Abstract: An apparatus controls the treatment of water that flows through a cooling system. The electrical conductivity of the water is sensed. A valve control opens a system drain valve when the sensed conductivity is greater than a threshold, and closes the drain valve when the conductivity drops below the threshold by a given amount. The water drained form the system is replenished through an inlet and a mechanism measures the volume of water added to the cooling system. Chemicals to treat the water are fed into the system when specified volumes of water have been added. The sensing of conductivity can be inhibited for a certain period following the application of the chemicals. A possible system malfunction is indicated when the conductivity does not drop below the threshold after the drain valve is open for a given period of time.

Abstract: A composition for the detackification and clarification of acid and alkaline paint and lacquer waste waters and paint spray booth wastes, comprising:an inorganic-organic and/or organic adduct alloy polymer composition having the formula:A.multidot.B.sup.+ .multidot.D.sup.+wherein:A=[(SiO.sub.2 /Me.sup.I.sub.2 O).sub.u Me.sup.II.sub.m Me.sub.m.sup.III(OH) p.sup.(SO 4.sup.) y.sup.(Aci) (2m+3n)-p-2y].sub.4wherer=1 to 98% bw;u=0 to 10% bw; ##STR1## where: x=0 to 98% bw; Z is a divalent substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic, cycloaliphatic, heterocyclic or aromatic radicalD.sup.+ (PQAM).sub.wwherew=2 to 98% b.w. of polyquaternized polymer (PQAM)Me.sub.m.sup.II is selected from the divalent cationic group comprising: Mg, Zn, Ca, and Fe.sup.2+m=0 to 5Me.sub.n.sup.III is a tri-or more valent metal selected from the group comprising: Fe, Al, and Al-Zn complexes;n=1 to 20Aci is selected from the monovalent anionic group comprising Cl.sup.-, Br.sup.-, I.sup.-, NO.sub.3 --, H.sub.2 PO.sub.4 --, CH.sub.3 COO.sup.-, OH.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling zebra mussels in the inlet cell of a utility power plant by isolating a batch of water in the cell from the water supply of a lake or river and the equipment plant by shutting an inlet gate and shutting outlet valves from said cell. The batch of isolated water is thereafter heated to a lethal temperature which is maintained for a sufficient period of time to ensure 100 percent mortality to the zebra mussels within the cell. The water may be maintained in a static condition and heated by a heat exchanger disposed within the cell. Alternatively the water may be fed to a heat exchanger, heated outside the cell, and returned to the cell. The water is heated to a range of approximately 95.degree. F. to 100.degree. F. and held at the heated temperature within the cell for approximately 30 minutes.

Abstract: Scale inhibition in a water treatment system can be achieved by using a composition which combines a butenedioic acid, such as maleic acid and/or fumaric acid, phosphorous acid, and a peroxide, such as hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: A method for providing a continuous injection of a substantially constant amount of a desired treatment chemical into a flowing process stream is described. This method insures that the concentration of the desired treatment chemical is maintained at a relatively constant and effective concentration throughout the flowing process stream. The means for providing the relatively continuous injection of the treatment chemical is preferably a pump that provides a continuous injection at a relatively constant flow rate of the treatment chemical into a flowing process stream.Providing a uniform concentration of a treatment chemical in a flowing process stream maximizes the benefit of the treatment chemical. Conventional methods for injecting treatment chemicals provide intermittent injection of the treatment chemical such that sections of the flowing process stream have no concentration of the treatment chemical. This reduces the benefit of the treatment chemical and may prevent it from providing any benefit at all.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting silica scale formation in aqueous systems using selected low molecular weight (meth)acrylic or maleic acid based copolymers or terpolymers, magnesium ion alone, or the selected copolymers and terpolymers with aluminum ion or magnesium ion, or polyacrylic or polymaleic acid with aluminum ion or magnesium ion.

Abstract: A process monitors boric acid or other boron compounds in a fluid system. At least one specie of tracer chemical is added to a fluid system and at least one sample of fluid from the fluid system is analyzed for at least the presence of the tracer, and the presence of the specie of tracer chemical in such sample determines at least the presence of boric acid or other boron compounds in the sample.

Abstract: This is a process for wet oxidation of an ammonium salt containing waste liquor which prevents plugging of the vapor-carrying lines of the wet oxidation system. The vapor-carrying lines are maintained in an unobstructed condition by adding sufficient liquid water to dissolve condensed ammonium salt which can plug these lines. This provides for safe operation of the wet oxidation system.

