Rotary Chamber Patents (Class 202/100)
  • Patent number: 12110461
    Abstract: A solid and liquid waste gasifier has a reactor that includes a fixed chamber and an alumina (aluminium oxide) refractory coating, provided with an automatic energy cell feeder and having, inside the fixed chamber, a rotary steel tube which is coupled to one of the ends of the fixed chamber, said rotary tube having a surface containing holes, a screw on its inside surface and a second screw on its outside surface, which rotates juxtaposed to the inside tubular body wall, ensuring the ashes are moved to be released in an automatic device, said gasifier being provided with sensors, the data from which is sent to a programmable logic controller for activation of the mechanical elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Assignee: BUMERANGUE COMERCIO E SERVICOS DE TECNOLOGIAS AMBIENTAIS LTDA
    Inventor: Arildo Falcade, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9359556
    Abstract: A biomass torrefaction system is provided which enables a continuous torrefaction process that involves the introduction of biomass particles into a rotating reactor drum having a low oxygen environment. The particles are conveyed through the drum by a heated gas stream and simultaneously torrefied thereby. Gas exiting the drum is recirculated back to a heat source for reheating the gas prior to reentering the drum. A method of biomass torrefaction is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2016
    Assignee: Teal Sales Incorporated
    Inventors: William B. Teal, Richard J. Gobel, Andrew Johnson
  • Patent number: 9272263
    Abstract: A device for roasting spent activated carbon, waste sludges, or other organic wastes, includes a downdraft bed furnace, a first adsorber fluidly coupled to the furnace including a closed tank of adsorber process solution, a venturi scrubber and a cyclone separator coupled to the tank such that gases are sucked through the venturi and the cyclone separator, liquid effluents from the scrubber and separator falling by gravity into the tank, a second adsorber fluidly coupled to the first adsorber including a closed tank of adsorber liquid, a venturi scrubber and a cyclone separator coupled to the tank such that gases are sucked through the venturi and the cyclone separator, liquid effluents from the scrubber and separator falling by gravity into the tank, the second adsorber configured to remove impurities not removed in the first adsorber; and an exhaust blower fluidly coupled to the second adsorber unit and configured to pull air into the furnace and through the first and second adsorbers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Kappes, Cassiday & Associates
    Inventor: Daniel W. Kappes
  • Patent number: 9005403
    Abstract: A rotary evaporator comprising a motor, a rotary joint movably inserted to a motor rotor of the motor by a sleeve in an axial direction, a collection flask attached to the rotary joint at one end of the joint, with a condenser attached to the other end of the joint. The condenser is adapted to receive a cooling coil from an immersion cooler. The cooling coil is attached to the base unit of the immersion cooler via an insulated hose. The rotary evaporator is adapted to provide various ways to remove heat from the flask in the water bath, whether by mechanically lowering the water bath, dropping fluid from the bath into an underlying reservoir, or raising and lowering the rotary evaporator out of the bath. Where the rotary evaporator is raised and lowered, the immersion cooler can remain in place if the hose connecting the base unit to the cooling coil is sufficiently long, or the condenser includes a flexible portion that accommodates the upward and downward movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Ecodyst, Inc.
    Inventor: George M. Adjabeng
  • Patent number: 8999017
    Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for achieving fast pyrolysis of wood and other carbonaceous solids in rotary reactors. Novel heating, feeding and condensing methods result in high oil yields near those currently achieved with more complicated fast pyrolysis systems. High intensity burners are arranged and controlled to produce high heating rates and uniform temperature of the rotating cylindrical walls of the reactors. The feeding system delays the onset of pyrolysis until the solids fall onto the heated kiln walls. The pyrolysis gases and vapors are rapidly withdrawn and quenched with recycled liquids. The first condenser incorporates a clean out nozzle. Char products are readily separated and discharged into a heat exchanger where heat is recovered and used together with heat from reactor flue gas to dry the solids prior to being fed to the reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Coates Engineering, LLC
    Inventors: Ralph L. Coates, Benjamin R. Coates, Joshua L. Coates
  • Patent number: 8956506
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rotary evaporator comprising a rotary drive having a hub and a clamping insert with a sleeve-like basic shape, in particular a clamping sleeve, for the clamping of a steam leadthrough formed as a hollow glass shaft in the hub of the rotary drive, wherein the clamping insert has a longitudinal axis and a first and a second axial end, wherein the clamping insert has two clamping sections which are arranged spaced apart from one another in the longitudinal direction and which each have an outer cross-section tapering toward the first end and of which the clamping arrangement arranged closer to the second end has a larger maximum outer cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Hans Heidolph GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Joachim Carl
  • Publication number: 20150021159
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for pyrolysis of organic material biomass, including: i) a first, horizontal auger tube having inlet for a heat carrier and a second inlet for biomass; and a first outlet for pyrolysis gas and a second outlet for the heat carrier and transformed biomass; ii) a second, inclined auger tube having an inlet at or below the second outlet of the first auger tube, for receiving the heat carrier and transformed biomass from the second outlet of the first auger tube and an outlet at a level above the inlet thereof, the outlet communicating with the first inlet of the first auger tube to deliver heat carrier thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Applicant: ABRI-Tech Inc.
