Elements Patents (Class 204/279)
  • Patent number: 4591419
    Abstract: A protective barrier for alumina reduction cell cathodes is disclosed. This barrier layer comprises a layer of borosilicate glass which may optionally be surrounded by layers of alumina silicate glass. The barrier prevents cryolitic salts from attacking the reduction cell insulation, preventing degradation of the insulation and improving cell efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1985
    Date of Patent: May 27, 1986
    Assignee: Reynolds Metals Company
    Inventors: Jerris C. Moeller, Douglas V. Stewart, Alton T. Tabereaux
  • Patent number: 4589968
    Abstract: A filter press electrochemical cell with an improved fluid distribution system for even distribution of electrolyte between cell units when connected in parallel, and from side to side and across the thickness of reaction chambers in individual cells regardless of whether parallel or series flow connection is used. Each preferred cell unit comprises two electrodes and a fluid distributor plate having at least two first holes therein and channel portions including diverging walls connecting these holes with opposite sides of a central cell opening in each plate. Preferred configurations of the triangular-shaped channel opening thereby formed permit distribution of fluid without complicating barrier structures or other constrictions in the fluid path such as used in prior art cells. Preferred and alternate cell arrangements and configurations are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1984
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1986
    Assignee: Reilly Tar & Chemical Corp.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Toomey, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4585527
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell comprising an anode and cathode and a gasket of an electrically insulating composition in which the gasket is made of an electrically insulating composition which comprises a homogeneous mixture of an elastomeric polymer and at least 15%, and optionally up to 70%, of polytetrafluoroethylene by weight of the composition. Also a gasket suitable for use in an electrolytic cell, and a process of electrolysis which is operated in the electrolytic cell. Aqueous alkali metal chloride solution may be electrolysed in the electrolytic cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1986
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventors: Herbert S. Northway, Norman Tattam
  • Patent number: 4584080
    Abstract: In this electrolysis apparatus, the anode and the gas diffusion cathode are arranged to be separated from one another by means of a partition. At least one element (6) which has the form of a twin trough is located between two half-shells (1, 2) which are located at the ends and of which one carries an anode (4) and the second carries a cathode (5). This twin trough is formed by a common plate (7) and a lateral wall (8), the height of which is divided by the plate and the edges of which are provided with flanges (9, 10). The anode (4) and the cathode (5) are electrically conductively connected to the wall (8) and to struts (13) which protrude vertically from the plate on both sides. In order to form a cavity (16) between the partition (14) and the cathode (5), a sealing element is arranged between these two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1986
    Assignee: Hoechst Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Rudolf Staab, Kurt Hannesen
  • Patent number: 4581114
    Abstract: A generic, simple, economical method for making and assembling either a monopolar or bipolar filter press type electrochemical cell unit. The first feature is making a novel central cell element. This cell element is an integrally formed, unitary, cast structural element for filter press electrolysis cell which incorporates into a single cell unit the central barrier between the peripheral boundaries for the adjacent anolyte compartment and adjacent catholyte compartment of two electrolysis cells located on opposite sides of the central barrier. Also incorporated into the single cast structural element are anode bosses and cathode bosses extending outwardly from opposite sides of the central barrier. These bosses not only serve as mechanical support for their respective flat plate anode and cathode elements, but also they serve as stand-off means and electrical current collectors and dispersers from the cathode of one electrolysis cell to the anode of the next cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1985
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1986
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventors: Gregory J. E. Morris, Richard N. Beaver, Sandor Grosshandler, John R. Pimlott, Hiep D. Dang
  • Patent number: 4575409
    Abstract: Provided is a device useful for the uniform electrolysis of a metal sheet workpiece. It is especially useful for the laboratory scale testing of various methods of electrolytically etching aluminum. The device has a generally rectangular frame having non-electrically conducting walls capable of containing an electrolyte; at least one electrode; electrically conducting clamping means to rigidly hold a metal workpiece within the frame at a fixed distance from the electrode; means for circulating the electrolyte about the workpiece; and means for applying a current between the workpiece and electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: American Hoechst Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L. Dragon, Jr., Lawrence C. Grambo, John E. Walls
  • Patent number: 4568439
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell is described which has a spacing means positioned between the anode and cathode faces. The present spacing means comprises a plurality of longitudinally elongated, electrically non-conductive spacers fabricated of a chemically resistant material being inert to the conditions existing within an operating electrolytic cell. The present spacers are positioned on the face portion of a foraminous anode. The spacers are secured on the anode face by extention of a portion of the spacer through an opening in the anode and are secured at the back portion of the anode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: J. A. Webb, Inc.
