Abstract: A monitoring device for a drinking water purification system comprising a microprocessor that controls the overall operations of the monitoring system, a LCD indicating circuit that relates information to maintenance personnel, a detecting means that analyses related data for determining the condition and extents of clogging of the filtration elements, a warning means that produces verbal or musical sound for warning consumers about the clogged condition of the water filtration elements, and a power switching means that cuts off electricity supply to the water pump of the purification system. In operation, the filtration elements will be clogged by impurities after being used for a period of time. If the filtration elements are clogged, the monitoring device will make a sound to warn of such condition of the filtration elements and will eventually cut off the power supply to the pump for stopping water delivery if the clogged filtration elements are not replaced after a certain period of time.

Abstract: A method and a device for determining hemodynamic parameters during an extracorporeal hemotherapy, in which the blood arrives via the arterial branch (20) of the extracorporeal circuit (9) of the hemotherapeutic device (7), which is in fluid communication with arterial section (21) of a fistula (6), into dialyzer (10) or into a filter of the hemotherapeutic device and is recirculated via the venous branch (22) of the extracorporeal circuit (9), which is in fluid communication with venous section (23) of fistula (6). The temperature T.sub.A prevailing in the arterial branch (20) of the extracorporeal circuit (9) is measured under a changing blood flow, the temperature T.sub.V of the venous branch (22) of the extracorporeal circuit being kept constant. From the determined value pairs of the arterial temperature T.sub.A and of the extracorporeal blood flow Q.sub.B, those parameters of a predetermined function T.sub.A (Q.sub.

Abstract: The combination of a water filter and a display for indication of the water filter condition includes an electrical circuit connected to the display and responsive to use of the water filter. The circuit includes a microcontroller, a timer connected to the microcontroller and providing timing signals thereto, and a switch connected to the microcontroller and responsive to the flow of water from the filter to cause the microcontroller to process the timing signals. The microcontroller is programmed to utilize the timing signals to provide an electrical signal to the display indicative of filter condition.

Abstract: A point of use water purification system for home use is provided comprising a carbon block filter housed in a self-contained disposable pressure vessel for removing particulates and organic contaminants from water. The filter is provided with a pore-size distribution, a binder and a flow path which optimizes filtration performance and enhances microbiological kill rates obtained in a source of radiant energy which is used to kill microorganisms in the filtered water. The source of radiant energy comprises an ultraviolet discharge lamp having an elongate central axis and a diverter for providing a spiral plug flow of water about the discharge lamp. A flow regulator adjusts flow through the system for varying line pressure conditions to ensure adequate exposure of microorganisms to ultraviolet energy. A lamp control circuit conserves power and optimizes ultraviolet output.

Abstract: An improved on-line, real time hemodialysis monitoring system for hemodialysis treatment, quantitates the rate and amount of a constituent, such as urea, removed during the hemodialysis treating by measuring the constituent concentrations as a function of time in the spent dialysate effluent from a hemodialysis machine. A quantity of the spent dialysate effluent is removed from the dialysate effluent waste line periodically for testing. A urea concentration time profile can be analyzed to determine the urea removal, KT/V, URR, SRI, and normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR) indices. The hemodialysis monitoring system preferably can obtain a dialysate sample equilibrated with the blood prior to the start of a hemodialysis treatment.

Abstract: Apparatus for disinfecting water flowing through a water system including a water pipe includes a water bypass line having an inlet and outlet communicating with the water pipe. A wye connector is positioned in the water bypass line and includes a closed interior chamber which receives water from the water bypass line and promotes water turbulence. Electrode elements project into the chamber which are electrically connected to a power supply which imparts electrical energy to the electrode elements and causes the release of ions from the electrode elements into the turbulent water within the wye chamber.

