Liquid-flow Control Patents (Class 261/110)
  • Publication number: 20030085477
    Abstract: A top for a cooling tower having a bottom wall at least one opening therein for accommodating an air current generator. The cooling tower top additionally includes a plurality of hot liquid distributors for distributing hot liquid. The cooling tower top also includes a top wall having an opening for accommodating an air cooling generator and a liquid inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: The Marley Cooling Tower Company
    Inventors: Ohler L. Kinney, Robert S. Glauz, Brian F. Wright, Kathryn L. Pullen, Eldon F. Mockry
  • Patent number: 6544628
    Abstract: A contact body is disclosed, comprising at least two contact sheets having opposing surfaces and a projection extending outward from one surface of each contact sheet, wherein the projection defines a depression on the opposite surface of the contact sheet, a projection of one contact sheet being disposed within a depression of an adjacent contact sheet to form a projection-depression coupling, and the projection-depression coupling being deformed to form a positive lock. A method and apparatus of connecting contact sheets to form a contact body are also disclosed, that provide for deforming projection-depression couplings formed in two or more interlocking sheets to form positive locks by which assemblies of sheets are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Assignee: Brentwood Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Aull, Timothy E. Krell, Palle Rye
  • Patent number: 6540213
    Abstract: The guide member for a liquid jet to be deflected allows a liquid after flowing out of a container to be deflected onto a target which is located below the container. The deflecting takes place by means of a shaped material plate which is arranged ahead of an outlet opening of the container and which reshapes and further conducts the jet in such a manner that the liquid is conveyed to the target at a lower end of the shaped material plate. At the location ahead of the outlet opening, where the liquid jet is incident onto the shaped material plate, a first and a second piece of surface of the material plate form a mouth region in which the first piece of surface deflects the liquid transversely with respect to the vertical, whereas the second piece of surface is provided as a catcher for squirts. The first piece of surface merges into a channel in which the liquid is guided downwards. In this the wall of the second piece of surface divides the channel off from the mouth region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Christian Bachmann, Emil Fehr, Adrian Faust
  • Patent number: 6527258
    Abstract: The apparatus for the collection and distribution of liquid in a column having at least one lamella collector and a distributor outflow system which is arranged below it. A side passage is contained in the or in each lamella collector and liquid outflow openings are arranged in a combination, as a result of which a hydrodynamic equalization for a liquid to be distributed results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventor: Guido Bartlok
  • Publication number: 20030031612
    Abstract: Contact, mixing, and often quenching box (8), with main dimension (D) and height (H7), comprising at least one duct section (B1) located on the upper part of said box (8) for entry of fluids in which said box (8) comprises, downstream from said duct section (B1), in the direction in which the fluids circulate, a means (B4) that provides, in said box (8), for making the fluids swirl in an approximately nonradial direction, and not parallel to the overall direction of circulation of said fluids, and comprising at least one annular, peripheral duct section (B6) for the exit of said mixture of fluids formed in said box (8) whose lower level is located above the upper level for fluid entry through at least one lateral inlet (B3) located in said box (8) above means (B4). Reaction cell (4), of an elongated shape along an approximately vertical axis comprising said contact, mixing, and quenching box (8) and use of this cell for performing exothermic reactions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Ludovic Raynal, Isabelle Harter, Francis Aubry
  • Patent number: 6502806
    Abstract: A flow distributor is provided for distributing liquid onto a packed bed of a process column. The distributor includes an elongated liquid trough having first and second laterally spaced, longitudinally extending sidewalls and a longitudinally extending floor which extends between and interconnects the sidewalls. The sidewalls each have a plurality of holes therethrough, which holes are spaced apart longitudinally of the distributor. The distributor also includes a respective elongated liquid distributor drainpipe for each of the holes. Each pipe has first and second ends and a central internal liquid conducting passageway extending therethrough between its ends. Each pipe also has a first segment adjacent its first end and a second segment spaced longitudinally of the pipe from the first end. The segments are angularly disposed relative to one another. The distributor also includes a respective connector assembly for each of the pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Koch-Glitsch, Inc.
