Safety Devices Patents (Class 48/192)
  • Patent number: 11724138
    Abstract: A flame arrester (FA1) having an inlet (12) and an outlet (32), a housing (13, 23, 33) between the inlet (12) and outlet (32), one or more baffle plates (14, 34) and a flame arrester element (20) located within the housing (13, 23, 33). The inlet (12) has a maximum diametric dimension (D12). A first baffle plate (14) is located downstream of the inlet (12) and the flame arrester element (20) is located downstream of the first baffle plate (14). A second baffle plate (34) is located downstream of the flame arrester element (20) and upstream of the outlet (32). The baffle plates (14, 34) are secured to the inner wall of the housing (13, 23, 33) and each has an aperture (15, 35). The aperture (15) of the first baffle plate (14) has a minimum diametric dimension of at least 0.75D12.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: Elmac Technologies Limited
    Inventors: Daomin Hong, Lewis Bingham, Peter Evans
  • Patent number: 11649927
    Abstract: A fuel cylinder, such as a high-pressure fluid storage tank, is provided with dual-inlet refilling capabilities. The storage tank may include a main body section with a first domed end portion and a second domed end portion disposed at opposite portions of the main body section. A first inlet assembly and a second inlet assembly are provided at the respective first domed end portion and the second domed end portion. Each inlet assembly is configured to provide fluid communication between a supply of a high-pressure fluid and an interior of the storage tank. Each inlet assembly may include a boss and a tank valve, with each tank valve being in fluid communication with the compressed fluid receptacle. During filling of the storage tank, the high-pressure fluid travels through a compressed fluid receptacle and enters the interior of the storage tank simultaneously through each of the first and second inlet assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacquelyn Birdsall
  • Patent number: 11602653
    Abstract: A flame front in a gas pipeline is extinguished by introducing an extinguishing agent at an overpressure at an extinguishing zone of the pipeline. Using an overpressure provides a better and finer atomization of the extinguishing agent, and permits a greater amount of the extinguishing agent to be provided in the extinguishing zone per unit time. In addition, a sealing fluid is introduced at sealing zone of the pipeline. Gas flowing through the pipeline must flow through the sealing fluid in the sealing zone. Preferably, movement of a flame front from one side of the sealing zone to the other side of the sealing zone is prevented or reduced by the sealing fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2023
    Assignee: Leinemann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ralf Kosmehl, Frank Helmsen, Thomas Heidermann, Michael Davies, Tom Gutte
  • Patent number: 11406854
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a system, method, and apparatus for arresting flames in an air return line. The apparatus includes a flame barrier containing one or more metal mesh layers and configured to permit airflow there through while preventing flame break-through. The flame barrier can also have or be connected to one or more temperature or pressure sensors configured to detect blockage of airflow through the flame barrier and to detect damage to the flame barrier. The apparatus can also include additional temperature or pressure sensors for detecting the propagation of deflagration in the air return line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Inventors: Nicholas P. Licht, Jason R. Krbec, Robert V. Cudnik, Jr., Martin J. Cvetas
  • Patent number: 11406852
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a system, method, and apparatus for arresting flames in an air return line. The apparatus includes a flame barrier containing one or more metal mesh layers and configured to permit airflow there through while preventing flame break-through. The flame barrier can also have or be connected to one or more temperature or pressure sensors configured to detect blockage of airflow through the flame barrier and to detect damage to the flame barrier. The apparatus can also include additional temperature or pressure sensors for detecting the propagation of deflagration in the air return line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Inventors: Nicholas P. Licht, Jason R. Krbec, Robert V. Cudnik, Jr., Martin J. Cvetas
  • Patent number: 11326778
    Abstract: A system for use with a fired vessel of production/separators or dehydration equipment that includes a metal box, a main burner, a pilot burner, and a flame arrestor. The main burner and the pilot burner extend through the metal box and the first flame arrestor is connected to the metal box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2022
    Inventor: John McKinney
  • Patent number: 11300053
    Abstract: A flame arrestor system includes a heat exchanger through which a cooling gas flow stream is directed. A zone adjacent the heat exchanger is susceptible to possible flame and through which the cooling gas flow stream is directed. A flame arrestor containing a passage-structure matrix is disposed between the zone and the heat exchanger to quench flame from entering the heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Robert Hoover, Jeffrey Kohn, Daniel Hand, James Unsworth, Seth Bullington
  • Patent number: 11185727
