Abstract: A pipe stand instrument heater system heats an instrument within an enclosure supported by a pipe stand. The heater system includes a housing mounted to the pipe stand and a heater unit in the housing. A bracket is provided for mounting the instrument to the housing. The heater unit can be powered by electric, steam or other fluids.

Abstract: A drain valve for a hot water heater includes a hollow tubular portion having a tapered first end with an externally threaded neck extending therefrom. The tubular portion includes a pair of diametrically opposed internally threaded ports each having a plug received therein. Either plug may be removed allowing a hot water recirculation line to be conveniently attached to the valve. The opposing end of the tubular portion includes a downwardly depending nozzle having a valve means therein operable with an externally mounted handle. The nozzle includes an externally threaded circumferential rim to which a drain conduit may be coupled for conveniently draining the water heater. Accordingly, the threaded neck may be coupled with a tap on a conventional hot water heater allowing a recirculation line to be conveniently added at a later date with minimal reconstruction of the existing piping.

Abstract: A system for direct electric heating of a subsea pipeline is disclosed in the form of a pipe-in-pipe flowline having an electrically conductive outer carrier pipe and an electrically conductive inner pipe or flowline arranged longitudinally, substantially concentrically within the outer pipe. An annulus is defined between the inner and outer pipes and a pipe insulating joint assembly structurally joins, but electrically insulates, the inner and outer pipes at a first end of the subsea pipeline. A power input provided on the surface facilities is electrically connected across the inner and outer pipes at the first end of the pipeline, and an electrical pathway completes the circuit by connecting the inner and outer pipes at the second end of the pipeline.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mass flow controller having an automatic pressure compensator in the form of a dome loaded pressure regulator, wherein the dome loaded pressure regulator is, in turn, controlled by a dome-loading gas line regulated by a pilot pressure regulator. The pilot pressure regulator and the mass flow controller are advantageously controlled by a single microprocessor, and may advantageously all be mounted to a single manifold block.

Abstract: A device and method for controlling small flows of gas, such as would be used by a satellite (or microsatellite) for orientation thrusters includes a photoetched silicon body etched to provide one or more particular flow paths, and optionally filters, where the flow path is defined by the silicon body and a sealing glass layer bonded thereto. Flow is controlled through the flow path(s) by heating the body to decrease the gas flow.

Abstract: A freezeless yard hydrant comprises a single length, electrically heated, hydrant apparatus that does not have an underground drain port. The operating mechanisms are located in the outlet head, above ground, to facilitate the assembly, operation and repair of the hydrant. A single length heater is provided to prevent the hydrant and the water supply connection from freezing under the coldest environmental conditions expected where this type of hydrant would be used. Heat conduction through the water directly from the heating element and the casing materials permits a single length hydrant and heater to be used. By using the electric heater to prevent the freezing, the water does not have to be drained out of the hydrant. The use of such a heater also makes the hydrant very simple to construct and operate. No cumbersome reservoirs or expulsion apparatus are needed to draw water out of the hydrant. This results in an efficient and relatively inexpensive mechanism.

Abstract: A fluid delivering system receives a fluid from a supplying device, transfers the fluid to an operational device and then dumps the used fluid into an extraction device. The fluid delivering system has a main pipeline system and at least a secondary pipeline system. Each pipeline system uses a first flow valve to control the back flow of fluid to a first flow controller, a second flow valve to protect a pressure gauge and a third flow valve to control the flow of fluid to a pressure controller. Through the relative positioning and the concerted actions of these three valves, any malfunctioning in the fluid delivering system can be detected quickly so that on-going processing operation can stop immediately to minimize product damages.

