Float Type Patents (Class 210/119)
  • Patent number: 11731063
    Abstract: A fuel filter element has a screen fabric as a filter medium and a support tube supporting the screen fabric. A valve body guide for guiding a spherical valve body is provided. The valve body guide has a fluid channel and one or more support ribs for supporting the spherical valve body. The support ribs extend along a longitudinal direction of the fluid channel and project radially into the fluid channel. A filter assembly with such a fuel filter element is provided. The filter assembly has a ball valve with spherical valve body and a filter housing with a valve seat for the spherical valve body of the ball valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: MANN+HUMMEL GmbH
    Inventors: Christine Oprisch, Martin Weindorf, Martin Veit, Felix Lippert
  • Patent number: 11471803
    Abstract: A fuel water separator filter is configured as a filter-in-filter construction with multiple water separating layers to separate water from the fuel. The fuel water separator filter is configured for use on a suction side of a fuel pump, and includes a neck with a radially outward facing seal that in use seals with the filter housing. The filter housing is formed with an isolated water sump that in use is isolated from water that is stripped from the fuel by the first stage of the outer filter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: CUMMINS FILTRATION IP, INC.
    Inventors: Zemin Jiang, Amit Shashikant Wankhede, Sonali Dattatraya Bisurkar, Jayant Singh, Melvin Rice, Manikandan Annamalai
  • Patent number: 11287051
    Abstract: A float valve for controlling a liquid level includes a valve main body which forms a throughflow duct, a valve narrowing which is formed by the throughflow duct, and a float mounted above the valve narrowing as a valve element. The valve element is freely movable, closes the valve narrowing via its weight, and is lifted from a valve closing position via a liquid. The float has a low center of gravity so that the float always rights itself to a standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: FROETEK VERMOEGENSVERWALTUNG GMBH
    Inventor: Harald Schrumpf
  • Patent number: 10948929
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a utility isolation system designed for residential, commercial and industrial usage. The system comprises a bidirectional valve connected to a sewer line which valve responds to a change in the level of a body of water. The system prevents high water levels from entering municipality's sewer infrastructure systems. The isolation system monitors levels of a body of water and also prevents releases from hazardous sewer waste entering rivers, lakes, and coastal waterways. The isolation system provides protections from waste water back flowing into homes and buildings, and causing electrical shorts, or natural gas releases, and blocks potable water lines from filling plumbing devices with open drains such as lavatories and toilets during a high water level event. The system can be remotely activated and monitored by a user, a government office, or service provider via SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) or like system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Utility Isolation Systems LLC
    Inventor: David A. Pierce
  • Patent number: 10682593
    Abstract: A water filter cartridge has an end cap with inlet and outlet nozzles extending from the end cap. A lateral support extends laterally from at least one of the nozzles. A projection extends from the lateral support toward a receiving manifold to cooperate with the manifold during use. The lateral support is offset from the end cap so the projection is vertically offset from an end of the cartridge and laterally offset from and supported from the nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Inventor: Michael T. Baird
  • Patent number: 10563368
    Abstract: A pumping system is provided. The pumping system includes at least one elongated tubing. The elongated tubing includes a first end forming an entrance and a second end forming an exit. A pump discharge tubing is disposed within the elongated tubing and runs from the first end to the second end of the elongated tubing. A pump is coupled to the pump discharge tubing and is operable to pump liquids through the pump discharge tubing. A seal plate is releasably secured to a flange formed at the exit of the elongated tubing. The pump discharge tubing snuggly runs through an opening formed through the seal plate and releasably secures to a manifold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2020
    Inventor: George E. Ley, III
  • Patent number: 9540269
    Abstract: A manifold bracket assembly has a bracket body and multiple filter heads. The filter heads are mounted on the bracket body, and each filter head has an outer casing, a filter connector, two keyed tabs and two tab fasteners. The filter connector and the keyed tabs are securely mounted in the outer casing by the tab fasteners. The filter connector has multiple hose connectors. The keyed tabs are mounted respectively in two tab holes in the filter connector, and each keyed tab has a key block formed on the inner surface of the keyed tab. Accordingly, the filter heads can be easily and conveniently connected with each other by hoses connected to the hose connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2017