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are a system, method, and apparatus for arresting flames in an air return line. The apparatus includes a flame barrier containing one or more metal mesh layers and configured to permit airflow there through while preventing flame break-through. The flame barrier can also have or be connected to one or more temperature or pressure sensors configured to detect blockage of airflow through the flame barrier and to detect damage to the flame barrier. The apparatus can also include additional temperature or pressure sensors for detecting the propagation of deflagration in the air return line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: CV TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Nicholas P. Licht, Jason R. Krbec, Robert V. Cudnik, Martin J. Cvetas
  • Patent number: 11054049
    Abstract: A check and flow metering cartridge valve having two flow restriction zones, each zone being disposed adjacent a respective end of a valve chamber containing a check valve member, the zones being serially encountered by flow through the valve, the restriction of the restriction zones together being a majority of the total flow restriction in the valve, each restriction zone producing at least 26% of a total restriction to flow through the valve, the restriction zones maintaining back pressure in the valve chamber when the check valve member is unseated thereby providing damping of the check valve member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2021
    Assignee: BUESCHER DEVELOPMENTS, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin S. Calmer, Timothy P. Meyer, Sree K. Menon
  • Patent number: 10767773
    Abstract: Provided is a check valve installed in a bore of a modulator block having an inlet path and an outlet path to control a flow of oil in one direction, the check valve including: a valve housing provided with a path hole passing through at a central portion thereof to have an upper end and a lower end thereof open to communicate with the inlet path and the outlet path, and a flange portion protruding from a circumference of an outer surface of the valve housing such that the valve housing is fixed to the bore; a spring retainer coupled to one of the open upper and lower ends of the valve housing which is adjacent to the outlet path, and having an outlet port communicating with the outlet path; a plunger movably installed in the path hole while being elastically supported by a spring supported on the spring retainer, and configured to open or close the path hole according to an up and down movement of the plunger; and a lip seal having a lip portion interposed between the plunger and the valve housing to prevent
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: MANDO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chung Jae Lee
  • Patent number: 10746398
    Abstract: A gas fueled water heater appliance having a flame arrestor is provided herein. The gas fueled water heater appliance may include a tank for storage of water for heater, a chamber wall, a gas burner, and the flame arrestor. The gas burner may be positioned adjacent to the tank and within a combustion chamber. The flame arrestor may be positioned beneath the gas burner. The flame arrestor may include a bottom plate and a top plate. The bottom plate may define a non-permeable region and a perforated region. The perforated region may include a plurality of apertures extending through the top plate. The top plate may be positioned above the bottom plate and may define a non-permeable region and a perforated region. The perforated region may include a plurality of apertures extending through the top plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Shaun Michael Ward
  • Patent number: 9387428
    Abstract: A system for treating flammable effluent gas is provided. The system includes an exhaust conduit to carry the flammable effluent gas to an abatement unit, a control system coupled to the abatement unit to determine an operating parameter of the abatement unit, a bypass valve coupled to the exhaust conduit which is an operative responsive to the monitoring system, and a source of second gas to be mixed with the effluent gas diverted from the abatement unit when the bypass valve is operating in a bypass mode to provide a mixed gas having a flammability lower than the effluent gas. Methods of the invention as well as numerous other aspects are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2016
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel O. Clark, Mehran Moalem, Robbert M. Vermeulen, Phil Chandler
  • Patent number: 9353879
    Abstract: A float actuated valve assembly for battery electrolyte replenishment is disclosed. A housing engages an opening in a battery cell. An inlet in the housing is connectable to a water source. A valve in the housing controls the water flow to the cell. The valve is connected by a link to a four bar mechanism that is attached to a float. The float is buoyantly supported and rises and falls in response to the electrolyte level within the cell opening and closing the valve to admit or halt the flow of water to the cell. A baffle prevents fouling of the mechanism by splashing electrolyte. A flash arrester is positioned between the valve and the inlet to quench hydrogen-oxygen explosions between cells. The float is adjustable for different sized cells. A side viewable electrolyte level indicator is provided in the housing. Flash arresters for venting gas are also mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: PHILADELPHIA SCIENTIFIC LLC
