Distilland Supports And Containers Patents (Class 202/266)
  • Patent number: 11655161
    Abstract: A water purification device comprising a pre-purified water reservoir for storing pre-purified water, a water vapor chamber for receiving water vapor generated from heating the pre-purified water in the pre-purified water reservoir, a condensation chamber for receiving the water vapor and condensing the water vapor into purified water, and a Peltier device comprising a hot side and a cold side. The hot side of the Peltier device heats the pre-purified water into water vapor and the cold side of the Peltier device condenses the water vapor into purified water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2023
    Inventor: Mehdi Hatamian
  • Patent number: 9399737
    Abstract: An insulating and cooling cracking device includes a thermal cracking furnace accommodated therein. The insulating and cooling device has at least one cooling opening set on its side wall and at least one adiabatic cover. When the thermal cracking device is in heating, the adiabatic cover is closed. When the pyrolysis process is completed, the adiabatic cover is opened to allow the air to flow into one cooling opening. The air further flows through the surface of the thermal cracking furnace, and flows out from another cooling opening to achieve the advantage of more rapid cooling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2016
    Assignee: E-SUNSCIENCE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Li-Feng Cheng, Hsien-Cheng Yu
  • 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: 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
  • Patent number: 8945348
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manufacturing charcoal. It is characterized in that: first hot gases are generated by at least one heating means; its first gases are mixed with second gases in order to form a gas mixture; this mixture is sent into a charge of wood in order to generate therein a pyrolysis front; an overpressure is created between the upstream end and the downstream end of the charge so as to force this front to pass through it in one direction, namely from the upstream end to the downstream end; and third gases are recovered downstream of the charge, at least a first portion of said third gases, in the form of a stream of said second gases, is conveyed by a conveying means. The invention also relates to a device for implementing this method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Carbonex Societe A Responsabilite Limitee
    Inventors: Arnaud Loiseau, Philippe Soler-My, Pierre Soler-My
  • Patent number: 8935847
    Abstract: A method for creating laboratory-scale reactive distillation apparatus from provided modular components is described. At least two types of modular distillation column stages are provided. A first type of modular stage comprises two physical interfaces for connection with a respective physical interface of another modular stage. A second type modular stage comprises one such physical interface. At least one type of tray is provided for insertion into the first type of modular stage. A clamping arrangement is provided for joining together two modular stages at their respective physical interfaces for connection to form a joint. The invention provides for at least three modular stages can be joined. At least one sensor or sensor array can be inserted into each modular stage. At least one controllable element can be inserted into each modular stage. The invention provides for study of traditional, advanced, and photochemical types of reactive distillation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Lester F. Ludwig
  • Publication number: 20140262731
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention relates to a coke drum module, the coke drum module includes a support frame. A coke drum is disposed within the support frame. A strut is removably connected to the support frame and the coke drum. The strut becomes unloaded responsive to the coke drum contacting a support pad. The coke drum module further includes a compression member removably connected to the support frame and the coke drum. The compression member is oriented generally perpendicularly to the strut. A rigid connection is present between the coke drum and the support frame during transportation of the coke drum module. Upon removal of the strut and the compression member, the rigid connection is not present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: Foster Wheeler USA Corporation
    Inventor: William Meyer
  • Publication number: 20140061018
    Abstract: A method of testing the coking qualities of sample quantities of coal in a test container and the structure of the test container are disclosed. A test container which is ideally reusable is adapted to receive one or more samples of coal to be tested and then the test container is inserted into a coking oven along with additional, conventional coal during a conventional coking operation. Following the completion or substantial completion of the coking operation, the test container is recovered and from the conventional converted coke and the sample(s) of coke are removed from the container for testing and evaluation. The container is recharged with one or more additional samples of coke and reused in another conventional coking operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Jacob P. Sarpen, John F. Quanci, Mark A. Ball, Paul J. Norton, Roy J. Griffey, Jose Eustaquio DaSilva