    Inventors: Peter Fransham, Cory Leggett, Henry Leggett
  • Publication number: 20140202844
    Abstract: Apparatus for pyrolysing or gasifying the organic content of material, including organically coated waste, biomass, industrial waste, municipal solid waste and sludge, having organic content; the apparatus comprising: an oven having a rotatable portion comprising a treatment chamber adapted to receive material for treatment; a plurality of gas inlets in at least one wall (5) of the treatment chamber through which hot gases are introduced to the treatment chamber to heat the material therein so as to cause the organic components thereof to pyrolyse or gasify; and a plurality of pockets (8) having open faces turned inwardly towards the inside of the treatment chamber on at least one wall of the rotatable portion such that, in use, material being pyrolysed or gasified can be received from the treatment chamber into the plurality of pockets (8) via said open faces, and be substantially retained therein through an initial rotation of the oven of less than 90 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: CHINOOK END-STAGE RECYCLING LIMITED
    Inventors: Rifat Al Chalabi, Ophneil Henry Perry, John Turner
  • Publication number: 20140166465
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system for conversion of organic matter into a torrefied product, wherein the system comprises a direct fired rotary kiln.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Applicant: TORREFUELS INCORPORATED
    Inventor: Anjali Varma
  • Patent number: 8728282
    Abstract: This invention is about an industrial continuous cracking device of plastics. The technical program of this invention is as following: it includes the outer cylinder and the internal cylinder, and the two sides of the internal cylinder are connected with the outer cylinder; at least one of the outer cylinder and the internal cylinder is set with heating mechanism, and the helical ribbon is fixed in the inside of the outer cylinder wall; the transport mechanism is fixed in the internal cylinder, with its direction contrary to the outer cylinder's the feeding direction. The structures of this invention are simple, and it can reduce the possessive space. Furthermore, when cycling in the cylinder, the solid heat carrier has no heat energy loss, and that can substantially reduce the operation cost of the equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Bin Niu
  • Publication number: 20140061019
    Abstract: A machine is described that reduces landfill and compost waste streams by processing the waste at the site of generation. The process used, rotary desiccation, is fast, energy efficient, generates no greenhouse gasses and the end product is both sterile and suitable for immediate use as a pellet fuel or other biomass uses. The machine integrates a number of sub-components (grinder, de-waterer, desiccation drum, separation devices) in new and non-obvious ways that automatically process and sort organic wastes and contaminants with no intervention from operators and very little maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: John J. Hagerty, JR., Debra E. Duffaut
  • Publication number: 20130341175
    Abstract: A improved solar biochar reactor, system including the reactor, and methods of forming and using the reactors and systems are disclosed. The methods and system as described herein provide sufficient solar energy to a biochar reactor to convert animal waste or other biomass to biochar in a relatively cost-effective manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Applicant: The Regents of the University of Colorado, a body corporate
    Inventors: Karl G. Linden, Alan W. Weimer, R. Scott Summers, Allan Lewandowski
  • Patent number: 8545679
    Abstract: A system for recovering hydrocarbons from tar sands includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move tar sands through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150 F.°, and mechanically move the tar sands along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge stripped sands from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Efficien Technology, LLC
    Inventors: Phillip L. Cauley, Tracy L. Edwards
  • Publication number: 20130228444
    Abstract: A biomass torrefaction system is provided which enables a continuous torrefaction process that involves the introduction of biomass particles into a rotating reactor drum having a low oxygen environment. The particles are conveyed through the drum by a heated gas stream and simultaneously torrefied thereby. Gas exiting the drum is recirculated back to a heat source for reheating the gas prior to reentering the drum. A method of biomass torrefaction is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Teal Sales Incorporated
    Inventors: William B. Teal, Richard J. Gobel, Andrew Johnson
  • Patent number: 8382957