Abstract: A monitoring device for a activated carbon filtration system of drinking water includes a microprocessor that controls the overall operations of the monitoring system, a LCD indicating circuit that relates information to maintenance personnel, a detecting component that analyses related data for determining the condition and extents of clogging of an activated carbon filter, a warning component that produces verbal or musical sound for warning consumers about the clogged condition of the water activated carbon filter, and a power switching component that cuts off the water supply of the system If the activated carbon filter is clogged, the monitoring device will make a sound to warn of such condition of the activated carbon filter and will eventually cut off the power supply to the pump for stopping water delivery if the clogged activated carbon filter is not replaced after a certain period of time.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring flow of a dialysis fluid through a dialyzer is disclosed including a computer for calculating the flow rate of the dialysis fluid into and out of the dialyzer based on the formula P-P.sub.O =k*Q.sup.n in which P is the pressure in the dialysis fluid between a throttle and a pump either upstream or downstream of the dialyzer, P.sub.O is the pressure in the dialysis fluid on the opposite side of the throttles from the pump, k is a characteristic coefficient for the throttle, Q is the flow of the dialysis fluid through the throttle, and N is a characteristic exponent for the throttle, and the apparatus includes microprocessor for calculating the values of k and P.sub.O prior to use and for calculating the value of P.sub.O during use of the dialyzer. Methods for carrying out such monitoring are also disclosed.

Abstract: A water purification system (100) for monitoring and controlling the efficacy and efficiency of a filter (134). Monitored transducer element signals are conditioned and collected with electronic circuitry into a digital computer (195). The system continuously supervises alarms and system status conditions. The system creates process variables by normalizing conductivity and flow signals relative to measured temperature signals, calculating zero offset values for various signals, and determining the gain factor values for all signals. The process variables are used to normalize the efficacy and efficiency of the system. The signals are normalized relative to temperature by a software program in the digital computer and stored therein. Alarm conditions can be automatically controlled by either discrete logic components or by the software program for the digital computer (195).

Abstract: A working fluid containing dispersed abrasive grains is used in abrasive machining, and a used working fluid contaminated with cutting chips or swarf produced during the abrasive machining is processed by first filter device, so that the abrasive grains in the used working fluid is recovered in the form of a suspension to provide a reclaimed working fluid in which the amount of the cutting chips is reduced. The used working fluid is reclaimed by the device, and the useful abrasive grains included in the used working fluid can be efficiently utilized without being discarded, whereby the abrasive grains in the working fluid is effectively utilized and the working cost is reduced. The device employs a so-called cross flow filtration system, wherein filtration films have mesh openings which are sufficiently smaller than an average grain size of the abrasive grains.

Abstract: Blood processing systems and methods separate whole blood into red blood cells and a plasma constituent within a rotating centrifugal separation device. The systems and methods convey whole blood into the separation device through an inlet path including a pump operable at a prescribed rate. The systems and methods remove plasma constituent from the separation device through an outlet path including a pump operable at a prescribed rate. The systems and methods derive a value H.sub.b representing an apparent hematocrit of whole blood entering the separation device, where: ##EQU1## and where H.sub.rbc is a value relating to hematocrit of red blood cells in the separation device. The systems and methods generate outputs and control commands based, at least in part, upon H.sub.b.

Abstract: An artificial kidney comprises an exchanger (1) having two compartments (2, 3) separated by a semipermeable membrane (4), a first compartment (2) being connected to a circuit (5, 7) for extracorporeal blood circulation, the second compartment (3) having an outlet for draining waste liquid. Means (22, 25) are provided for controlling the flow rate (Q.sub.A) of a sterile solution containing a substance (A) to be perfused into the circuit (5, 7) for conveying a flow of blood outside the body, which flow rate is controlled as a function of the flow rate (Q.sub.OUT) of waste liquid. This kidney makes it possible to dose a substance such as a medicine, glucose or bicarbonate, accurately into the blood of a patient undergoing treatment by hemofiltration, hemodialysis, or hemodiafiltration.