    Inventor: Mathew G. Sobieniak
  • Patent number: 4568440
    Abstract: A bipolar electrolyzer is provided which includes a plurality of bipolar electrode sub-assemblies which position the electrodes in the cells in a manner such that improved electrical operating characteristics are achieved. Each bipolar electrode sub-assembly includes an alternating stack of electrically insulating spacer members and bipolar electrodes. Electrodes are horizontally received in a channel in the electrically insulating spacer members which fixes the spaced relationship between juxtapositioned anodes and cathodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: Eltech Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Robert C. Sutter, Russell M. Wiseman
  • Patent number: 4568434
    Abstract: Unitary, cast structural element for filter press electrolysis cell which incorporates into a single unit the central barrier between the peripheral boundaries for the adjacent anode compartment and adjacent cathode compartment of two electrolysis cells located on opposite sides of the central barrier. Also incorporated into the single cast structural element are anode component bosses and cathode component bosses extending outwardly from opposite sides of the central barrier. These bosses not only serve as mechanical support for their respective flat plate anode component and cathode component, but also they serve as stand-off means and electrical current collectors and dispersers from the cathode component of one electrolysis cell to the anode component of the next cell. Simplicity of design coupled with incorporation of many functional elements into one part eliminates many cell warpage problems, inherent high voltage problems and membrane "hot spot" problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventors: Gregory J. E. Morris, Richard N. Beaver, Sandor Grosshandler, John R. Pimlott, Hiep D. Dang
  • Patent number: 4561959
    Abstract: The invention relates to an ion exchange-type electrolytic cell with electrodes retained in close proximity to each other by means of a spring element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1985
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventor: John R. Pimlott
  • Patent number: 4560452
    Abstract: Unitary, cast structural element for filter press depolarized electrolysis cell which incorporates into a single unit the central barrier between the peripheral boundaries for the adjacent anode compartment and adjacent cathode compartment of two electrolysis cells located on opposite sides of the central barrier. At least one of such compartments also contains a gas chamber. An oxygen-containing gas may be fed into a depolarized cathode chamber or an hydrogen-containing gas may be fed into a depolarized anode chamber. Also incorporated into the single cast structural element are anode bosses and cathode bosses extending outwardly from opposite sides of the central barrier. These bosses not only serve as mechanical support for their respective flat plate anode and cathode, but also they serve as stand-off means and electrical current collectors and disperses from the cathode of one electrolysis cell to the anode of the next cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventors: Gregory J. E. Morris, Sandor Grosshandler, Richard N. Beaver, John R. Pimlott, Hiep D. Dang
  • Patent number: 4560464
    Abstract: A mask for precisely defining the area of a thin metal layer on a substrate to be deplated during measurement of the thickness of the thin metal layer utilizing a coulometric technique. The mask having an adhesive on one side for securing the mask to the thin metal layer and for preventing the leakage of electrolyte between the mask and the thin metal layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Inventor: Sidney Lieber
  • Patent number: 4560448
    Abstract: A method for rendering an aluminum electrowinning cell component fabricated from an aluminum nonwettable material wettable by molten aluminum, and therefore utilizable within the cell. Under the method, the component is coated with titanium and boron, and while the component is immersed in molten aluminum within the cell, the molten aluminum is maintained near saturation with boron and titanium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1985
    Assignee: ELTECH Systems Corporation
    Inventors: Ajit Y. Sane, Douglas J. Wheeler, Charles S. Kuivila
  • Patent number: 4545873
    Abstract: The rotating shaft is sealingly mounted in a wall of the vessel by a liquid-tight lip seal. In order to avoid undesired depositions on the seal the latter is made of electroconductive material and connected to the anode of a source of electricity the cathode of which is connected to a counter-electrode within the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1985
    Assignee: Ciba-Geigy AG
    Inventors: Colin C. Blake, Paul A. Bacon
  • Patent number: 4541911
