Concentrically Arranged Electrodes Patents (Class 204/272)
  • Patent number: 5110426
    Abstract: A method of, and an apparatus for, introducing at least one halide into the bath of cell for dry electrolysis. The method confines a portion of the bath in an annular space and upward motion is imparted to the confined portion of the bath by introduction of a gas and halide into the annular space. The apparatus for carrying out the method consists of two concentric tubes: an inner tube through which the halide and the gas are introduced and which tube is open at its bottom end and which tube has orifices on its lateral wall; and an outer tube which is open at its bottom end, closed at the top end and provided on its lateral wall with apertures situated at a level higher than that of the orifices. The method and apparatus can be applied to the operation and construction of electrolysis baths in which the concentration by weight of the halide and its mean valency must be maintained within a narrow range and be able to be adjusted progressively and precisely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Assignee: Compagnie Europeenne du Zirconium Cezus
    Inventors: Jean Boutin, Pierre Brun, Airy-Pierre Lamaze, Patrick Paillere, Pascale Salles
  • Patent number: 5108563
    Abstract: A process for treating water comprises feeding water to be treated into an electrolytic cell. The electrolytic cell comprises a first electrode and a second electrode, wherein the first electrode at least partially encompasses the second electrode. The water to be treated is subjected to electrolysis in the presence of an electrolyte, and, preferably, in the presence of elemental carbon. An apparatus for conducting the process is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: Environmental Systems (International) Limited
    Inventor: Brian G. Cook
  • Patent number: 5102515
    Abstract: The present invention is drawn to a method and apparatus for treating electrically conductive fluid. Positive and negative electrodes of electrically conductive materials having different electrochemical potentials are spaced apart and electrically isolated from one another so that the only electroconductive connection that develops an electrochemical potential between the electrodes is established by fluid to be treated extending between the electrodes. Fluid passing between the electrodes is therefore ionized. Because it has been found that superior effects can be achieved when the fluid is ionized under a voltage only condition in which there is relatively little current flow through the fluid, an electrical insulator is disposed between the positive and negative electrodes as extending across any shortest direct path therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: Jack K. Ibbott
  • Patent number: 5102522
    Abstract: An apparatus for the electrolytic recovery of metals from liquid solutions containing recoverable metal values. The apparatus comprises a housing containing a tubular cathode concentrically disposed about and radially spaced from an elongated anode for defining a solution-containing volume there-between. An elongated tubular baffle means having a plurality of thoroughgoing perforations through the side wall thereof and along the longitudinal length thereof is disposed about a substantial length of the anode and is in registry with the inlet to a solution pumping means located within the housing that is utilized for circulating the solution in a helical flow pattern within the housing volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1992
    Inventor: James Rivers
  • Patent number: 5094734
    Abstract: A water treatment unit uses an electrolytic cell generating chlorine and ozone. The electrolyte is brine, and the separation between the anode and the cathode of the cell is 2-30 cm. The generated chlorine and ozone are added to a stream of water to be treated, with the interposition of a turbulence promoting arrangement. The unit operation is automatically regulated from the working times of the cell and volume of water to be treated, and/or electrometrical probes as chlorine detectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1992
    Inventor: Santiago D. Torrado
  • Patent number: 5087344
    Abstract: An electrolysis cell for gas-evolving electrolytic processes using at least one electrode having electrode elements arranged parallel is described; the electrode elements have a thickness of up to three times the mean bubble separation diameter and have a capillary gap with respect to one another such that a motion of the gas bubbles through the electrode is brought about substantially in the direction or in the opposite direction of the electric field between the reaction surfaces of the anode and cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1992
    Assignee: Heraeus Elektroden GmbH
    Inventors: Hanno Wenske, Arnold Gallien, Wolfgang Hanke, Wolfgang Lampe, Lothar Illgen
  • Patent number: 5085753
    Abstract: A water purifier has a buoyant housing for supporting a purification cell below the water's surface and for supporting a solar cell array for providing power for the purification cell. The purification cell preferably has a solid cylindrical anode and a coiled wire cathode. The water purification cell operation includes electrolytic processes, electrocution and oxidation to destroy bacteria and algae in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Floatron, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Sherman
  • Patent number: 5082544