    Assignee: Maxtec Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Shih-Ping Lee
  • Patent number: 9150487
    Abstract: Provided is a simple filtering operation method capable of conducting a filtering operation without clogging in a ceramic filter for a long period of time, in the operation of filtering fine crystals of terephthalic acid in an oxidation reaction mother liquor obtained in a process of terephthalic acid production by a cross-flow filtration using the ceramic filter. The present invention can be accomplished by conducting an operation for filtering the fine crystals and a back washing operation with a filtrate while maintaining a flowing circulation operation of the oxidation reaction mother liquor under predetermined conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI GAS CHEMICAL COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Fumiya Zaima, Nirou Hoshishima, Kazutoshi Uozumi, Hideaki Fujita
  • Patent number: 8512565
    Abstract: A solid-liquid separator prevents wear of a self-priming liquid pump connected to a cyclone mechanism and a solid-liquid mixture can be purified at low cost. The separator separates sludge in the liquid by a cyclone in a separation portion directly or indirectly connected to a suction of the upstream side of the pump. The separation portion has a first and second cyclones with the first cyclone disposed in said second cyclone coaxially. A tank disposed under the cyclones collects separated from the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: World Chemical Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Yoji Mori, Yoji Karasawa, Yasuichi Haga, Koji Sakamoto
  • Publication number: 20130180929
    Abstract: A stormwater filtration system includes one of a filter cartridge structure or a filter basket structure. The structure includes an internal collection space surrounded by a filter media bed, an outlet opening toward the bottom of the internal collection space for delivering water out of the structure, and a valve assembly associated with the outlet opening. The valve assembly is configured to provide a variable flow out of the outlet opening according to level of water within the internal collection space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Gregory T. Kowalsky, Adam A. Stevens
  • Patent number: 8333082
    Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Joe D. Robinson
  • Patent number: 8199491
    Abstract: A drainage system is provided for draining liquid accidentally spilled on a casing having a plurality of pushbuttons on a surface of the casing. An electronic apparatus may comprise a casing and a drainage system. The drainage system may be connected with the casing. The drainage system may include a liquid collecting basin, a drainage exit, and a liquid passageway. The liquid passageway may have a capillary surface and may lead the liquid from the liquid collecting basin to the drainage exit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Lenovo (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiharu Uchiyama, Akinori Uchino, Tsutomu Chonan, Hiroyuki Noguchi, Kimio Kumada
  • Patent number: 8166998
    Abstract: A valve assembly for reducing water loss from a leak from a water device. The valve assembly includes a first passage through which water flows from a water source to the water device and a second passage through which water flows from the water device. A first valve is in fluid communication with the first passage and the second passage. The first valve is operable for obstructing the first passage in response to a change in pressure differential between water in the first passage and water in the second passage resulting from a leak of water from the water device. The valve assembly also includes a second valve in fluid communication with the first passage. The second valve is responsive to the obstruction of the first passage to close the first passage and thereby stop water from flowing from the water source to the water device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Assignee: Pollectric International Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Peter Clappison
  • Publication number: 20120085688
    Abstract: A grinder pump basin system is provided which includes a basin; a cover plate; a bracket secured to the cover plate; and a grinder pump with cutter plate with openings and a cutter blade secured to the bracket above a bottom surface of the basin. The bracket includes a front portion, which prevents waste water from interacting adversely with the grinder pump when it enters the basin. A discharge system for the grinder pump is secured to an outlet of the grinder pump and includes a discharge pipe and a flexible discharge coupling. Flow directional jets are also provided in an elbow of the pump discharge system to direct waste water and solids away from the grinder pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Applicant: ZOELLER PUMP COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: William L. Schmidt, David R. Gilbert, Bryan S. Schilling, Charles P. Carroll
  • Patent number: 7976701