    Inventor: Don Richardson
  • Publication number: 20020153622
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for diffusing aromas that includes a bottle containing the aromatic product to be diffused in a liquid state, the bottle being removably-mounted beneath a device body. The body has an inner chamber which communicates with the bottle in the operating position and horizontal entrance/exit channels which are connected to a pressurized air circuit which opens into the chamber. A diffusion screen is arranged inside the inner chamber, perpendicularly to the axis of the horizontal passages, and a capillary element connects the liquid contained in the bottle to the diffusion screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Alain Hugon
  • Patent number: 6395138
    Abstract: This distributor (1) includes: a primary distributor (3) which delimits a closed volume provided with liquid predistribution openings (8) which open into the column; a device for feeding the primary distributor (3) with liquid under a pressure very much greater than the internal pressure of the column; and a secondary distributor (4) which occupies substantially the entire cross-section of the column, which includes a gas overhead in communication with the internal space of the column and which is subdivided by partitions (13, 17) into a plurality of compartments (16), each of which receives liquid originating from at least one of the said openings (8) of the primary distributor (3), this secondary distributor (4) having a bottom (9) provided with orifices (12) for fine distribution of the liquid over virtually the entire cross-section of the column, the number of these orifices being very much greater than the number of openings (8) of the primary distributor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme a Directoire et Conseil de Surveillance pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Bernard Darredeau, Jean-Yves Lehman
  • Publication number: 20020039547
    Abstract: A quench zone mixing apparatus that occupies a low vertical height and has an improved mixing efficiency and fluid distribution across the catalyst surface includes a swirl chamber, a rough distribution network, and a distribution apparatus. In the swirl chamber, reactant fluid from a catalyst bed above is thoroughly mixed with a quench fluid by a swirling action. The mixed fluids exit the swirl chamber through an aperture to the rough distribution system where the fluids are radially distributed outward across the vessel to the distribution apparatus. The distribution apparatus includes a plate with a number of bubble caps and associated drip trays that multiply the liquid drip stream from the bubble caps to further symmetrically distribute the fluids across the catalyst surface. Alternatively, deflector baffles may be associated with the bubble caps to provide a wider and more uniform liquid distribution below the plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Publication date: April 4, 2002
    Applicant: Fluor Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas E. Nelson, Robert W. Kuskie, F. Emmett Bingham, Garry E. Jacobs, Steven W. Stupin, Robert W. Kuskie, Robert A. Logman
  • Patent number: 6294053
    Abstract: This liquid distributor includes: a primary distributor (13) including liquid-distribution openings and delimiting N1 first compartments (22), each provided with liquid feed elements means (10, 11); and a secondary distributor (14), arranged under the primary distributor (13) and including a dish with openworked perforated bottom which occupies substantially the entire cross-section of the distillation column (2), this dish being subdivided by partitions (25) into N2 second compartments (24), with N2>N1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe, Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventor: Bernard Darredeau
  • Patent number: 6293526
    Abstract: A liquid distributor for packing columns. The liquid distributor includes at least one tubular or trough-like distributor member including outlet openings for an output of liquid in the form of jets. Screens are arranged ahead of the outlet openings onto which the incident liquid jets are deformed to liquid films flowing off. The outlet openings screen the outlet openings against an upwardly flowing gas flow. In the event of a maximum output of liquid, the liquid jets are incident onto the screens at angles that are less than 60°, and even as much as less than 10°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Markus Fischer, Felix Moser
  • Patent number: 6286818
    Abstract: Internal members or baffles for material exchange columns have at least one packing bed. The packing bed has at least one first packing block and at least one correction element associated with the first packing block. The first packing block and its associated correction element produce different final distributions of liquid or systematic maldistributions. The systematic maldistribution in the liquid phase caused by the first packing block is largely corrected by the systematic maldistribution of the associated correction element. Such an arrangement makes possible enhanced separation efficiency or higher packing beds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Kuhni AG
    Inventor: Ulrich Buhlmann
  • Patent number: 6267358