    Abstract: An electrolytic gas generating apparatus for producing a combustible mixture of hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis of water is disclosed, for particular use in a gas welding apparatus. The generating apparatus comprises a d.c. power supply 100 connected to electrolytic cells 200, a dehumidifier 400 for scrubbing the gas mixture generated by the cells 200, a gas regulator 500, a modifier 600 which modifies the combustion characteristics of the gas and a flash arrester 660. Gas generation is controlled by a main control board 800 in accordance with sensors which measure parameters to calculate indirectly the gas flowrate and control this in accordance with demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Assignee: Command International, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan P. Willey, Neal T. Radford
  • Patent number: 5076902
    Abstract: An electrolysis apparatus has a furnace for setting a silica glass component such as a process tube or crucible, a heater for heating the component, a sensor for measuring a temperature of an inside portion of the furnace, an anode and an cathode for applying a voltage across the component so as to electrolyze the component, a tube for holding the anode, a device for supplying an inert gas into a space between the anode and the holding tube, and a DC power source connected to the anode and the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1991
    Assignee: Toshiba Ceramics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Joshima, Yasumi Sasaki, Shigeru Abe
  • Patent number: 5071532
    Abstract: Device for the electrical treatment of high conductivity liquid electrolytes, comprising: a receptacle (10) suitable for being traversed by a flow (F) of the liquid to be treated; at least one electrode (20) disposed inside the receptacle (10) and having a conductive surface of a shape chosen to increase the surface area of contact with the electrolyte, and coated with an insulating layer (22); at least one counter-electrode (24) disposed inside the receptacle (10) and having a conductive external surface, bare or coated with an insulating layer; and a high voltage DC supply (26) whose positive (28) and negative (30) terminals are connected respectively to the or each electrode and the or each counter-electrode respectively, the polarity used depending on the type of treatment to be carried out.The device can be used in particular for treating mains water or river water in order to prevent furring in cooling equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1991
    Assignee: Joseph Taillet
    Inventors: Joseph Taillet, Dominique Bacot, Jean-Michel Detroyat
  • Patent number: 5059296
    Abstract: A portable self-contained solar powered water purifier for swimming pools, spas, and other bodies of water is disclosed. The purifier includes a buoyant housing for supporting a solar cell array above the surface of water to be treated and a purification cell below the surface of water to be treated. Suitable electrical connections, between the solar cell array and purification cell, are sealed to prevent the entry of water therebetween which could result in electrical shorts and corrosion. The purification cell includes a sacrificial anode, having a metal alloy essentially composed of copper and silver and a cathode which is preferably constructed of stainless steel so as to not react adversely with the sacrificial anode. Metallic copper and silver ions are released by the sacrificial anode to prevent algae and bacterial growth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1991
    Assignee: Floatron, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Sherman
  • Patent number: 5043050
    Abstract: A device for precipitating metals out of a liquid by applying an electric field to a flowing liquid makes use of two spaced apart insulating plates provided with mutually facing grooves, and two pieces of metal flat stock sealably mounted between the plates in spaced apart relationship. The liquid flows into and out of the space between the pieces of flat stock through inlet and outlet openings in one of the insulating plates. The pieces of flat stock function as electrodes and are respectively connected to the output terminals of an electric power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1991
    Inventor: Robert J. Herbst
  • Patent number: 5004529
    Abstract: An electrode for an electrochemical etching machine includes first and second coaxial control rods, first and second disks attached to the first and second control rods respectively, the disks axially aligned and independently rotatable by the control rods. The electrode includes at least one additional disk disposed between the first and second disks, and axially aligned therewith together with an aligning rod coupled between the first and second disks for controlling the rotation of the further disk to align it to a position intermediate the position of the first and second disks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1991
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Alexander Vishnitsky
  • Patent number: 5002649
    Abstract: An apparatus for electroplating a selected surface of a workpiece, or electrolytically or chemically stripping a plating therefrom, comprises an electrode or center constrictor member having an active surface with a selected shape to combine with the selected surface of the workpiece to define an elongated gap of at least about 0.050 inches therebetween, means for supporting this constrictor member in a fixed position to define the elongated gap; solution circulating means for forcing a stripping solution through the gap in a generally closed path at a velocity to exchange stripping solution in the gap at a rate of at least 25 times per minute. When used for either electroplating or electrolytically stripping, the apparatus is provided with means for applying current flow between the selected workpiece surface and the active surface of the electrode through the gap at a current density of at least 2.0 amperes/in.sup.2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1991