    Abstract: A method of assembling an electrolytic cell of the filter press type comprising a plurality of anodes, cathodes, gaskets of an electrically insulating material, and separators, in which the electrolytic cell is assembled on a jig comprising a support unit having removably affixed thereto a plurality of substantially horizontally disposed support members positioned to at least one side of said unit, and preferably to both sides of said unit, the method comprising positioning anodes, cathodes and gaskets on said horizontally disposed support members with a separator positioned between an adjacent anode and cathode, removing the support unit, and compressing the thus formed assembly of anodes, cathodes, gaskets and separators on the horizontally disposed support members to form the electrolytic cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1985
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries plc
    Inventors: Paul E. A. Burgess, Colin Brereton
  • Patent number: 4537671
    Abstract: A fused salt reduction cell for producing aluminum comprises a cathode pot having an outer steel shell supported on or by metal structural parts, a thermally insulating layer and an inner lining which is of carbon, is electrically conductive and is resistant to attack by the molten aluminum and the electrolyte.In the region of the electrolyte there is a layer which runs horizontally around the cell dividing the carbon lining into a lower part and an upper part. This layer is of a material which is resistant to the electrolyte at temperatures up to 1000.degree. C. and has a much lower shear strength than that of the carbon lining.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: Swiss Aluminium Ltd.
    Inventors: Max Zollinger, Raoul Jemec
  • Patent number: 4537672
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell comprising a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes, and a hydraulically impermeable cation-exchange membrane and a gasket of an electrically insulating material positioned between each adjacent anode and cathode to form in the cell a plurality of separate anode and cathode compartments, in which either(a) the cation-exchange membrane is in contact with the anode at least around the periphery of the anode and the gasket is positioned between the membrane and the cathode and abuts onto that part of the membrane which is in contact with the periphery of the anode, or(b) the cation-exchange membrane is in contact with the cathode at least around the periphery of the cathode and the gasket is positioned between the membrane and the anode and abuts onto that part of the membrane which is in contact with the periphery of the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1985
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries, PLC
    Inventor: Colin Brereton
  • Patent number: 4534835
    Abstract: Component of electrowinning or electrorefining cell, which component in use is normally in contact with molten aluminum or in electrical contact with another component which is in contact with molten aluminum. Surface and/or inner portion of component is made of ceramic body formed by reaction sintering at pressures ranging from subatmospheric to superatmospheric of reactants, which can be elements, compounds, intermetallic compounds and/or alloys, in stoichiometric proportions to substantially from 5-95 mole percent of first phase or phases being boride, carbide, silicide, and/or sulfide of one or more of the elements of Groups 4b, 5b and 6b, which phases have a maximum grain size substantially not greater than 10 .mu.m. and which body contains 0 to 4 weight percent oxygen. Also production cell, and method of producing aluminum in such cell, with the reaction sintered ceramic component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1985
    Assignee: Corning Glass Works
    Inventor: Thomas P. DeAngelis
  • Patent number: 4533455
    Abstract: Shunt currents which flow between the electrodes of adjacent cells through the moving conductive fluid and the fluid pool in the manifold of a bipolar cell assembly are minimized by introducing the conductive fluid at the top of an elongated outlet manifold. This results in cascaded flow which interrupts the current path. Shunt currents between the fluid manifold walls of the conductive bipolar elements in the series connected electrochemical cell assemblies are minimized by insulating the manifold walls with insulating, elastomeric sealing grommets. This prevents current flow between the manifold walls through the electrically conductive fluid in the manifold and provides an edgeseal between bipolar plates.The instant invention relates to a process and apparatus for electrochemical cell assemblies and more particularly, for reducing shunt current in series connected bipolar assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1984
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1985
    Assignee: Oronzio de Nora Impianti Elettrochimici S.p.A.