    Inventors: William E. M. Jones, Trevor Alden
  • Patent number: 7918664
    Abstract: A permanently fireproof flame guard includes a flow area (2) which terminates a conduit and within which an inserted flame shield is disposed. The flame shield is provided with a plurality of passage gaps that ensure permanent fire safety. Cooling of the permanently fireproof flame guard can be improved by forming at least one concentric, annular section (5) within the flow area (2) in a massive manner without passage gaps while forming annular sections (4) comprising passage gaps around the concentric, annular section (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Leinemann GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Christoph Leinemann
  • Patent number: 7828546
    Abstract: A pulse detonation device for dividing a pulse detonation shock wave into an primary and control portion to reduce the strength of a propagating shock wave and/or change its direction. The device contains a flow separator which directs a portion of the shock wave into itself, thus reducing the shock wave's strength. In one configuration, the control region converges in cross-sectional area so as to accelerate the flow in the control region, while the primary region diverges to slow the flow in the primary region. The flow in the control region is directed, at an angle, into the flow of the primary region to impede and/or redirect the flow of the primary region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: James Fredric Wiedenhoefer, Adam Rasheed, Anthony John Dean, Pierre Francois Pinard
  • Patent number: 7452390
    Abstract: A method is provided for controlling superheating and temperature of a compressed natural gas stream and the addition of a corrision inhibitor composition for transmission through a pipeline that includes: a. dividing a stream of natural gas discharged from a high pressure gas compressor (106) into a first portion (108) and a second portion (202); b. passing the first portion (108) of the gas from the gas compressor to a heat exchanger (112) to heat the gas to a predetermined temperature; c. passing the first portion of gas (111) exiting the heat exchanger to an aftercooler (114); d. passing the second portion (202) of natural gas discharged from the gas compressor (106) to the aftercooler (114) without passing it through the heat exchanger (112), the second portion of gas and the first portion of gas being mixed at the aftercooler inlet and cooled by the aftercooler and discharged from the aftercooler as a cooled gas stream (116) having a temperature no greater than a first temperature; e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Hani Al-Khalifa, Donald P. Delevan, Timothy T. Wilson, Abdulrahman Al-Abdullatif
  • Patent number: 7413585
    Abstract: A pressure maintaining system for a hydrogen storage system includes a hydrogen supply feed that enables a hydrogen flow from the hydrogen storage system. A liquid phase hydrogen feed enables a liquid phase hydrogen flow to the hydrogen supply feed. A gas phase hydrogen feed enables a gas phase hydrogen flow to the hydrogen supply feed. A check valve enables fluid communication from the hydrogen supply feed to the liquid phase hydrogen feed when a pressure within the hydrogen supply feed is greater than a threshold pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Jader Matos Da Silva, Markus Lindner, Rainer Immel
  • Patent number: 7178548
    Abstract: A dry safety device for an inflammable gas comprises a case main body having a gas passage which terminates at one end in a primary side open port connectable to a source of inflammable gas and terminates at the other end in a secondary side open port connectable to a gas-fired appliance. A spindle undergoes sliding movement in the case main body between an open position for opening the gas passage and a closed position for closing the gas passage, and a spindle spring normally urges the spindle to the open position and permits the spindle to move to the closed position in response to a counter-flow pressure exerted on the spindle by a counter flow of inflammable gas directed from the secondary side open port to the primary side open port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sanki
    Inventor: Masayuki Abe
  • Patent number: 7056360
    Abstract: A system is shown for injecting a chemical, such as an odorant, from a chemical supply into a fluid containing system such as a natural gas pipeline. A tank of odorant is maintained under a positive pressure which exceeds that of the pipeline. An injection conduit communicates the odorant tank with the pipeline. A precise control flow valve, located within the injection conduit, meters odorant to be injected into the pipeline. The odorant is metered on a dropwise basis with individual drops of chemical being counted as they pass through the flow valve into the injection conduit and into the natural gas pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Mark Zeck
  • Patent number: 6921516