    Assignee: SIFCO Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Smith
  • Patent number: 4997540
    Abstract: Apparatus is provided for the chlorination of water in a swimming pool where the water includes a soluble chlorine ion containing electrolyte. The apparatus comprises a housing which is mounted on the side wall of a swimming pool under the water level. The housing has a plurality of electrodes located therein, the electrodes being connected to a low voltage power supply. The housing has a plurality of openings from the outside to the interior, whereby water is able to pass in and out of the housing, where electrolysis of the soluble chlorine ions takes place when they come into contact with the electrodes. The water which has been effectively chlorinated passes out of the housing to be replaced by other water with the soluble chlorine ion still in solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Assignee: Poolrite Equipment Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Neil G. Howlett
  • Patent number: 4968396
    Abstract: A method and electrolytic catalytic cell that chemically modifies the structure of hydrocarbon fuels in which the cell is immersed, by the electrolytic, electromotive catalytic action of preferably platinum cathodic and zinc anodic elements movably continually contacting and circulating the fuel, giving rise to evenness in ignition and completion of combustion with elimination of noxious by-products largely by combination with the hydroxyl ions formed by the catalytic action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 6, 1990
    Assignees: The Academy of Applied Science, Rines and Rines
    Inventor: Draper M. Harvey
  • Patent number: 4948514
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for separating ions from a liquid through use of static fields generated by permanently polarized members which cooperate with membranes that act as mechanical inhibitors in encouraging positive ions to remain within a positive region of the apparatus and negative ions to remain within a negative region of the apparatus, thereby leaving a relatively ion-free effluent in a neutral region of the apparatus. The ions are separated through static electrical fields, which are permanently generated by the polarized material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1990
    Assignee: Lion Capital, Ltd
    Inventors: Douglas MacGregor, Mark A. Smith
  • Patent number: 4929327
    Abstract: In order to produce differently thick dispersion layers on inner surfaces of hollow bodies, it is proposed according to the present invention to permit electrolyte to flow into the hollow body by way of a swirl-producing flow body, whereby the flow is split up into a laminar and a turbulent component. With turbulent flow, a high build-up rate of the solid particles is achieved than with laminar flow so that layes of different concentration can be realized in a single operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1990
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AG
    Inventor: Goetz Mielsch
  • Patent number: 4891115
    Abstract: An apparatus is used for both repair of operating pipelines and protection of newly built pipelines and comprises a cleaning tool (1) which is caused to move in the interior of the pipeline (5) under the action of a flow of fluid containing a dissolved inhibitor. The cleaning tool comprises a hub (3) on which blades (4) are secured in two rows to engage the pipeline surface. The blades (4) are displaced with respect to one another so that the angle between two adjacent blades is from 10.degree. to 25.degree. to define apertures along the periphery of the cleaning tool through which jets of fluid can flow to remove a part of deposits and to impregnate the remaining layer with the inhibitor dissolved in the fluid as so to form a protective coating. A support member (11) carrying an impact-type alarm member is mounted on the cleaning tool (1) so as to facilitate location of the apparatus in the pipeline and to maintain the apparatus in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1986
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1990
    Inventors: Viktor V. Shishkin, Jury D. Samuliev, Jury P. Shapovalov, Yaroslav P. Sushkov, Valery P. Panchenko, Evgeny G. Lukin, Alexandr I. Chernyai, Nikolai F. Kryazhevskikh
  • Patent number: 4882281
    Abstract: A probe and method for treating samples in a well tray. The probe is specially configured to engage the well, and when so engaged, to provide an electrode structure within the well. The probe comprises an outer electrode in the form of a metal ring having a diameter just slightly less than the inner diameter of the well, a center electrode in the form of a metal rod, and a non-conductive (typically clear plastic) cover that extends over the well and holds the electrodes coaxial with respect to each other and with respect to the well. A metal pin is rigidly connected to the ring and extends parallel to the ring axis. The rod and pin pass through the cover so that their upper ends are accessible for electrical connections. Electrical connections are made to the portions of the rod and the pin located above the cover. As a safety measure, the electrical connections are preferably hidden under a cap that threadingly engages the top portion of the rod and overlies the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1989