Abstract: A low phosphorus process for controlling corrosion in aqueous systems by adding to the aqueous system an effective amount of a composition comprising orthophosphate, azole, polyepoxysuccinic acid and the copolymer of acrylic acid and allyl hydroxypropyl sulfonate ether.

Abstract: Soluble salts are prevented from precipitating from a brine concentrate produced from the flashing a geothermal brine by diluting the brine concentrate with preconditioned condensate. The pH of the condensate is first adjusted to within two pH units of brine concentrate. Then concentration of sulfide ion is reduced by oxidizing sulfide to sulfate by exposure to air for a period of time sufficient to oxidize a substantial portion of the sulfide, but short enough to prevent a substantial concentration of oxygen from dissolving in the condensate. The preconditioned condensate is then mixed with the brine concentrate to form an injection stream. The injection stream is then injected into the earth.

Abstract: A method of dispensing scaling inhibitors into a flow of low pressure water by modifying the use of available air lubricators. Mechanical modifications to an air lubricator results in an apparatus capable of dispensing a scaling inhibitor into a water flow of only 0.24 liters per minute.

Abstract: A polymer activation apparatus for activating and diluting a liquid polymer with water includes, a vessel defining a cylindrical chamber divided into first and second processing zones, the polymer and water being supplied to the first processing zone, an impeller located in the first processing zone subjecting the polymer to a high shear rate for a short contact time to initiate dissolution and activation of the polymer, and the polymer being moved to the second processing zone under the force of the water supplied to the first processing zone, a second impeller in the second processing zone subjecting the polymer to a lower shear rate for a longer period to continue the polymer dissolution and activation process.

Abstract: An alkoxybenzotriazole, in combination with mercaptobenzothiazole, tolyltriazole, benzotriazole, a substituted benzotriazole and/or 1-phenyl-5-mercaptotetrazole, is used to inhibit the corrosion of metallic surfaces, particularly copper surfaces, in contact with an aqueous system. Systems and compositions are also claimed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dewatering an aqueous coal slurry includes imparting high shear forces to the aqueous coal slurry in the presence of a peptizing agent to render coal particles hydrophobic by stripping clay from the coal particles and peptizing the clay in the aqueous medium of the slurry. The slurry is separating to recover coal particles and the aqueous medium is draining medium from the hydrophobic surface of the coal particles.

Abstract: An orthophosphate salt and sodium silicate, when used in a 3:1 ratio by weight, and in a concentration of 0.1 to 100 mg/L, are found to have a synergistic effect in controlling the corrosion of carbon steel in an aqueous system, e.g., a municipal water supply system. The synergistic combination is also useful in reducing lead solubility and leaching, and in stabilizing soluble iron and manganese and their reaction products.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for electronically treating water flowing through a water distribution system is disclosed which functions to inhibit the formation of scale deposits. The apparatus includes a fluid chamber connected into the water distribution system for isolating a quantity of water and an electrode in contact with the isolated water for imparting an electrical pulse train to the isolated water. The apparatus also includes a signal generation circuit for generating and regulating the pulse train and an error indicating circuit to verify proper operation of the system and to indicate the need for maintenance.

Abstract: An alkoxybenzotriazole, in combination with mercaptobenzothiazole, tolyltriazole, benzotriazole, a substituted benzotriazole and/or 1-phenyl-5-mercaptotetrazole, is used to inhibit the corrosion of metallic surfaces, particularly copper surfaces, in contact with an aqueous system. Systems and compositions are also claimed.

Abstract: A method for separation of erythrocytes from whole blood by diluting the whole blood with saline and introducing low concentrations of soluble salts of trivalent cations into the diluted blood sample.

Abstract: An in-line static water conditioning device is provided for inhibiting scale formation in plumbing containing hard water. The water conditioning device is a housing containing a core to define a flow annulus. Water flowing through the annulus contacts the core surface comprising predominately copper and lesser amounts of tin, nickel and zinc to inhibit scale formation in the plumbing downstream of the device.

Abstract: Device and method for treating liquids including fuels, oils and transmission fluids of an internal combustion engine. A treatment device that is in tubular form and contains a core having a central bore, radial, axially spaced bores and an annular collector space is used to contact the liquid. The core is an alloy of 68-100% copper, 0-30% zinc, 0-15% tin and 0-30% nickel.