    Abstract: A reactor system including a reactor housing having an inlet portion defined at one end of the housing and having a discharge opening formed in the housing at an opposite end. An air intake charge line is connected to the housing for charging air into the inlet portion. A steam charge line is connected to the housing for charging steam into the inlet portion. A fuel injector is positioned in the housing for injecting fuel into the stream of air and steam flowing through the housing. A fuel charge line is connected to the fuel injector for charging a carbon-based fuel into the injector. A catalyst bed is carried in the housing and positioned downstream of the fuel injector and at least a portion of the catalyst bed includes a catalyst for promoting the reformation of the carbon-based fuel to produce hydrogen. An auto-ignition suppression and carbon-suppression foam is carried in the housing and positioned between the catalyst bed and the fuel injector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Steven G. Goebel, Gerald E. Voecks, Robert N. Carter
  • Patent number: 6793699
    Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for online and on-site tracer generation for tagging natural gas stored in underground storage fields wherein feedstock is drawn from a feedstock source. The feedstock undergoes initial analysis to determine hydrocarbons levels. The feedstock then undergoes reaction to produce tracers such as ethylene, propylene, acetylene hydrogen and carbon monoxide. The feedstock is then analyzed to determine post reaction tracer concentration. The feedstock including generated tracers is then introduced back into the feedstock stream. Tracer levels in the pre-reaction or initial analysis of feedstock are compared with tracer levels in the post-reaction feedstock and the rate of flow of feedstock through the system is adjusted to achieve a predetermined level of tracer concentration. The level of tracer concentration will then be used to identify the particular natural gas charge in a storage field.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventors: Dennis D. Coleman, Rodney R. Ruch, Shiaoguo Chen, Massoud Rostam-Abadi
  • Patent number: 6786942
    Abstract: When a fuel reforming system for a fuel cell comprising an autothermal reformer 1 wherein a partial oxidation reaction and steam reforming reaction proceeds simultaneously, is stopped, firstly, a supply valve 6 is closed to stop supply of fuel and water for steam reforming, and a supply valve 7 is closed after a predetermined time has elapsed to stop supply of air. In this way, the partial oxidation reaction which is an exothermic reaction is continued temporarily and the catalyst layer temperature of the reformer 1 is raised, so the catalyst layer temperature can be maintained high until the system restarts, and the time required for restarting the system can be shortened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 6699035
    Abstract: A detonation flame arrestor including an outer cylinder, an inner cylinder, and fill media. The outer cylinder and inner cylinder are secured to a canister flange on one end and include a domed face (cap) on the other end. On assembly, the inner cylinder secured to the canister flange is positioned inside the outer cylinder secured to the canister flange, altogether forming a canister. The fill media is inserted in the canister between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. Both the outer cylinder and the inner cylinder include a tapered spiral wound wire screen which forms their respective cylindrical circumferences. Contaminates are constrained between adjacent windings of the tapered wire screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: Enardo, Inc.
    Inventor: Dwight Brooker
  • Patent number: 6632261
    Abstract: A flash arrestor applicable to suppress explosions in gas lines generally, but specifically appropriate for suppressing explosions of pyrophoric gases, particularly silane in connection with integrated circuit manufacturing, has two identical flash suppression assemblies that are interconnected and act bidirectionally so as to suppress explosions occurring on either side of the apparatus. The positioning of a poppet relative to a poppet seat can be set manually into “open,” “closed” and “armed” positions, the latter indicating that the apparatus has been configured so as to intercept automatically any explosion that is transmitted to it through a gas line so as to yield a valve “closed” configuration, and that closed position can then be locked in manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Hamilton, Brian Gardner, Roy Browning
  • Publication number: 20020187087
    Abstract: A fuel processor for a fuel cell includes a thermal start device, a mixing region and a temperature control element. The temperature control element is located between the thermal start device and the mixing region. The temperature control element reduces temperature increase in the mixing region during thermal startup. A flame arrestor is connected to the mixing region. A primary reactor is connected to the flame arrestor. The transient temperature control element has a body defining an inlet and an outlet. A plurality of bores are formed in the body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Steven G. Goebel
  • Publication number: 20020108308
    Abstract: A temperature/reaction management system comprises a reformer system and a mat material fluidly coupled to a portion of the inlet of the reforming zone of the reformer system. An inert material and/or flame arrestor can optionally be positioned before the mat material to filter particulate matter, and lower the temperature of the fuel, respectively. A method for managing the temperature and reaction of fuel in an energy conversion device comprises dispensing an air/fuel mixture through a mat material disposed against an inlet of a reformer system. The air/fuel mixture is dispensed through a reflective surface of the mat material to maintain a first temperature that is less than a second temperature necessary for a gas phase reaction to occur. The mat material inhibits the propagation of a flame into the reformer system, and allows fuel to enter the reformer system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Malcolm James Grieve
