Abstract: An apheresis machine is provided, which can efficiently produce concentrated platelets products without excessively collecting platelets. The apheresis machine 10 comprises a centrifuge 11 having an inlet port PT1 and an outlet port PT2 for separating whole blood into a lower density component, an intermediate density component and a higher density component, a first container 18 connected to receive the lower density component from the outlet port PT2 and return it through the inlet port PT1 to the centrifuge 11, a first pump P1 operated to collect whole blood from the inlet port PT1 to the centrifuge 11, a second pump P2 operated to supply the lower density component from the first container 18, and means for variable controlling the centrifuge 11 and/or the second pump P2 for increasing or decreasing a process volume of whole blood in the centrifuge in response to at least one characteristic associated with the whole blood.

Abstract: A device for treating liquid medium has an ultrasound emitter located relative to a compartment of a container holding a liquid medium and a microbubble emitter located relative to the compartment. The ultrasound emitter emits high-frequency ultrasound between about 200 KHz and 10 MHz. The microbubble emitter emits bubbles with an average diameter of less than 1 mm.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desalination of salt water (and purification of polluted water) are disclosed. Saline (or otherwise polluted) water is pumped to a desalination installation and down to the base of a desalination fractionation column, where it is mixed with hydrate-forming gas or liquid to form either positively buoyant (also assisted buoyancy) or negatively buoyant hydrate. The hydrate rises or sinks or is carried into a lower pressure area and dissociates (melts) into the gas and pure water. In preferred embodiments, residual salt water which is heated by heat given off during formation of the hydrate is removed from the system to create a bias towards overall cooling as the hydrate dissociates endothermically at shallower depths, and input water is passed through regions of dissociation in heat-exchanging relationship therewith so as to be cooled sufficiently for hydrate to form at pressure-depth.

Abstract: A new process configuration, which is based on nitrifier bioaugmentation, achieves essentially complete nitrification at low solids retention times (SRTs) on a year round basis for plants that have a minimum of two activated sludge treatment trains. The process utilizes a membrane bioreactor as a second stage activated sludge system for one of the existing activated sludge systems, which is operated under non-nitrifying conditions. The membrane bioreactor is used to achieve essentially complete nitrification of ammonia derived from influent wastewater and an anaerobic digester recycle stream. The mixed liquor of the membrane bioreactor is comprised of an enriched culture of nitrifying bacteria. To allow the other treatment train(s) to nitrify, the waste sludge from the membrane bioreactor is directed to “donated” to the other “receiver” train(s).

Abstract: A system and method for treating and removing hydrocarbon and other contaminants in bilge and ballast water, utilizing a multiple progressive process that chemically and electrically treats-and removes contaminants. Wastewater, received by a sump, is transmitted to a holding tank and treated, over a period of time while-influent wastewater continues off loading. The wastewater is pumped to an oil/water separator tank that decants free-floating oil from the wastewater to an oil retention tank. The wastewater then undergoes an electrocoagulation process where emulsions are broken and compounds that further aid treatment are created. The treated water flows to a retention/separation tank where contaminant particles coalesce and separate. Water is decanted and transferred to a clean water holding tank through an ozone injection system and an activated carbon filter. Treated water is recirculated until it exits the system meeting discharge limits for organics and metals allowing release into the environment.

Abstract: A filtration apparatus includes a laundry waste sump, a primary 50 micron static screen filter, a 9,000 gallon equalization tank, at least one secondary media/carbon filter, a sludge holding tank with a pump to return excess water to the equalization tank, a backwash pump, an air blower, and a clear well tank water source for backwash. An exemplary embodiment of the invention also includes a surge tank between the primary and secondary filters and a surge tank between the secondary filter and the clear well tank.

Abstract: A water reservoir treatment system for a swimming pool, water tank, spa, or fountain water, which is simple to operate, low in maintenance, and highly reliable. The system preferably comprises, in sequence, a water circulation system, a vortex separator for initial separation of particulates, and an absorption or adsorption filter which may be a conventional pool filter using sand, diatomaceous earth, or paper cartridge as filtering medium.