    Abstract: A method of recovering an organic decomposition product from an organic source may include: a) causing an inert gas to flow through the reduction zone from a reduction inlet to a reduction outlet in such a way that pressure in the reduction zone is maintained above ambient pressure of a local environment for the material recovery system and b) applying electromagnetic wave energy to the organic source in the reduction zone via a bifurcated waveguide assembly in the substantial absence of oxygen to produce at least one gaseous organic decomposition product in the reduction zone that is exhausted from the reduction zone along with the inert gas through the reduction outlet. A material recovery system may include a housing with an inert gas inlet, a reduction zone, and a reduction outlet, an inert gas supply, an electromagnetic wave generator, a bifurcated waveguide assembly, and a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Micro Recovery Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: John Otis Farneman, Keith Leroy Welch
  • Patent number: 8378161
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for the continuous microwave depolymerization of high molecular weight organic feedstock material, such as waste plastics and includes intermittent or continuous feeding of the processing material on the surface or into the bulk of the sensitized hot bed located under microwave irradiation. As a result of the interaction of electromagnetic field with processed materials, sensitizer is heated by microwave energy and feedstock material undergoes the depolymerization reactions. The reaction zone can be localized on the surface of the hot bed or distributed in the bulk of the reaction mass depending on the agitation conditions of the reaction mass, such as stirring, or other agitation means, for example by re-circulated gas. Products of the reactions are vaporized and transported to the collection system, which may include a combination of a scrubber, a condenser and a settler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Climax Global Energy, Inc.
    Inventors: John Hemmings, Thomas Pinto, Viktor Sharivker
  • Publication number: 20120261246
    Abstract: The invention provides for torrefaction apparatus which includes a drum (14) having a biomass inlet (18) and a torrefied material outlet (20), furnace means (16) external of the drum (14) for heating the drum (14) so that torrefaction temperature is achieved in the drum, and a gas inlet conduit (42) leading to the drum (14) from a source of inert gas, thereby to create an torrefaction atmosphere in the drum (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventor: Gershon Ben-Tovim
  • Patent number: 8246788
    Abstract: A biomass torrefaction system is provided which enables a continuous torrefaction process that involves the introduction of biomass particles into a rotating reactor drum having a low oxygen environment. The particles are conveyed through the drum by a heated gas stream and simultaneously torrefied thereby. Gas exiting the drum is recirculated back to a heat source for reheating the gas prior to reentering the drum. A method of biomass torrefaction is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Teal Sales Incorporated
    Inventors: William B. Teal, Richard J. Gobel, Andrew Johnson
  • Patent number: 8198493
    Abstract: Improved, fuel-efficient systems are provided for the processing of biomass, such as wood or crop residues, food waste or animal waste in order to selectively obtain thermally processed final products, such as a combination of torrefied and carbonized final products. The processes involve thermally drying incoming biomass using a dryer employing the hot gas output of a fuel-operated burner. Next, the dried product is torrefied in an indirect torrefaction reactor so as to evolve light volatile organic compounds which are used as a gaseous fuel source for the burner. Some or all of the torrefied product can be recovered, or some or all of the torrefied product is then directed to a separate carbonization reactor coupled with a reactor burner. Carbonization serves to remove most of the remaining VOCs which are used as a gaseous fuel input to the dryer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Earth Care Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew D. Livingston, Bijoy J. Thomas
  • Patent number: 8168043
    Abstract: A retort apparatus includes a primary rotating pipe within a second rotating pipe within a fixed pipe (27). The interior area of the primary rotating pipe is bounded by a heated pipe. A first annulus is formed between the primary and second rotating pipes. A second annulus is formed between the second rotating pipe and the heated pipe. A third annulus is formed between the primary rotating pipe and the fixed pipe. A heater is positioned within the interior area of said primary rotating pipe. In one embodiment, an inlet gate is provided for introducing a liquid and solid mixture into the first annulus proximate the second end thereof. A first conveyor is provided to move the mixture toward the hot end of the primary rotating pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Eau-Viron Incorporated
    Inventor: James Titmas
  • Publication number: 20120055775
    Abstract: A pyrolytic conversion assembly for processing biomass including: a rotary kiln including a tube for heating the biomass at pressure having a sealable inlet at a first, higher end for ingress of the biomass, and a sealable outlet at a lower end for egress of charcoal formed from the biomass; and heating elements disposed around the kiln to provide a localised source of heating at a predetermined distance from the sealable inlet for reflux condensation of gas from the biomass.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: Chaotech Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Laurence Rex Manderson, Daniel Charles Manderson
