinfectant, such as hydrogen peroxide or peracidic acid. The cleaning solution can includes hydrochloric acid and/or phosphoric acid in combination with inhibitors, dyes and water. The composition is applied to deposits which have formed on these surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Floran Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Schulhoff, Christian Schaal
  • Patent number: RE40050
    Abstract: A composition for a cleaning-in-place system is described. The composition has a halogen dioxide and a optionally hydroxide and does not require the use of a detergent to display excellent cleaning and disinfecting properties on processing equipment such as the equipment found in breweries, dairy plants and carbonated beverage plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Francis Coughlin, David Christopher Cole, Charles Allen Crawford