  • Patent number: 8460509
    Abstract: A fluid evaporation system includes a housing bounding a fluid reservoir and an air flow path that is disposed over top of the fluid reservoir. The housing has an inlet opening and a spaced apart outlet opening that both provide communication between the outside environment and the air flow path. A fan is positioned to draw the air out of the air flow path through the outlet opening. A baffle projects into the air flow path at a location between inlet opening and the outlet opening so as to constrict the area of the air flow path thereat. A plurality of spray nozzles are positioned within air flow path between the baffle and the first end of the housing. A pump is configured to draw fluid from the reservoir and deliver it to the plurality of spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Total Water Management, LLC
    Inventors: Janos I. Lakatos, Edward Clay Slade, Clayton R. Carter
  • Patent number: 8440057
    Abstract: A linked coke drum connection to minimize the stresses experienced by the joint between the coke drum and the supporting structure of the coke drum is described. The connection may be attached to a circumferential connection plate attached to the coke drum or directly to the drum. Some embodiments connect to a segmented circumferential connection plate. The connection includes a coke drum link, a connecting link, and a ground link. The links are pivotally connected with connecting pins. As the coke drum is heated and expands, the connecting link pivots outwardly about a point centered in the connecting pin in the ground link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corporation
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Patent number: 8430993
    Abstract: A fluid evaporation system includes a housing bounding a fluid reservoir and an air flow path that is disposed over top of the fluid reservoir. The housing has an inlet opening and a spaced apart outlet opening that both provide communication between the outside environment and the air flow path. A fan is positioned to draw the air out of the air flow path through the outlet opening. A baffle projects into the air flow path at a location between inlet opening and the outlet opening so as to constrict the area of the air flow path thereat. A plurality of spray nozzles are positioned within air flow path between the baffle and the first end of the housing. A pump is configured to draw fluid from the reservoir and deliver it to the plurality of spray nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Total Water Management, LLC
    Inventors: Janos I. Lakatos, Edward Clay Slade, Clayton R. Carter
  • Patent number: 8409406
    Abstract: A processor for vacuum distillation of whole tires including; an insulated housing having a door on one end, and rails on a lower surface of the housing to support a cart loaded with whole tires. A plurality of first heat tubes arranged around and spaced from a central radiant heat tube, the central radiant heat tube having an unsupported end adjacent the door such that whole tires loaded on the cart and through the door will pass over the central radiant heat tube such that the central radiant heat tube is located in a central opening of each tire on the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventor: Harvey Buhr
  • Patent number: 8361277
    Abstract: An evaporator is provided for evaporation of liquid from a solution or liquid mixtures, together with methods of operation of the evaporator. The evaporator comprises a chamber (1); a liquid reservoir (3) for holding a heat transfer liquid exposed to the interior of the chamber; a support (6) for supporting a container (8) in the chamber, such that the liquid sample in the container is exposed to a fluid path (15) for connection to a condenser (16), the fluid path being separated from the chamber interior, and at least a portion of the container is closely thermally coupled to the chamber interior; and means (4) for heating the heat transfer liquid in the reservoir to create heat transfer liquid vapor, which in use condenses and releases latent heat of vaporization to the liquid sample in the container. As the temperature of the sample is dependent on the saturated vapor temperature of the liquid in the reservoir, the temperature of the samples is reliably limited, thereby avoiding overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Genevac Limited
    Inventor: Donald Roger Lee-Smith
  • Patent number: 8354005
    Abstract: Apparatus for the destructive reclamation of materials and energy from municipal wastes and other raw materials through the use of Microwave induced Gasification and Pyrolysis, where the waste or raw material may be circulated once or several times through the process thus enabling the programming of different processes to differing materials and desired end products. The form employed being linear, circulating conveyors or rotating carousels that may carry trays or crucibles, some of which may be equipped with linings that absorb microwaves to enable the early charring of materials that do not initially absorb microwaves and thus will not heat up on their own.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Inventor: Kjell Ivar Kasin
  • Patent number: 8328991