Abstract: A point of use water purification system for home use is provided comprising a carbon block filter housed in a self-contained disposable pressure vessel for removing particulates and organic contaminants from water. The filter is provided with a pore-size distribution, a binder and a flow path which optimizes filtration performance and enhances microbiological kill rates obtained in a source of radiant energy which is used to kill microorganisms in the filtered water. The source of radiant energy comprises an ultraviolet discharge lamp having an elongate central axis and a diverter for providing a spiral plug flow of water about the discharge lamp. A flow regulator adjusts flow through the system for varying line pressure conditions to ensure adequate exposure of microorganisms to ultraviolet energy. A lamp control circuit conserves power and optimizes ultraviolet output.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed which provide enhanced solids-contacting vessel performance in a vessel in which untreated liquid is injected into a lower portion of the vessel so as to flow in a substantially helical and upward direct to separate the solids from the liquid in a suspended, rotating sludge blanket. The vessel is equipped with an adjustable weir extending substantially radially form the vessel center to its peripheral wall for withdrawing effluent from the vessel from a variety of locations depending upon the flow velocity characteristics of the liquid in the vessel.

Abstract: To thicken retentate residues using ultra- or microfiltration to clarify fruit juices, apparatuses which have membrane modules (1, 2) are used in the cross-flow process with a retentate circuit. It is proposed that first, the process be carried out with virtually constant retentate overflow velocity at the membranes until there is an increased concentration. Then the transmembrane pressure of membrane modules (1, 2) is kept constant or further increased, and the overflow velocity is reduced, until the desired thickening of the retentate residue is achieved. So that the last reduction step can be carried out, speed-governed retentate displacement pumps (8) are employed. To prevent stoppages of the membranes of membrane modules (1, 2), the apparatus is operated with special flow dividers (10) for the retentate, or an individual circulating pump is associated with each group of membrane modules.

Abstract: Insulating oil in electric power transmission devices such as a transformer is filtered for removal of accumulated water and carbon particles. The filter and circulation pump are usually located in a separate cabinet external to the transformer with circulation conduits connecting the filter, the pump and the transformer. To prevent or minimize environmental contamination by leaks or ruptures in the oil circulation conduits, oil flow within the pump suction conduit is monitored independently of oil pressure within the pump discharge conduit. A flow rate or discharge pressure below a predetermined minimum operates motor control relays to terminate the pump drive motor operation and transmit appropriate alarms. Additionally, an accumulation of oil in the dry sump volume of a pump and filter housing also activates motor terminating relays and transmits an alarm.

Abstract: A method for creating a filtration knowledge base is used in a filtration process for separating a liquid component and a solid component from a slurry. The concentrations of the solid component in the slurry, and of the solid component in the separated liquid, are monitored and stored in a knowledge base along with a quantity relating to the amount of filtering. The knowledge base can be used for controlling the slurry-producing process, routing the separated liquid, automated billing and automated compliance reporting.

Abstract: A water purifier includes a replaceable pre-processing filter, a washable membrane, and a replaceable post-processing filter through which potable water is sequentially conducted. A controller determines a total use time of the filters and membrane and compares the total use time with a reference time for replacement of the filters and washing of the membrane. When the total use time for the filters has reached the reference time, visual and audio indicators are activated. When the total use time for the membrane has reached the reference time, a valve is actuated which permits potable water to flow across and clean the membrane and then be discharged to waste.

Abstract: To deplete viruses in organic material, the material to be purified is conveyed through an ultrafilter or an ultrafiltration unit the depletion rate of which is previously determined. The filter or filtration unit is charged with viruses of the family Leviviridae and the viral count is determined before and after filtration and used to derive the depletion rate. The virus depletion can be monitored during the process by following the depletion of a marker.

Abstract: A water treatment system provides a flow of treated water having a pre-established quality, for example, a maximum TDS and permitted pH range, from a flow of reclaimed water having a quality poorer than the pre-established quality of the treated water and a flow of treatment water. The system includes a mixing reservoir; first and second fluid conduits connected to the mixing reservoir for flowing the reclaimed water and the treatment water into the reservoir; and a third fluid conduit connected to the mixing reservoir for discharging a flow of treated water from the mixing reservoir; and sensors connected for sensing the flow rates and qualities of the reclaimed water and treatment water flowed into the mixing reservoir and of the treated water discharged from the mixing reservoir.