Abstract: A method for controlling fouling of a heat exchange surface exposed to a high-enthalpy geothermal brine tending to form silica scale, but containing less than a saturated amount of cations capable of reacting with sulfates. The method adds a limited amount of sulfuric acid to the brine to form a mixture. The amount of sulfuric acid is limited to that required to produce sulfates sufficient to apparently complex with silica, but less than the amount required to increased the sulfates to above saturation amounts of sulfate reacting cations, significantly reducing or virtually eliminating sulfate and silica deposits and fouling. The addition is further controlled to an amount which reduces the pH of the mixture to no less than about 4.5. The addition does not significantly increase corrosion rates of mild steel heat exchanger materials of construction.

Abstract: A process is provided for controlling the emission of nitrogen dioxide from, and the growth of living organisms in, steam condensate cooling towers and catch basins used in conjunction with a condensate of steam derived from an ammonia containing geothermal brine. The process comprises contacting the condensate, in a substantially continuous manner, with a less-than-stoichiometric amount of an oxidizing agent, which results in the oxidation of nitrite in the condensate to a nitrate. The process optionally provides for periodically introducing a biocide into the condensate in an amount which controls organism growth in the cooling tower and catch basin. To prevent system corrosion, the process may include treating the condensate with a non-organic, phosphate-based corrosion inhibitor and scale dispersant.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes low volatility amines or alkanol amines to control caustic corrosion which can take place when a boiler system, treated with a coordinated phosphate/pH program, is "out of control".N-substituted hydroxyalkyl piperazines are also capable of mitigating caustic corrosion in coordinated phosphate/pH programs. Combinations of the compounds of the present invention and phosphate have also been shown to be efficacious at mitigating caustic corrosion in coordinated phosphate/pH programs.

Abstract: A process for inhibiting the adhesion of bacterial cells to solid surfaces in aqueous systems and thus controlling biological fouling comprising adding a water-soluble ionene polymer to the aqueous systems in an amount ranging from about 0.5 ppm to about 50 ppm based on the weight of aqueous liquid in the system.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting the corrosion of copper or copper-bearing metals in contact with an aggressive aqueous environment by combining a copper corrosion inhibitor with a chelant. Azoles are employed as the corrosion inhibitor. Characteristic chelants include ethylenediamine tetracetic acid nitrilotriacetic acid, citric acid, tartaric acid and dialkyldithiocarbamates.

Abstract: This invention discloses an in-situ process or method for cleaning the interior surfaces of a swimming pool or the like for removing stains, scale, calcium deposits, and the like, and without the need for draining the pool. The chlorine content of the pool is initially tested, and chlorine is added to bring it up to a level sufficient to prevent algae growth for a period of up to 10 days without filtering. Water is added to the pool to insure all water line marks are sufficiently immersed so as to benefit from the cleaning operation. An acid wash solution, including a mixture of hydrochloric acid and a strong metal chelating agent, is then applied in-situ or as close to the surfaces to be cleaned as possible. As the stains, scale, and deposits dissolve, a strong organic acid such as oxalic acid is added to precipitate out the undesirable materials and cause them to settle down to the bottom of the pool for subsequent vacumming.

Abstract: A carbon deposition preventive double-layered tube for handling carbon compounds at not less than 500.degree. C., the double-layered tube comprising:(a) the layer to be exposed to the carbon compounds, constructed from an alloy which is composed of Cr, Ni, and Fe in porportions shown within a triangular region I of an equilibrium diagram (FIG.

Abstract: A method of precipitating metals from a spent geothermal brine containing the same comprises admixing the geothermal brine with a condensate of steam, derived from the brine, in a volume ratio of brine to condensate of 1:2 to 1:10. The invention is particularly applicable to geothermal brine processes for the production of electric power, such as are practiced at the Salton Sea.

Abstract: In the processing of a geothermal brine and the recovery of heat therefrom, there are produced a non-condensable gas stream containing hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide and a liquid stream comprising a condensate of steam derived from the brine. In accordance with the present invention, the noncondensable gases are introduced into the condensate in the presence of an oxidizing agent to form a gas-liquid mixture. The mixture is maintained at an alkaline pH for a time sufficient for a substantial portion of the hydrogen sulfide to be oxidized. Thereafter, the mixture is introduced into a gas-liquid separation zone for separate recovery of a gas stream comprising a major amount of carbon dioxide and substantially free of hydrogen sulfide. Advantageously, the recovered gas stream is recycled to the geothermal brine process to reduce the pH of the brine and its scaling potential.