    Abstract: A low pressure drop inlet arrangement for an absorber having straight walls has a perforated tray positioned above the gas inlet opening between the walls of the absorber. A ring around the outer edge of the tray lacks perforations, or the perforations are covered. A drip ledge may be positioned on the bottom of the tray around the inner edge of the non-perforated ring. Baffles are positioned over the tray as well. The baffles may extend between the walls of the absorber, or they may only occupy the space over the perforations in the tray and the size of the tray perforations may be varied to control the overall pressure drop. An absorber made in accordance with the invention experiences a low pressure drop at the gas inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignees: The Babcock & Wilcox Company, McDermott Technologies Inc., Hudson Products Corporation
    Inventors: Wadie F. Gohara, William H. Hall, George B. Watson
  • Patent number: 6149136
    Abstract: A liquid distributor for a packed liquid-vapor contact column includes a header tank; a liquid distribution plate having vapor riser passages and a multiplicity of discrete reservoir cells each having an aperture for flow of liquid therefrom into the column; and conduits for feeding liquid from the header tank into each cell. The liquid distribution plate preferably has a uniform criss-cross structure with alternating vapor riser passages and reservoir cells of identical shape and size. The conduits may have two or more sections each feeding a discrete group of reservoir cells from a location of the header tank at an elevation spaced from that of the other section(s). The distributor compensates for column sway or tilt when mounted on, for example, a ship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip Andrew Armstrong, Mohammad Ali Kalbassi, Derek Miller
  • Patent number: 6068730
    Abstract: A liquid distributor for distributing liquid over the heat transfer surface of an evaporator includes a channel array including one or more supply channels and downwardly deviating distribution channels. Each distribution channel has a step-shaped expansion located downstream with respect to the supply channel and connecting therewith via a sharp point, restricting the liquid suction created in the distribution channel. Sharp points provided in the supply channel or channels further restrict the liquid suction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Hadwaco Ltd Oy
    Inventors: Leif Ramm-Schmidt, Veli Tiainen, Peter Koistinen, Hemmo Eriksson
  • Patent number: 6062547
    Abstract: Provided is a quench vessel containing at least two separate internal vessels. A receiving liquor is contained in the first internal vessel and a washing liquid bath is contained in a second internal vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Kvaerner Pulping AB
    Inventor: Bengt Nilsson
  • Patent number: 6059272
    Abstract: A liquid distributor in the form of a tray or trough network is provided with a plurality of rows of apertures through which liquid descends. A predistributor trough predistributes liquid onto the rows of apertures and is provided with bottom and side openings from which the liquid is distributed onto the plate. The side openings are located proximally with respect to the bottom openings to enhance uniformity of velocity profile of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: The BOC Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Potthoff, Ramachandran Krishnamurthy
  • Patent number: 5942162
    Abstract: A liquid-vapor distribution device for use in two-phase concurrent downflow vessels including a level, horizontal tray fabricated and installed so as to be essentially leak free at the junctions of the tray and the vessel wall, the horizontal tray being perforated with holes of equal size, the holes being distributed in an optimized pattern over the surface of the horizontal tray, each perforation through the horizontal tray being fitted with a vapor lift tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Haldor Topsoe A/S
    Inventors: Morten Muller Gamborg, Benny Normann Jensen
  • Patent number: 5932315
    Abstract: A microfluidic structure assembly having a microchannel formed by bonding two plates together is disclosed. The microfluidic structure assembly includes a first plate and a second plate. At least one of these plates has one or more microgrooves. Microdepressions and microprojections are also present in the plates and they connect such that the microprojections of one plate fit into the microdepressions of the other plate. As a result, the two plates are proximate to each other to form an assembly in which the microgrooves to form microchannels. These microdepressions and microprojections securely lock the microchannels into desired positions. Preferably the plates are made by molding to form the microdepressions, microgrooves, and microchannels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventors: Paul Lum, Michael Greenstein
  • Patent number: 5914011
    Abstract: A reaction with distillation column is provided with a plurality of discrete catalytic reaction containers. The containers contain a plurality of solid catalyst particles which form a catalytic reaction zone. The containers also include a liquid collection tray cover which defines a liquid accumulation zone immediately overlying the catalytic reaction zone. Overflow weirs are provided on the tray cover to allow for overflow of liquid on the tray cover. A member may be provided within the containers to create an open area within the catalytic reaction zone to facilitate entry of the liquid into the catalytic reaction zone. The containers can be individually positioned within the reactor to suit particular process requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Koch-Glitsch, Inc.