    Abstract: A processing vessel is loaded with a feedstock including organic material and at least one additive which is non-inert to the organic material. A bottom portion of the feedstock is heated to a pyrolytic state for producing a horizontal thermal layer within the feedstock which thermally decomposes organic material into carbon as the non-inert additive reacts with the organic material. Vapor is directed downwardly through the feedstock while discharging volatile organic compounds from a lower portion of the chamber. Prior to complete thermal decomposition of the feedstock, the direction of vapor flow within the feedstock is reversed wherein the vapor flows upwardly through the feedstock while the volatile compounds are discharged from an upper portion of the chamber. Pressure and vapor flow within the chamber are regulated during upward vapor flow to regulate vertical movement of the thermal layer within the feedstock for controlling the extent of thermal decomposition of the feedstock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Michael J. Lurvey
  • Patent number: 8317981
    Abstract: A support structure of a coke drum including a cylindrical drum body, an inverted-cone-shaped bottom plate connected to a bottom of the drum body, and a cylindrical skirt supporting the drum body includes an annular joining piece joining the drum body, the bottom plate, and the skirt to one another. The joining piece is a unitary member including an upper body part joined to a lower end of the drum body, a lower inner leg part joined to an upper end of the bottom plate, and a lower outer leg part joined to an upper end of the skirt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Sumitomo Heavy Industries Process Equipment Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiko Sasaki, Shinta Niimoto
  • Patent number: 8221591
    Abstract: A delayed coking unit with a coking drum having an upper cylindrical portion and a lower frusto-conical portion is supported by means of a support structure surrounding the cone frustum of the lower portion of the drum; the support structure comprises a cone support member having a concave frusto-conical support surface mating with the outer convex cone frustum of the lower portion of the drum so that the drum sits in the cone support element. The support structure further has a weight supporting member or members attached to the cone support member intermediate its upper and lower peripheries which acts or act to transfer the weight of the drum (and contents) downwards to a suitable sub-structure such as a concrete slab. In a preferred embodiment, the drum may also be stayed against lateral forces by means of guide members at the upper portion of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research & Engineering Company
    Inventors: Domingo E. de Para, Claude A. Lafleur, Ronald J. Kobialka
  • Publication number: 20120175238
    Abstract: A support structure of a coke drum including a cylindrical drum body, an inverted-cone-shaped bottom plate connected to a bottom of the drum body, and a cylindrical skirt supporting the drum body includes an annular joining piece joining the drum body, the bottom plate, and the skirt to one another. The joining piece is a unitary member including an upper body part joined to a lower end of the drum body, a lower inner leg part joined to an upper end of the bottom plate, and a lower outer leg part joined to an upper end of the skirt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: SUMITOMO HEAVY INDUSTRIES PROCESS EQUIPMENT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasuhiko Sasaki, Shinta Niimoto
  • Patent number: 8202402
    Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and related methods of water purification by distillation that will operate in a self-contained mode using a passive heat source, such as, without limitation, solar heat, air conditioning waste heat, or waste heat from the exhaust or cooling systems of an internal combustion engine, which may be used to desalinate sea water, saline water, or saline water containing contaminants. The present invention may also be used to distil sewage water, creek water, swamp water or water containing contaminants or used to cleanse or purify water contaminated with mud, chemicals, minerals, or bacteria in a local environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Hse Hittt Solar Enerji Anonim Sirkerti
    Inventor: Rahmi Oguz Capan
  • Patent number: 8192587
    Abstract: Systems for recycling waste plastic can include cartridges that are selectively sealable. Some cartridges can have elongated receptacles that improve heat transfer to plastic feedstock within the cartridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Agilyx Corporation
    Inventors: Craig W. Garrison, Kevin Clark DeWhitt, Lance Talley
  • Publication number: 20120061229
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for separation and condensation of a mixture. The apparatus for separation and condensation of a mixture includes: a base part: a sample vaporizing unit mounted on the base part, and vaporizing the stored sample; a collecting unit mounted on the base part, in order to collect the sample; a driver moving the collecting unit pass; and a control device controlling the sample vaporizing unit to vaporize the sample and controlling the driver to move the collecting unit, whereby a small amount of mixture can be separated automatically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRO-MECHANICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sung Chan Park, Ji Eun Joen, Kyoung Soon Park, Suk Jin Ham