    Inventors: Edward N. Balko, Lawrence C. Moulthrop
  • Patent number: 4529493
    Abstract: An apparatus for the electrolytic drilling of precision holes into a work piece surface which extends at an acute angle to the drilling direction, has one tubular electrode for each hole to be drilled. Each electrode directs an electrolyte stream in the desired direction. In order to assure a proper drilling and to protect the work piece outside the holes to be drilled, a covering body is located to cover the work piece surface through which the holes are to be drilled. The covering body has a surface which closely hugs or forms an interface with the work piece surface, and another surface which extends perpendicularly to the drilling direction so that the drilling begins through the covering body which then forms a guide for the electrode and for the return flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1984
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1985
    Assignee: MTU Motoren-und Turbinen-Union Muenchen GmbH
    Inventor: Konrad Rager
  • Patent number: 4526669
    Abstract: A cathodic element for a Hall-Heroult aluminum reduction cell is formed from a refractory hard metal, preferably TiB.sub.2, in a generally mushroom-shaped configuration. The element is economical of raw materials and has improved thermal endurance when compared to a right cylinder or other element of uniform cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1985
    Assignee: Great Lakes Carbon Corporation
    Inventors: Louis A. Joo, Kenneth W. Tucker, Scott D. Webb
  • Patent number: 4522699
    Abstract: The indicator terminal for a coulometric measuring device includes a terminal body with a conically shaped inner space that is coaxial with a tubular nozzle situated in the terminal body. The inner space intersects with a contact mouth formed as a cylindrical recess at a base end portion of the terminal body. A measuring edge of the contact mouth is defined at the base end of the terminal body. The tubular nozzle has a terminus at a predetermined distance before the base end of the terminal body near the contact mouth. Centering and supporting means for the tubular nozzle include three ribs that project across the inner space to engage the periphery of the tubular nozzle and extend along the nozzle in helical fashion so as to be nonparallel with the axis of the nozzle. A reinforcement in the terminal body helps prevent distortion of the contact mouth when the terminal is pressed against a metallic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1985
    Assignee: Statni Vyzkumny Ustav Ochrany Materialu G.V.
    Inventors: Vaclav Novak, Jaroslav Prusek, Vaclav Trojan
  • Patent number: 4521289
    Abstract: Method and apparatus of installation of a membrane to a finger type electrolytic cell are provided, which comprise covering the horizontal surfaces of a cathode not opposing an anode with a membrane installation frame having a collar, positioning the membrane substantially parallel to the vertical surfaces of the cathode, and installing and securing the membrane to the collar by bolting. Not only is operation efficiency for the membrane installation to the electrolytic cell markedly improved, but also, in the case of an ion exchange membrane, an alkali metal hydroxide liquor hardly containing an alkali metal chloride is produced. According to the invention, a conventional asbestos diaphragm finger type electrolytic cell is advantageously converted to an ion exchange membrane electrolytic cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1981
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1985
    Assignee: Kanegafuchi Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tokuzo Iijima, Toshiharu Yamamoto, Kazuo Kishimoto, Takamichi Komabashiri, Toshiji Kano, Akinori Hisanaga
  • Patent number: 4514268
    Abstract: Component of electrowinning or electrorefining cell, which component in use is normally in contact with molten aluminum or in electrical contact with another component which is in contact with molten aluminum. Surface and/or inner portion of component is made of cermet body formed by reaction sintering at pressures ranging from subatmospheric to superatmospheric of reactants, which can be elements, compounds, intermetallic compounds and/or alloys, in stoichiometric proportions to substantially form 30-95 mole percent of first phase or phases being boride, carbide, nitride, silicide, sulfide or combination thereof of one or more of the elements of Groups 4b, 5b and 6b, and 5-70 mole percent of second phase or phases being aluminum, alloy or intermetallic compound thereof, or combination thereof; and the maximum grain size of the first phase or phases is substantially not greater than 10 .mu.m. Also production cell, and method of producing aluminum in such cell, with the reaction sintered cermet component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1985
    Assignee: Corning Glass Works
    Inventor: Thomas P. DeAngelis
  • Patent number: 4514273
    Abstract: An apparatus for stimulating removal of electrolytic energy from fluids, including a probe-like member incorporating a tube of length for extending into the hot water heater or other vessel, a mounting member provided at one end of the tube for securing with the vessel, the tube being formed of conductive material, and a rod secured onto the surface of the tube, extending longitudinally thereof, preferably in a helical pattern, and with both said rod and tube being formed of conductive material for eliminating electrostatic or electrolytic charge from the water within the vessel; a modification incorporates a tube having a pair of spacers provided proximate each end, for elevating the tube from any surface upon which it rests, the spacers being of nonconductive material, the tube being of conductive material, and having a sleeve provided at one end so that a series of said tubes can be secured together for extension of the conductive member in dependence upon the size of the water handling equipment being tre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1985