Abstract: A thernopneumatic valve comprises a fluid channel plate defining a fluid port. A diaphragm plate is attached to the fluid channel plate. The diaphragm plate includes a displaceable diaphragm to selectively obstruct the fluid port of the fluid channel plate. A thermal isolating heater is connected to the diaphragm plate. The thermal isolating heater includes a thermal isolating heater body with a heating surface, a perimeter wall defining an extended axial cavity to confine a thermopneumatic working fluid that is used to control the position of the displaceable diaphragm, and a diaphragm obstruction structure to limit the motion of the displaceable diaphragm into the extended axial cavity.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and methods for controlling gas pressure within a semiconductor process chamber. The apparatus comprises a throttle valve 32 positioned downstream of the process chamber outlet for controlling gas flow therethrough. The throttle valve includes a valve body 41 having a through-hole and a plug 44 movably disposed within the valve body for controlling gas flow through the through-hole. The throttle valve incorporates an abrasive element 86 disposed within the valve body in abrading contact with an exposed surface 89 of the plug. The abrasive element effectively removes gas deposited onto the exposed surface of the valve plug during operation of the throttle valve.

Abstract: A fluid flow control apparatus precisely controls a slight flow of fluid being mixed with a carrier gas. The apparatus includes a container for containing the fluid and a conduit for conducting the fluid, one portion of the conduit having a smaller diameter than the other, the smaller diameter portion of the conduit Including a needle valve for controlling the flow of the carrier gas into the conduit. A fluid transmission line connected at one end to the conduit and at the other end to the container conducts fluid from the container into the conduit to be mixed with the carrier gas before the mixture is introduced into a reacting chamber.

Abstract: A method of preheating fuel in a fuel injector with an internal heater energized to reduce emissions. The heater being a ceramic hollow cylinder disposed within a valve body just upstream of a valve seat where fuel is injected through an orifice into the engine. Conductors for energizing the heater extend into the valve body and are sealed against the escape of pressurized fuel. In one version, the conductors are extended through an O-ring to be sealed. In another version the conductors include pins extending through the valve body sidewall with glass seals fused to the valve body and the pins. The conductors may comprise flat foil strips clamped between the O-ring and an elastomeric washer. The conductors also may be molded into the magnetic coil bobbin and sealed where the conductors emerge into the fuel cavity.

Abstract: A selector valve assembly has reduced size, reduced cost, and increased repeatability with improved reliability and reduced maintenance expense due to use of a silicon micromachined valve body held in a releasable housing which in turn is mounted on a manifold plate to which are attached inlet and outlet fluid carrying tubing. The manifold plate includes two metal plates bonded together by an intervening polymer film and defining thread female connection inlets for tube fittings. The micromachined valve body is connected to a pilot valve assembly providing pneumatic operation of the micro-valves in the micromachined valve body. Also, a heater is mounted on the manifold plate to maintain temperature. The micromachined valve body is held on the manifold plate by a releasable spring-loaded assembly allowing quickly replacement of the micro-valve body in case of its failure.

Abstract: A fuel injector has an internal heater energized during cold starting to reduce emissions, the heater being a ceramic hollow cylinder disposed within a valve body just upstream of a valve seat where fuel is injected through an orifice into the engine. Conductors for energizing the heater extend into the valve body and are sealed against the escape of pressurized fuel. In one version, the conductors extend through an O-ring to be sealed. In another version the conductors include pins extending through the valve body sidewall with glass seals fused to the valve body and the pins. The conductors may comprise flat foil strips clamped between the O-ring and an elastomeric washer. The conductors also may be molded into the magnetic coil bobbin and sealed where the conductors emerge into the fuel cavity.

Abstract: A high-vacuum valve arranged to prevent conduction of heat from a valve element to a low-temperature part through a valve shaft. After the valve element has been moved to a position facing opposite to a valve seat by rectilinear motion of the valve shaft, the valve element is pressed against the valve seat to close the valve by pivotal motion of the valve shaft. A heater is provided in the valve shaft in close contact with it. Wiring is connected to the heater to supply it with electric power from outside the high-vacuum valve.

Abstract: A closed type water storage container with water level controller and air filtering device, wherein the closed type water container is linked to the water level controlling device by a connection tube and the connection tube is provided with filtering materials for filtering of the moving water at the water level controlling device, such that water and air within the storage container are filtered and clean.