Abstract: An aerated grit chamber includes an aeration zone in which influent is vigorously aerated and a settling zone separated from the aeration zone by a baffle beneath which wastewater flows from the aeration zone into the settling zone. The aeration causes swirling motion and causes larger grit particles to settle and accumulate in a grit trough on the floor. An inclined plate settler in the upper part of the settling zone causes smaller grit to settle and fall into the grit trough. In order to prevent overly efficient operation at low flow rates and settling of organics with the grit, internal recycling of the wastewater from the settling zone back into the aeration zone is effected, preferably with air lift to induce recycling but also using alternative techniques such as direct pumping.

Abstract: A cost effective apparatus for preparing dialysate solution which can finely adjust the concentration of dialysate solution is described. The apparatus comprises a chamber 2, the inside of which is divided into three compartments 21, 22, 23 by a movable partitions 24, 25, a dissolving solution supply line 1 for supplying dissolving solution to the first compartment 21, a solution tank 5, a dialysate solution preparing line 31 connecting the solution tank 5 and the first compartment 21, a dialysate solution preparing line 32 connecting the solution tank 5 and the third compartment 23, a transporting pump 4 provided in the dialysate solution preparing line 32, a powder supply means 7 provided above the solution tank 5, and a dialysate solution transporting line 6 for transporting the dialysate solution prepared and filled in the third compartment 23 to the point of use, a by-pass line 81, and a circulating line 91.

Abstract: A dialysate preparing apparatus in which concentration of dialysate can be finely adjusted is provided. The dialysate preparing apparatus comprises a chamber 2, the inside of which is divided into four compartments 21, 22, 23, 24 by movable partitions 25, 26, 27; a dissolving solution supply line 1 for supplying dissolving solution to the first compartment 21; a solution tank 5; dialysate preparing lines 31, 32 connecting the solution tank 5 with the first compartment 21 and with the second compartment 22, respectively; a transporting pump 4 provided in the dialysate preparing line 32; a concentration meter N; a powder supply means 7; and dialysate lines 61, 62 connecting the second compartment 22 and the fourth compartment 24 with a dialyzer D, respectively; a circulating line 81; and a waste liquid discharge line 9.

Abstract: A paraffin filter system (10) includes an in-line low-profile particulate filter (20) connected to a suction tube (14) which is used as an inlet to the paraffin filter system (10). A paraffin pump (54) pumps the melted paraffin from a paraffin spa (12) through the particulate filter (20) to a transfer container (11) via a discharge tube (22). A heater (78) is controlled by control logic (146) to operate in certain modes to melt any residual paraffin in the filter (20) and pump (54) before operation of the pump (54). The control logic (146) provides various modes of operation of the filter system (10) to assure that the system is ready to operate, irrespective of the operation of a control panel switch (6) by the user. When the paraffin is transferred back to the spa (12) from the transfer container (11), the melted paraffin is carried through a bacteria filter (21) in the filter system (10).

Abstract: A coolant recycling system for efficiently recycling contaminated machine tool coolant thereby extending the useful life of the coolant. The coolant recycling system includes a support frame, a first tank for receiving contaminated coolant, a second tank for receiving a volume of water and coolant concentrate, and a third tank for treating and cleaning the contaminated coolant. A skimmer apparatus is positioned within the third tank for removing the upper level of contaminants from the coolant for filtering separately from the significant volume of coolant within the third tank. An ozone applicator applies a specific volume of ozone to the coolant during the mixing of the coolant within the third tank which kills mold, yeast, fungus and bacteria while also changing the physical state of dissolved solids for increasing the ability to remove the contaminants from the coolant and micro air bubbles float contaminants to the surface to be skimmed.