    Assignee: Jeffrey L. Hilliard
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Hilliard, Maurice M. Moloney
  • Patent number: 4874495
    Abstract: A fiber aggregate in which many of the fibers are oriented in the tangent direction of the circumference satisfactorily can be produced by a process and an apparatus according to the present invention. The best feature of the present invention is the following arrangement for a plurality of electrodes used in a process and an apparatus according to the present invention. Vertically extending foil, net or needle-shaped electrodes for orienting the fibers electrostatically are disposed alternately along the circumference of the vertically cylindrical space so as to divide the vertically cylindrical space into equal parts. In addition to this arrangement, the plurality of electrodes may be rotated as well as moved vertically in order not to disturb the fiber aggregation. A fiber aggregate obtained by the present invention has an improved strength and anti-thermal properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1989
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyoda Jidoshokki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Tomohito Ito, Renichi Isomura, Hidetoshi Hirai, Fukuo Gomi
  • Patent number: 4872959
    Abstract: An improved electrolytic system for treating aqueous solution which passes the solution along an inner helical insulator wrapped around a centrally located anode solid rod and an enclosing inner cathode tube, then along a cathode tube wrapped or spaced with another helical insulator and an enclosing outer anode tube. The solid rod can be replaced with an innermost tube in order for the solution to initially pass through a cathode portion of the system. Also, the innermost cathode tube can have a plurality of apertures as passageways for the solution. A DC voltage is applied, in one direction or in sequential fields of different directions across the plurality of metal rods and tubes, thereby effectively removing both suspended materials and dissolved solids from the aqueous solution to be treated. The power supply required from the DC voltage can be decreased by treating specified tubes or rods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1987
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1989
    Assignee: Cleanup & Recovery Corp. (CURE)
    Inventors: Robert J. Herbst, Russell R. Renk
  • Patent number: 4861449
    Abstract: The anode comprises a core of a metal having a negative potential relative to steel, and an adjacent electrode of a material having a positive potential relative to steel. The adjacent electrode has a first substrate generally facing the core and a second substrate in direct electrical communication with the first substrate end of a material having a negative potential relative to steel substantially shielded from the core by the first substrate. The anode includes a suitable porous material between the core and the electode which tends to retain water. The anode produces a potential voltage in the presence of an electrolyte between the core and electrode which is the collective effect of the material of the core and the materials of the electrode. Such an anode can produce a higher potential voltage than conventional sacrificial anodes and be designed for particular desired voltage potentials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Inventor: Hank St. Onge
  • Patent number: 4861555
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for the ion chromatographic analysis of ionic species of a common first polarity opposite to a second polarity employ an eluant ion suppressor cell having two electrodes. The ionic species to be analyzed and an eluant solution are introduced in solution to an ion exchange resin bed. The eluant solution essentially consists of an eluting reagent in solution such that the eluting reagent is ionized to form first eluant ions of the first polarity and second eluant ions of the second polarity. An effluent essentially consisting of separated ionic species, first eluant ions and second eluant ions in solution is discharged from the resin bed. The effluent is introduced through an inlet in the suppressor cell such that the effluent flows along a surface of the first and second electrodes. An electrical voltage is applied to the electrodes so as to maintain the first electrode at the first polarity and the second electrode at the second polarity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1985
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1989
    Assignee: Applied Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard A. Mowery, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4853099
    Abstract: An electroplating apparatus for rapidly depositing a metal onto a selected surface of a workpiece, which apparatus comprises an anode having an active surface with a selected shape to combine with the selected surface of the workpiece to define an elongated gap of at least about 0.050 inches, means for supporting this anode in a fixed position to define the elongated gap; solution circulating means for forcing an electroplating solution with metal cations through the gap in a generally closed path at a velocity to exchange electroplating solution in the gap at a rate of at least 25 times per minute; and, means for applying current flow between the selected workpiece surface and the active surface of the anode through the gap at a current density in excess of 2.0 amperes/in.sup.2. The invention also involves the method of using this apparatus to rapidly deposit metal, such as nickel, onto the inner cylindrical surface of a bore on a complex part such as an aircraft landing gear forging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Assignee: SIFCO Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary W. Smith