    Inventors: Neil Yeoman, Ronald Pinaire, Michael A. Ulowetz, O. Jeffrey Berven, Timothy P. Nace, David A. Furse
  • Patent number: 5906773
    Abstract: Significant savings of space inside a mass transfer tower can be obtained by use of a liquid distributor system with efficient uniform distribution from conduits such as troughs, pipes or deck distributors using flow spreader devices located predominantly below the conduit enabling closer spacing of liquid distribution points within the tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Norton Company
    Inventors: Gail W. Hausch, Douglas S. Byrd
  • Patent number: 5783119
    Abstract: The liquid distributor for columns has liquid outlet openings and fine distribution elements with a guide wall associated with them. A preselectable amount of liquid can be supplied into the associated fine distribution element via each outlet opening. A plate-like element communicating with the guide wall is arranged in each fine distribution element, with a communicating chain of capillary openings forming a distribution zone and drain-off zone between the edge of the element and the guide wall. This chain extends along a horizontal, closed curve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Sulzer Chemtech AG
    Inventors: Herbert Ulrich, Emil Fehr
  • Patent number: 5770117
    Abstract: A cooling tower (30) with a film fill assembly (37) including a lower film fill stack (40) and an intermediate sloped or stepped film fill section (43). The lower stack (40) is disposed in a lower inboard corner (41) of the tower (30) proximal to an air outlet opening (35) and a collecting basin (36), and extends about 20% to 60% of the vertical height (L) of the film fill assembly (37). All film fill sections include vertical corrugated sheets (46) in composite forming an integral unit with adjacent sheets contacting each other and defining passages for gas and liquid. The film fill assembly (37) may include an upper vertically oriented film fill section (54) disposed in an upper outboard corner (44) of the cooling tower (30). A baffle assembly (73) collects and diverts descending water extending too far inwardly toward the tower plenum chamber (56) and past the lower film fill section (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Peter M. Phelps
  • Patent number: 5695548
    Abstract: An improved packing system and method are disclosed wherein a packing section includes a liquid distributor and a separator placed above the distributor so that gas rising through the liquid distributor contacts liquid in the distributor, forming a gas-liquid combination which rises in co-current flow to the separator. Liquid is collected in the separator, from which gas rises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventor: William R. Trutna
  • Patent number: 5690763
    Abstract: An integral structure is provided for chemical processing and manufacture, in which a plurality of laminae are joined together and having inlet and outlet ports connected by a three dimensionally tortuous channel. Chemicals are introduced through the inlet ports and processed along the channel, with desirable product withdrawn through the outlet ports. The laminae are of materials selected to be compatible with the chemical process, from the group consisting of elements of groups III, IV or V of the Periodic Table, ceramics, glasses, polymers, composites and metals. Processes of manufacture of the apparatus and processes utilizing the apparatus are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: James William Ashmead, Charles Thomas Blaisdell, Melvin Harry Johnson, Jack Kent Nyquist, Joseph Anthony Perrotto, James Francis Ryley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5670095
    Abstract: A tower packing unit for a liquid/gas/miss contact apparatus including a plurality of filaments that form a central body and a perimeter ring surrounding and connected to the central body; wherein the perimeter ring is formed in a continuous wave configuration surrounding the central body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignees: Jeffrey John Baumont, Julian Morris Higgs, Dennis Owen Southam
    Inventor: Dennis Owen Southam
  • Patent number: 5565019
    Abstract: The invention is a process for increasing the system thermal capability of a splash filled cooling tower where cooling water is circulated and splashed against splash bars during the cooling process. The process includes contacting the circulating water of the cooling tower with a nonionic surfactant composition in an amount effective to increase the system thermal capability of the cooling tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Assignee: Ashland Inc.