Abstract: A water pollution remediation system includes a plurality of decontamination modules that are self supporting and interconnectable for sequentially removing a plurality of different contaminants. The modules are designed to be independently transportable to a ship for decontaminating bilge water, in particular, after a fire when a foaming fire suppressant composition has been introduced into the bilge water. The modules may be placed on the deck of the ship, connected together and powered by the ship's hydraulic, electric and bilge pumping systems to provide comprehensive decontamination.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for retrofitting existing waste water treatment facilities having at least one existing basin including installing generally vertical partitions at spaced locations in the at least one existing basin in order to divide the at least one existing basin into a plurality of treatment stage regions, installing at least one air lift in each of the plurality of treatment stage regions, loading each treatment stage regions with a quantity of floatable porous particles, supplying waste water to at least one of the plurality of treatment stage regions and allowing the waste water, but generally not the particles, to flow from at least one of the plurality of treatment stage regions to at least another of the plurality of treatment stage regions and operating the at least one air lift in each of the plurality of treatment stage regions to provide aerobic waste water flow therein in operative engagement with the floatable porous particles.

Abstract: Method and multipurpose apparatus for internally cleaning a hydraulic control system are disclosed. The method is carried out by establishing a turbulent flow of cleaning fluid through the hydraulic control system and maintaining the turbulent flow until the hydraulic control system has been cleaned without diverting a portion of cleaning fluid through a bypass valve, by use of a variable speed pump coupled to a fluid accumulator. The apparatus comprises a filtration system for cleaning up recovered fluid, a primary pump, an accumulator, a first manifold for fluid injection, a second manifold for fluid recovery, and a return conduit from the second manifold to the filter.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for selectively removing one or more organic and also preferably one or more inorganic contaminants from plating baths. More particularly, the invented method relates to the use of a source of energy in combination with chemical oxidants, alone or in conjunction with a catalyst to oxidize organic contaminants in the plating bath to a level such that the electroplating bath can be recovered and reused after appropriate chemical adjustment. The oxidative treatment method may be a continuous process or a batch process that is performed in a single pass and the endpoint of the oxidative process detected by a sensor. Residual organics, if desired, and chloride ions in the bath are removed from the solution by a chemisorption or physisorption treatment.

Abstract: A wastewater treatment system includes a septic tank having a discharge in flow communication with a plurality of biofilter containers having filter media therein. Wastewater or effluent from the septic tank is allowed to trickle downwardly through the filter media and each container includes an outlet for discharging the wastewater to the environment or transferred to other treatment facilities.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention generally comprises a wastewater contact tank that is broken into three distinct zones: a selector zone positioned between a stabilization zone and a contact zone. The entire influent is introduced into the selector zone which is maintained in an anoxic condition. Baffles positioned within the selector zone permit control of microorganisms levels present in the zone. The wastewater introduced into the selector zone and treated via the microorganisms present therein, flows over a weir into the contact zone. In the contact zone, the solids suspended in the liquor (the mixture of the wastewater and activated sludge) settle to the bottom and pass through a line which returns it to the selector zone. The return line, however, includes a valve which controls the rate of passage. The treated wastewater (which includes waste activated sludge and treated water) passes from the contact zone into the clarifiers for final processing.

Abstract: Discloses is apparatus for extracting biomass from a biomass supply, including a hollow vessel in which is established a countercurrent flow of biomass in the form of liquid or particles of biomass entrained in a liquid and solvent. The vessel includes an outlet for a solvent/extract mixture at a first vessel side and an outlet for biomass at a second vessel side. The solvent/extract mixture outlet is coupled to a closed loop circuit that includes at least a separator which encompasses a condenser having first and second stages connected in series with the second of such stages operating at a lower temperature than the first stage and both stages supplying substantially uncontaminated solvent to the hollow vessel.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a process and an apparatus for removing deep sub-micron particles from water. The invented process includes adjusting pH value and conductivity, adding an oxidation agent, performing an electro coagulation reaction/an electro-oxidation reaction, and performing a flocculation sedimentation, etc. The invented apparatus includes a front adjustment tank for adjusting the properties of waste water, wherein the adjustment includes a pH adjustment, an electrolyte adjustment, or an oxidant addition, etc.