  • Patent number: 4849084
    Abstract: The rod incorporates a sealing device enabling a part of the inside surface of the tube, extending along its length, to be isolated from adjacent zones. The sealing device comprises two assemblies (5, 6) spaced along the length of the rod and each consisting of an annular piston (26, 36) slidably mounted on the body (2) of the rod, and at least one annular seal (32, 42) interposed between the piston and a radial support flange (33, 43). Compressed air supplied to the piston (26, 36) enables the seal (32, 42) to be compressed and to undergo radial expansion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1989
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventor: Alain Vouzellaud
  • Patent number: 4840717
    Abstract: A silver recovery cell for devices recovering silver from silver laden solutions, the silver recovery cell permitting visual inspection of the condition of plated silver within the cell. A clear canister is provided having an anode rod centrally connected thereto at its bottom. A cathode cylinder coaxially surrounds the anode rod; the cathode cylinder has a longitudinal slot. Terminals through the clear canister are provided for both the anode rod and the cathode cylinder in order to connect a conventional electrical power supply therewith. A removable top is further provided having inlet and outlet passageways for the silver laden solution to enter the leave the clear canister. An inlet port constrictor is provided to speed up fluid flow of the silver laden solution into the clear canister. In operation, a user may view the status of silver plating by merely looking through the clear canister and the slot in the cathode cylinder. A light may be provided in the top to facilitate visual inspections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1989
    Inventor: Milton A. Dzodin
  • Patent number: 4832813
    Abstract: Apparatus, which can be a pulsed column, which functions as an efficient electrolytic cell having an efficient liquid-liquid extraction capability. The apparatus can comprise an anode/cathode assembly having a geometry such as to produce a substantially uniform current distribution across the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1989
    Assignee: British Nuclear Fuels plc
    Inventors: Edward J. Williamson, David Garrett, Francis Goodridge, Raymond E. Plimley
  • Patent number: 4828658
    Abstract: The invention concerns a process for the electrolytic preparation of a mother alloy of iron and neodymium by the reduction of a mixture comprising at least one reactive oxygen-bearing compound of neodymium in a bath of molten halides with at least one metallic cathode, preferably of iron, and a carbon anode. In accordance with the invention, the bath is primarily formed by a mixture of molten fluorides whose decomposition potential is close to that of NdF.sub.3 or more negative, such as for example NdF.sub.3, MgF.sub.2, ScF.sub.3, CeF.sub.3, LaF.sub.3, BaF.sub.2, CaF.sub.2 and SrF.sub.2, and permitting solubilization of the oxides by a complexing effect, the solute to be reduced is formed by a mixture of salts primarily containing a reactive oxygen-bearing compound of neodymium which is very rapidly soluble in the molten electrolyte. The working temperature is in a range of from 640.degree. to 1030.degree. C., the anodic current density is from 0.1 to 1.5 A/cm.sup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1989
    Assignee: Aluminium Pechiney
    Inventor: Yves Bertaud
  • Patent number: 4826582
    Abstract: A device (50) for treating the inner surface of a steam generator heat exchange tube (1) is introduced into the tube (1), the region to be treated is isolated from the remainder of the tube (1), an electrolyte is circulated in this region to carry out the treatment, an electrical field is created between the treatment device (50) and the tube (1) to produce a migration of ions in both directions, the electrical field created is reduced to zero, the electrolyte is removed to a treatment unit and then a compressed-air purge is carried out, the treated region is rinsed with demineralized water and the water is drained, and, lastly, an additional compressed-air purge is carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1989
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventors: Claude Lavalerie, Jean P. Gaudin
  • Patent number: 4804452
    Abstract: A cathode (10) surrounding an anode (14) stands on the bottom (11) of a tank (12) that can hold a varying volume of liquid (25) for electrolytic processing. A pump (18) circulates liquid from a drain (17) outside the cathode into a space between the cathode and anode; and although liquid can drain from inside the cathode back into the tank under the bottom of the cathode, the flow rate of the pump is larger so that the pump fills the cathode to overflowing, independently of the level of liquid in the tank. This allows widely varying batch sizes to be processed in a simple and inexpensive way; and it ensures that when tank (12) is drained, liquid (25) within cathode (10) also drains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1989
    Assignee: CPAC, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis O. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 4802961