    Abstract: To provide a drain trap which makes it possible to easily clean the interior of a main body and accurately seal a junction between storage space and discharge space partitioned by a partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Kondoh-FRP Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shingo Nishimoto, Taro Kondoh
  • Patent number: 7867387
    Abstract: A “no filter, no run” filtration system that is designed to verify that a filter cartridge is present to safe-guard against damage to fuel injectors, associated fuel components, etc. and engine malfunctions. Fuel flow to the engine is prevented altogether or permitted in an amount insufficient to allow engine operation if a filter cartridge is not installed, and an appropriately designed filter cartridge is required to be used in order to permit sufficient fuel flow for engine operation. In one embodiment, a flow restriction valve is provided that includes a ball.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Cummins Filtration IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Zemin Jiang, Wassem Abdalla, Jeffrey B. Sharp, Hendrik Amirkhanian, Jeff Husband, Abby True-Dahl
  • Publication number: 20100264088
    Abstract: A device is disclosed for the separation of liquid-liquid phase and/or a liquid-gas phase where one or more of the phases is suspended in water and has a bubble/drop/particle size in the sub micron and micron range, and/or fine particular organic or inorganic material is present in one or more of the phases. There is also disclosed a method and use for the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: SORBWATER TECHNOLOGY AS
    Inventor: Atle Mundheim Yilikangas
  • Publication number: 20100108583
    Abstract: An installation kit for an alkaline water ionizer unit or reverse osmosis unit may comprise a valve having two separate flow paths. The first flow path provides tap water to the alkaline water ionizer unit or the reverse osmosis unit. The second flow path connects to a “by-product” water outlet of the alkaline water ionizer unit or the reverse osmosis unit. The “by-product” water may be drained to the kitchen sink or stored in a storage tank for later use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Publication date: May 6, 2010
    Inventor: Jalil I. Badran
  • Publication number: 20100000917
    Abstract: A septic system can include an improved and more reliable apparatus for distributing effluent uniformly to a plurality of portions or fingers of a drain field. In such apparatus, an effluent container, or collection tank, is connected with the outlet of a septic tank, and an effluent-operated valve controls effluent flow from an outlet of the effluent container, or collection tank, to an effluent distribution tank which is connected to a plurality of portions, or fingers, of a sewage drain field to uniformly distribute the effluent from the septic tank to the drain field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 29, 2009
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventor: Neal Zook
  • Patent number: 7640759
    Abstract: An air conditioning system condensate collection pan or water leak containment pan electrical control switch includes a housing or frame for supporting a switch unit which includes an elongated actuator arm. The housing includes a slot disposed adjacent a distal end of the actuator arm for receiving a water soluble tablet engageable with the actuator arm to bias the arm into a predetermined position of the switch. Abnormal accumulation of condensate or leaking water dissolves the tablet and allows the actuator arm to move to a position to effect actuation of the switch. The switch may be connected to a control unit, a thermostat and/or to an alarm generator including a self-contained unit having battery powered audio and/or visual alarm devices, an on-off switch and a circuit test switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Joe D. Robinson
  • Publication number: 20090152204
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cyclone type liquid/gas or liquid/liquid separator having separation properties that are stabilized, even when the flow rate and the proportions of the liquid phases for separation vary, by means of a platform situated in the low portion of a cylindrical separation chamber that is fed at its top end via a tangential feed orifice. The present invention also provides an installation and a method of separating the oil and water contained in crude oil, with the help of a cyclone of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: SAIPEM S.A.
    Inventors: Paul Chantrel, Marc Bonnissel
  • Publication number: 20090020465
    Abstract: A “no filter, no run” filtration system that is designed to verify that a filter cartridge is present to safe-guard against damage to fuel injectors, associated fuel components, etc. and engine malfunctions. Fuel flow to the engine is prevented altogether or permitted in an amount insufficient to allow engine operation if a filter cartridge is not installed, and an appropriately designed filter cartridge is required to be used in order to permit sufficient fuel flow for engine operation. In one embodiment, a flow restriction valve is provided that includes a ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: CUMMINS FILTRATION IP, INC.