  • Patent number: 8083902
    Abstract: The evaporative desalination system removes salt and contaminants from brine or salt water to produce purified potable water. The evaporative desalination system includes an inclined housing having a raised upper end and a lower end. An upper wall of the inclined housing is formed from an optically transparent material, such as glass. A plurality of stepped evaporator trays are mounted within the inclined housing, and a water collection tray is disposed within the inclined housing adjacent the lower end. Ambient light is transmitted through the optically transparent upper wall, causing the salt water contained within the plurality of stepped evaporator trays to evaporate. Evaporated water vapor rises from each evaporator tray to form a layer of condensed pure water on the inner surface of the upper wall. The condensed pure water drips toward the lower end of the inclined housing to collect in the water collection tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals
    Inventors: Ahmed Z. Al-Garni, Ayman H. Kassem, Wael G. Abdelrahman
  • Patent number: 8034214
    Abstract: A reciprocating film type evaporator for solvents and other chemicals which eliminates the need for a large powerful motor, and other associated equipment such as rotary gaskets, by using reciprocation, versus 360 degree rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Tracera LLC
    Inventors: Collin McKinney, Rob Musser
  • Patent number: 8029649
    Abstract: According to the invention, the loose coal is displaced from the peaks to the valleys of the waves on the narrow, long coal cake and is beaten down on the coal cake. The inventive device comprises at least one scraper (12) and at least one vertically movable impact plate (13) that are disposed one behind another and are fitted with a connection (7) to a holder. Furthermore, means are provided for generating a relative movement between the scraper (12) and the impact plate (13) and between the scraper (12) and a stamping form. The scraper (12) and the impact plate (13) are interconnected by means of a device frame (14) so as to form a structural unit (6) that is connected to the holder. Preferably, the structural unit (6) can be moved along the stamping form and is equipped with a drive unit. For this purpose, the holder encompasses a guide that extends along the stamping form as well as a carriage or a car which can be slid or moved on said guide and to which the unit (6) is connected with the aid of a boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Flsmidth A/S
    Inventors: Norbert Fiedler, Wilfried Schwan
  • Patent number: 7892403
    Abstract: A condenser includes: a top face of a tube plate on which acrylic acid may be condensed inside the condenser; a spray for spreading a polymerization inhibitor on the tube plate; a first polymerization inhibitor supply tube for supplying the polymerization inhibitor to the spray; and a supporter for supporting the spray at a predetermined position. The supporter supports the first polymerization inhibitor supply tube outside the condenser. The condenser allows a stable continuous operation for a long period of time by preventing polymerization of an easily polymerizable compound in the condenser into which a vapor of an easily polymerizable compound is supplied with a simple structure thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Shuhei Yada, Yasushi Ogawa, Yoshiro Suzuki, Kimikatsu Jinno
  • Patent number: 7871500
    Abstract: A coke drum skirt to minimize the stresses experienced by the coke drum and the supporting structure of the coke drum is described. The skirt includes one circumferential horizontal plate attached to the coke drum, and the circumferential horizontal plate is slidingly sandwiched between a lower supporting plate that supports the weight of the drum through the circumferential horizontal plate and an upper retaining plate that prevents the coke drum from tipping or falling over. The upper retaining plate may be embodied as a series of retaining clips that also keep the coke drum centered and prevent rotation of the coke drum. The upper and lower plates are anchored to a concrete support base. The sliding connection of the plates allows the coke drum to thermally expand and contract while reducing stresses and metal fatigue from the typical fixed securing of the coke drum to the support base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Curtiss-Wright Flow Control Corporation
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Patent number: 7722739
    Abstract: A self-contained evaporation system for use in disposing of excess water from oil and gas drilling operations is provided. The system includes a water holding tank in which the wastewater is preheated, an evaporation chamber mounted over the holding tank and having an open top, a nozzle system located within the chamber for producing a fine liquid mist, and fans disposed within the chamber for producing an air flow that carries the mist out the open top of the chamber. The system can be set up and taken down by one person in an hour or less, can be used with pond or tank operations, and is capable of operating in high winds and sub-zero temperatures. The system can be carried and mounted on a trailer for easy transport to and from various drilling sites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Evaporite Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrin Niles Haslem, Michael Talmadge Lawing