    Assignee: Scale Free Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Leonard L. Vollman
  • Patent number: 4512854
    Abstract: A process for electroplating a printed circuit board utilizing an improved masking tape for partially covering the surfaces of the circuit board is provided. The masking tape comprises a foil-like carrier and a coating consisting of an adhesive material applied to one side of the foil-like carrier. At least one electrical conductor is arranged on the coating of the masking tape and forms a unit therewith. The electrical conductor connects the surfaces to be electroplated of the printed circuit board with one another and with a frame carried by the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1985
    Assignee: Beiersdorf AG
    Inventor: Klaus Grah
  • Patent number: 4510033
    Abstract: Apparatus for removing frozen electrolyte bath from surface portions of an electrode body, the apparatus having crust breakers adapted to penetrate and fracture the crust which breaks into discrete pieces and which separates from the body. The crust breakers are attached to a frame through a linkage system which is adapted to move the breakers along a line of travel substantially adjacent to the salt encrusted surfaces of the body. With application of sufficient power to the crust breakers to penetrate and fracture the crust, substantially all of the crust is removed from the electrode body with minimal generation of dust and noise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1985
    Assignee: Aluminum Company of America
    Inventors: Robert J. Martin, Lawrence W. Cisko, Bernard C. Turley
  • Patent number: 4500401
    Abstract: A compressed air-powered retractor for an inert anode in a Hall-Heroult cell is actuated after power interruption by a time delayed solenoid actuating a valve controlling the air supply to a cylinder connected to the anode support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1985
    Assignee: Great Lakes Carbon Corporation
    Inventors: James M. Clark, Duane R. Secrist, Scotty L. Hardin, Stephen C. McEntyre
  • Patent number: 4493759
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell, and a gasket therefor, the cell comprising at least one anode and at least one cathode and a separator positioned between an anode and adjacent cathode and dividing the cell into separate anode and cathode compartments, the gasket comprising a plurality of projections and recesses on or in a surface thereof, and preferably on or in both surfaces thereof, adapted to cooperate with corresponding recesses and projections in or on a surface of an anode or cathode or a gasket adjacent thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1985
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventors: Thomas W. Boulton, Brian J. Derwent
  • Patent number: 4490231
    Abstract: A filter-press electrolytic cell comprising a plurality of metallic anode plates, metallic cathode plates, frame-like gaskets of an electrically insulating material, and hydraulically impermeable cation-exchange membranes, the anode plates, cathode plates and gaskets having four openings therein which in the cell form four compartments lengthwise of the cell from which liquors may be charged to the products of electrolysis may be removed from the anode and cathode compartments of the cell, at least some of the openings in the anode and cathode plates having electrically insulating frame-like members therein, which may be integral with the gaskets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1984
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventor: Thomas W. Boulton
  • Patent number: 4488946
    Abstract: Unitary, cast structural element for filter press electrolysis cell which incorporates into a single unit the central barrier between the peripheral boundaries for the adjacent anolyte compartment and adjacent catholyte compartment of two electrolysis cells located on opposite sides of the central barrier. Also incorporated into the single cast structural element are anode bosses and cathode bosses extending outwardly from opposite sides of the central barrier. These bosses not only serve as mechanical support for their respective flat plate anode and cathode, but also they serve as stand-off means and electrical current collectors and disperses from the cathode of one electrolysis cell to the anode of the next cell. Simplicity of design coupled with incorporation of many functional elements into one part eliminates many cell warpage problems, inherent high voltage problems and membrane "hot spot" problems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1984
    Assignee: The Dow Chemical Company
    Inventors: Gregory J. E. Morris, Richard N. Beaver, Sandor Grosshandler, Hiep D. Dang, John R. Pimlott
  • Patent number: 4488955