    Inventors: Zemin JIANG, Wassem ABDALLA, Jeffrey B. SHARP, Hendrik AMIRKHANIAN, Jeff HUSBAND, Abby TRUE-DAHL
  • Publication number: 20080251434
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a manually operable device for purifying water, comprising a water container for receiving and holding an amount of non-purified water, comprising a bottom and side walls and adapted to receive a manually operable piston-type filter assembly, said filter assembly comprising filtering means for filtering said non-purified water, wherein said filter assembly is adapted to be manually forced towards the bottom of the said container, thereby allowing non-purified water to pass through the said filtering means thereby purifying the water. With the device according to the invention a low-cost water purifier is provided which can be used to provide an improved drinking water quality under primitive (outdoor) conditions, wherein no water pressure and/or electricity is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2006
    Publication date: October 16, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Johan Marra
  • Publication number: 20080128339
    Abstract: An apparatus for a variable volume drain field for onsite wastewater renovation. The system includes at least one module having a weir-type inlet and a one-way flow control device. The modules displace and store wastewater, and allow for differential release of the stored wastewater. The inlet is positioned adjacent the top of the module and the one-way flow control device is adjacent the bottom. In one embodiment, the module includes a pipe with caps having the inlet and one-way flow control device. In another embodiment, the module includes a container and a lid. The container includes the inlet and a one-way flow control device is connected adjacent the bottom of the container. In one embodiment, the one-way flow control device is a flexible hose with a float attached to the free end of the hose. The other end of the hose is in fluid communication with the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2006
    Publication date: June 5, 2008
    Applicant: INNOVATIVE BIOSYSTEMS ENGINEERING
    Inventor: Timothy N. Burcham
  • Patent number: 7309419
    Abstract: A device for diverting the flow of liquid in a wastewater treatment system in flow communication with effluent returning from a recirculating treatment section and in flow communication with a discharge line for removing a portion of treated effluent to a receiving body. The device also has openings for returning a percentage of the effluent back to the wastewater treatment system. A valve operatively responsive to a float in the treatment system whereby when the effluent level in the system falls below a critical point, all of the effluent is recirculated back into the treatment system and when the effluent level rises sufficiently a percentage of cleaned effluent exits the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Quanics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin J. Rhorer, Theophilus B. Terry, III
  • Patent number: 7294254
    Abstract: A localized wastewater treatment system for biologically treating wastewater. Raw wastewater flows into a first operational area where a majority of solid material in the wastewater separates out of the wastewater and is retained in a solids area positioned below the first operational area. As the wastewater continues to flow into the first operational area, the wastewater overflows from the first operational area to a second operational area. Once the wastewater in the second operational area reaches a predetermined volume, a batch of the wastewater is transferred from the second operational area to a third operational area where the batch of wastewater is biologically treated by a population of microorganisms contained within a solids area located beneath the third operational area. The treated wastewater is then removed from the third operational area for dispersal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Njun, LLC
    Inventors: Rocky R. White, Lawrence J. Bradford
  • Patent number: 6803022
    Abstract: A device and method for separating heavier and lighter fractions of a fluid sample. The device includes a plurality of constituents comprising a container and a composite element in the container. The composite element is a separator comprising a deformable bellows, a ballast mounted to the lower end of the bellows, and a float is engageable with an upper end of the bellows. A fluid sample is delivered to the container and the device is subjected to centrifugation whereby the centrifugal load causes the ballast to move toward the bottom of the tube and causes an elongation and narrowing of the bellows. The separator then moves down the tube and stabilizes in a position between the separated phases of the fluid sample. Termination of the centrifugal load enables the bellows to return to its original condition in sealing engagement with the walls of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Becton, Dickinson and Company
    Inventors: Paul C. DiCesare, Jeffrey R. Radziunas, Robert Losada, Fu-Chung Lin
  • Patent number: 6649048