    Inventors: R. Douglas Hancock, Russell T. Noble, Andrew A. Romano
  • Patent number: 5534328
    Abstract: An integral structure is provided for chemical processing and manufacture, in which a plurality of laminae are joined together and having inlet and outlet ports connected by a three dimensionally tortuous channel. Chemicals are introduced through the inlet ports and processed along the channel, with desirable product withdrawn through the outlet ports. The laminae are of materials selected to be compatible with the chemical process, from the group consisting of elements of groups III, IV or V of the Periodic Table, ceramics, glasses, polymers, composites and metals. Processes of manufacture of the apparatus and processes utilizing the apparatus are also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: James W. Ashmead, Charles T. Blaisdell, Melvin H. Johnson, Jack K. Nyquist, Joseph A. Perrotto, James F. Ryley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5525271
    Abstract: A liquid-vapor contact device having a plate-like body provided with a central section formed of expanded metal construction. The expanded metal construction provides slit-like openings for the vapor to ascend through the plate-like body and mix with liquid traversing the plate-like body. Tongue-like flow deflectors associated with the openings impart momentum to the vapor in a flow direction taken from inlet and outlet segments of the plate-like body. A plurality of elongated members overlie the central segment of the plate-like body. The plurality of the elongated members define channels running from the inlet and outlet segments which are preferably outwardly curved to ensure complete liquid distribution across the plate-like body. In addition, flow impedance members in the form of cut and bent tabs impede the flow of liquid across the plate-like body while flinging liquid against side surfaces of the elongated members to produce a falling film and therefore a secondary mechanism for liquid-vapor contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: The BOC Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Potthoff, Alan C. Burton
  • Patent number: 5487531
    Abstract: A direct forced draft counterflow cooling tower apparatus is provided with a dual layer drainage collection system. Preferably, the lower layer of collection plates is formed of hollow plates having interiors which receive the warm water collected on the upper layer of plates. This provides a thermal charging or warming of the lower plates so as to prevent icing of the lower layer of plates of the drainage collection system during cold wintertime operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Tower Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 5487849
    Abstract: A modular cooling tower apparatus is formed from a plurality of pultruded fiberglass structural members. Four hollow beams are joined together to form a combined liquid basin and support frame structure. A dual-layer drainage collection system rests upon the hollow beams and collects liquid and drains it into the hollow beams. A five-foot-thick body of fill material rests upon the drainage collection system. The overall height of the assembly from the bottom of the basin to the top of the unit is less than eleven feet thus allowing transportation on conventional trucking equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Tower Tech, Inc.
    Inventor: Harold D. Curtis
  • Patent number: 5466419
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vertically disposed polymerization reactor having a series of essentially circular tray assemblies; each tray assembly having a central open vapor chimney and two split-flow paths each split-flow path containing one reverse flow path wherein the liquid polymer flow is reversed by means of a substantially semi-circular turnaround region; each tray having a liquid polymer tray inlet and a liquid polymer tray outlet for conducting a flow of the liquid polymer by means of a hydraulic gradient; each tray assembly being open at the top for escape of vapor from the liquid polymer flow to the central open vapor chimney; and each tray arranged in vertical disposition one above the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 14, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas L. Yount, Larry C. Windes, J. Wesley Adams
  • Patent number: 5464590
    Abstract: This invention relates to a vertically disposed polymerization reactor having a series of essentially circular tray assemblies; each tray assembly having a central open vapor chimney and a single flow path composed of at least two loops wherein the liquid polymer flow is reversed by means of a substantially semi-circular turnaround wall; each tray having a liquid polymer tray inlet and a liquid polymer tray outlet for conducting a flow of the liquid polymer by means of a hydraulic gradient; each tray assembly being open at the top for escape of vapor from the liquid polymer flow to the central open vapor chimney; and each tray arranged in vertical disposition one above the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 7, 1995
    Inventors: Thomas L. Yount, J. Wesley Adams, Larry C. Windes
  • Patent number: 5366667
    Abstract: A contactor for the transfer of matter and heat between gas and liquid comprising a helical support of heat conductive material allowing the flow of a liquid to be treated, a wall of heat conductive material and in thermal contact with the said support, separating in sealing-tight manner the said liquid and a heat exchanging fluid, characterized in that the said support and the said wall are formed by a vertical stack of open work plates of a heat conductive material, offset angularly in respect of one another by rotation according to the axis of the said support, each plate thus forming an element of the said support, like a step of a spiral staircase, and an element of the said wall, in such a way as to obtain an economical and efficient evaporator or absorber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 22, 1994
