Abstract: Apparatus for the preparation of emulsions of oil in water comprises:(a) an oil feed line,(b) a source of concentrated surfactant solution,(c) a source of water,(d) a first low shear mixer for mixing concentrated surfactant and water to form a dilute surfactant solution,(e) means for uniting the flows of dilute surfactant solution and oil in a controlled manner,(f) a second low shear mixer for mixing the united flow streams of oil and dilute surfactant solution to form an emulsion of oil in water,(g) a third low shear mixer for mixing the emulsion of oil in water to form a dilute emulsion, and,(h) an arrangement of water feed lines and control valves such that, firstly, water can be supplied either to the first low shear mixer only or, secondly, to both first and third low shear mixers.The apparatus is particularly suitable for the preparation of emulsions of fuel oil in water from oils within a wide range of viscosities which burn with low emissions of NO.sub.x and particulates.

Abstract: A process for improving combustion of liquid hydrocarbons and reducing NO.sub.x emissions. The process comprises burning the liquid hydrocarbon in the presence of an additive composition to improve measurably the combustion efficiency. The additive composition comprises a dicyclopentadienyliron compound in combination with a suitable organic solvent. By virtue of using the additive compound, the excess air requirements can be adjusted downwardly to reduce NO.sub.x emissions in combustion products.

Abstract: An apparatus for coloring gas flames in gas-burning fireplaces so as to give the appearance of a wood-burning fireplace comprises a ceramic tube having a coating which causes colorization of gas flames when the coated tube is placed in the secondary reaction zone of a gas flame. Principle coating ingredients include sodium carbonate, aluminum oxide, pulverized soda lime glass, and sodium silicate. The coating is baked onto the ceramic tube, and, when located in the secondary reaction zone of a flame, will provide nearly constant natural color to a gas flame for periods in excess of 1000 hours.

Abstract: The presence of the oxides of nitrogen in the exhaust gas leaving a regenerator is limited by injecting water or water vapor into the regenerator 1 during its firing phase and causing the water or water vapor to reach the combustion chamber 26 of the regenerator 1 by way its heat storage bed 11 which has been preheated during a previous heat collecting phase.

Abstract: Pulse combustors and associated air mixers are used to process fuel and calcium based sorbent outside of a furnace or boiler. liquid or solid fuel is rapidly volatilized in the air mixer of the first pulse combustor, producing high gaseous fuel content and a highly reactive char or soot. This material is then injected into the upper part of the furnace, above the conventional burners, to create a fuel rich zone which reduces previously formed nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollutants. The calcium based sorbent is injected into a second pulse combustor, located higher in the furnace. The sorbent is flash calcined in the air mixer of the pulse combustor yielding a high surface area sorbent. This material is then injected into the furnace above the first pulse combustor to reduce previously formed sulfur oxide (SO2) pollutants. In addition, the stream from this combustor and air mixer provides the air needed to completely burn out the coal fuel from the first pulse combustor.

Abstract: Process and apparatus for catalytic combustion in which a combustible gas stream is mixed with part of the recycled hot product stream and then fed to a combustion zone containing a combustion catalyst, and from which the hot pressurized product is obtained. The recycle is preferably effected by means of a constriction at the end of the inlet gas supply producing a region of lower pressure than the pressure of the product gas.

Abstract: A pair of regenerative burners is provided with feed means (25) for feeding a reducing agent into the products of combustion so that this agent can reduce oxides of nitrogen in the heat store to which heat is imparted by the products of combustion. Refractory elements (17,21) comprised by the heat stores may additionally or alternatively have catalytically active surfaces to promote reaction of the lower oxides of nitrogen.

Abstract: A pocket lighter capable of providing a vividly colored or scent modified flame basically includes a fluid containment portion, a fuel combustion portion, a valve unit and an igniter. The fluid containment portion has a first compartment containing pressurized fuel, a second compartment containing flame colorant or scenting liquid, and lines for conducting fuel from the first compartment to the fuel combustion portion and for conducting modification liquid from the second compartment to the fuel combustion portion via the valve unit. In preferred embodiments, the second compartment is a flexible bag enveloped by the first compartment and immersed in the pressurized fuel.