  • Publication number: 20120006669
    Abstract: A pyrolytic reactor, comprising an inner drum having a circumferential wall formed with a plurality of apertures, an outer drum surrounding the inner drum and defining a clearance therebetween, a feeding device for feeding a plurality of feedstock pieces to the interior of the inner drum, an inlet port through which heat carrier gases flow and are directed to said clearance, for introduction of the heat carrier gases via said plurality of apertures to the inner drum interior and causing pyrolysis of the fed feedstock pieces, a conveyor for transporting a plurality of solid residue pieces produced from a pyrolytic process, and an outlet port through which product vapors and gases, heat depleted heat carrier gases, and the plurality of solid residue pieces are discharged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Applicant: T.D.E. RECOVERY TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventors: Alexander P. Bronshtein, Menachem L. Skop, Moshe Weiss, David Shalom Jakobowitch
  • Publication number: 20110278150
    Abstract: A system and method for the continuous production of carbonaceous pyrolysis by-products are provided which include one or more pyrolysis reaction chambers adapted to receive a wide variety of feedstock materials, including biomass feedstock. System operating parameters including feedstock input rate, atmosphere composition and flow rate, temperature, reaction mixture stirring and agitation rate are selectively independently controllable to produce an end by-product having desired properties for specific applications, and gaseous reaction by-products may be recycled as a fuel for the pyrolysis reaction, thereby enhancing overall system operating efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: ECI RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT COMPANY
    Inventors: Daniel W. Mulqueen, James L. Fournier, Thomas B. Reed
  • Publication number: 20110240456
    Abstract: Provided is a pyrolytic energy recovery system for pyrolyzing wastes to obtain oil, the system including: a recovery furnace; a heat plate for dividing an inner space of the recovery furnace; a heating chamber disposed under the heat plate; a pyrolysis chamber disposed over the heat plate; a heating pipe line installed inside the front and rear surfaces of the recovery furnace; a rotary means constituted by a plurality of rotaries installed in the pyrolysis chamber to evenly distribute recyclable materials introduced through the recyclable material inlet port; a residual discharge means having primary residual conveyance screws longitudinally installed along the valley of the heat plate, a residual hopper installed at a separate space in the heating chamber such that the residual conveyed to a center part of the heat plate through the primary conveyance screws is lowered to be gathered, and a secondary residual conveyance screw installed from the residual hopper to the exterior of the recovery furnace and dis
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: October 6, 2011
    Inventor: Young Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7942943
    Abstract: A down-draft fixed bed gasifier is disclosed that produced clean producer or synthesis gas. The gasifier can be installed at a stationary location or can be scaled down to enable placing the gasifier on a trailer that can be moved to the site of biomass generation. The gasifier is vertically oriented and generally cylindrical, and the design allows for a continual input of feedstock into the gasifier with less clogging and without lowering the gas pressure inside the gasifier. The design incorporates an internal catalyst to clean tars from the produced gas, and uses heat from the combustion chamber of the gasifier to heat the catalyst. The flow of air may be either positive flow or negative flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Board of Supervisors of Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
    Inventor: Chandra S. Theegala
  • Patent number: 7895769
    Abstract: Raw meal sludge is dried in a vapor flow dryer by circulating exhaust vapor through a steam circuit which, prior to introduction thereof into the lower part of the dryer, is heated by indirect heat transmission from gaseous flows from a pre-heating system from a gas cyclone of a clinker production line. A partial vapor flow corresponding to water evaporated during raw meal sludge drying is removed from the steam circuit and extracted in the form of a condensate after increasing the vapor temperature by a vapor compressor and the passage of vapor arranged in the dryer over a heating surface of a vapor condenser. The sludge is sprayed into the lower part of the dryer where water is evaporated by the heat of the circulating exhaust vapor and heat from the condenser heating surface. Dried raw meal is separated from the exhaust vapor in a cyclone separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: KHD Humboldt Wedag GmbH
    Inventors: Matthias Jochem, Klaus Kühne
  • Publication number: 20100294700