Abstract: An ozone flow rate control device for controlling a flow rate of ozone gas supply, according to the present invention, comprises an inlet pipe to which the ozone gas is supplied, a bypass pipe and a sensor pipe branched from the inlet pipe, a control signal generator circuit for measuring a variation of temperature of the sensor pipe and generating a control signal corresponding to a flow rate of the ozone gas, an outlet pipe connected to the bypass pipe and the sensor pipe, a valve provided in the outlet pipe and having an opening controlled correspondingly to the control signal and heating means for heating the ozone gas supplied to the sensor pipe to a predetermined temperature.

Abstract: A device for heating a fluid controller comprises a pair of platelike side heaters pressed respectively against a pair of opposite side faces of a body of the fluid controller with an insulating layer provided between each heater and each side face, a pair of side holding members each having a recessed portion for fitting the side heater therein and fastened to each other with screws to hold the controller body therebetween from opposite sides of the body, and a cushion member interposed between each side heater and a bottom face of the recessed portion for pressing the side heater against the controller body side face.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting fluid conveying devices and for maintaining the temperature of material contained therein. The apparatus includes a cover that encloses a fluid conveying device and a drain channel that may be removable and is supportable upon a surface, fabricated support, or the cover itself. A rod may be adapted to releasably maintain the cover in place. Heating elements may be included within the drain channel or enclosure to maintain the temperature of the material and the fluid conveying devices surrounding the material above a predetermined setpoint. The drain channel may employ a suitable valve or valves to facilitate the removal of discharged material from the enclosure. Adjustable forms are included that support the drain channel and provide the perimeter for a concrete slab.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and kit for preventing freezing in pipes. In its most basic form, the apparatus of the present invention includes three lengths of uninsulated flexible ductwork, each having a pair of connectors attached to each end, and a T-shaped adapter having three openings which are dimensioned to mate with one connector of each length of ductwork. In operation, the first length of ductwork, below the "T", is fitted over the downspout of the system and comes to rest in the system piping pit, the second length of ductwork is attached to a central heating duct and the third length is attached to the water inflow. Thus, when the central heating system is in operation, air is forced down the second duct to the "T" where substantially half of the warm air is directed to the piping pit and the other half is directed along the length of the exposed piping.

Abstract: A bubbler container assembly particularly adapted for use in vapor generating systems comprising a main outer vessel, an inner bubbler vessel, a carrier gas inlet and a vapor outlet such that the inner bubbler vessel is contained within the main outer vessel and the bubbler container assembly is constructed so as to self-meter an incoming supply of vaporizable liquid during the introduction of a carrier gas and extraction of resulting vapor. Preferably, the system further provides for magnetic induced centering and positioning of the inner buoyant bubbler vessel, fluid temperature sensing and control, connection of a fluid makeup supply, carrier gas inlet supply, and vapor extraction outlet.

Abstract: A safety shutoff system for steam and combination steam and water cleaners for permitting safe shutoff at the hand held spray gun thereof. The system includes a fluid reservoir connected to a first valve by a first conduit having a first pump for pumping fluid from the reservoir towards the first valve. A by-pass conduit connects the first valve to the fluid reservoir. An outlet conduit is connected to the first valve. The first valve controls fluid flow between the first conduit and the outlet conduit. The first valve blocks fluid flow from the first conduit into the outlet conduit upon detection of a pressure in the outlet conduit greater than a predetermined pressure such that fluid flowing from the first conduit passes into the by-pass conduit. The outlet conduit has a spray gun with a shutoff valve and a fluid heater between the first valve and the shutoff valve.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining the temperature of material contained in fluid conveying devices. The apparatus may include an enclosure having an improved door, mounting bracket, locking mechanism, heating device and a secure structure for accessing the upper portion of the enclosure. An alignment guide and integral tabs are also disclosed which facilitate assembly of the enclosure.

Abstract: A freeze valve for a substantially single-phase fluid contains a pipe designed to receive fluid in a flow area, a cold source and a heat source. The cold source and the heat source are placed in thermal contact with the pipe. The pipe is positioned in relation to the cold source and the heat source in such a way so as to permit the freezing of fluid passing through the pipe, thereby closing the passage through the pipe, or the heating of the fluid, thereby opening the passage. The pipe contains, for example, a metallic material that is mechanically strong and capable of dissipating heat by the Joule effect.