Abstract: A method of generating a sterilizing vapor for use in a vapor sterilizing ocess, the method including the steps of burning a fuel selected from the group consisting of combustible gases and combustible aerosols, whereby hot combustion gases are generated, and introducing a liquid into said hot combustion gases, whereby the liquid is evaporated to form the sterilizing vapor.

Abstract: By adding a specific blend of coarse and fine particles of a magnesium compound to a relatively low temperature zone of a furnace system noxious and undesirable emissions are greatly reduced and internal boiler conditions are greatly improved.

Abstract: A sample transport, sample introduction, and flame excitation system for spectrometric analysis of high temperature gas streams which eliminates degradation of the sample stream by condensation losses.

Abstract: A process for controlling sulfur-oxide formation and emissions when burning a combustible fuel prepared from a hydrocarbon containing sulfur comprising forming a hydrocarbon in water emulsion and adding to the hydrocarbon in water emulsion a water soluble additive selected from the group consisting of Na.sup.+, K.sup.+, Li.sup.+, Ca.sup.++, Ba.sup.++, Mg.sup.++, Fe.sup.+++ and mixtures thereof so as to obtain SO.sub.2 emission levels upon combustion of said emulsion of less than or equal to 1.50 LB/MMBTU.

Abstract: A regenerating process comprises leaching a combustion ash with water so as to dissolve same and form a pregnant leach liquor containing the additive which is separated from the solid residue. The pregnant leach liquor is thereafter adjusted with a base precipitating agent so as to precipitate a compound of the additive which is then recovered by liquid solid separation. The process of the present invention is particularly useful for regenerating said recycling sulfur capturing additives used in hydrocarbon formulations which are burned as fuels, particularly, hydrocarbon in water emulsions formed from viscous hydrocarbon materials characterized by high sulfur and metals contents.

Abstract: A process and system are set forth for improving an oxygen-enriched Claus process by introducing a sulfuric acid stream into the reaction furnace to moderate oxygen-induced high temperatures which allow oxygen-enrichment and attendant throughput in the Claus process to higher levels than heretobefore practiced.

Abstract: A method and composition are provided for decreasing emissions of sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides upon combustion of carbonaceous fuel material. In particular, the composition comprises a refined coal, having low ash-forming material and inorganic sulfur content, a sulfur sorbent, a sulfation promoter, and a catalyst for the reaction of sulfur dioxide to sulfur trioxide. Reduced emissions of sulfur oxides are achieved by combusting the composition in an oxygen restricted burner to lessen the effect of sorbent sintering while obtaining other advantages associated with mixing a sulfur sorbent with the carbonaceous material prior to combustion. Nitrogen oxides emissions are reduced by use of an oxygen restricted burner which lowers the flame temperature. Nitrogen oxides emissions are also reduced by lower flame temperatures resulting from endothermic reactions which are undergone by the sulfur sorbent and promoter.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a liquid fuel and resulting fuel including a sulfur and nitrogen capturing additive consisting essentially of Na.sup.+, Fe.sup.++ and an element X selected from group consisting of Mg.sup.++, Ba.sup.++, Ca.sup.++, Li.sup.+, K.sup.+ and mixtures thereof wherein Na.sup.+ is present in an amount of less or equal to 40 wt. % based on the total weight of the water soluble additive Fe.sup.++ is present in an amount of greater than or equal to 0.4 wt. % based on the total weight of the water soluble additive with the balance essentially element X wherein the ratio of Na.sup.+ and Fe.sup.++ is about between 7.5:1.0 to 100:1.0.

Abstract: By providing a combination of manganese and magnesium to the combustion area, where the amounts of the two substances are within certain limits, noxious and undesirable emissions are greatly reduced, internal boiler conditions are greatly improved, and lesser amounts of cold end additives need be employed to obtain still greater improvements.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a natural liquid fuel and, more particularly, a process that allows a high sulfur natural fuel to be converted into energy by combustion with a substantial reduction in sulfur oxide emissions.