    Abstract: A subcathodic shield for use with Hall-Heroult electrolysis cells. The shield, which is located below the carbonaceous blocks which make up the cathode, and above the cell housing, comprises at least one continuous steel sheet at least 5 mm thick extending substantially over the total area between the base of the cathode and the base of the housing, and which has at least one deformable zone for absorbing thermal stresses caused by differences in temperatures between the shield section situated below the central area of the cathode and the shield section situated below the peripheral areas of the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1984
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1984
    Assignee: Aluminium Pechiney
    Inventors: Yves Bertaud, Michel Leroy
  • Patent number: 4484998
    Abstract: An electrolytic cell of the filter press type comprising a plurality of anodes and cathodes arranged in an alternating manner,a separator positioned between each adjacent anode and cathode to form in the cell a plurality of anode and cathode compartments, anda header for electrolyte which header is connected by means of passageways to each of the anode compartments of the electrolytic cell,in which each passageway comprises a device which is so shaped that in use it creates a vortex flow in the electrolyte flowing from the header to the anode compartments of the cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1983
    Date of Patent: November 27, 1984
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventor: Morris N. Nevin
  • Patent number: 4479854
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for conveying and stripping electro-deposited metal sheets from cathode plates. A plurality of stations including a feed station, initial horizontal parting station, main vertical stripping station, replacement station, and discharge station are sequentially arranged within the stripping apparatus and cathode plates having metal sheet deposits thereon are conveyed through the apparatus by means of a reciprocating transfer carriage in combination with supporting slide bars and indexing means.Metal sheet deposits are stripped in a fast, simple and efficient manner by using closed entry horizontal knives to effect initial parting of each deposit and vertical stripping knives to remove the deposits from the two sides of the cathode plate without clamping of the cathode plate while controlling cathode plate sway. Liberated metal sheets are quickly removed from the apparatus and stripped cathode plates are conveyed from the apparatus at a discharge station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1984
    Assignee: Cominco Ltd.
    Inventors: Robert D. H. Willans, Edward G. Baggio, Harold K. Harper, Eric L. Mawer, Robert E. Manwell, George H. Reeves
  • Patent number: 4479863
    Abstract: An insulator for supporting a spooled electrode contact bar and head bars of removable, alternating cathodes and anodes in an electrolytic cell. The insulator comprises an elongated body formed of a synthetic material having a longitudinal outwardly and downwardly sloping upper surface extending from a center line to the side edges of the body, a row of equi-spaced shoulders formed longitudinally on each upper surface adjacent to the said center line offset relative to each other, each row of shoulders having a transverse channel formed between each pair of adjacent shoulders for draining liquid towards a side edge of the body, a longitudinal V-shaped groove formed between the two rows of shoulders for supporting the spooled electrode contact bar between the rows of shoulders and a cavity formed in each upper surface opposite each shoulder between the shoulder and the respective edge of the body for receiving an insulating block therein for supporting one end of the electrode head bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1984
    Date of Patent: October 30, 1984
    Assignee: Cominco Ltd.
    Inventors: Ronald N. Honey, Robert E. Manwell, Clifford J. Krauss, Douwe Ybema
  • Patent number: 4476001
    Abstract: Device for attachment to the overflow line of an electrolytic cell, for collection of alkaline cell liquor and for concurrent interruption of electrical current flow from cell in such liquor. The device consists of a closed container having a liquor inlet in the top portion of the container and outlet in the bottom portion, with the container being divided internally by a horizontal perforated plate, for separating the incoming liquor flow stream into a multiplicity of streamlets or droplets. The device is fabricated from a non-metallic, transparent material that is resistant to the hot alkaline cell liquor, preferably polymethylpentene plastic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1983
    Date of Patent: October 9, 1984
    Assignees: Nova Rubber Co., FMC Corporation
    Inventors: J. Barrett McDonald, Terry V. Fontalbert
  • Patent number: 4470896
    Abstract: A distributor for dielectric liquid adapted for positioning in the irrigation or degasing round holes of machining electrodes having a body either shaped to obturate the opening or square shaped so as to leave free spaces between it and the walls of the holes. In both versions the body has an axial channel and in the first at least one slot communicating with the channel is provided with the slitted end in the working zone of the electrode. The second embodiment, useful in small electrodes, has a square body whose diagonal length is equal to the diameter of the opening in which it is to be force-fitted with the distribution of dielectric taking place through spaces left between the body and the walls of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 11, 1984
    Assignee: Le Carbone Lorraine
    Inventor: Jean Petitimbert