Abstract: Disclosed are waste processing systems capable of being used on-board a transport such as a train, bus, airplane, boat, or other similar vehicles. The liquid waste is evaporated and condensed primarily as water vapor. The resulting liquid may be safely discharged in most places without adverse environmental and health effects. If desired, the liquid can be stored and reused for non-potable applications such as toilet flushing. The solid waste is converted to inert ash or carbon and may be either stored in a filter or discharged as carbon or ash into the water, air, or onto the railroad tracks. The system may also be used in stationary or semi-stationary applications where on-site treatment of waste may be desired.

Abstract: A device and process for aerating dispersions, particularly for flotation of pulp suspensions, in a de-inking process where the pulp suspension containing dirt particles is sprayed into a tank together with air. The air is injected at a minimum of two successive points and mixed with the suspension.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for desalination of salt water (and purification of polluted water) are disclosed. Salt (or otherwise polluted) water is pumped to a desalination installation and down to the base of a desalination fractionation column, where it is mixed with hydrate-forming gas to form either positively buoyant or negatively buoyant (assisted buoyancy) hydrate. The hydrate rises or is carried upward and dissociates (melts) into the gas and pure water. In preferred embodiments, residual salt water which is heated by heat given off during formation of the hydrate is removed from the system to create a bias towards overall cooling as the hydrate dissociates endothermically at shallower depths. In preferred embodiments, the input water is passed through regions of dissociation in heat-exchanging relationship therewith so as to be cooled sufficiently for hydrate to form at pressure-depth.

Abstract: A wastewater treatment process that provides improved reduction of total solids through endogenous respiration while reducing biochemical oxygen demand and utilizing biological nutrient reduction. The wastewater treatment process uses an efficient aeration delivery system to drastically reduce the time needed to oxidize organic matter, and re-circulates, shreds and homogenizes the organic matter and microorganisms and oxygenates the entire mass many more times than traditional systems resulting in a greater biological solids digestion rate.

Abstract: An apparatus for recycling a grinding slurry capable of effectively removing unwanted components at a reduced cost. Slurry used in a grinding treatment is at first recovered as recovery slurry. The recovery slurry is then recycled so as to obtain recycled slurry. One or more cyclone separators are provided and used for sizing the used slurry to obtain slurry particles having a predetermined particle size. The slurry having the predetermined particle size is supplied as recovery slurry. When the recovery slurry is recycled to produce recycled slurry, one or more supersonic wave generators are used for irradiating supersonic waves to the recovery slurry.

Abstract: In a filtration system wherein wastewater is recirculated back through a filtration bed for a second pass therethrough, the recirculated wastewater being directed through a set of secondary distribution pipes located in the filtration bed below those distribution pipes through which the wastewater is first carried through the bed, with hood elements arched over the respective secondary pipes.

Abstract: A device for treating liquid medium has an ultrasound emitter located relative to a compartment of a container holding a liquid medium and a microbubble emitter located relative to the compartment. The ultrasound emitter emits high-frequency ultrasound between about 200 KHz and 10 MHz. The microbubble emitter emits bubbles with an average diameter of less than 1 mm.