Abstract: A composition and method for controlling corrosion of steel in aqueous systems such as cooling and boiler systems. The combination of a nonionic surfactant and an anionic oxygen containing group such as one or more alkali metal salts of borate, molybdate and nitrate/nitrite provide improved corrosion inhibition of steel in aqueous systems. The magnetite layers formed in the presence of this combination exhibit decreased porosity and increased corrosion resistance to acidic solutions. This combination also inhibits entry of hydrogen into steel when exposed to acidic solutions thereby inhibiting hydrogen embrittlement. The preferred nonionic surfactant is phenol/polyethylene oxide nonionic surfactant and the preferred alkali metal salt is Na.sub.2 MoO.sub.4.

Abstract: The deposition of metal-containing scale, such as iron silicate scale, from a hot aqueous geothermal brine, or the like, is controlled by blending into the brine sufficient reducing agent effective for reducing trivalent iron and manganese cations in a high temperature brine solution to divalent ions to cause an overall decrease in scale deposition, especially of iron silicate scale. Preferably, from 2 to 7 times the stoichiometric amount of reducing agent is used to effect a 70 to 90 percent reduction in the formation of iron silicate scale.

Abstract: Cooling system cleaning solutions containing an EDTA salt, a polyhydroxy mono- or dicarboxylic sugar acid, and a soluble nitrate salt are effective in removing scale, corrosion, and solder bloom from cooling systems.

Abstract: A process and an apparatus are disclosed for the monitoring and treatment of circulating water of open circulation systems, preferably in cooling tower circulation systems, in which at least one partial minor stream is continuously diverted from the main circulating water supply and directed through a compact module in which, in an automatic sequence, the pH value of the partial stream is measured and adjusted by the addition of any necessary acid, the conductivity of the partial stream is measured, preferably inductively, and an elutriation unit is activated to drain excessively conductive water, corrosion inhibitor is added to the partial stream in dependence upon the quantity of fresh water added to the circulating water, organic and/or inorganic biocides can be added and the partial stream is filtered and returned continuously to the main circulating water supply.

Abstract: Alkaline earth metal scales, especially barium sulfate scale deposits are removed from oilfield pipe and other tubular goods with a scale-removing composition comprising an aqueous alkaline solution having a pH of about 8 to about 14, preferably about 11 to 13, of a polyaminopolycarboxylic acid, preferably EDTA or DTPA and a catalyst or synergist comprising thiosulfate or nitriloacetate anions. When the scale-removing solution is contacted with a surface containing a scale deposit, substantially more scale is dissolved at a faster rate than is possible without the synergist.

Abstract: A method for the purification of fluids such as water, aqueous fluids and liquid fuels, comprises contacting said fluids with a solid material body of a novel alloy which comprises 50 to 60% copper, 20 to 28% zinc, 0.5 to 8% nickel, 0.005 to 2.5% aluminum, 7 to 15% manganese, and 1.3 to 4.5% tin, based on the total weight of the alloy.

Abstract: Methods for utilizing transition metals as tracers in aqueous liquid systems are provided by this invention. Transition metals with low background levels in system waters are identified as preferred when soluble in said aqueous liquid systems. The transition metals show low levels of deposition on equipment scale and provide reliable information as to the process history of the liquid systems.

Abstract: There is described a method for the purification of fluids, such as water, aqueous fluids and fuel fluids, which comprises passing said fluids through a chamber usually inserted in the line of the aqueous fluid or the fuel fluid to be treated, within which there is located a solid body of an alloy material, having any suitable shape, preferably an elongated shape, in such a way that the external surfaces of said solid body of an alloy material are contacted with the water, aqueous fluid or fuel fluid flowing within the chamber, said solid body of an alloy material being fabricated from the metals nickel, zinc, aluminum, manganese and tin; and the alloy to carry out the method, made of the above metals.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method for the protection of metal surfaces against corrosion by the formation of a passivating coating of zinc silicate on the surfaces of the metals exposed to the water. The metal surfaces are preconditioned by contact with water containing a soluble zinc salt in an amount from about 0.5 to about 5 parts zinc per million weight parts of the water while the total alkalinity is maintained above 100 millequivalents by the addition of a water soluble alkaline material, as needed. The pretreatment passivates the metal surfaces with a coating of zinc carbonate, as can be determined by measuring the magnitude of external current flow between electrodes of a test probe maintained in the water.

Abstract: A steam boiler having a water blow down in which the blowdown rate is automatically controlled in response to the flow rate and impurity level of the make up water so as to maintain the boiler water impurity level below a specified concentrations.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for preventing the accumulation of paraffin deposits is disclosed. The invention is practiced by conveying the production fluids into contact with a metal which has a nickel content greater than seventy-five percent. In one embodiment of the invention, a gas anchor tool is disclosed which prevents the accumulation of paraffin solids.