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for achieving improved throughput capacity of indirectly heated rotary kilns used to produce pyrolysis products such as shale oils or coal oils that are susceptible to decomposition by high kiln wall temperatures is disclosed. High throughput is achieved by firing the kiln such that optimum wall temperatures are maintained beginning at the point where the materials enter the heating section of the kiln and extending to the point where the materials leave the heated section. Multiple high velocity burners are arranged such that combustion products directly impact on the area of the kiln wall covered internally by the solid material being heated. Firing rates for the burners are controlled to maintain optimum wall temperatures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventors: Ralph L. Coates, L. Douglas Smoot, Kent E. Hatfield
  • Publication number: 20100247730
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of the production of smoke for agro-food usage and has for its object a process characterized in that it includes essentially the steps consisting in introducing organic material to be pyrolyzed into a reactor including essentially a substantially hermetically sealed heatable chamber containing at least one rotatable endless screw heated by the Joule effect receiving the material, heating the organic material to a temperature included between 200° C. and 800° C., preferably between 300° C. and 400° C., so as to cause the pyrolysis during its movement, under the influence of the rotation of the at least one screw and to extract the consumed material and the smoke products from the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: NACTIS
    Inventors: Pierre HOLZSCHUH, Georg Buch, Jean-Jacques Weiland
  • Publication number: 20100147671
    Abstract: A system for recovering hydrocarbons from tar sands includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move tar sands through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150 F°, and mechanically move the tar sands along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge stripped sands from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Phillip L. Cauley, Tracy L. Edwards
  • Publication number: 20100133085
    Abstract: There is described a system and method for recycling carbon-containing material, in particular tyres and plastics materials. The system includes a heating arrangement for anaerobically heating carbon containing material to produce carbon-containing gases. A condensing arrangement is also used to condense a proportion of the carbon-containing gases to provide condensed gases and non-condensed gases. In addition, a recirculating arrangement is provided for recirculating the non-condensed gases into the heating arrangement. Further systems and methods for pre- and post-processing of the carbon-containing material are also disclosed and products of the systems and methods are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Inventors: Richard Hutchins, Michael Walker, Paul Archer
  • Publication number: 20100024696
    Abstract: A system for recycling solid waste into energy includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move waste materials through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150 F.°, and mechanically move the waste particles and the residual solids along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge carbon black from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventors: Phillip L. Cauley, Tracy L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 7648615
    Abstract: In the operation of smoking/burning type volume reduction treatment apparatus (1), referring to view (A), charcoal carbonized layer (T2) is spread over powdery ceramic layer (T1) in the state of having negative ion air fed through air supply inlet (H). Further, sawdust layer (T3) is spread thereover, and thereafter treatment subject layer (V) is piled thereon. In a temporary burning region of the carbonized layer (T2), the powdery ceramic layer (T1) exerts not only heat storing action but also heat radiation action. Referring to view (B), the interior of the sawdust layer (T3) is altered into temporary carbonized layer (T3 1) and temporary dried layer (T3 2). As the temporary burning region slowly moves upward, an under side of the treatment subject layer (V) is altered into dried layer (V1) and further, carbonized layer (V2) shown in view (C) is formed. Thereafter, this carbonized layer (V2) catches fire, so that burning region (V3) is formed in layered form in the treatment subject layer (V).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Inventor: Kuniomi Araki
  • Patent number: 7641770
    Abstract: A system for recovering hydrocarbons from tar sands includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move tar sands through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150° F., and mechanically move the tar sands along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge stripped sands from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Natural Resource Recovery, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip L. Cauley, Tracy L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 7625532