Abstract: Apparatus for conducting fluid and preventing its icing have a fluid line structure and a tubular fluid line element located in that fluid line structure and having a cross-section sufficient for a desired throughput of fluid. A heater element is located inside the fluid line structure and is in heat-transfer relationship with an inside of the tubular fluid line element. Such heater element may be an electric heater element inside the fluid line structure encompassing the tubular fluid line element in heat-transfer relationship with an inside of that tubular fluid line element. A frangible or other fluid line nipple may be removably connected to the fluid line structure, and the tubular fluid line element may extend from that fluid line structure to that fluid line nipple. A heat transfer reduction may be provided between the electric heater element and the fluid line structure outside of the tubular fluid line element.

Abstract: A containment assembly for storing a liquid substance above a ground support surface has an inner tank for receiving and storing the liquid and an outer tank surrounding the inner tank and forming a first air space therebetween for trapping any of the liquid which might escape said inner tank. A support beneath the outer tank provides a second air space between the outer tank and the ground support surface, and a thermal insulating layer substantially envelopes the inner tank, outer tank and support from the ambient. A vapour exhaust vent is provided atop the inner tank, which may include a liquid scrubber for recovering liquids from discharging gases and returning the liquids to the inner tank or elsewhere. Piping is provided for liquid communication between the inner tank and external liquid sources for filling and emptying the inner tank.

Abstract: A device for achieving vacuum conditions more quickly in a semiconductor processing system having a vacuum pump, a gate valve and a chamber includes a rigid body containing heating elements that contact the surface of the gate valve. The device may include a U-shaped retainer clip for holding the device to the gate valve. A method for heating a gate valve to drive off contaminants involves heating the lower portion of the gate valve to drive contaminants towards the vacuum pump.

Abstract: Water release valve for a compressed air system. It has a service connection for attachment to a low point of the compressed air system. The valve has a body which has an internal space, part of which is a cylindrical bore. It also has a pilot connection for attachment of a pilot pressure obtained from the compressed air system, and the valve has an exhaust port for releasing air and water from the system. It has one or more pistons placed in the cylindrical bore. At least one of the pistons has a position determined by the pilot pressure. The piston closest to the service end may be placed in two different positions. In one of the positions, it closes the flowpath from the service connection to the exhaust. In the second position, it opens the flowpath.

Abstract: An automatic flushing system for municipal water systems. The system comprises flush piping connected to a municipal water system line, the flush piping having a solenoid valve mounted therein to permit periodic discharge of water from the municipal water system line. A programmable timer is provided to open and close the solenoid valve at predetermined times and for predetermined intervals. The system may be powered from a remote power source, or may be provided with a storage battery whose charge is maintained by a electricity generating solar panel.

Abstract: A fuel injector includes a magnetic coil whose power dissipation is utilized to pre-heat fuel flowing through the fuel injector. The magnetic coil is arranged so that a thermal coupling between the magnetic coil and the fuel flowing through a heat exchanger segment is acquired. In addition, a Peltier element (which functions as a heat pump) can be arranged between the magnetic coil and the heat exchanger segment. Furthermore, the fuel can also be heated using a heating coil.

Abstract: Pneumatically operated throttle valve which provides both positive shutoff and precise flow control. The valve has a seat surrounding an orifice and a poppet movable between open and closed positions relative to the seat for controlling communication though the orifice. The poppet is urged toward one of the two positions by a spring, and the force for moving the poppet toward the other position is provided by a frictionless bellows. The poppet is provided with a needle valve for precise control of flow through the orifice, and internal heaters are provided for heating the poppet and the seat directly to prevent condensation from forming on them. The bellows in combination with a low friction bearing effectively eliminates stiction and permits precise control of the valve over its entire operating range. In one disclosed embodiment, the bellows serves as the spring which urges the poppet toward one of the two positions as well as an actuator which moves it toward the other position.