    Abstract: A compact, self-contained, automatic electrolytic unit for recovery of silver. The apparatus includes a housing having a reservoir for unprocessed solution, an electrolytic cell disposed within the housing having a stationary cathode and anode in relative spaced relationship, a circulating pump for receiving solution being processed from the cell and returning the same to the cell with or without the addition of unprocessed solution. A metering pump may be employed to add additional unprocessed solution. It is preferred to deliver the solution within the cell at a plurality of locations so as to maintain the cell in a turbulent state. Sensors are provided for determining the level of unprocessed solution within the reservoir and overflow from the cell may be delivered exteriorly of the housing to a tailing unit for further processing. It is preferred that the reservoir, cell and pumps be maintained within a compact housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1987
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1989
    Inventors: Manfred J. Woog, Charles W. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 4789448
    Abstract: A device for countering the deposition of hard water scale comprises a cathode and an anode defining a passage for water passing through the device and connected in an electrical circuit including the water as an electrolyte. The anode is a sacrificial anode which releases salt particles and ions into the water during operation of the device. At least a substantial proportion of such particles and ions are non-adherent to the anode, and thereby form sites for crystal formation in the water and reduce deposition of scale. An external electrical potential may be applied across the circuit to cause an externally generated current to pass through the device. Means may be provided for generating a magnetic field downstream of the anode and cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1988
    Inventor: Derek A. Woodhouse
  • Patent number: 4778584
    Abstract: Disclosed is a liquid filter device for effectively eliminating impurities from liquid.Voltage is applied to liquid to break electrostatic coupling of liquid molecules and impurity molecules. The impurity molecules are electrostatically adsorbed by an electrode containing adsorbent having charges different in polarity from those of the impurity molecules.Voltage is applied to liquid to break electrostatic coupling of liquid molecules and impurity molecules. Adsorbent having charges different in polarity from those of the impurity molecules on its surface is provided between a pair of electrodes to electrostatically adsorb the impurity molecules. After the impurity molecules are electrostatically adsorbed, the liquid is filtrated by a filter.Voltage is applied to liquid to eliminate zeta potentials which are potential difference at electric double layers having charges different in polarity from those of impurity particles in interfaces between the impurity particles and the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignees: Zeotec LRC Corporation, Liquid Concerned Ltd., Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Noboru Inoue, Takaaki Fukumoto, Masaharu Hama, Katsuhiko Tamura, Kimihiko Okaue
  • Patent number: 4772367
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method serving for electrochemically polishing and/or pickling the inner surfaces (16) of pipes (10) provide for a polishing head (12) to be moved through the pipe. The polishing head (12) comprises a dielectric outer wall which defines a narrow working gap (28) together with the inner pipe surface (16) to be cleaned, the electrolyte flowing through said gap. This permits electrochemical polishing of high quality of the inside surface of the pipe with little consumption of electrolyte. The electrolyte stream may be divided into cathodic and anodic partial streams (30 and 32, respectively).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1988
    Assignee: Poligrat GmbH
    Inventors: Ju Menzel, Georg Henkel
  • Patent number: 4764473
    Abstract: A chamber for the treatment of cells in an electrical field, in which a space is provided to hold the suspension containing the cells and into which extend at least two electrodes. The cells are exposed to an electrical field developed between the electrodes. The chamber is also provided with an accessory vessel removably connected thereto for further treatment of the cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1988
    Assignee: Kerforshungsanlage Julich
    Inventors: Christain Matschke, William M. Arnold, Karl-Heinz Buchner, Ulrich Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 4750981
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for plating selected portions of a workpiece that cannot suitably be plated in dip-tank processes. The invention is particularly suitable for plating apertures in large parts. The aperture is enclosed between two containers, one on each side of the aperture. The containers are held in sealing position on the workpiece by means of an elongated rod that passes through both containers and through the aperture. Fastening means threaded onto each end of the rod engage container surfaces to urge the containers into sealing engagement with the workpiece, completely enclosing the aperture to be plated. An anode connected to a power source is mounted upon the elongated rod, preferably positioned substantially within the aperture. Application of a current with the workpiece connected to a cathode results in plating of the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 14, 1988
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Harold W. Dalland, Richard Herrmann, Barry L. Kendall