    Assignee: Pechiney Recherche
    Inventor: Pierre Le Goff
  • Patent number: 5339854
    Abstract: An apparatus for conserving utilities including coolant, in a system having an evaporative cooler equipped with a water reservoir for holding a predetermined amount of cooling water and also equipped with a recirculating system for recirculating the cooling water. The apparatus has a level sensing assembly coupled to the water reservoir. The level sensing assembly provides a first signal when the cooling water level is less than a first predetermined limit. The system has a controller coupled to the level sensing assembly for receiving the first signal. The system also has a supply valve coupled to the water reservoir, to a water supply and to the controller. The supply valve is responsive to signals from the controller. The supply valve delivers water from the water supply to the water reservoir. The system further has a bleed valve coupled to the water reservoir and to the controller. The bleed valve is responsive to signals from the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Inventor: Charles D. Leith
  • Patent number: 5250234
    Abstract: A liquid distributor apparatus and method for the distribution of a high viscosity liquid into a process vessel generally free of entrapped gas bubbles. The distributor apparatus includes a distributor for the high viscosity liquid with openings on the top of the distributor to vent gas entrapped in the high viscosity liquid. The distributor apparatus includes a feed pipe to deliver smoothly and without gas entrapment a high viscosity liquid from the distributor directly onto a cup-like or conical surface of a distributor tube to form a downwardly flowing film on the exterior surface of the distributor tube and to deliver the high viscosity liquid to the top section of the process vessel without gas entrapment. The method comprises venting gas from a high viscosity liquid and slowing the downward velocity of the vented, high viscosity liquid into the process vessel to avoid further gas entrapment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1993
    Assignee: Koch Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris F. Meyer, Chang-Li Hsieh, Ilya S. Michelson
  • Patent number: 5230839
    Abstract: A method of feeding to a fractionator a feed mixture comprising a wide-boiling range vapor-liquid mixture is provided. Also, provided is a fractionator feed section adapted to receive a two phase feed mixture. Furthermore, this invention provides a fractionator that has operational stability when fed a feed mixture which generates significant volume of vapor in the feed section. A feed nozzle (112) may introduce a mixed liquid and gas feed downwardly between converging baffles (102,104) into a mixing zone (110) above a seal pan (106), and trough means (114,116) may introduce liquid reflux to the mixing zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Company
    Inventors: Vijay R. Sampath, David E. Bachmann
  • Patent number: 4994210
    Abstract: A multiple level distributor and method for the distribution of a downwardly flowing liquid in a gas-liquid contact column and the upward flow of a gas within the gas-liquid column and which distributor comprises a trough type distributor having a plurality of holes therein, the holes arranged in at least two different levels of height from the bottom of the trough type distributor, the number and size of the holes and the height of the holes so arranged to provide for control of the liquid turndown and the liquid flow of the downwardly flowing liquid in the gas-liquid column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1991
    Assignee: Koch Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernardo Y. Lucero, Gregory A. Carle
  • Patent number: 4851198
    Abstract: Chlorine dioxide is increasibly used to bleach pulp and the like. Chlorine dioxide is produced in a reactor, which contains a plurality of superimposed bubble cap trays, which are provided with passages for the gas and with duct, which is independent of the gas passages and serves as an overflow for the liquid. In order to maintain a maximum ClO.sub.3 /acid ratio for the longest time possible, the reaction chamber above each bubble cap tray is divided into a large number of reaction compartments by vertical partitions, which define openings for the passage of the reaction liquid. Acid can be supplied to each compartment. The partitions can be used to define in each reaction chamber any desired number of reaction compartments, which are connected in parallel for the flow of acid and are connected in series for the flow of the chlorate solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1989
    Inventor: Karl Lohrberg
  • Patent number: 4839108
    Abstract: A liquid distribution device for more uniformly distributing a liquid to packed beds is composed of a box-pipe distributor, for the delivery of liquid to a pan distributor having a deck and risers postioned on the deck, with ells contained in the risers. The ells direct liquid axially through the risers so that gas/liquid interaction is minimized. The pan distributor also includes a plurality of holes positioned about the risers and a set of wall-ells about the periphery of the pan for more completely and uniformly distributing a liquid to packed beds positioned beneath the liquid distribution device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1989
    Assignee: Mobil Oil Corp.