Abstract: A heated instrument regulator tip is shown for use in retrieving samples from the interior of a natural gas or similar pipeline. A well is disposed within the tip and adapted to receive an electrical heater. The heater supplements thermal fins on the tip to transfer thermal energy to the gas sample inside the tip. The thermal energy counteracts the Joule-Thompson cooling of the gas due to the rapid pressure drop, thus preventing freeze up or condensation within the regulator tip.

Abstract: A water heater tank is designed to be installed within a wall to provide substantially instantaneous and continuous hot water when the faucet is activated. The tank maintains water at a hot temperature to be mixed, if necessary, with standing water from the main hot water line. The tank includes a narrow channel through which the water traverses as it proceeds through the tank. A controller calculates the appropriate mixing ratio of the water sources depending on the desired water temperature.

Abstract: Water release valve for a compressed air system. It has a service connection for attachment to a low point of the compressed air system. The valve has a body which has an internal space, part of which is a cylindrical bore. It also has a pilot connection for attachment of a pilot pressure obtained from the compressed air system, and the valve has an exhaust port for releasing air and water from the system. It has one or more pistons placed in the cylindrical bore. At least one of the pistons has a position determined by the pilot pressure. The piston closest to the service end may be placed in two different positions. In one of the positions, it closes the flowpath from the service connection to the exhaust. In the second position, it opens the flowpath.

Abstract: A valve structure for use in a vaporizer is provided including: a valve seat 16 confronting a vaporization area Y in which a liquid feedstock 106 is to be vaporized and having a liquid feedstock feeding port 15a for introducing the liquid feedstock 106 into the vaporization area Y, and a valve body 1 movable so as to abut against and depart from the valve seat 16 for opening/closing a flow channel extending from the liquid feedstock feeding port 15a to the vaporization area Y, the valve body 1 being capable of controlling the degree of opening of the flow channel thus opened thereby controlling the flow rate of the liquid feedstock 106 flowing through the flow channel into the vaporization area Y.

Abstract: A heater includes an aluminum die cast body defining an enclosure and an adaptor block. A heating element within the enclosure activates, under control of an associated heat sensing device, a heating element within the enclosure to transfer heat energy into the adaptor block. The adaptor block, including features specific to a given mechanical device, e.g., pneumatic valve or pump, transfers the heat energy into the mechanical device to avoid a frozen condition resulting from, for example, sudden expansion of air when passing through the device.

Abstract: An apparatus for collecting, storing, and transferring waste cooking oil from commercial fryers. The present device includes a holding tank having a sloped bottom wall, an input conduit for connection to a supply of waste grease or oil, and an output conduit for transferring the oil to a disposal facility. The holding tank includes a pump having an internal grinder for pulverizing solids such as chicken parts or french fries, and the pump is operated by a drive motor having limiting timer which prevents the motor and/or pump from being destroyed if inadvertently left on. A system of float switches mounted within the holding tank monitor the level of waste oil in the chamber, and trigger an internal heating element which prevents the oil form solidifying. The float switches also activate external warning lights which alert the operator when the tank is ar or near capacity, and also interrupt the pump operation to prevent overfill.

Abstract: A compressed natural gas charging system includes a gas charging passageway whose one end is capable of being connected to a compressed natural gas supply device capable of supplying a compressed natural gas and whose other end opens into a gas vessel, and a one-way valve incorporated in the gas charging passageway to permit the compressed natural gas to flow from the one end of the gas charging passage through the one-way valve toward the other end. In the compressed natural gas charging system, a constriction is provided in the gas charging passageway downstream of the one-way valve and has a constriction degree larger than that of the one-way valve. Thus, it is possible to prevent an excessive temperature drop due to the adiabatic expansion of the compressed natural gas from occurring across the one-way valve and to rapidly charge the compressed natural gas, and it is unnecessary to use an expensive material for a part of or constituting the one-way valve.