Abstract: A dielectric fluid system (2) for an electric discharge machining apparatus includes an auxiliary tank (22) positioned at or higher than a work tank (12) and a dielectric fluid reservoir (21), a filter device (23), and a first pump (P1) and a second pump (P2) upstream and downstream of the filter device 23. Dielectric fluid in the dielectric fluid reservoir (21) is filtered by the filter device (23), and pumped to the auxiliary tank (22) using the first and second pumps (P1) and (P2). The filtered dielectric fluid is then rapid fed from the auxiliary tank (22) to the work tank (12). During electric discharge machining, dielectric fluid is pumped from the work tank (12), filtered, then cooled and circulated directly back to the work tank (12). A flushing pipe line and a third pump (P3) may be added into the circulating pipe line.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recycling drilling mud contaminated with particulates, consists of channelling a stream of contaminated slurry onto a screen deck, with the partly cleansed liquid entering a mixing tank. Liquid within the tank is continually mixed. An exit conduit removes liquid from the tank on a continuous basis, where it is given an additional purification with a cyclonic separator. The heavier fraction is further screened, with the resulting purified liquid re-entering the tank. The lighter fraction exists the cyclonic separator, and a portion of the lighter liquid is withdrawn for use as a substantially cleansed liquid. Another portion of the lighter fraction is re-circulated back into the tank, thus providing multi passes through the system to provide enhanced purification. The cleansed liquid may be directed into a separate mixing apparatus, in which additional slurry-forming powder such as Bentonite is added for forming a new slurry.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for flushing flush lanes comprising providing a process pit to recycle flushed water; providing a solid waste separator; providing a storage lagoon; pumping a first selected volume of water from the storage lagoon and a second volume of water from the process pit through the flush lanes; collecting water flushed through the flush lanes and solid waste carried therewith in the process pit; separating solid waste from a third volume water from the process pit in said solid waste separator and returning the third volume of water less the solid waste to the storage lagoon.

Abstract: A process for separating oily films from sand particles carried in a solvent free water stream includes the use of a jet pump scrubber in a density classification tank to treat such oily coated particles at controlled operating temperatures above 65° C. whereby, at such controlled temperature, enhanced cavitation in the jet pump separates the oily film from the sand particles to form slop oil, the tank providing for recirculation of the particles through the jet pump before discharge.

Abstract: A water treatment and recycling system is provided having an aeration chamber, a reaction chamber, a water tank, and a plurality of pumps. The water tank houses the treated water and is the supply source for supplying water to different water needs. The first pump receives waste water from a waste source, such as a toilet, and pumps it into the aeration chamber. The aeration chamber initially treats the water and passes the contents therein via a second pump to the reaction chamber. The water is secondarily treated by the reaction chamber and thereafter pumped into the water tank. The first pump also receives a continual supply of treated water from the water tank. The aeration chamber and reaction chamber contains therein a plurality of specially treated wood chips, and a bio-colony consisting of different microbes and bacteria introduced into the wood chips.

Abstract: An improved waste treatment system and improved waste treatment system components are provided. In a preferred form, a waste stream is initially separated into primarily solid and primarily liquid components, and the liquids are then fed to a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a pair of filter elements, and the flow is introduced into the filter assembly at a location between the filter elements. During a filtering operation, the liquid is pumped so that it is drawn through one of the filter elements. Periodically, the flow can be reversed, so that it is directed through the other filter element, at which time the first filter element can also be purged or back flushed. Advantageous waste treatment system arrangements are also provided for household, commercial, or transportation/marine use.

Abstract: A continuous flow slurry cleaning method, apparatus and system including a filter portion and a mud re-circulation manifold for receiving partially filtered slurry, containing the slurry and mixing the slurry with liquid ready for use and thereby enabling a continuous, re-circulating flow through the filter portion. The continuous flow slurry cleaning apparatus and system further include a tank for storing and delivering liquid ready to be used by a drilling machine. The continuous flow slurry cleaning method, apparatus and system further includes a mud circulation/agitation system for keeping solids in suspension and for mixing additives along with the liquid ready for use and thereby modifying the makeup of the liquid ready for use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the techniques of treating a liquid material to be treated, which enables efficient fractional removal of toxic materials such as PCB in a liquid mixture. The treatment method of the invention comprises the step of permitting a liquid material containing materials having different solidifying points to be cooled at a temperature at which desired material(s) is solidified while others are not solidified and the step of separating the solidified material from other liquid materials whereby the desired material is separated, and therefore large facilities are not necessary and toxic materials can be reliably separated and removed.