Abstract: In the aeration reactor described in the specification, an aeration basin has two aeration cells separated by a dividing curtain and connected in series so as to normally receive wastewater in the first aeration cell and then pass the wastewater to the second aeration cell which is followed by a clarifier to separate sludge from the treated wastewater. A liquid level detector in the reactor responds to surges in the rate of flow of the wastewater through the reactor to redirect incoming wastewater and return sludge from the first aeration cell into the second aeration cell and isolate the first aeration cell to preserve active sludge in that cell.

Abstract: A plurality of sensors sense a plurality of parameters including flow rate of a slurry being filtered sensed along a filtration medium and differential pressure across the medium which characterize the operation of a cross-flow filtration system having a moving, continuous filter medium. The plurality of sensors produce a plurality of signals representative of the plurality of parameters. A processor processes the plurality of signals to provide at least one control signal. The at least one control signal is applied to the filtration system to control at least one parameter thereof. As a result, a desired operating condition or a desired performance criterion is automatically maintained during operation of the filtration system.

Abstract: A description is given of processes and machines for the treatment of drinking water, preferably in the domestic sector. With these processes and machines, undesirable constituents, for example organic and inorganic substances which are harmful to health, can be removed from the drinking water or microbial contaminations reduced. For this purpose, the technologies of ion exchange, adsorption at surfaces and sterilization by means of UV light are applied. As a result of taking account of the physico-chemical parameters of the water and the various operational states in the regulation of the process, the exhaustion of the filter cartridge is monitored and a change in the quality of the treated water with operating time is avoided. Bacterial contaminations of the water are avoided by advantageous embodiments of the UV sterilization device. Since the feedstock container can accommodate both the water to be treated and also the treated water, a low space requirement results for the treatment machine.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for use as an in-line fluid flow monitor through filter media of a variety typically employed in domestic applications upstream of a kitchen faucet as well as unusually low pressure water supplies. Apparatus includes an outer housing with an input port leading to a rotatable turbine within the housing. The turbine, rotatable about a longitudinal axis, is coupled to an offset gear which, in turn, is coupled to a reduction gear train which includes first and second gear arrays mounted for rotation about a first and second axis located parallel with and spaced from the longitudinal axis. Fluid communication is provided from the turbine chamber through the gear train to an output port. The gear train ends in an output which is engaged in driving relationship with an oppositely disposed rotatable valve member having resilient pawl legs extending therefrom. The pawls are configured to engage the output to provide rotatable ratcheting movement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a control system adapted to control water flow in a swimming pool system including a swimming pool having a filter tank. The pool control system includes a control circuit for controlling at least a first pool water valve assembly and a second valve assembly so as to control water flow to the filter tank and from the filter tank to the swimming pool. The control circuit is adapted to maintain the water levels in the filter tank and swimming pool to within a prescribed water level. Each pool water valve assembly is preferably fitted with a potentiometer and air solenoid coupled to the control circuit for respectively determining the position of each respective water valve and controlling the position of each water valve. The system also features a central, programmable processing unit and apparatus for transmitting data between a remote location and the processing unit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating water in which water from a local supply is mixed with measured quantities of a chlorine disinfectant and introduced into a holding vessel maintained at ambient pressure. CO.sub.2 added to the holding tank enhances the potency of the disinfectant with a resultant effective destruction of micro-organisms in the water. From the holding vessel, the disinfected water is conducted to a point of use, which may be a pressurized carbonator incorporated into a post-mix beverage dispenser. A treating module governed by a microprocessor effects the mixing of disinfectant and water and controls the introduction of water with entrained disinfectant into the holding vessel.

Abstract: A driver or ballast for the ultraviolet bulb of a water treatment system. The driver includes a step-up transformer and a feedback oscillator connected between the secondary and the primary of the transformer. The secondary of the transformer also is selectably connected through one of two different capacitor compensators depending on water flow through the system. In a low intensity mode, the current and the power factor output of the driver are relatively low--preferably just enough to keep the bulb filaments energized. In a high intensity mode, the current and the power factor are relatively high to power the bulb at a relatively high efficiency. The driver operates at a relatively low DC voltage. A voltage converter selected as function of the local line voltage converts the AC line voltage to the necessary DC voltage.