Abstract: An apparatus for supplying fluid comprising a fluid source, valve, inside tube and outside tube. The outside tube is in open communication with the fluid source and the valve. The inside tube is located within the outside tube. The inside tube is in open communication with the fluid source on one end and is spaced apart from the valve on the opposite end so that warm lower density fluid from the fluid source flows up through the inside tube displacing cool higher density fluid near the valve. The cool higher density displaced fluid is forced by gravity back to the fluid source in a fluid return path located between the inside tube and the outside tube. When the valve is in the closed position for an extended period of time, the apparatus maintains a continuous fluid flow from the fluid source through the inside tube to a location near the valve. When the valve is opened warm fluid flows immediately through the valve saving both time and fluid.

Abstract: A self propelled, walk-behind or surrey drawn striping machine includes a single fluid tank for confining and, delivering under a pressure, fluid drive, heated thermoplastic, paint and the new, environmentally preferred, thin line thermoplastic. The machine is propelled by hydraulic wheel motors. A primary material tank comprises a pressurized interior vessel that is substantially surrounded by a heating fluid circulation jacket. A third wall around the fluid circulation jacket provides a heat riser insulating space. Combustion products from a burner head below the circulation jacket rise through the insulating space. A coaxial flow channel around the conduits that deliver the striping material to a spray head carries heat transfer medium such as hot oil drawn from the heating fluid circulation jacket.

Abstract: A manifold which mounts a transmitter to a pipeline comprises a body of rectangular-like shape. The body has a first surface and a second surface at right angles to the first surface. The second surface of the body includes a first and second input port, and the first surface of the body includes corresponding first and second output ports. The body also includes a first and second channel internal to the body such that fluid is conducted between the first input port and the first output port, and fluid is conducted between the second input port and the second output port. The body further includes an internal crossover channel between the first channel and the second channel. A third channel is provided internal to the body for permitting steam to flow therein, thereby providing heat to the manifold. A first and second valve is included for controlling the conducting of fluid in the first channel and the second channel, respectively.

Abstract: A friction-free gate valve for regulating gas flow in semiconductor manufacturing comprises a gate which, prior to being lifted up for the valve-opening position, is horizontally flitted away from the passage wall surface against which it was pressed against for valve closure, lest undesirable frittered particles should occur from rubbing the gate against the passage wall surface. The gate is axially coupled to and made integral with a vertically and horizontally movably disposed valve stem. The valve stem is also operatively coupled to a cam mechanism which is actuated by a reciprocating piston rod which, in an earlier part of its stroke, drives vertically the valve stem through the cam mechanism, moving the gate to a lower position where the gate blocks the passage. While the piston rod further moves to cover the remaining part of stroke, additional pressure exerted on the cam mechanism causes the valve stem to tilt, thereby pressing the gate into tight contact with the opposed wall surface of the passage.

Abstract: A freeze protection system for a car wash facility having a plurality of bays and having exposed water lines located in an area that is subjected to freezing temperatures. By using a temperature probe connected via a digital temperature meter to a microprocessor, the system will only operate when the temperature is lower than a pre-set value and will shut off when the temperature is higher than a pre-set value. When activated, a predetermined charge of antifreeze mist will purge the piping in each bay, leaving only a small residual of antifreeze. When a bay is used, the system is reactivated, purging only the bay that has been used. The system is easily adaptable to any number of bays or areas of piping that must be protected.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining the temperature of material contained in fluid conveying devices. The apparatus may include a cover that encloses a fluid conveying device and a drain channel that is supported upon a surface, such as a concrete slab. Heating elements may be included within the drain channel or enclosure to maintain the temperature of the material and the fluid conveying devices surrounding the material above a predetermined setpoint. The drain channel may employ a suitable valve or valves to facilitate the removal of discharged material from the enclosure in applications where the fluid conveying device discharges material to the atmosphere. Adjustable forms are included that support the drain channel and provide the perimeter for a concrete slab.