  • Patent number: 6429020
    Abstract: A sensor for detecting the flame occurring during a flashback condition in the fuel nozzle of a lean premix combustion system is presented. The sensor comprises an electrically isolated flashback detection electrode and a guard electrode, both of which generate electrical fields extending to the walls of the combustion chamber and to the walls of the fuel nozzle. The sensor is positioned on the fuel nozzle center body at a location proximate the entrance to the combustion chamber of the gas turbine combustion system. The sensor provides 360° detection of a flashback inside the fuel nozzle, by detecting the current conducted by the flame within a time frame that will prevent damage to the gas turbine combustion system caused by the flashback condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
    Inventors: Jimmy Dean Thornton, George Alan Richards, Douglas L. Straub, Eric Arnold Liese, John Lee Trader, Jr., George Edward Fasching
  • Publication number: 20020092234
    Abstract: An apparatus for arresting and extinguishing a flame having a flame arrestor, a lid aligned with the flame arrestor and adapted to move into contact with said flame arrestor to extinguish said flame, when a member which holds the lid away from the frame arrestor the is destroyed by the flame as it reaches the surface of the flame arrestor. In order to obtain this operation the member is made on a material that is destroyed at about the temperature of the flame, for example by melting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2000
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Tracy D. Staller, Larry E. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6409779
    Abstract: A method for rendering a detonation front harmless. The method includes a pipe extending into a housing and proximate to the flame arresting device. The detonation front is conveyed directly to a portion of the flame-arresting device. The detonation front is expanded in front of the arresting device so as to create a deflagration, which then impinges on the outer cross-section of the flame arresting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Leinemann GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Christoph Leinemann
  • Publication number: 20020059753
    Abstract: When a fuel reforming system for a fuel cell comprising an autothermal reformer 1 wherein a partial oxidation reaction and steam reforming reaction proceeds simultaneously, is stopped, firstly, a supply valve 6 is closed to stop supply of fuel and water for steam reforming, and a supply valve 7 is closed after a predetermined time has elapsed to stop supply of air. In this way, the partial oxidation reaction which is an exothermic reaction is continued temporarily and the catalyst layer temperature of the reformer 1 is raised, so the catalyst layer temperature can be maintained high until the system restarts, and the time required for restarting the system can be shortened.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 6342082
    Abstract: A detonation safety device having a flame-arresting device positioned in a housing. A pipe extends into the housing and proximate to the flame arresting device. In order to render a detonation front traveling in a pipe harmless, the detonation front is conveyed near the flame-arresting device. The flame-arresting device includes a diameter larger than the pipe and the detonation front such that the detonation front impinges only on a partial surface of the flame-arresting device. The detonation front is expanded in front of the arresting device so as to create a deflagration, which then impinges on the outer cross-section of the flame arresting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Leinemann GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Christoph Leinemann
  • Publication number: 20010000837
    Abstract: A detonation safety device having a flame-arresting device positioned in a housing. A pipe extends into the housing and proximate to the flame arresting device. In order to render a detonation front traveling in a pipe harmless, the detonation front is conveyed near the flame-arresting device. The flame-arresting device includes a diameter larger than the pipe and the detonation front such that the detonation front impinges only on a partial surface of the flame-arresting device. The detonation front is expanded in front of the arresting device so as to create a deflagration, which then impinges on the outer cross-section of the flame arresting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Publication date: May 10, 2001
    Inventor: Christoph Leinemann
  • Patent number: 6179608
    Abstract: A structure is disclosed that will quench a flame front during a flashback event in a gas turbine while simultaneously providing a mixing function during normal operations. The device disclosed consists of two monoliths one upstream of the other. In the basic embodiment of the invention the downstream monolith acts as a mixer while the combination of the upstream monolith and the downstream monolith act as the flashback arrestor. Other embodiments of the device also allow the downstream monolith to be a flameholder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Assignee: Precision Combustion, Inc.