Abstract: An apheresis apparatus for increasing the purity and yield of platelets separated from donated whole blood by centrifugation incorporates a centrifuge for separating whole blood into lower, intermediate, and higher density components. The centrifuge has inlet and outlet ports in selective fluid communication with a container for receiving lower density blood component from the outlet port. A pump is coupled to the container and the inlet port for recirculating lower density blood component from the first container through the inlet port into the centrifuge at a first, substantially constant, rate so as to widen the region of the centrifuge occupied by the intermediate density component without causing the intermediate density component to exit the centrifuge, and subsequently at a second rate, so as to displace intermediate density component from the centrifuge.

Abstract: An improved dialysis apparatus and method wherein a dialysis delivery system delivers dialysate to a dialyzer through an external dialysate line with a dialyzer inlet connector and a dialysate waste system removes spent dialysate from the dialyzer through an external spent dialysate line with a dialyzer outlet connector. A bypass block comprises a first bypass block connector adapted to connect to the dialyzer inlet connector and a second bypass block connector adapted to connect to the dialyzer outlet connector and a conduit interconnecting the first bypass block connector and the second bypass block connector with a check valve located intermediate the first and second bypass block connectors and oriented to permit fluid flow only from the first bypass block connector to the second bypass block connector.

Abstract: An artificial kidney comprises an exchanger (1) having two compartments (2, 3) separated by a semipermeable membrane (4), a first compartment (2) being connected to a circuit (5, 7) for extracorporeal blood circulation, the second compartment (3) having an outlet for draining waste liquid. Means (22, 25) are provided for controlling the flow rate (Q.sub.A) of a sterile solution containing a substance (A) to be perfused into the circuit (5, 7) for conveying a flow of blood outside the body, which flow rate is controlled as a function of the flow rate (Q.sub.OUT) of waste liquid. This kidney makes it possible to dose a substance such as a medicine, glucose or bicarbonate, accurately into the blood of a patient undergoing treatment by hemofiltration, hemodialysis, or hemodiafiltration.

Abstract: A cloudy water recovery and recycling apparatus and method of use. The apparatus recovers cloudy water defined as water recovered from the rinse cycle of a clothes washing machine. The apparatus is comprised of an electronic controller, a storage tank, a trap having a lint screen, a pumping means, and a pressurized storage container. Water from a clothes washing machine is separated into rinse water and wash water by an electronic controller. The wash water is disposed of and the rinse water is strained to remove lint, collected in the storage tank, treated with dye and bactericide, pumped from the storage tank to a pressurized container and then utilized to flush at least one toilet.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removing free and emulsified water as well as solid contaminants from an oil/water mixture produced in lubricating the bearings of a steam turbine employs a singular, closed housing having a lowermost, filter-free gravity chamber, an uppermost filter element chamber, and a filter-free water collection chamber between the gravity chamber and the filter element chamber. The oil/water mixture introduced into the housing has its free water component removed in the gravity chamber and has its emulsified water and solid contaminant components removed by coalescence in the filter element chamber. Free water, emulsified water and solid contaminants are collected, monitored and selectively drained from the water collection chamber and gravity chamber.

Abstract: A system automated for providing at least periodic removal of metal ions and contaminants from a chemical bath, consists of a microprocessor programmed for controlling fluid circuits of pumps and valves, for in one state of operation circulating a first predetermined quantity of the chemical bath from a first tank, through an ion exchange column, and back to the first tank; for in a second state of operation circulating deigned water from a second tank into the IEX column for displacing residual chemical bath therefrom for return to the first tank; for in a third state of operation circulating deigned water through the IEX column, and discharging the rinse water from a waste port; for in a fourth state of operation circulating regenerate acid through the ion exchange column, and discharging the used acid from a waste port; for in a fifth state of operation circulating deionized water through the IEX column for rinsing acid regenerate therefrom and discharging the same out of a waste port; and for in a sixth s

Abstract: Gaseous bubbles are made to rise in two respective measuring columns (30,20) for purified reference water and for the water to be examined, which columns are supplied with descending currents and drained by respective ascending discharge columns (34,24) and overflows (36,26); the bubbles are measured with a konimeter on the rising sections, and the difference in rising times in the two columns is calculated, in order to determine the extent of the presence of surfactants.