Abstract: A method of reducing the NO.sub.x --emissions during combustion of nitrogen-containing fuels via burner units each including a primary burner and being arranged in a wall of a closed combustion chamber; fuel and air for combustion are supplied to the burner flame in stages as partial flows via delivery means which are separate from one another.

Abstract: A transpiration-protected burner for coal gasification in which a gas such as steam, product synthesis gas or nitrogen is introduced through a porous wall immediately surrounding the openings through which coal and oxygen are introduced.

Abstract: An ultrasonic fog generator can be used to advantage in injecting a fog into the input air of a combustion chamber, in order to improve efficiency and reduce the noxious emissions in the exhaust. In accordance with one form of the disclosure, a heat exchange is utilized to advantage in a turbine system in reheating compressed air that has been cooled as the air was fogged, the reheated air being input to the combustion chamber. In another form of the disclosure an adjustable heat exchange is used to controllably heat input air before the fogging thereof, the level of heat exchange depending on properties of the input air and the level of fogging to be implemented.

Abstract: The presence of the oxides of nitrogen in the exhaust gas leaving a regenerator is limited by injecting water or water vapor into the regenerator 1 during its firing phase and causing the water or water vapor to reach the combustion chamber 26 of the regenerator 1 by way its heat storage bed 11 which has been preheated during a previous heat collecting phase.

Abstract: The present invention improves flame combustion of liquid carbonaceous fuels by the preparation and use of a fuel additive comprising a finely-divided particulate hydrated compound in stable suspension in a liquid vehicle. The median major dimension of the primary particles of hydrated compound is preferably less than 10 microns. When employed at a level of from about 200 to about 5000 parts per million, the additive can improve the efficiency of combustion and reduce particulate emissions for flame combustion of liquid carbonaceous fuels, especially residual grades of fuel oil.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for stimulating a subsurface, oil-bearing reservoir, in which a fuel is burned in the presence of a combustion-supporting gas to produce an essentially uncontaminated flue gas at a pressure significantly above the reservoir pressure, water is intimately mixed with the flue gas, the water is vaporized to produce a mixture of flue gas and steam and the operating parameters of the water vaporization and, particularly, the fuel combustion are controlled by passing the mixture of flue gas and steam through an iris-type shutter having a variable diameter opening and varying the diameter of the variable diameter opening.

Abstract: A device is disclosed which is especially adapted for use in activating the combustion process in combustion systems equipped with a combustion chamber supplied with solid, liquid or gaseous fuel. The device employs a container which is partially filled with water and which is supplied with compressed air such that the compressed air flows through the water before being delivered to the combustion chamber, whereby the air is made moist. On its way to the combustion chamber, the moist air flows through a chamber containing a buffer liquid. A conduit extends between the chamber containing the buffer liquid and another chamber, the conduit having a transmission cross section selected such that a shock-absorbing function is performed.

Abstract: In a continuous pressurized process for the combustion, in the presence of steam and alkali, of solid fuels charged as aqueous slurries, the improvements comprising the elevation of inlet zone temperature in an entrained phase reactor by recirculating hot solid products to the zone, maintaining increased temperature and/or reduced steam partial pressure in the reactor and/or utilizing contaminated water from an associated fuels processing apparatus as a source of slurry and/or reactor temperature control water. An embodiment suitable for a coal-fired gas turbine locomotive is described and illustrated.

Abstract: Improved combustion efficiency is achieved by separately preparing a water-in-oil emulsion, containing up to about 90 volume % water, and blending the emulsion into an oil fuel prior to combustion. The blended oil fuel contains from 1 to about 10 vol. % water in the form of tiny droplets having a diameter within the range from about 1 to about 10 microns. The process of this invention may be applied to heating systems, steam boilers, gas turbines, rotary kilns, and internal combustion engines, including diesel engines.

Abstract: An emulsion preparation arrangement includes an emulsion preparation tank, a jacket which surrounds the tank on its sides and bottom and contains hot water, a plurality of tubes for supplying components of the emulsion and withdrawing the emulsion, and a plurality of ducts each surrounding a respective one of the tubes and containing hot water for heating the ducts with the water in the jacket and the ducts at a temperature of 80.degree. C., to enable the emulsion to be discharged at a temperature of approximately 50.degree. C.