  • Publication number: 20100059357
    Abstract: A delayed coking unit with a coking drum having an upper cylindrical portion and a lower frusto-conical portion is supported by means of a support structure surrounding the cone frustum of the lower portion of the drum; the support structure comprises a cone support member having a concave frusto-conical support surface mating with the outer convex cone frustum of the lower portion of the drum so that the drum sits in the cone support element. The support structure further has a weight supporting member or members attached to the cone support member intermediate its upper and lower peripheries which acts or act to transfer the weight of the drum (and contents) downwards to a suitable sub-structure such as a concrete slab. In a preferred embodiment, the drum may also be stayed against lateral forces by means of guide members at the upper portion of the drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: ExxonMobile Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Domingo E. de Para, Claude A. Lafleur, Ronald J. Kobialka
  • Patent number: 7666279
    Abstract: A structure for extreme thermal cycling has a support element that supports a vessel primarily by bearing and frictional forces rather than by welds. The support element has a bearing portion that tapers inwardly beneath a knuckle that separates a cylindrical section of the vessel from a sloped lower section. The bearing portion of the support element follows that slope, providing an extended area of contact between the support element and the vessel. An annular section of the support element can be heated and expanded before placing it around the cylindrical section of the vessel to provide pre-stressing. If required, a strap may extend downwardly from the vessel over an upper edge of the support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Chicago Bridge & Iron Company
    Inventors: Steve M. Cihlar, Dale A. Swanson, Randy L. Eberly
  • Patent number: 7625467
    Abstract: The present invention provides a support beam for use in an easily polymerizeable substance treatment apparatus. The support beam supports or reinforces an internal provided in the easily polymerizeable substance treatment apparatus. The support beam has an internal mounting portion to which the internal is attached, and a folded-back portion, at least part of which, is inclined downward with respect to a horizontal direction when approaching an end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Ando, Hideyasu Takezawa, Yasuhiro Kabu
  • Publication number: 20090236212
    Abstract: A linked coke drum connection to minimize the stresses experienced by the joint between the coke drum and the supporting structure of the coke drum is described. The connection may be attached to a circumferential connection plate attached to the coke drum or directly to the drum. Some embodiments connect to a segmented circumferential connection plate. The connection includes a coke drum link, a connecting link, and a ground link. The links are pivotally connected with connecting pins. As the coke drum is heated and expands, the connecting link pivots outwardly about a point centered in the connecting pin in the ground link.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Publication number: 20090183980
    Abstract: A coke drum skirt to minimize the stresses experienced by the coke drum and the supporting structure of the coke drum is described. The skirt includes one circumferential horizontal plate attached to the coke drum, and the circumferential horizontal plate is slidingly sandwiched between a lower supporting plate that supports the weight of the drum through the circumferential horizontal plate and an upper retaining plate that prevents the coke drum from tipping or falling over. The upper retaining plate may be embodied as a series of retaining clips that also keep the coke drum centered and prevent rotation of the coke drum. The upper and lower plates are anchored to a concrete support base. The sliding connection of the plates allows the coke drum to thermally expand and contract while reducing stresses and metal fatigue from the typical fixed securing of the coke drum to the support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Ruben F. Lah
  • Patent number: 7527710
    Abstract: A still for distilling an alcoholic liquid such as wine. The still includes a chamber with a copper wall, which is intended to receive an alcoholic liquid, the capacity of the chamber representing a certain volume. The liquid which occupies the volume at the start of the distillation and the chamber wall define, by mutual contact, a first interface with an area to volume ratio that is at most equal to 27 square centimeters per liter. The still also includes one or more copper plates which are disposed inside the chamber and which are submerged in the alcoholic liquid. When the volume is occupied by a liquid, the liquid together with the copper plates define a second interface with an area and the ratio of the total area of the interfaces to the volume is at least equal to 30 square centimeters per liter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Societe Jas Hennessy & Co.