  • Patent number: 4744876
    Abstract: Electrolyzer for the extraction of a substance from an electrolytic bath.The electrolyzer comprises an anode and a cathode immersed in the bath. The cathode, in which the substance is formed, surrounds the anode. The electrolyzer also comprises means for confining the substance in the vicinity of the cathode and for guiding said substance along and towards the upper end of the cathode, together with means for collecting the substance at said end. These confinement and guidance means comprises at least one grid layer located in the vicinity of the cathode and passing along the same.Application to the production of alkaline metals or alkaline earth metals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1986
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1988
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventors: Robert Bernard, Georges Lonchampt, Robert Tinti
  • Patent number: 4710280
    Abstract: The metal fouling which is deposited in the bores and other interior parts of firearms as a result of firing is selectively removed by an electrochemical process which is innocuous to the ferrous base metal of the firearm. A low voltage d-c potential is applied between the ferrous base metal of the firearm to be cleaned, which is maintained as the positive electrode with respect to an auxiliary electrode which is, for example, inserted into the bore and electrically insulated therefrom. An electrolyte occupying the space between the interior of the bore and the auxiliary electrode is selected to be non-oxidizing to the ferrous base metal and capable of solubilizing the electrochemically oxidized metal fouling to be removed. Metal fouling or deposits are completely removed without affecting the ferrous base metal of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Inventors: George H. Brilmyer, Dennis L. Marshall
  • Patent number: 4710282
    Abstract: A running water passes through a passage from its inlet to its outlet and is guided by at least two electrodes so that it repeatedly changes its direction to flow transversely to and along the electrodes to be continuously saturted during its running by silver ions emerging from an anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1986
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1987
    Inventors: Maryan Chak, Moisey Dobruskin
  • Patent number: 4705611
    Abstract: An apparatus for internally electropolishing tubes in which a plurality of elongate tubes are horizontally supported and rotatably driven about their length axes. An outlet fitting including an end dam permits rotation of the tube outlet end therein, allows escape of gases from the upper portion of the tube, and permits overflow of electrolyte liquid thereover and fixedly supports the end of a cathode rod. The cathode rod is formed as two aligned, axially adjacent partial length sections. The positive terminal of an electric current supply connects at a plurality of points to the tube along its length and connects at its negative terminal individually to the outer ends of the two cathode sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1986
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1987
    Assignee: The Upjohn Company
    Inventors: Thomas L. Grimes, Robert Roeland, Frederic H. Schadewald
  • Patent number: 4699704
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell for a molten salt comprising alkali- or alkaline earth metal chloride, comprising: an assembly of anode and cathode in opposed relation with each other, a tightly closable vessel containing said assembly and capable of holding in molten state a salt comprising an alkali- or alkaline earth metal chloride, an insulative partition arranged around the anode and extending axially over a height range including the intended bath level, several projections formed to a length on an effective side of the anode opposed to the cathode, said projection having upper and lower surfaces declining outwards so an open bottom-closed top space is provided under each projection, a rise bore formed lengthwise within the anode to run along the axis and a lateral hole in communicating relation with an inward ascent between said space and rise bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Inventor: Hiroshi Ishizuka
  • Patent number: 4699881
    Abstract: The chamber for treating cells in an electric field includes an interior ce for a cell suspension having a region between the electrodes inside of which the cells are exposed to the electric field. In order to provide an improved chamber the region in which the cells are treated--up to an inlet or outlet for the cell suspension--is bounded by surfaces of the electrodes which are positioned equidistant from each other. Preferable these electrode surfaces are coaxial or concentric. In one specific embodiment of my chamber a first electrode is the inner electrode and a second electrode is the outer electrode and the surfaces of the inner electrode and the inside surfaces of the outer electrode are cylindrical so that the region between the electrodes is a cylindrical annular space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1987
    Assignee: Kernforschungsanlage Julich Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung
    Inventor: Christian Matschke
  • Patent number: 4695547