    Inventor: Frank C. Silvey
  • Patent number: 4826636
    Abstract: A crossflow cooling tower includes at least two separate packs of film fill which are both horizontally and vertically offset relative to each other. Each of the film packs has a height within a certain critical range of values, and presents a plurality of air passageways of lengths within a certain critical range. In addition, each pack is inclined from vertical to a degree within a certain range of values. Construction of a multilevel tower with film fill packs in accordance with the invention provides far greater cooling effectiveness than could be attained by, for instance, a single film fill pack or fill structure comprising a plurality of splash bars. A water distribution system directs separate streams of hot water to be cooled to a corresponding distribution basin laying atop each fill pack and nozzles within the floor of each basin are subjected to substantially equal heads so that the flow rates of the water dispersed to each pack are essentially equal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1987
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1989
    Assignee: The Marley Cooling Tower Company
    Inventors: Ohler L. Kinney, Jr., Thomas W. Bugler, III
  • Patent number: 4811786
    Abstract: An apparatus and process of mixing a gaseous phase and a liquid phase within a tubing string in a well bore is described. The apparatus and process form a homogeneous gaseous phase liquid phase mixture without requiring a blocking restriction within the tubing string.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1989
    Assignee: Chevron Research Company
    Inventors: G. N. Kamilos, D. D. Kennedy, L. J. Lederhos, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4774033
    Abstract: A tower structure for gas-liquid interaction produces rolling turbulence in a gas flow path that has low pressure drop. The structure includes a spaced plurality of vertically disposed wall members in an upwardly directed flow path, a staggered array of horizontally extending deflectors protruding from facing wall members, forming a series of converging and diverging chamber portions in which the gas flows generally perpendicular to the deflectors. Rolling turbulence is produced between apexes of the deflectors and the facing wall portions, the gas flow being offset toward opposite wall members at succeeding apexes. In one configuration, a liquid is transported within the gas flow, in contact with the gas. In another configuration, the liquid is separate from the gas. In a further configuration, two liquid paths are provided, one in contact with the gas, one separate from the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Assignee: Energair Research and Development
    Inventor: Charles L. Raybon
  • Patent number: 4769186
    Abstract: A tower structure for gas-liquid interaction produces rolling turbulence in a gas flow path that has low pressure drop. The structure includes a spaced plurality of vertically disposed wall members in an upwardly directed flow path, a staggered array of horizontally extending deflectors protruding from facing wall members, forming a series of converging and diverging chamber portions in which the gas flows generally perpendicular to the deflectors. Rolling turbulence is produced between apexes of the deflectors and the facing wall portions, the gas flow being offset toward opposite wall members at succeeding apexes. In one configuration, a liquid is transported within the gas flow, in contact with the gas. In anothor configuration, the liquid is separate from the gas. In a further configuration, two liquid paths are provided, one in contact with the gas, one separate from the gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1988
    Assignee: Energair Research and Development
    Inventor: Charles L. Raybon
  • Patent number: 4769187
    Abstract: Low cost sealing drainboard supports adapted for use between adjacent drift eliminator sections in water cooling towers are provided which can be readily installed in the field without the necessity of custom fabrication of structural components, and which give improved drainage characteristics in the form of relatively large, concentrated streams of eliminated water resistant to reentrainment. The preferred supports are unitary, preformed synthetic resin bodies presenting an elongated, eliminator section-receiving channel together with a depending inner sealing wall and a oblique, downwardly and outwardly extending drainage tray. The tray is preformed to present a series of generally V-shaped in plane, increasing depth drainage passageways serving to collect and concentrate eliminated water into relatively large streams resistant to reentrainment in the air currents passing through the tower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1988