    Inventor: Jean Pineau
  • Patent number: 7507316
    Abstract: The solar still has a frame, an evaporator within the frame and a glass sheet supported by the frame and spaced above the evaporator. The evaporator has a peripheral flange in contact with the edge of the glass sheet. The glass sheet and peripheral flange are nested within an inwardly facing channel on the frame, the sealing between the glass and the flange being by surface tension of water between the glass and the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventor: John Ward
  • Patent number: 7488421
    Abstract: Water processing method, in particular for producing fresh water from salt water by membrane distillation. In comparison with previously known methods, a significant reduction in investment cost and operating cost can be achieved by the combination of the following measures: The water to be processed is kept in a supply chamber the wall of which is formed at least in part by a hydrophobic membrane being permeable for water vapor. A hydrophilic membrane having a greater thickness in comparison with the hydrophobic membrane and a lower thermal conductivity per unit area runs in parallel with the hydrophobic membrane. By the pumping action a vapor pressure difference is produced between the water to be processed and the fresh water so that the membrane distillation is driven by the vapor pressure difference resulting from the pumping action, the water condensing in the pores of the hydrophilic membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Clean Water Gesellschaft Fuer Wasseraufbereitungstechnik mbH
    Inventors: Guenther Hambitzer, Heide Biollaz, Markus Borck, Christiane Ripp
  • Patent number: 7416643
    Abstract: A solar water desalination and purification device includes an outer liquid-tight containment and an inner liquid-tight containment disposed within the outer containment. The outer containment collects liquid that forms from condensing water vapor that evaporates within the inner containment and passes through the inner containment material. The inner containment is made from hydrophobic material that allows water vapor to pass through the material as the sunlight evaporates the contaminated water within the inner containment. An inlet communicates with the inner containment for allowing the contaminated water to fill the inner containment. An outlet communicates with the outer containment to allow discharge of condensed water vapor collected within the outer containment to be used as drinking water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Robert N. Yonover
  • Patent number: 7344622
    Abstract: A pyrolysis process and reactor converts various hydrocarbons such as waste materials, for example, scrap polymers, tires, etc., into various chemical components or amounts thereof, not otherwise produced by conventional pyrolytic processes. A large reactor size is utilized in association with a low heat input per unit weight of charge. A thick pyrolyzate/“char” layer is formed during pyrolysis. The product or various components thereof can be utilized as a fuel or octane additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Inventor: Charles W. Grispin
  • Patent number: 7101463
    Abstract: A system and process for the recovery of oil from the pyrolysis of material containing hydrocarbons such as shredded vehicle tires. The system utilizes a pair of sequentially positioned packed towers to recover at least 95% of the oil contained in the pyrolysis gases. The first packed tower operates above the dew point of the water vapor in the pyrolysis gases to insure that no water is condensed and obtain a primary oil fraction having oil with a high flash point of about 60° C. or greater and a primary vapor fraction containing additional oils, fuel gases and water vapor. The primary vapor fraction is fed to the second packed tower which operates below the dew point of the water vapor to condense the water and oil having a low flash point of 34° C. or below, and provide a secondary vapor fraction containing valuable fuel gases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Metso Minerals Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael H. Weinecke, Robert J. Unterweger
  • Patent number: 7081185
    Abstract: The object of this invention to provide an improved arrangement that enables to prevent adhesion of polymer on or around the inner wall of a purification apparatus directly equipped on the outer wall thereof with an attachment such as a support by suppressing local temperature lowering inside the apparatus due to the existence of the attachment. The present invention provides a purification apparatus comprising an attachment directly mounted on an outer wall of the apparatus; and a covering material made of a low heat conductive material which partly or entirely covers the outer wall of the apparatus, and which partly or entirely covers the attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukihiro Matsumoto, Takeshi Nishimura
  • Patent number: 7037410
    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: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2006
    Assignee: Gentech, Inc.