Abstract: A point of use water purification system for home use is provided comprising a carbon block filter housed in a self-contained disposable pressure vessel for removing particulates and organic contaminants from water. The filter is provided with a pore-size distribution, a binder and a flow path which optimizes filtration performance and enhances microbiological kill rates obtained in a source of radiant energy which is used to kill microorganisms in the filtered water. The source of radiant energy comprises an ultraviolet discharge lamp having an elongate central axis and a diverter for providing a spiral plug flow of water about the discharge lamp. A flow regulator adjusts flow through the system for varying line pressure conditions to ensure adequate exposure of microorganisms to ultraviolet energy. A lamp control circuit conserves power and optimizes ultraviolet output.

Abstract: An apparatus for use with a water treatment unit and in particular, those having a treatment cartridge, that indicates the end of life of the unit. The apparatus comprises a housing with at least one opening for the passage of liquid to a chamber, formed by the interior of the housing and the water treatment unit. The chamber includes a support member mounted to the housing. A float is rotationally mounted on the support member. The support member limits float movement to a predetermined distance upon each rotation of the float, resulting from each cycle (use) of the water treatment unit. Once the float has made a specific number of rotations and has travelled the complete distance of the support member (as water fills and drains from the chamber), the float rests in a position where it is visible through an opening in the housing, indicative of the end of life of the water treatment unit.

Abstract: Reverse osmosis, particularly for manually operating water desalination, is achieved using semipermeable membranes which selectively permeate purified water from a feed solution pressurized by reciprocating piston or diaphragm pump. The manual pump action is assisted by using two pump pistons to provide a continuous flow of feed solution to the concentrate side of the membrane to continuously flush the membrane surface. The concentration polarization is controlled by exhausting the high pressure concentrate to atmosphere through an orifice and relief valve.

Abstract: In a dialysis apparatus having a dialyzer and a single balance chamber, the internal volume of the balance chamber is preferably at most 2/3 of the volume of the dialysis fluid chamber within the dialyzer. As a result, during the dialysis fluid recirculation cycle, at most 2/3 of the volume of fluid within the dialysis fluid chamber will be replaced by fresh dialysis fluid. Preferably, the duration of the recirculation cycle is approximately equal to the duration of the balance chamber filling cycle.

Abstract: An arrangement for, and a method of, treating fluids, e.g., conditioning water in a pipe to resist scale deposits from building up in the pipe, comprise a primary coil mounted exteriorly of the pipe, and an electronic circuit for energizing the primary coil to generate a succession of radio frequency signals that form an electromagnetic field in the water. The field has generally circular flux lines in generally co-axial relation with the pipe, and is propagated along the entire pipe.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of using the apparatus in the final stages of purification of sewage water in which the effluent is placed under pressure by a pump and forced through a filter. Part of the effluent is sampled and chlorinated by a chlorine gas injector and then reintroduced into the lager body of effluent. The entire mixture is held within a detention chamber in order to allow the chlorine to dissipate, and then pumped out into a natural stream through a pipe in which air bubbles are injected in order to replenish the oxygen level.