  • Patent number: 4469578
    Abstract: An improved three-piece polymeric hydrogen vent assembly for use on chlor-alkali diaphragm cells comprises an elongated tube containing a standpipe and an inverted cup which separates the standpipe from the tube. The cup has a plurality of openings in its base portion and a manometer fitting in its top. The entire three-piece assembly is fabricated from a polymeric material, preferably polypropylene, and can be conveniently molded in a one-piece unit. Each individual component of the assembly can be separately cut from the single molded unit and assembled.The hydrogen vent assembly is primarily useful as a replacement for existing steel components and has the advantages of being less corrosive than carbon steel, easier to install, and safer in operation since it has a reduced risk of overflow during cell start-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1983
    Date of Patent: September 4, 1984
    Inventor: Mathew G. Sobieniak
  • Patent number: 4468290
    Abstract: An improved apparatus for attaching a record matrix to be replicated by electroforming to the cathode of an electroforming device is provided. The apparatus includes a positioning pin which maintains the record matrix center hole concentric to the cathode and to the replicated grooves and a lock knob which effectively holds the center portion of the record matrix in liquid-tight electrical contact with the cathode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1983
    Date of Patent: August 28, 1984
    Assignee: RCA Corporation
    Inventor: Charles A. Weaver
  • Patent number: 4465579
    Abstract: A bipolar electrolytic cell has a plurality of unit cells electrically aligned in series, each of the unit cells being divided into an anode chamber and a cathode chamber by an ion-exchange membrane, and each of the anode and cathode chambers having a supply pipe and a discharge pipe which are respectively connected at one end to common headers. The other end of each of the supply or discharge pipes in the anode or cathode chambers is inserted deep into the respective electrode chamber so that at least 50% of the electrical resistance of the liquid in each pipe exists in the electrode chamber, and the wall of the inserted portion of each pipe electrically insulates the liquid in the pipe from a liquid in the electrode chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: August 14, 1984
    Assignee: Tokuyama Soda Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Sinichiro Mataga, Makoto Takenaka
  • Patent number: 4455209
    Abstract: An electrode frame for the electrolytic recovery or purification of metals comprises four frame arms (1-4). It serves to tension a filter cloth arranged on both sides of the frame plane between which the interior (5) of the frame is enclosed. In order to keep constant the tension of the filter cloths, at least one (4) of the arms (1-4) is flanked by a pressure bar (6) which extends essentially parallel thereto, is spaced therefrom and is charged with spring pressure in a direction (7) leading away from the frame interior (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 19, 1984
    Assignee: J V Kunststoffwerk GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred P. Hermann
  • Patent number: 4451347
    Abstract: This invention relates to a filter press type electrolyzer for water comprising pressure-resistant decomposing cells, each of which contains an electrolyte chamber, which is divided by a diaphragm into two electrode compartments. The decomposing cells are enclosed on the outside by cell frames, which are electrically insulated from each other by an interposed sealing ring. On the sides, each cell is separated from the adjacent cells by metallic cell-separating partitions. At least three ducts extend through the cells and respectively serve to supply electrolyte and to discharge hydrogen and oxygen. Each duct is composed of sections. The sections of the ducts consist of sleeves, which are resistant to the operating conditions and insulated from each other and extend through openings in the cell-separating partitions. These openings are lined with metal rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Assignee: Metallgesellschaft Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Heinz Wullenweber
  • Patent number: 4451346
    Abstract: A novel commercial chlor-alkali electrolytic cell which has a pack of less than about 50 interleaved parallel planar electrode frames and substantially horizontal conductor rods. The pack is at least half and preferably twice as tall as it is thick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 29, 1984
    Assignee: Olin Corporation
    Inventor: Morton S. Kircher
  • Patent number: 4447307
    Abstract: An electrowinning cell has anodes shielded by an electrical-flux-impervious, electrically non-conductive material which protectively covers each of the anode suspension members and adjoining upper margins of the main body of the anodes. At least one electrical-flux-pervious opening of proper shape, size, and appropriate position to permit sufficient current flux to flow to an associated cathode to induce a uniform current distribution on the upper portions of the cathode is provided for each suspension member. The resulting uniform current distribution insures deposition of highly pure metal values of uniform thickness without the usual undesirable extraneous formations on the top edge of the electrowon metal cathode. The shielding material may be applied to an anode before attachment to its hangerbar for suspension in an electrowinning cell or may be applied to an anode which is already in service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1982