    Abstract: A filter assembly that filters water, particularly stormwater, that includes flow regulating, siphon inducing, and surface cleaning features that allow the filter assembly to operate at the design filtration rate for an extended period of time. During filtration, water flows inward through an annular filter medium into a drain manifold. The rate of flow into the drain manifold is controlled by a float valve assembly. A check valve permits air to escape, but not enter, the filter assembly creating a siphon effect when the rate of flow into the drain manifold is increased. The siphon effect draws water through the entire filtration surface and the entire volume of the filter medium. When the external water level decreases to the level of an array of voids in the filter assembly enclosure, the siphon is interrupted by turbulent air streams entering the filter assembly, agitating the filter surface and dislodging particulate matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Stormwater Management
    Inventors: Scott A. de Ridder, James H. Lenhart, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6458269
    Abstract: A filter assembly is disclosed including a cartridge member having a body portion and a cylindrical neck portion depending from the body portion, the neck portion having at least one lug depending radially outwardly therefrom having a keyed surface formation thereon, and a reception member defining an axial bore for receiving the neck portion of the cartridge member, the bore having at least one reception area provided therein for receiving the at least one lug, the reception area having a compatible mating surface formation defined therein for engaging the keyed surface formation on the lug so as to prevent engagement with an incompatible cartridge member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Cuno Incorporated
    Inventors: Laurence W. Bassett, William Contaxis, III, Bruce G. Taylor, David A. Carbo
  • Patent number: 6277280
    Abstract: A septic tank effluent filter includes a housing positioned external to and downstream a septic tank for receiving the effluent prior to it being released into a drainfield positioned downstream the housing. The housing includes an inlet port and an offset outlet ports on an opposing wall for connection between the septic tank and drainfield. A cylindrical container is carried within the housing and is connected directly to the outlet port for having the effluent flow from within the housing through the uniformly perforated cylindrical wall of the container to outlet port. A circular base plate of the container provides a baffle and prevents the undesirable direct streaming of the effluent from the inlet port to the outlet port. A plastic mesh bag is filled with polystyrene plastic beads having a large surface to volume ratio, thus a large surface area within a desirable space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2001
    Assignee: E Z Flow, L.P.
    Inventor: Randall J. Houck
  • Patent number: 6110383
    Abstract: A mobile separator system for receiving and separating a mixed composition of oil, water, and sludge. The mobile separator system including a tank for holding the mixed composition, and a drain manifold that includes a plurality of drain pipes extending into the tank at varying elevations for allowing the drainage of water from the tank system. A vacuum source is attached to the top of the tank for carrying a vacuum within the tank to draw the mixed composition into the tank. The drain manifold is surrounded by a screen that allows the passage of water and oil, while preventing the passage of sludge through the screen into the drain pipes. A floating check valve is connected to each of the drain pipes to regulate the flow of water through the drain pipe. The floating check valve includes a valve element that has a density which causes the valve element to float in water and sink in oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Coombs Industrial Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Harvey W. Coombs, Ron D. Pearson
  • Patent number: 6027639
    Abstract: The apparatus treats storm water and includes a cylindrical basket that has a housing with a circumferentially extending air slot near the base of the housing. The basket contains an annular bed of absorbent material surrounded by a filter cartridge. Water flows radially inward through the filter and the bed into a cylindrical inner drainage space which has an outlet at its lower end, covered by a float valve. The drainage space is also in fluid communication with a one-way valve that allows air to pass from the housing into the environment. During operation, the float valve lifts when the water level rises and air is expelled from the drainage space through the one-way valve. As a result, water is continuously siphoned through the basket apparatus. When the water level drops, air enters through the air inlet slot of the housing and rises in turbulent fashion along the filter, scouring the filter and dislodging particulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Assignee: Stormwater Treatment LLC