Abstract: A liquid purification system is disclosed. In this system water is pumped into a filter cartridge. A reverse osmosis filter membrane in the filter cartridge removes impurities from the water, but not all of the water passes through the membrane. Water passing through the membrane exits the filter cartridge through a first outlet port, and is sent to a storage tank. Water not passing through the filter membrane exits the filter cartridge through a second outlet port. This water then passes through a pressure relief valve. The pressure relief valve can be adjusted to vary the water pressure and flow rates in the system. Some of the water exiting the pressure relief valve passes through a flow restrictor valve and then to drain. The flow restrictor maintains a constant flow rate at variable pressures. In this system, the flow restrictor is operable to maintain the same flow rate through it to drain and through the first filter outlet port.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for creating a filtration knowledge base is used in a filtration process for separating a liquid component and a solid component from a slurry. The concentrations of the solid component in the slurry, and of the solid component in the separated liquid, are monitored and stored in a knowledge base along with a quantity relating to the amount of filtering. The knowledge base can be used for controlling the slurry-producing process, routing the separated liquid, automated billing and automated compliance reporting.

Abstract: A number of improvements relating to methods and apparatuses for kidney dialysis are disclosed.

Abstract: A number of improvements relating to methods and apparatuses for kidney dialysis are disclosed.

Abstract: A vibratory screen apparatus (10) for the separation of solids has a cleaning system to clean the screen bed (15) of adhering solids, such as matted fibrous materials. A water discharge assembly (52) includes a water dispensing tubular member (60) in which elongate slots (76, 78) are provided to discharge pressurized water in a continuous stream or curtain across the entire width of the screen bed (15). The water dispensing tubular member (60) is mounted on a movable slide (54) for back and forth movement along the length of the screen bed (15) by a sprocket chain (72). An endless belt conveyor (104) has an upper run (108) on which the solid materials are deposited enclosed within a tubular conduit (114) for protection of the solid materials being transported by the conveyer (104).

Abstract: A life indicator is so designed that an electric current flows to a light emitting diode utilizing a battery as a power source when two electrodes are electrically connected. The two electrodes are so installed as to be electrically connected by passing water through a water passage communicating with an objective equipment, and the discharge life of the battery is set equal to the service life of the equipment.

Abstract: An improved water quality monitor is provided for use in a water purification system of the type having a reverse osmosis unit for producing relatively pure water from a tap water supply. The reverse osmosis unit supplies produced purified water to a reservoir for storage until dispensing, as by opening a faucet valve. An inlet shut-off valve closes to prevent tap water inflow to the reverse osmosis unit when the reservoir reaches a substantially filled condition. The water quality monitor includes electrodes in contact with the tap water and the produced purified water to obtain comparative conductivity readings which represent the performance level of the reverse osmosis unit in removing impurities from the tap water inflow.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing solid phase extraction (SPE) on a fluid that contains solubles and suspended solids. The method includes: (a) providing a volume of fluid that contains solubles and suspended solids, (b) processing the volume of fluid to extract solubles therefrom by the steps comprising: (i) passing a first portion of the volume of fluid through a SPE medium that has first and second sides, the first portion of the volume of fluid passing through the SPE medium from the first side to the second side; and then (ii) passing a second portion of the volume of fluid through the SPE medium from the second side to the first side; and (c) repeating step (b) a plurality of times such that no substantial amount of the suspended solids is removed from the processed volume of fluid and solubles are retained on the SPE medium. The apparatus includes a conduit, a SPE medium located in the conduit, and a fluid flow direction altering mechanism or a SPE rotating mechanism.

Abstract: A mobile water filtration and chlorination system in modular form provides a universal water treatment, pump and distribution system.

Abstract: A filtration system for filtering dope of a solvent-spun fiber manufacturing plant in which dope to be spun flows from a source of supply (10) through a series of filter assemblies (15) (21) (23) to jets (22(b)) of each spinning heads (22). The filtration system comprises, in flow series, a first stage filter assemblies (15) having filter elements with the finest pore size of the series (typically 20.mu.) and a final stage filter assembly (23), immediately upstream of the jets (22(b)) of each spinning head (22). The final stage filter assembly is of the coarsest pore size of the series of filters (typically 80.mu.) and is equal to, or less than, the size of the jet holes (typically 80.mu.). The filter media of intermediate filter assemblies (21) between the first (15) and final (23) stages increase in pore size as one progresses from the first filter assembly (15) to the final filter assemblies (23) along the flow path.