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1984
    Inventors: Larry A. Davis, Gregory H. Boyce, Timothy P. Mulloy, Neil J. Nebeker, Elmer C. Newman, Donald J. Quinn, David L. Adamson
  • Patent number: 4447308
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for brushing electrodes such as cathodes used in the electrowinning of zinc and copper wherein opposite surfaces of laterally moving electrodes are cleaned in the area of solution lines with a first pair of stationary, opposed, rotating auxiliary brushes and immediately thereafter the opposite surfaces of stationary electrodes are cleaned below the solution line and between edge sticks with a second pair of vertically moving, opposed, rotating main brushes. The main brushes are pivotally mounted on a pair of vertically-reciprocal carriages having means to center an electrode therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1983
    Date of Patent: May 8, 1984
    Assignee: Cominco Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert D. H. Willans
  • Patent number: 4444639
    Abstract: An electrolyzer is provided which includes at least one set of closely spaced electrode assemblies consisting of a flat anode and a flat cathode separated by a membrane permeable to ions. One side of the electrode assembly is supported by a rigid pressure plate while a flexible pressure plate disposed along the opposite side of the electrode assembly biased the anode and cathode towards each other. The flexible pressure plate includes a flat portion having contact pads struck and formed therefrom. The contact pads are sized to cover from 30 to 70% of the overall plate surface and include portions which are plane-parallel to the flat portion. The contact pads bent to one side are designed to be vertical on a longitudinal axis after mounting of the flexible pressure plate in an electrolyzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1982
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1984
    Assignee: UHDE GmbH
    Inventors: Helmuth Schurig, Helmut Schmitt
  • Patent number: 4444646
    Abstract: An improved membrane cap assembly is provided for polaragraphic oxygen sensors in which a preassembled cap is provided with a membrane mounted for receiving the electrodes thereagainst when the assembly is mounted on the sensor body in such a way that the secured portions of the membrane may slide or move in the secured state to accommodate or receive the electrodes. This has the effect of preventing destructive tension forces against the fragile membrane. Also, because of this arrangement, a more effective quantity of electrolyte is retained by the membrane adjacent the electrodes. This, in turn, has the effect of increasing the life of the assembly prior to electrolyte depolarization, and reducing the times necessary to dismantle and replace the assembly with a new cap, and a fresh quantity of electrolyte.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1984
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Louis G. Metzger, Albert H. Brand
  • Patent number: 4443314
    Abstract: An improved anode assembly for an aluminum electrolysis cell is formed by the process of shaping an anode 10 and a cermet connector 12 from powders, machining said articles, and sintering said articles. The cermet connector mates with the anode via a threaded joint located at its region of high temperature 14 during operation thereof to avoid excessive ohmic losses. Mechanical support can be provided by the threaded joint or through the use of separate mechanical suspension bars 22.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1983
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Assignee: Great Lakes Carbon Corporation
    Inventors: Duane R. Secrist, James M. Clark, Henry E. Grindstaff
  • Patent number: 4443315
    Abstract: A finger type electrolytic cell providing a cation exchange membrane for electrolysing an aqueous alkali metal chloride solution is disclosed. The cell is comprised of a cell top cover whose surface is coated with a chlorine-resistant material containing no polymetallic ions, and further a blanket which is made of or covered with said material, so that no hindrance resulting from polymetallic ions occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1981
    Date of Patent: April 17, 1984
    Assignee: Kanegafuchi Kagaku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tokuzo Iijima, Yasushi Samejima, Toshiji Kano
  • Patent number: 4441977
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrolytic cell which is comprised of a first frame member housing an electrode and a second frame member housing an electrode. A separator is positioned between the first frame member and the second frame member. A first sealing means contacts a side of the first frame member and one side of the separator. Contacting the second frame member is a second sealing means having a raised portion which also contacts a side of the separator. Pressing means are provided which press the frames together against the sealing means and the separator to form a substantially fluid-tight seal. The novel electrolytic cells provide the advantages of simultaneously:a. controlling gasket compression pressures,b. controlling gasket frame surface structural forces,c. efficiently forming a seal, andd. preventing gasket slippage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1984
    Assignee: Olin Corporation
    Inventor: James M. Ford