    Inventor: V. J. Flanigan
  • Patent number: 6989082
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing a bottom cover on a coke drum. A support structure supports at least the coke drum. A vertical actuator has a cover end attached to the bottom cover and a support end attached to the support structure, and is arranged to move the bottom cover vertically in a removal operation of the bottom cover. A rotating actuator has a cover end attached to the bottom cover and a support end attached to the support structure, and is arranged to rotate the bottom cover in a removal operation. A frame assembly having opposing ends is provided, a pivoting end being attached to the bottom cover and a sliding end being slidably mounted. The frame assembly, the vertical actuator and the rotating actuator cooperate to remove the bottom cover in a removal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Foster Wheeler USA Corporation
    Inventors: Allen S. Malsbury, Ronald T. Myszka, Mark Y. Chen, Scott P. Slingerland
  • Patent number: 6911119
    Abstract: This invention relates to a simple, convenient, portable mini-distillation apparatus for the production of essential oils and hydrosols, said apparatus is useful to distill essential oils and hydrosols such as rose water, ajowain water from fresh and dried plant material like leaves, flowers, roots and rhizomes by water distillation, water and steam distillations and as an optional, steam distillation can also be perform at atmospheric pressure as well as slightly higher and lower than atmospheric pressure, said apparatus can be heated on brick-clay furnace with small agro-waste, LPG cooking gas, electrically heated stove or kerosene/diesel burner etc. and requires minimum attention during handling; since the apparatus is made of stainless steel and glass, the essential oil distilled is of better quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Assignee: Council of Scientific & Industrial Research
    Inventors: Garikapati D. Kiran Babu, Paramvir Singh Ahuja, Vijay Kumar Kaul, Virendra Singh
  • Patent number: 6808602
    Abstract: A coke drum bottom head removal system and method for deheading the bottom head cover of a coke drum comprises a carriage that is positionable beneath the bottom head cover, and a cart mounted to the carriage. Several clamps vertically mounted to the cart are positionable in a closed position, in which the clamps apply a compressive force that maintains substantially fluid tight engagement between the bottom head cover and bottom head flange, and an opened position, in which the clamps allow a limited spacing between the bottom head cover and the bottom head flange. A plurality of supports mounted to the cart support the bottom head cover once the fasteners coupling the bottom head cover to the bottom head flange are removed and the clamps are in the opened position. The system can be remotely operated to enhance operator safety when the bottom head cover is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Sergio Gustavo Schonfeld, Kenneth Allan Larson, Rodney Karl Hogan
  • Patent number: 6663750
    Abstract: Cultivated field water is desalinated by a series of independent units that float on the water surface, taking up the saline water with a wick, evaporating the water from the wick in desalinating relation by concentrating incident solar radiation with a combination of a lenses and cooperating mirrors onto the upper end portion of the wick while the wick lower end portion is immersed in the field water, capturing the desalinated vapor resulting by condensing within the unit and returning the condensed, desalinated water to the field, and periodically renewing the wick by rinsing the salt from it at a cleaning station beyond the field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2003
    Inventor: Warren Coon
  • Publication number: 20030209419
    Abstract: A mechanical water still (10) includes an impervious dome-like upper surface (12) and a membrane base (14) that is coupled (26) to the impervious dome-like structure (12) to form, when inflated, a chamber (20). The membrane base (14) supports a water pervaporation process therethrough. A water collection well (16) has an opening into which water droplets condensed from the water pervaporation process collect. The water collection well (16) is sited within the membrane base (14) and generally extends outwardly and downwardly from the membrane base (14), as shown in FIG. 1. In use, a contaminated water source (24) is brought into, ideally, complete contact with the membrane base (14), with the water collection well (16) arranged both to act as a heat sink into the water source (24) and to provide stability to the water still (10) when floating and immersed in the water source (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Christopher Tonkin, Mark Andrew Young, Neil David Eckert