Abstract: Systems and methods handle air and rinsing fluid during fluid processing. The systems and methods eliminate air from a fluid processing system prior to, during, and after use. The systems and methods provide a connector assembly for establishing fluid flow from a fluid source. The connector assembly has discrete first and second passages that prevent communication between the fluid in first passage and the fluid in the second passage. Prior to system use, the connector assembly may be utilized in a priming function to remove residual air from a fluid circuit prior to use. The connector assembly may also be utilized after use to perform a rinse-back function. The rinse-back function serves to remove residual fluid from the system after use. The connector assembly can comprise two, single lumen connectors or one connector with two lumens.

Abstract: An automatic system and process for effectively, reliably and economically reconditioning for direct reuse various waste water, and particularly that in the poultry and other food processing industries, without the use of added chemicals and filter-aid compounds. The system includes water filtration and purification units, the purification unit consisting of an ultra-violet sterilizer. The integrity of the reconditioned water is continuously monitored in-line by sensors, which information is directly correlated to correspond to associated levels of solids and microorganisms. This invention presents a fully automated process to provide reconditioned water essentially free of microorganisms and of acceptable clarity to meet current United States Department of Agriculture regulations for food processing reuse.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing contaminants from contaminated water. One embodiment of the apparatus comprises a separation tank in which a first portion of the contaminants float to the top of the water, the tank including a water inlet and a water outlet, a coalescing device, an air injection system in which water from the tank is pressurized, passed through an air eductor so as to receive air bubbles, and returned to the tank as a gas-containing stream, a circulating mop that contacts the floating contaminants and removes them from the water, the circulating mop comprising a continuous loop of contaminant-absorbing material, a mop-cleaning member that removes contaminants from the circulating mop, and a filter system through which water leaving the separation tank via the water outlet is passed.

Abstract: Make-up water derived from an on-shore treatment facility is returned to a slurry processing unit on board a dredge by means of a water supply pipeline floating alongside a slurry delivery pipeline that conveys dredged material to the on-shore treatment facility. After separation from the slurry solids, the return water is pressurized to a transport pressure at the treatment facility with a centrifugal pump and then boosted to the desired working pressure once aboard the dredge. This two-stage pumping and re-cycling process reduces the amount of clear make-up water needed for proper operation of the slurry processing unit by more than 50%. This has resulted in a substantial reduction in the overall cost of remediation by reducing the amount of water that must be cleaned prior to disposal.

Abstract: A tetraalkylammonium hydroxide (TAAH) solution recovered from a development waste through separation therefrom of impurities such as photoresist is mixed with a surface-active substance to have the surface tension thereof adjusted to a desired one, and then reused as a rejuvenated developer. Thus, the surface-active effect (wetting properties) of the rejuvenated developer recovered from the development waste is properly adjusted and controlled, whereby fine photoresist patterns can be stably and effectively developed. Usable surface-active substances include surfactants, and dissolved photoresist contained in the development waste or a photoresist-containing solution such as a photoresist-containing treated solution derived therefrom.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device and a method for separating whole blood into blood components. The device has a collecting container for collecting whole blood, a primary container, and one or a plurality of satellite containers downstream from the primary container. The collecting container is connected to the primary container via a branch line containing a leucocyte filter. In addition, a bypass line is provided between the collecting container and the primary container for creating a fluid connection that circumvents the leucocyte filter. The primary container is also connected, via an additive line, to an additive container containing an additive agent for storing a blood component. The method involves collecting the donor's whole blood in the collecting container and conveying it, via the bypass line, into the primary container. The whole blood located in the primary container is then separated by centrifuigation into an erythrocyte layer and a mixed layer of blood plasma and thrombocytes.

Abstract: A filtration system includes a magnetic drum for removing ferrous shavings and a dual canister filter unit equipped with replaceable filter bags. This palletized system may be plugged into most machine tools to filter the shavings-laden coolant to remove the metal shavings, tramp oil, sludge and dirt from liquid coolant to extend its useful life and minimize or eliminate down time.