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ablative thermolysis reactor (12) comprising a reaction vessel (20), and inlet (14) into the reaction vessel (20) for receiving feedstock, and an outlet from the reaction vessel (20) for discharging thermolysis product. Within the reaction vessel (20), is provided an ablative surface (20a) defining the periphery of a cylinder, and heating means (22) are arranged to heat the ablative surface (20a) to an elevated temperature. In addition at least one rotatable surface (28) having an axis of rotation coincident with the longitudinal axis of said cylinder. The rotatable surface (28) is provided relative to the ablative surface (20a) such that feedstock is pressed between a part of the rotatable surface (28) and said ablative surface (20a) and moved along the ablative surface (20a) by the rotatable surface (28), whereby to thermolyse said feedstock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Aston University
    Inventors: Anthony Victor Bridgwater, George Vernon Cordner Peacocke, Nicholas Matthew Robinson
  • Publication number: 20090217574
    Abstract: A process, system and apparatus is provided for passivating carbonaceous material against spontaneous combustion. The process involves drying the carbonaceous material in a low oxygen environment and pre-conditioning the carbonaceous material by contacting it with volatile matter contained in a countercurrent gas stream. The volatile matter coats the particles of dried carbonaceous material and plugs the micropores of the dried carbonaceous material, thereby passivating it against adsorption of water and oxygen, and thus spontaneous combustion. The pre-conditioned dried material then undergoes devolatilisation at temperatures at which volatile matter is evolved. The evolved volatile matter mixes with the countercurrent gas stream and is used to pre-condition dried carbonaceous material located upstream.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2006
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventors: James Coleman, David Cork
  • Patent number: 7476295
    Abstract: A separation apparatus for removing particulate material from a flash zone gas oil stream produced in a delayed coking unit. The apparatus of the invention employs cyclonic separation to remove particulate material from the flash zone gas oil stream. The stream can then be further processed, for example by passing the stream to a fixed bed catalytic hydroprocessing unit and then to a fluidized bed catalytic cracking unit, or to other processing units, thereby enhancing the value of the flash zone gas oil stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Inventors: Sharon A. Annesley, Gary C. Hughes, Jamal Allyen Sandarusi
  • Patent number: 7416641
    Abstract: Tire pyrolysis systems and processes are provided which include feeding tire shreds to a pyrolysis vessel (40) and pyrolyzing the shreds in a pyrolysis vessel (40) to produce a pyrolysis gas and carbon black mixture. The pyrolysis gas processed by centrifugally separating entrained particles therefrom, separating the pyrolysis gas into a hydrocarbon condensate and a light vapor, removing entrained hydrocarbon condensate from the light vapor, and purifying and refining the hydrocarbon condensate. The carbon black mixture is processed by pulverizing the mixture to break up all strands and clumps of inorganic solids, cooling the carbon black mixture, separating the gross contaminants from the carbon mixture, and purifying and refining the carbon black. The hydrocarbon condensate is purified and refined by removing all remaining contaminants, removing any polycyclic aromatics to produce a clear, colorless plasticizer oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Federal Recycling Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Gilbert W. Denison
  • Publication number: 20080053813
    Abstract: A system for recovering hydrocarbons from tar sands includes a heated enclosure 66, one or more input conveyors 60, 67 move tar sands through the heated enclosure, provide a flow line with a temperature gradient of at least 150° F., and mechanically move the tar sands along the flow line. A heated rotary drum 74 is in fluid communication with the flow line, and condenser unit 94, 98 receive vapors from the flow line and the rotary drum and output hydrocarbons. One or more discharge conveyors 76 discharge stripped sands from the rotary drum. Control valves 80, 82 seal a vacuum downstream from the discharge conveyors, and control valves 34, 46 seal vacuum upstream from the one or more input conveyors. Various types of vacuum pumps may be used to maintain a selected vacuum between the control valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventors: Phillip L. Cauley, Tracy L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 7087140
    Abstract: A carbonizing waste processing apparatus is operable to rotate and heat a radiant tube for carbonizing waste therein so as to generate granular char and vapors from the waste, transfer waste into an upstream end of the tube, temporarily impede movement of the waste through the tube at upstream and downstream locations therein so as to ensure that residence time of the waste in the tube is sufficient at the upstream location to carry out evaporation of moisture from the waste and at the downstream location to elevate the temperature of any solids in the waste for completion of carbonization of the waste, discharge the granular char and vapors from the tube, and flow the generated and discharged vapors through a succession of finned heat exchanger tubes so as to condense and separate the vapors into oil, water and methanol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Harry H. Menian
  • Publication number: 20040084294