    Inventors: James H. Lenhart, Jr., Brian O. Wigginton, Michael O. Myers, John H. Knutson
  • Patent number: 5935427
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system which makes it possible to remove undesirable liquids, generally an aqueous phase, which precipitate to the bottom of tanks for storing liquid products. Use is made of a drainage device (30) which comprises a concave body (31), a seat (26), and an interface float (8) which has a plug portion (25). This interface float (8) is designed to sink into the product and to float on the aqueous phase. As the level of the aqueous phase drops, the plug portion (25) settles sealingly on the seat (26), halting the drainage operation since all the accumulated aqueous phase has already been drained off. The drainage system may be automatic or manual. In the former case, use is made of a sensor (12) for detecting the presence of an aqueous phase and commanding the process of opening a shut-off valve (11) and allowing drainage of the accumulated aqueous phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Petoleo Brasileiro SA--Petrobras
    Inventors: Aldyr Witter, Antonio Jorge Leitao Schilling, Claudio Camilo Da Silva, Edu Correa Francisco, Artur Rogerio Monteiro Marinho
  • Patent number: 5676828
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for modifying waste water to reduce nitrate content and biochemical oxygen demand is provided. The apparatus includes an ammonification and denitrification region having a substantially anaerobic environment, a nitrification region having a substantially aerobic environment, and an effluent drainage region. Effluent circulates through the ammonification and denitrification region and the nitrification region to convert organic nitrogen-containing compounds in waste water to nitrogen gas and carbon dioxide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: Fluidyne, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Kallenbach, Justin M. Buchanan, Matthew H. Goodrich, Ronald V. Skinner, Greg R. Poncelet, Trina J. Kallenbach
  • Patent number: 5672268
    Abstract: Fluid treatment apparatus including a vessel having a fluid inlet port, a fluid outlet port and a deflector plate and containing a medium and an inlet having an inlet end in flow communication with the fluid inlet port and a discharge end providing an incoming flow of untreated fluid against the deflector plate for reversal thereby to an outgoing flow of fluid passing through the medium for treatment, the clearance between the discharge end and the deflector plate being selectively adjustable for controlling the flow of fluid through the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 30, 1997
    Assignee: Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd.
    Inventors: Tamir Mizrahi, Robert Brons, Gennady Shagas, Neil Marks
  • Patent number: 5264121
    Abstract: An apparatus for purifying fuel, comprising a closed container having a top, a bottom, an inlet for impure fuel and an outlet for purified fuel placed at a level over the inlet, both coupled near the top of the container, a heating bulb to heat the impure fuel and allow the settlement of impurities and a valve in the bottom to remove the impurities from the container; a partition wall coupled in the container above the inlet and under the outlet, and a hollow body dependently coupled to the partition wall, defining a surrounding chamber under the partition wall to receive the impure fuel to the bottom of the container, an inner chamber in the hollow body under the partition wall, for purifying fuel, and an upper chamber over the partition wall for purified fuel; and a passage in the partition wall communicating said inner and upper chambers, to allow passage of the purified fuel to the upper chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Jorge Guzman-Sanchez
  • Patent number: 5194146
    Abstract: A drum centrifuge has a housing, a drum in the housing, an axially extending outer foraminous side wall in the interior of the drum forming an outer chamber, and a transversely extending foraminous end wall in the drum forming a bypass chamber radially inward of the outer chamber. A suspension is fed to the interior of the drum while same is rotating so that the suspension is thrown centrifugally against the outer wall and separates into a radially outer body of filter cake having an inner surface and a radially inner body of liquid sitting on the inner surface. A drainage chamber is formed at the end wall and a drain passage extends between the drainage chamber and the outer chamber while a bypass passage extends between the drain chamber and the bypass chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Dorr-Oliver Incorporated
    Inventor: Guntram Krettek
  • Patent number: 5149344
    Abstract: A multi-phase separating apparatus for fluid containing a gaseous component. The apparatus includes a first tank which receives a stream of the multi-phase fluid which is to be resolved into discrete components. A second or separating tank positioned at a lower elevation than the first tank, receives a stream of substantially gas-free liquid. Said gas-free multi-liquid stream is conducted through a valved conduit. The latter includes a buoyant element which is displaceable by liquid in the lower tank, to form a barrier to avoid backflow or oscillatory fluid response of said liquid. Liquid accumulated in the lower tank thus maintains said tank in a substantially full condition. Liquid monitors in the separating tank monitor liquid levels and control outflow from the unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1992