Abstract: Disclosed is a catalytic combustor and systems for the boilerless stoichiometric production of a working fluid such as steam from a burn-mixture comprised of a carbonaceous fuel and a diluent. In a preferred burn-mixture, the diluent includes a first portion taken from an emulsion of the fuel and water mixed in a thermally self-extinguishing mass ratio, and a second portion taken in an amount from combustion products of a mixture previously combusted to heat the resulting burn-mixture so it combusts in the presence of a catalyst at an adiabatic flame temperature between upper and lower stability limits of the catalyst. Production of the steam is by a controlled substantially stoichiometric process utilizing a combustor to provide steam over a wide range of heat release rates, temperatures and pressures for steam flooding an oil bearing formation.

Abstract: A method of reducing the NO.sub.x content in combustion gases by introducing secondary fuel, via a liquid carrier, into the combustion chamber at a location disposed between the supply of fuel and air for the primary combustion, and the supply of secondary air for the complete combustion.

Abstract: A steam generator having substantial thermal capacity for producing high quality steam used primarily for downhole steam generation in tertiary oil recovery. Incorporated in the generator is a novel high pressure, high heat release combustor, utilizing high pressure gaseous fuel and compressed gas oxidizer such as air, wherein thermal and mechanical stresses on the combustor structure are controlled. A method for controlling combustion induced mechanical stresses on the combustor through fluid injection is also disclosed. Disclosed designs provide substantially increased combustor life in "Downhole" Steam Generation service. The burner employs an ignition technique utilizing gaseous injection of a pyrophoric compound such as triethylborane (TEB).

Abstract: A method and annular burner for binding sulfur and other impurities during the combustion of fuels that contain such impurities. The fuel is burned in an annular burner flame that has an internal recirculation zone. An additive in the form of an aqueous suspension is sprayed into the combustion chamber via at least one two-component atomizing nozzle, and the additive is mixed with the gases of the flame under optimum reaction conditions. In order to enable a particularly favorable binding of noxious material, an atomizing nozzle for the additive is disposed in the central portion of the annular burner, and the additive is sprayed as an external mixture, via the atomizing nozzle, along the longitudinal axis of the burner flame, as a fine or narrow stream, through the internal recirculation zone and into the flame.

Abstract: The burning characteristics of a relatively hydrogen deficient fuel are improved by physically mixing with, but not dissolving in, the fuel a light hydrogen rich vapor, such as hydrogen and/or methane, ethane, etc.

Abstract: A flare gas burner is described in which a deflector shell approximating a half Venturi is disposed about the upper end of a waste gas delivery pipe equipped with standard pilot-flame igniters and flame stabilizers. A manifold on the lower end of the deflector delivers motive fluid (air, steam) under high pressure into the passageway between the deflector and pipe. The fluid is directed by the inwardly inclined upper lip of the shell into the path of emissions from the waste gas pipe. Heat shields and noise shields are incorporated into the assembly. Additional whirling and turbulence is imparted to the stream of motive fluid by appropriate shaping of spacer plates securing the deflector to the waste gas pipe.The structure is less complex than previously known devices, has improved ease of maintenance, and gives excellent performance in smokeless flaring of waste gas.

Abstract: A post-combustion apparatus and method utilize an emulsion of hydrogen peroxide, water and oil to enhance combustion efficiency. The apparatus includes a power-driven gear pump to supply the emulsion to an atomizer centered in a gas pipe. Also included are ignition electrodes for igniting a gas-fed burner and an ionization probe for controlling the combustion process. A separation cone protects the ignition electrodes and the ionization electrodes, and a cast-iron diaphragm drilled with holes promotes the dissociation of the emulsion.

Abstract: Decreasing the viscosity of and improving the atomizing and burning characteristics of a hydrogen deficient fuel by dissolving a light, hydrogen rich hydrocarbon in the fuel.