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing a waste product and producing a synthesis gas is provided. The system includes a sealed, heated rotatable drum for preheating and preparing the waste material suitable for a plasma reactor, and processing the material in the reactor. The synthesis gas created by the reactor is used to preheat the waste material by circulating the hot synthesis gas around the drum. In an alternative embodiment, the hot synthesis gas flows through the drum to preheat the waste material and to clean the synthesis gas. Different methods of cooling and cleaning the synthesis gas are used. The system may comprise two plasma reactors in combination with a rotating desorber drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 23, 2003
    Publication date: May 6, 2004
    Inventor: Jim Smith Hogan
  • Patent number: 6657095
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for pyrolyzing waste tire chips, the tire chips passed into an inclined rotary kiln having an output end. The tire chips are saturated by oil in the inclined rotary kiln and are pyrolyzed by indirectly heating with a heated gas. The pyrolyzed tire chips and oil produces a vapor product and a solid product that are separated within the kiln by gravitational separation. The vapor product is processed to condense oil and a portion of the condensed oil is recycled to the rotary kiln. The solid product is separated into oil and char, a portion of the oil recycled to the inclined rotary kiln for saturating the tire chips. The vapor product following the oil removal is used to produce the heated gas to heat the rotary kiln.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Recycled Energy, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Harold H. Holden, H. Scott Holden
  • Publication number: 20020077516
    Abstract: An improved process and apparatus for the destructive distillation or pyrolysis of rubber, such as used rubber tires, to produce liquid and gaseous hydrocarbons and a solid carbonaceous char. A heat transfer gas circulating in a circulation loop is used to cool the hot char produced in the distillation chamber of a distillation oven, the circulation loop having some means for removing the heat transferred to the heat transfer gas from the hot char. In one embodiment, two distillation ovens are operated in off-set, batchwise distillation cycles. The distillation cycles in the two ovens are coordinated so that a fresh charge of rubber feed is introduced into the distillation chamber of one of the ovens as the distillation of rubber in the other oven is concluded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Applicant: Gentech, Inc.
    Inventor: V. J. Flanigan
  • Publication number: 20020029996
    Abstract: Used oil is treated in a reactor to remove contaminants. The reactor comprises a rotating vessel housed within a heating chamber. The inside of the vessel is indirectly heated by conduction through the vessel walls. The vessel contains a permanently resident charge of non-ablating, coarse granular solids. Within the vessel, the oil is vaporized and pyrolysed, producing a hydrocarbon vapor. Coke is formed as a byproduct. Contaminants, such as metals and halides become associated with the coke. The coarse granular solids scour and comminute the coke to form fine solids. The fine solids are separated from the coarse solids and are removed from the vessel. The hydrocarbon vapors are separated from any fine solids and are routed to a vapor condensation system for producing a substantially contaminant-free product oil. The contaminant-rich solids are collected for disposal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2001
    Publication date: March 14, 2002
    Applicant: Alberta oil sands Tech and Research Authority
    Inventors: William Taciuk, Steve Odut, Gordon Taciuk, Charlie Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6039774
    Abstract: A self-sustaining system for converting organic waste feedstreams into usable solid and gas end products includes a plurality of interconnected retorts, an apparatus for flash pyrolyzing the feedstream to form intermediate gas and solid products, a source for introducing a water spray to refine and cool the intermediate products, a device for separating the gas product from the solid product and a device for regenerating, and thereby further refining, the solid product. In a self-sustaining process, wastes which would otherwise be landfilled are converted to an activated carbon product and a combustible gas mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide, and lower hydrocarbons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventors: Frederick G. McMullen, Dillon G. McMullen, Roger B. McMullen
  • Patent number: 6013158
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming liquid hydrocarbons from solid coal. The coal is pulverized to provide a particulate coal feed, which is then extruded to provide a hollow tube of compressed coal supported inside of a support tube. A clay feed is extruded to provide a hollow tube of compressed clay supported inside of the coal tube and a combustible fuel is burned inside of the clay tube. The temperature of combustion is sufficient to fire the extruded clay and pyrolyze the extruded coal to produce hydrocarbon gases and coal char. The support tube has holes for releasing the hydrocarbon gases, which contain suspended particles formed during combustion. The suspended particles are removed from the hydrocarbon gases to provide clean gases, which are passed through an ionizing chamber to ionize at least a portion thereof. The ionized gases are then passed through a magnetic field to separate them from each other according to their molecular weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: William A. Wootten