    Assignee: Texaco Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel H. Macy
  • Patent number: 5080781
    Abstract: A portable low-viscosity hydrocarbon collector incorporating an endless absorption belt for collecting low-viscosity hydrocarbon liquids from a well and pumping those liquids to the surface. The collector incorporates a plurality of rollers which may be aligned in a configuration that enables its ideal placement at any depth within a confined space such as a surface-sealed well bore. The rollers cooperate to remove the low-viscosity hydrocarbons from the endless belt without causing premature squeezing of the belt so that those hydrocarbons can be collected in a specific gravity separating receptacle for separating the hydrocarbons from any water in order to enhance the purity of the collected hydrocarbons. The collector is also provided with a single motor which drives not only the endless belt through the rollers, but also a piston pump for pumping collected hydrocarbons to the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1992
    Inventor: Alexander A. Evins, IV
  • Patent number: 5053120
    Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for the automatic removal of water collecting in a fuel filter having a water separator. The evacuation takes place by means of a piston acted upon by a pressure medium, preferably a fuel pressurized by the pressure of the fuel pump, the piston being guided in the container of the fuel filter containing the water. It is particularly advantageous for an already existing drive to be usable for producing the pressure medium and that therefore a simple and inexpensive solution is offered for the removal of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Assignee: MTU Motoren- und Turbinen-Union Friedrichshafen GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Mollmann
  • Patent number: 4957625
    Abstract: An apparatus for filtering a liquid, includes supplying a starting liquid from a container to a passage of a pipe-like filter set in a filter casing, passing the starting liquid through the passage of the filter thereby to produce the filtrate, sending back the unfiltered liquid to the container, and back washing the filter by means of a hydraulic pressure device having a piston movable in a cylinder in such a manner that the filtrate is moved by the piston of the hydraulic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 18, 1990
    Assignee: Toshiba Ceramics Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshihisa Katoh, Takashi Ogawa, Mitsumasa Hasegawa, Masashi Fujimoto, Masaaki Hayashi
  • Patent number: 4778595
    Abstract: An automatic air pressure relief and check valve assembly which may be used in combination with a swimming pool filter or separation tank. The valve assembly includes a normally open lower valve which is responsive to the tank's being full of water for closing the lower valve, and a normally closed upper valve which is responsive to air being expelled from the tank through the normally open lower valve for opening the upper valve during times when water is filling the tank. The upper valve may be selectively opened when air is required to enter the tank so that water may be drained from the tank. Preferred embodiments of the upper and lower valves include valve seats having conical surfaces and respective valve members which cause an included O-ring to roll upon and wedge against its conical seat for reliably closing each valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1986
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1988
    Assignee: Anthony Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Chester A. Sable, Henry Church, Roy Graboff, Lawrence V. Maldarelli
  • Patent number: 4671869
    Abstract: A filter device suitable for use in cleaning dampening water used in an offset press. The filter device has a tank in which are defined three sections: a stirring tank section, a floating tank section and a discharging tank section. The floating tank section and the discharging tank section are communicated with each other through a passage at their lower regions. The passage is adapted to be selectively closed by a shut-off device which is operated periodically under the control of a timer. A floating contaminant removing opening es positioned above the water level in the floating tank section. The contaminated water is poured into the stirring tank section through a bubbling means so that contaminants are adsorbed by the bubbles. The bubbles adsorbing the contaminants are allowed to float in the upper region of water in the floating tank section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1985
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1987
    Assignee: Baldwin-Japan Ltd.