  • Patent number: 6635149
    Abstract: A water purification system and method for residential or commercial application having a first support structure coupled to a water supply having a first heat source of sufficient magnitude to change the water into steam, thus abandoning any insoluble material dispersed within the liquid. The steam is further heated in a second support structure to form a substantially gaseous vapor and exposed to a second heat source of sufficient magnitude to super-heat the vapor to a temperature capable of destroying most, if not all living matter. Preferably, the second heat source is an electrical field of sufficient voltage to increase the temperature of the vapor in excess of 2000° F. The super-heated vapor is then allowed to condense to form potable water. This system may be powered by a standard 120 volt outlet found in the home.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Inventors: Norman Campbell, Norman E. Bersing, Ronald E. Larsen
  • Patent number: 6551464
    Abstract: A combination reflux/distillation apparatus is provided having interchangeable reflux and distillation columns, a segmented collection trough and an integrated indirect heating provision. The apparatus is uniquely adapted for refluxing and distilling small quantities of materials without the losses attendant to larger apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Howard Kimel
  • Publication number: 20030062253
    Abstract: The object of this invention to provide an improved arrangement that enables to prevent adhesion of polymer on or around the inner wall of a purification apparatus directly equipped on the outer wall thereof with an attachment such as a support by suppressing local temperature lowering inside the apparatus due to the existence of the attachment. The present invention provides a purification apparatus comprising an attachment directly mounted on an outer wall of the apparatus; and a covering material made of a low heat conductive material which partly or entirely covers the outer wall of the apparatus, and which partly or entirely covers the attachment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventors: Yukihiro Matsumoto, Takeshi Nishimura
  • Patent number: 6214174
    Abstract: A distillation column is arranged so that a liquid hole which allows liquid containing a polymerizable organic compound to flow from on a tray supporting member downward is formed in a part of the tray supporting member, for example, a support ring, so that substantial retention of the liquid on the tray supporting member is avoided. Therefore, the liquid, such as crude acrylic acid, is allowed to smoothly flow down from on surfaces of a tray and the tray supporting member, thereby causing no substantial retention of the liquid. As a result, polymerization which tends to occur when the liquid is retained on the surfaces of the tray and the tray supporting member thereby being heated is effectively prevented, and the polymerizable organic compound is efficiently purified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: Nippon Shokubai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hajime Matsumoto, Kazukiyo Arakawa
  • Patent number: 6190498
    Abstract: A relatively simple portable evaporator for quickly evaporating large volumes of water includes a stand with adjustable legs, a frame carrying a tubular housing and a motor rotatably mounted on the stand for rotation around a vertical axis, a fan in the housing driven by the motor, a nozzle rotatably mounted on one end of the housing for directing air from the fan upwardly and outwardly from the housing, and a manifold carrying a plurality of jets for receiving water from a tailings pond or other source and spraying the water into a stream of air exiting the nozzle for expediting evaporation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Slimline Mfg. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kim Blagborne