  • Patent number: 5944960
    Abstract: The carbonizing furnace of the present invention is capable of effectively making a large amount of carbides and reducing manufacturing cost and maintenance cost. The carbonizing furnace includes a furnace proper being formed into a cylindrical shape, the furnace proper having a first end section, to which a combustible raw material is supplied, and a second end section, from which a carbide is discharged; a spiral member for conveying the raw material from the first end section to the second end thereof; and a burner for burning the raw material to make the carbide, the burner burns the raw material in the second end section whereby the raw material is carbonized therein, wherein a surface of the raw material is coated with an inorganic binder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Nakata Giken, Kabushiki Kaisha Yasuda Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kunii Nakata, Tsutomu Abe
  • Patent number: 5709779
    Abstract: A device for conveying waste includes a waste feed chute. A stationary conveyor pipe is connected to the waste feed chute and has a sealed-off end and a housing with a nonround cross section defining a longitudinal direction. A screw conveyor is disposed in the longitudinal direction of the conveyor pipe. A motor drives the screw conveyor. A pyrolysis reactor into which the conveyor pipe discharges, defines a first space between the housing of the conveyor pipe and the pyrolysis reactor. The pyrolysis reactor has an inlet end and a longitudinal axis about which the pyrolysis reactor is rotatable. An inlet tube in which the sealed-off end of the conveyor pipe is disposed, defines a second space between the inlet tube and the conveyor pipe. The inlet tube communicates with the inlet end of the pyrolysis reactor and has a smaller cross section than the pyrolysis reactor. At least one supply line leads from outside into the pyrolysis reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 20, 1998
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Karl May, Hartmut Herm, Karlheinz Unverzagt
  • Patent number: 5707592
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of waste materials including nuclear contaminated materials is disclosed. The method of the invention includes the steps of: grinding the base material until the maximum grain size is 50 millimeters; drying the ground material to a relative humidity content below 30%; distilling the material at a core temperature of 100.degree.-1200.degree. C. on a negative pressure from 200 N/m.sup.2 to an over pressure of 300 kN/m.sup.2 in an oxygen free, reducing, indirect heated environment; burning or cooling the vapors arising; treating the remaining solid materials by combustion, mineralization, vitrification, or solidification; and pelletizing or granulating the remaining ash. The apparatus of the invention includes a dry distillation reactor that has a rotary, closed, horizontally arranged cylinder with hollow axes on the ends. The axes are separated from input and output houses by seals. The input house is provided with a loading opening and a gas exit branch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1998
    Inventor: Edward Someus
  • Patent number: 5670024
    Abstract: For thermally treating waste and/or residual materials, in particular fiber glass, glass silk, glass wool and glass mat coated with organic materials, a drum (1) with embedded elements is used to make the materials circulate. In this drum the materials are heated up to a temperature at least equal to the carbonization and/or evaporation temperature of the coatings but lower than the softening temperature of the materials. The waste or residual materials are preferably increasingly disaggregated in the drum and are heated by a stream of hot gas which flows in the drum from the discharge side (11) to the inlet side (4) and has its highest temperature at the discharge side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: WTU Warmetechnik und Umweltschutz GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Baltzer, Horst Juptner
  • Patent number: 5628877
    Abstract: A method for producing a solid fuel from combustible waste includes sorting and grinding the waste, treating the waste by heating in the absence of oxygen in a first pyrolysis reactor and then collecting the waste so treated. Polluting elements in the gases emerging from the pyrolysis are removed while the gases are hot before being directly reused to heat a first pyrolysis reactor so that solids leaving the pyrolysis operation provide a fuel without the pollutants initially contained in the waste. The device for carrying out this method includes a pyrolysis reactor and a unit for supplying an absorbent to a zone wherein the gases generated by pyrolysis are contacted by the absorbent to remove the polluting elements; the absorbent and the decontaminated solids are separated from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Gerard Martin