    Inventors: Akira Hara, Hiraku Ohnuma, Toshisaburo Takagi
  • Patent number: 4528094
    Abstract: A device for separating two liquids one of which is heavier than the other. The device comprises a main chamber (120) in which there is a float (128). The float is such that it sinks in the lighter of the liquids and floats in the heavier. A control chamber (140) having a fixed wall part (142) and a movable wall part (144) is provided. The movable wall part is subjected to the pressure existing in the main chamber which urges the movable wall part in the direction which reduces the volume of the control chamber. A restricted inlet (146) places the control chamber and main chamber in communication. There is an outlet (158) from the control chamber which is normally closed by a valve (168). The valve is opened, mechanically or electrically, when the float rises upon heavier liquid accumulating in the main chamber. A valve seat (160) surrounds an outlet (156) from the main chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1985
    Inventor: Edgar P. Scragg
  • Patent number: 4521312
    Abstract: A system for physically separating a mixture of a first least dense liquid and a second medial density liquid, and a third most dense liquid has an upright container with a liquid inlet, a bottom outlet adjacent the bottom and having a flow control valve, a bottom float in the container but above the bottom outlet, a lower outlet above the bottom float and having a flow control valve, a lower float above the lower outlet and operatively connected to the lower control valve, a second float above the lower float, an upper outlet above the second float, and an upper float adjacent to or above the upper outlet, the bottom and lower and second floats are connected in parallel with the lower float being connected to the lower outlet valve, and the second and upper floats are connected in series to the upper outlet valve; and the bottom float connected to the bottom valve; the lower and second floats are fillable with and sink in the least dense liquid and rise in the medial density liquid, the bottom float is fille
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1983
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1985
    Inventor: Edward M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4436630
    Abstract: Apparatus for physically separating a mixture of a first less dense liquid and a second more dense liquid has an upright container with a liquid inlet, a lower outlet adjacent the bottom and having a flow control valve, a lower float in the container but above the lower outlet, a second float above the lower float, an upper outlet above the second float, and an upper float above the upper outlet; the lower and second floats are connected in parallel with the lower float being connected to the lower outlet valve, and the second and upper floats are connected in series to the upper outlet valve; the lower and second floats are fillable and sink in the less dense liquid and rise in the more dense liquid, the upper float is air filled and rises in either liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1984
    Inventor: Edward M. Anderson
  • Patent number: 4424128
    Abstract: The subject invention relates to a filter apparatus for separating fluids of varying density. The subject filter is particularly adapted for use with diesel engines. The apparatus includes a new and improved baffle system which increases the separation of fluids. In addition, a unique filter cartridge is disclosed which is readily replaceable. The cartridge also functions to reduce the likelihood of the formation of air pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 3, 1984
    Assignee: Applied Diesel Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence P. Shinaver
  • Patent number: 4419230
    Abstract: Apparatus for confining a leakage of polychlorinated byphenyl (PCB) from an utdoor electrical substation while permitting rain water to be discharged into the outside environment when no PCB is present. The electrical equipment is disposed on a walled pad having sufficient containment volume to hold the maximum PCB leakage. The outlet from the containment volume is through a water/PCB separator float valve which is disposed vertically in a catch basin. The valve has a tubular body having a flow-through section with apertures which communicate with the catch basin and a converging section of circular cross-section above the flow-through section. A spherical float having a specific gravity between that of water and PCB is confined in the tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1982
    Date of Patent: December 6, 1983
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Tommy A. Horton, Michael D. Augustyn
  • Patent number: 4348281
    Abstract: A skimmer assembly for use in swimming pools in which a skimmer housing is provided with a skimming inlet and a drain inlet for receiving water from a pool. An outlet is also provided for connection with a vacuum source for discharging water from the housing. A floating weir is disposed in the housing for regulating the amount of water entering the housing from the skimming inlet and a filter basket is disposed in the housing with its open end communicating with the skimming inlet and a wall portion communicating with the drain inlet. An adaptor member and a cover plate cooperate with said basket for selectively controlling the flow of water from said skimming inlet to said outlet. The basket is adapted to attain a plurality of positions in the housing for regulating the flow through the drain inlet to the housing, and a sealing assembly is provided on the weir and the basket for sealing off flow through the skimmer inlet when the level of water in the pool falls below a predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1982
    Assignee: Marley/Wylain Company
    Inventors: Stephen J. Perry, Gordon F. Ehret, William N. Rowley
  • Patent number: 4055499
    Abstract: A system for separating fluids from each other. The mixture of fluids to be separated is injected into a cylindrical tank so as to cause the fluids to rotate and thereby accelerate their separation into strata. A float valve at the top of the tank allows lighter fluids to be exhausted while a second float valve at the bottom of the tank provides for the exhaust of heavier fluids. In the event of an oil spill on an open body of water, the present invention would provide for the clean up of the oil slick by separating it from the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 1976
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1977
    Inventor: Darryl E. Laxo