Abstract: A method of spraying additives, in an intensively mixing manner, into a combustion chamber for binding sulfur during the combustion of fuels which contain sulfur. The method includes the steps of spraying the respectively utilized additive into the combustion chamber with at least one spray nozzle at an impulse which is sufficient to intensively mix the additive with the combustion gases, and of spraying the additive into those regions of the combustion chamber which have temperatures in the optimum effective range of the additive for binding the sulfur, yet in which the mixing energy of the combustion gases does not alone ensure a sufficient mixing of the additive.

Abstract: A Coanda flare having an outlet adapted to direct high pressure fuel gas over the director surface of the Coanda body so as to entrain surrounding air into the fuel gas flow. A water injection nozzle is located upstream of the outlet and located within the high pressure fuel gas supply line. By injecting water into the fuel gas prior to its emergence from the outlet, a flare having reduced noise and radiation characteristics is achieved.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention an improved liquid fuel atomizing gun and method is disclosed wherein optimal efficiency atomization is accomplished by introducing liquid fuel under pressure in a first swirling spiral direction into a mixing chamber. The mixing chamber also includes means for introducing steam through a plurality of inclined orifices to introduce the steam and impact the sprayed liquid fuel in a contra-rotational swirl direction. This arrangement of opposite swirling directions of the injected fuel and steam in the gun mixing chamber produces maximum turbulence between the two fluids as each impinge upon the other in relative close proximity so that the kinetic energy of each stream, both oil and steam, is released as the opposing streams meet. The impact of such opposed liquid fuel and steam streams produces higher Reynolds numbers which result in additional turbulence for enhanced mixing.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for contacting a flow of gas with a flow of liquid is provided. The liquid is introduced into a vortex sustaining container and flows through the container in a spiralling manner creating a liquid vortex with an open axial core. Gas flows to be contacted with the liquid flow are introduced into the core. The vortex core geometry may be adapted to accommodate insertion of a flame to effect heat transfer. The degree of contact between the gas and liquid flows may be increased by adding an extended contact zone following the region where the vortex flow breaks down and mixing of the liquid and gas flows occurs. By creating annular misting in the extended contact zone, the rate of any chemical, physical or mass transfer process between the two flows may be increased.

Abstract: To allow liquid and/or gaseous fuels to be burned with decreased NO.sub.x formation, the combustion air is fed in at axial intervals one after the other. The percentage of primary air is higher than that of secondary air. The injector effect of the primary air draws flue gas out of the firebox and supplies it to a flame-initiation point between the primary-air and secondary-air feeds.

Abstract: Various embodiments of apparatus and methods are disclosed for the conversion of steam boilers from being oil fired to coal and natural gas fired without adversely affecting the normal power density of the boilers or the emission pollution therefrom. In some cases even the resultant coal ash can be modified by injecting a powdered catalyst or phosphate slimes into the flame to produce a fertilizer ash having desirable minerals to enhance the economic value thereof.Basically all embodiments include a swirling coal-air mixture directed along a path to form a sheath and a swirling gas-air mixture internally thereof with the swirling of the latter being in the same direction and fortifying the motion of the former. A gas-air mixture, swirling or non-swirling, may be supplied outwardly of such sheath to enhance the more complete burning of the coal-air mixture.

Abstract: Various embodiments of apparatus and methods are disclosed for the conversion of steam boilers from being oil fired to coal and natural gas fired without adversely affecting the normal power density of the boilers or the emission pollution therefrom. In some cases even the resultant coal ash can be modified by injecting a powdered catalyst or phosphate slimes into the flame to produce a fertilizer ash having desirable minerals to enhance the economic value thereof.Basically all embodiments include a swirling coal-air mixture directed along a path to form a sheath and a swirling gas-air mixture internally thereof with the swirling of the latter being in the same direction and fortifying the motion of the former. A gas-air mixture, swirling or non-swirling, may be supplied outwardly of such sheath to enhance the more complete burning of the coal-air mixture.