    Assignee: The Marley Cooling Tower Company
    Inventors: Ohler L. Kinney, Jr., Joyce D. Holmberg
  • Patent number: 4729857
    Abstract: An improved liquid flow distributor for a process column of the type wherein the distributor is positioned above a packing section for the distribution of liquid downwardly therethrough. The improvement comprises a plurality of troughs formed with a downwardly tapering body section having holes formed therein for spewing liquid outwardly therefrom. Baffles are disposed outwardly of the lower tapering body sections of the troughs for receiving the spew of liquid therefrom and evenly distributing the liquid flow downwardly. A plurality of flow equalization pipes interconnect the troughs one with the other and are coupled to the troughs through a lower sidewall region thereof. In this manner, flow equalization between troughs is provided and the flow equalization pipes are presented in a configuration allowing debris to be removed therefrom. In one embodiment a series of screens are secured to the bottom regions of the baffles for further facilitating uniformity in flow distribution emanating from the troughs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1987
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1988
    Assignee: Glitsch, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam T. Lee, Layton Kitterman
  • Patent number: 4659345
    Abstract: A scrubbing/degassing apparatus comprises a degassing column for removing extraneous gaseous matter from water; and a flow control arrangement for controlling a flow of water to the degassing column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1986
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1987
    Inventor: Harry G. Mojonnier
  • Patent number: 4623493
    Abstract: Gas/liquid contacting apparatus comprising a normally substantially vertically extending column enclosing a plurality of substantially horizontal gas/liquid guiding units vertically spaced apart from one another and extending over substantially the cross section of the column. Each gas/liquid guiding unit comprising a plurality of alternating upwardly converging gas passages and downwardly converging liquid passages, the gas passages and the liquid passages alternating in vertical direction. The liquid passages have open upper ends, and are provided with bottomwalls and with liquid discharge openings at or near said bottomwalls. Each upwardly converging gas passage is provided with an open lower end and terminates at its upper end in a plurality of substantially horizontal, parallel walls having a length increasing in downward direction and forming a plurality of substantially horizontal, constricted gas outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1986
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventor: Jeremy B. Bentham
  • Patent number: 4622183
    Abstract: In a wet type or wet/dry type cooling tower, water discharged from water distributing means after its passage cooling air heat exchanger is intercepted by an array of parallel water guiding plates. Each guiding plate has a sloping upper part which covers the gap between opposite plates and an upright lower part defining a substantially horizontal transition region with the upper part. A plurality of inclined channel like embossments is formed in the upright lower part. The embossments extend one above the other between a lateral edge of the upright lower part and the transition region. At least one water collecting channel extends in transverse direction along the lateral edges of the upright lower part to collect water discharged from the inclined embossments and transfer the collected water to a recirculation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 11, 1986
    Assignee: Gea Luftkuhlergesellschaft Happel GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Hans Sonnenschein, Paul Paikert
  • Patent number: 4592878
    Abstract: There is provided a rotary flow control balancing valve and an integral predistribution box for use with gravity feed cross-flow cooling towers. The valve and predistribution box provide for the balancing of flows between halves of a cross-flow cooling tower or between or among separate cooling towers and also for maximizing the uniformity of the hot water flow in the predistribution pan and the distribution pan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1986
    Assignee: Baltimore Aircoil Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Warren A. Scrivnor