Abstract: Dilute solutions of fermentation sales may be concentrated by extracting water using low-miscibility, low-molecular-weight secondary and tertiary amines, e.g. triethylamine (TEA), diisopropyl amine (DIA), N,N-diethylmethylamine (DEMA), and mixtures thereof. At 30° C.-55° C., which corresponds to typical fermentation temperatures, these low-molecular-weight amines or their mixtures, can extract large amounts of water from dilute aqueous solutions containing fermentation salts. Thus, dilute fermentation salt solutions can be concentrated by selectively removing water. At these low temperatures, the amine phase contains 20-35% water and a much reduced quantity of fermentation salt. When the temperature is raised, water phases out of the amine, allowing the amine to be recycled and reused to extract additional water. Using this approach, about 82.

Abstract: A recycling system for laundry wash water having a collection tank for collecting used wash water. A holding tank connected to the collection tank has heat exchange piping in the interior of the holding tank. A lint/grit separator is connected to the holding tank. A lint filter acting as a second stage in lint removal is connected to the holding tank. An oil separator for removing free oil is connected to the lint filter. A media filter having a medium of fine rock is connected to the oil separator. A hydrocarbon absorption filter is connected to the media filter. An activated carbon filter is connected to the hydrocarbon absorption filter. A final holding tank is connected to an ozone generator so that clean and processed water leaves the final holding tank.

Abstract: A device of three-chamber type for purifying liquid in a cup-shaped vessel (17, 18) has an inlet tube (20) for the liquid at a certain level and an outlet tube (21) at a lower level than the inlet tube. The vessel is vertically divided by a substantially horizontal distribution disc (14) below the inlet and outlet tubes. The disc has at least one opening (19) and is provided with a substantially vertical distribution pipe (15) for receiving the liquid from the inlet tube (20). A first sedimentation chamber (A) is formed below the lower end of the distribution pipe (15), a second chamber (B) is formed over the lower end of the distribution pipe (15) and below the distribution disc (14) and a third chamber (C) is formed over the distribution disc (14).

Abstract: An arrangement for treating flora and fauna waste such as garbage under subcritical pressure and temperature. A slurry preparation unit (10) mixes the flora and fauna waste (11) with water (12) and sodium hydroxide (13) to prepare a slurry. A diaphragm pump (16) then pressurizes the slurry to subcritical pressure of water (20 Mpa). Subsequently, a hydrothermal reaction tube (25) heats the pressurized slurry to cause hydrothermal reaction in a subcritical condition thereby obtaining dissolved waste. The dissolved waste is depressurized and fed to an oxidization unit (22) for oxidation.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing dissolution of gases in liquids by ejecting the gas-liquid mixture through nozzles in a reaction vessel. The nozzles are pressurized, sized and directed to produce micro-fine gas bubbles in the liquid and to initiate rotational flow of the gas-liquid mixture in the reaction vessel. The small bubble size and rotational flow maximizes the time the gas is in contact with the liquid. The apparatus and method are used to increase the dissolution of ozone gas into aqueous solutions to increase the decomposition of aqueous-based organic compounds, precipitation of heavy metals, and destruct and/or deactivate enteric viruses, enteric bacteria, and protozoans. An alternative embodiment mixes the gas with the liquid prior to ejection through the nozzles.

Abstract: A filter device is described for obtaining a filtered sample of fluid for measuring purposes from a container or tube conduit. The device has a closed fluid circuit including a first filter element 4, a pump conduit having a pump 27 therein, and a second filter element 5 arranged so that a sample of fluid is suctioned from the container or tube conduit via the first filter element 4, through the pump conduit 26, 28 and then back to the container or tube via the second filter element 5 or vice versa. An optical probe 17 for measuring purposes can be arranged within the carrier tube 7.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sludge treatment plant in which sludge is flocculated and then dewatered to form a cake and a reject liquor is modified by recycling 3 to 40% of the reject liquor into the sludge immediately before the dewatering process.

Abstract: A fuel filter system employs a first filter (12) to separate water from the fuel and a second filter (38) which receives the water portion from the first filter (12) and removes the water from the residual fuel with the use of hygroscopic material (42) and recycles the residual fuel back to the fuel tank (16).