    Abstract: A probe and method for treating samples in a well tray. The probe is specially configured to engage the well, and when so engaged, to provide an electrode structure within the well. The probe comprises an outer electrode in the form of a metal ring having a diameter just slightly less than the inner diameter of the well, a center electrode in the form of a metal rod, and a non-conductive (typically clear plastic) cover that extends over the well and holds the electrodes coaxial with respect to each other and with respect to the well. A metal pin is rigidly connected to the ring and extends parallel to the ring axis. The rod and pin pass through the cover so that their upper ends are accessible for electrical connections. Electrical connections are made to the portions of the rod and the pin located above the cover. As a safety measure, the electrical connections are preferably hidden under a cap that threadably engages the top portion of the rod and overlies the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1987
    Assignee: Jeffrey L. Hilliard
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Hilliard, Maurice M. Moloney
  • Patent number: 4690737
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for electrochemical rifling of gun barrels and the like is disclosed. In one embodiment of the apparatus, an elongate pressure chamber for receiving electrolyte fluid under pressure is mounted in alignment with an anode gun barrel and in fluid communication therewith. A cathode rod rifling assembly is mounted in the pressure chamber in axial alignment with the gun barrel. Drive means simultaneously rotates the rifling assembly and moves it relative to the barrel for passage of the rifling assembly through the barrel along with the electrolyte fluid. In another embodiment, the rifling asembly comprises first and second adjacent segments joined on a plane. Each segment has peripheral, radially outwardly extending, circumferentially spaced strips of insulation which are out of alignment with, and overlap, one another along the plane. The overlapped regions define the width of the unetched portions or lands on the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1987
    Assignee: Cation Corporation
    Inventor: Alexander Vishnitsky
  • Patent number: 4686018
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cell for the organic electrosynthesis of organic or organometallic compounds, containing two electrodes (2) and (4) of which only one (4) is sacrificed by the electrochemical reaction of which it forms the seat.The sacrificial electrode (4) consists of at least one solid metal block and is applied under the influence of its own weight against the other electrode (2) from which it is separated by an electrical insulating material (5) which allows the passage of the electrolytic solution (6) and of which the shape and the dimensions enable the active substances of the two electrodes (2) and (4) to remain parallel.The active surface of the electrode (2) has a constant inclination relative to a direction D (9) forming an angle less than 45 degrees with the vertical on the one hand, and an inclination less than 45 degrees relative to the vertical on the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1987
    Assignee: Societe Nationale des Poudres et Explosifs
    Inventor: Jacques Chaussard
  • Patent number: 4683042
    Abstract: Separation of complex mixtures and solutions can be carried out using a method and apparatus for continuous annular electrochromatography. Solutes are diverted radially by an imposed electrical field as they move downward in a rotating chromatographic column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1987
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventor: Charles D. Scott
  • Patent number: 4680100
    Abstract: The present invention relates to electrodes having fibers which provide large surface areas, high bond strength between the core fibers and metallic coatings thereon, and efficient electrical connections; electro-chemical cells including such electrodes; and processes for forming and utilizing the electrodes and cells of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1987
    Assignee: American Cyanamid Company
    Inventor: Louis G. Morin
  • Patent number: 4676881
    Abstract: An electrocoating cell preferably for use in a rotary turret machine for electrocoating a container or the like in an upright orientation, wherein all requisite coating medium inlet connections and electrical connections to the cell, as well as both the inner and outer electrodes, are carried by a single vertically movable cell assembly, preferably the upper part of the cell, which cooperates with a relatively vertically stationary cell base that carries the upright container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1987
    Assignee: Aluminum Company of America
    Inventor: John J. Davidson
  • Patent number: 4675085
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for recovering metal from a metal-containing solution. The apparatus is comprised of a case containing an anode and a cathode in fixed, spaced relationship relative to each other, and a power supply operable to apply a voltage across the anode and cathode. The increase in voltage between said anode and cathode is continually monitored and compared to a reference voltage until the increase exceeds the reference voltage, at which point a solenoid valve is energized to open a drain and drain the metal-containing solution from the case. A pump is provided to constantly circulate the metal-containing solution from top to bottom in the case while the voltage is applied between the anode and cathode to mix the solution, facilitating the plating of the metal. Also provided is a hollow, spiral anode, the solution being circulated through the hollow anode and out through the walls of the anode toward the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1987
    Inventor: Adalberto Vasquez