Abstract: A fuel cell powerplant 10 having a flow path 20 for an aqueous solution and a method for operating the powerplant are disclosed. The aqueous solution includes water, iron based compounds, and ferric hydrous oxide of a character that retards the deposition of iron based compounds on the interior of the conduit.

Abstract: The soluble manganese species can be maintained in aqueous systems in the presence of halogen species by treating the waters with certain water-soluble, nitrogen containing compositions.

Abstract: A device for treating fluids with magnetic lines of force includes an electrically isolated non-magnetic, metallic conduit through which the fluid passes. An electromagnetic coil surrounds the conduit and is electrically insulated from the conduit. The coil is clad with a magnetic housing or shunt, and fins surrounding the coil dissipate heat generated by the coil. A core consisting of a single cylindrical magnetic section or a series of endwise connected alternating short sections of magnetic and nonmagnetic material is disposed within the conduit along the conduit's axis at a location which is offset downstream from the coil. A helical baffle located between the conduit and the core, or, alternately, a driven impeller, provides circular flow for the fluid so that the fluid crosses the lines of magnetic force extending between the ends of the core and the metallic shunt in a 90.degree. relationship therewith.

Abstract: A method for controlling pH in the liquid and vapor phases of wet steam having such phases formed in a steam generator system from feedwater having therein at least one carbonate species which in the presence of steam forms a vapor phase component tending to lower the pH of the vapor phase of the steam upon condensation and a liquid phase component tending to raise the pH of the liquid phase of the steam, comprising: (a) converting the feedwater in a steam generation system to steam having a vapor phase and a liquid phase; and (b) adding to the steam generation system, a compound, selected from the group of phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth containing compounds which are capable of forming a nonvolatile anionic component and a cationic component that, in the presence of the steam, yields hydrogen ions for reducing the pH of the liquid phase of the steam and an alkaline component for increasing the pH of the vapor phase of said steam upon condensation.

Abstract: For water-treatment in swimming pools, cooling towers, hot tubs, and other systems, it is desired to feed various chemicals in small quantities but at optimum rates into the system. In several embodiments of the invention the water is recirculated through the system which usually includes a filter. It has been discovered that the chemicals can be fed by enclosing them in generally spherical plastic capsules suggestive of table tennis balls, but about the size of a base ball. The rate of feeding depends upon the size and number of small holes which are provided, or the user pokes through the shell of the capsule, upon the solubility of the chemical, and upon the flow rate of the water through a strainer, skimmer, or other chamber in the system into which the capsule is introduced. The random orientation of the capsule tends to average out variations.

Abstract: A method for using a foamed liquid for cleaning and/or inerting a vessel is described which allows for continuous recycling of the foam and its breakout liquid and gas components into regenerated foam which is continously directed back into the vessel.

Abstract: The deposition of metal-containing scale, such as iron silicate scale, from a hot aqueous geothermal brine, or the like, is controlled by blending into the brine sufficient reducing agent effective for reducing trivalent iron and manganese cations in a high temperature brine solution to divalent ions to cause an overall decrease in scale deposition, especially of iron silicate scale. Preferably, from 2 to 7 times the stoichiometric amount of reducing agent is used to effect a 70 to 90 percent reduction in the formation of iron silicate scale.

Abstract: An apparatus for countering scale formation in a fluid flow system comprises a casing adapted for connection into the system and a plurality of substantially spherical metallic members loosely retained within the casing. Preferably, the spherical members comprise an alloy of copper, zinc, nickel and tin.

Abstract: A process for the removal of solid deposits, especially calcium-, iron-, manganese-containing incrustations and mixtures thereof, from water supply installations wherein an aqueous solution comprising a mineral acid, preferably hydrochloric acid corresponding to a normality of the solution of 0.001 N to 6 N, and hydrogen peroxide in a proportion of 0.05 to 20% by weight of the total solution, is applied to the interior surfaces of the installations by, for example, spraying or rinsing.

Abstract: A fuel cell powerplant 10 having a flow path 20 for an aqueous solution includes a device 18 for disposing in the solution ferric hydrous oxide of a character that retards the deposition of iron based compounds. The device is disposed within the powerplant and receives water from a conduit 42 which communicates with a component of the fuel cell powerplant, such as a fuel cell stack 12.