Abstract: The concentration of nitrogen oxides contained in exhaust combustion gases is decreased by feeding into the combustion system within a heating furnace the combination of an ammonium compound and a phenol compound, the combination of Fluid Catalytic Cracking gasoline tank bottom water or water obtained after washing Fluid Catalytic Cracking gasoline and an ammonium compound, or FCC overhead condensate.

Abstract: A method is provided for reducing the sulfur content of gas from a combustion installation comprising the step of injecting outside of the combustion region an aqueous spray composition containing an additive which, when dried, reacts with sulfur-containing gases.

Abstract: The invention relates to a combustion catalyzing system for commercial grade fuels. The system comprises a water reservoir which is fed with air through an inlet arranged to be immersed into the reservoir water. A vapor phase water outlet conduit is provided which extends from the reservoir top and is routed to a combustion zone to be catalyzed. Along the path followed by the vapor phase water which flows through the outlet conduit from the water reservoir, an oil-operated flow regulating device is provided which is effective to control the rate of emission of steam bubbles from the reservoir. Upstream of the flow regulating device, a motor-driven valve controlled by a humidistat located in the proximity of the combustion zone to be catalyzed may be provided for delivering a larger or smaller amount of steam to the flow regulating device.

Abstract: A method for reducing nitric oxide emissions from a gaseous fuel combustor includes introducing a combustion gas containing nitrogen and oxygen, such as air, into a combustion chamber and introducing a fuel gas into the same chamber. A cooling gas, such as steam, is interleaved between the combustion gas and the fuel gas substantially at the point where they are introduced into the chamber. The concentration of cooling gas in the flame front is maximized by this method, resulting in a lower temperature for the flame front and, correspondingly, lower production of nitric oxide emissions. Apparatus for carrying out the invention includes a combustion chamber, a body having a channel through which combustion gas can be introduced into the combustion chamber, a fuel gas nozzle for introducing fuel gas into the combustion chamber, and an orifice around the nozzle for interleaving cooling gas between the fuel gas and the combustion gas.

Abstract: A combustion apparatus is fitted to the top of an oil burner having a single nozzle for the simultaneous introduction of oil and water by means of compressed air. The apparatus includes a combustion chamber defined by an inner vessel open at both ends with one end being fitted to the burner. An outer vessel is co-axially mounted on the inner vessel with both ends being secured to the corresponding ends of the inner vessel to form a preheating chamber between the inner and outer vessels. The inner vessel is provided with a plurality of holes and a baffle is located within the pre-heating chamber in overlying relation with respect to the holes. Pressurized air is introduced into the heating chamber, around the baffle, and through the holes into the interior of the vessel to compress the flame of the water-oil fuel emulsion forcing it to swirl and remain in the vessel so that the combustion takes place at a temperature between 700.degree. and 1,000.degree. C.

Abstract: An improved process for disposal of chemically bound nitrogen in industrial waste streams is provided wherein a effluent stream containing chemically bound nitrogen, such as ammonia stream, is contacted with an effective amount of oxygen containing gas and a stoichiometric excess of a hydrocarbon, based on the total amount of available oxygen, at a temperature greater than about 2000.degree. F. or less than 3000.degree. F., to provide a combustion effluent. The combustion effluent is thereafter contacted with an effective amount of a gaseous stream containing less oxygen than that which supports flame propagation at a temperature in the range of from about 1600.degree. F. to about 1800.degree. F., to substantially oxidize all combustibles present in the combustion effluent and provide an oxidation effluent substantially free of oxides of nitrogen (NO.sub.x) and combustibles.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for combustion of a sulfur-containing fuel which substantially reduces the amount of gaseous sulfur compounds which would otherwise be emitted.A source of oxygen, a sulfur-containing fuel, and an inorganic alkaline absorbent are reacted under controlled conditions of temperature, stoichiometry, and residence time whereby the inorganic alkaline absorbent reacts with the fuel sulfur to form a mixture of combustion products and desired solid sulfur compounds, the latter being readily removed utilizing conventional filtration equipment. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the mixture of fuel and combustion products is passed into a nitrogenous compound destruction zone wherein, under controlled conditions, the concentration of nitrogenous compounds present are reduced to a desired level.