Abstract: An apparatus for maintaining the temperature of material conveyed through fluid conveying devices. The apparatus may include an enclosure supported upon a chase or chases, which may extend from the enclosure downwardly to the frost line. Heating elements may be included within the chase(s) or enclosure to maintain the temperature of the material and the fluid conveying devices surrounding the material above a predetermined setpoint all the way to the frost line. The enclosure may employ a suitable valve to facilitate the removal of discharged material from the enclosure in applications where the fluid conveying device discharges material to the atmosphere.

Abstract: A variable restrictor. The variable restrictor is comprised of a housing having a high pressure inlet. The housing also has a channel connected to the high pressure inlet. The housing also has a low pressure outlet connected to the channel with the channel disposed between the high pressure inlet and the low pressure outlet. The variable restrictor is also comprised of a mechanism for reducing supercritical fluid at a pressure between 100-12,000 psi from the high pressure inlet to a pressure between 0-800 psi from the low pressure outlet. The reducing mechanism is disposed in the housing and is in contact with the low pressure outlet. Additionally, the variable restrictor is comprised of a pressure transducer disposed in the housing and in contact with the channel to sense the pressure in the channel. A method for restricting fluid comprising the steps of introducing high pressure fluid at a pressure between 100-12,000 psi into a high pressure port of a housing.

Abstract: A storage fluid heater for heating a fluid, employs a heat storage unit, a heating element thermally coupled to the heat storage unit, and a heat recovery tube thermally coupled to the heat storage unit. The recovery tube is made from a material having a coefficient of thermal expansion so that as the average temperature of the heat storage unit near the heat recovery tube increases, the surface area of gaps between the heat recovery tube and the storage unit increases, causing the contact resistance between the heat storage unit and the heat recovery tube to increase. The temperature of the fluid flowing within the heat recovery tube is thereby limited to a predetermined maximum. A structure that relieves excess pressure when the flow of fluid through the tube is stopped has an expansion tank connected to the fluid inlet of the tube.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for heating and stirring a charge of a heat-exchange fluid under pressure for the curing of tires in which both a turbine and an electric motor for driving the turbine are enclosed within a fluid-tight enclosure and in which the turbine and the rotor and stator of the electric motor are entirely immersed within the heat-exchange fluid.

Abstract: Valve device for priming a pump includes a body having a first conduit connected to a pump for sucking water from a tank, a second conduit for connecting the body to a heater provided with a calibrated delivery valve for delivering superheated water, and a third conduit for discharging air during the priming of said pump, a valve for a free passage of water from the body to the heater and for the flow back of the water into the body only when the pressure inside the heater has reached a selected value near, but lower than, the pressure setting of the calibrated delivery valve.

Abstract: A butterfly valve for controlling the flow of high temperature fluids includes a valve body defining a flow path and having opposed portals. Cover plates are mounted over each of the portals and have a conical shaped wall extending inward to a bearing support member. A flow modulator is disposed between the cover plates and is mounted to the bearing support members by ceramic bearings. The modulator has a plate disposed in said flow path which is bounded by a leading edge, a trailing edge, and two disk flanges. Each of the disk flanges has a labyrinth seal in sealing engagement with an inner wall of said valve body. Nozzles are mounted to said cover plate to deliver cooling air flow to the bearings. A constant cooling flow rate is maintained by appropriately sized circumferential chambers adjacent each of the labyrinth seals.

Abstract: An improved vacuum exhaust valve is disclosed for vacuum-operated exhaust lines of chemical vapor deposition equipment, which includes a sheathed heater made of hollow metal tube spirally formed into a coil and heating wire inserted into the spiral tube, the sheathed heater being mounted to sealingly shroud a reciprocally disposed valve disk. The sheathed heater is provided inside a bellows that is mounted to shield the core valve portion against the flow of chemical vapor flowing through the valve disk. Also, the sheathed heater is vertically expandably disposed for synchronization with the vertical movement of the valve disk as the latter is driven by an actuator to move into abutting contact or away from a valve seat between an inlet port and outlet port. In addition, a thermocouple is mounted inside the sheathed heater for measuring the temperature of the latter and operatively connected to a temperature control device for controlling the sheathed heater.