    Inventors: Gilbert O. Kraemer, Jonathan Dwight Berry
  • Patent number: 6123246
    Abstract: A dual intermittent microflame system for discrete point soldering comprising first and second gas valves which are each connected to a source of combustible gas. A combustible gas. A pair of gas lines connect the gas outlets of the first and second gas valves to first and second microflame nozzle tips which have ignition electrodes position adjacent thereto for igniting the nozzle tips. A flashback arrestor is imposed between each of the nozzle tips and the sources of combustible gas. A workpiece holder is positioned adjacent the nozzle tips for positioning a workpiece adjacent thereto so that the tips are able to solder a pair of solder points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Larry J. Costa
  • Patent number: 5934541
    Abstract: A dual intermittent microflame system for discrete point soldering comprising first and second gas valves which are each connected to a source of combustible gas and a source of non-combustible gas. A flashback arrestor is imposed between each of the gas valves and the sources of combustible gas. A pair of gas lines connect the gas outlets of the first and second gas valves to first and second microflame nozzle tips which have ignition electrodes position adjacent thereto for igniting the nozzle tips. A workpiece holder is positioned adjacent the nozzle tips for positioning a workpiece adjacent thereto so that the tips are able to solder a pair of solder points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Larry J. Costa
  • Patent number: 5921765
    Abstract: Periodic, on-demand supply of heated and pressurized gas for use as a power source is provided by a device having a storage compartment storing pressurized, liquified, combustible gas, a pressure regulator attached thereto for feeding the liquified gas to a housing providing a combustion chamber with an ignition element for combustion of the liquified combustible gas. A pressure relief valve releasably seals the combustion chamber from an outlet orifice and operates at a predetermined gas pressure to permit output of combustion gas from the combustion chamber through the output orifice to provide a gas power source for operating a gas powered tool. A check valve prevents combustion of the liquified gas upstream of the combustion chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Atoliv ASP, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley W. Smith
  • Patent number: 5827053
    Abstract: A positive flow purge system for a microflame torch including a source of combustible gas, a source of non-combustible gas and a gas valve having first and second gas inlets and a gas outlet. A first gas line connects the source of combustible gas to the first gas inlet and a second gas line connects the source of non-combustible gas to the second gas inlet. A third gas line connects the gas outlet of the valve to a microflame nozzle tip. A flashback arrestor is imposed in the first gas line between the source of the combustible gas and the first gas inlet. The gas valve permits the non-combustible gas to flow to the nozzle tip so that the flame at the nozzle tip will be extinguished when the gas valve is moved from its on position to its off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Larry J. Costa
  • Patent number: 5676712
    Abstract: A flashback protection apparatus and method for suppressing deflagration of a deflagration-susceptible gas in a flow system in which the deflagration-susceptible gas is flowed. The method of the invention comprises monitoring the combustible gas to detect deflagration therein, and upon detection of a deflagration event producing a propagating flame front, opposedly directing at the propagating flame front a pressurized non-flammable gas in a sufficient volume and at a sufficient velocity to provide a non-flammable gas flow having a momentum at least opposedly equal to momentum of the propagating flame front and the associated accelerated combustible gas undergoing deflagration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: ATMI Ecosys Corporation
    Inventor: Lawrence B. Anderson
  • Patent number: 5628181
    Abstract: Flashback of flames in premixed combustion systems is avoided by passing premixed fuel and air prior to combustion through a series of two or more close coupled nonaligned multi-channel monoliths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Assignee: Precision Combustion, Inc.
    Inventor: Gilbert O. Kraemer
  • Patent number: 5624470
    Abstract: A kraft black liquor gasification system is provided with a hot flue gas generator which serves both as a means for generating a hot flue gas to warm-up the gasifier in preparation for start-up and as a means for generating an inert purge gas to purge the gasifier of flammable gases in the event of an emergency trip of the gasifier. A control system controls the operation of the burner during warm-up in response to the gasifier temperature and during the purge in response to the purge gas composition and temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Assignee: Combustion Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Tanca
  • Patent number: 5616302
    Abstract: In chemical production processes having flammable substances in a reactor (1), the reactor is rendered inert by feeding an inert gas, while headspace gas is removed from the headspace of the reactor. This inert-rendering must also be maintained if the reactor must be opened during the production process. Even when inert gas locks (3) are used, the inert-rendering can only be reliably maintained in this case with a complex instrumental determination of the oxygen content in the reactor. This expense can be avoided by establishing and maintaining a certain difference between inert gas flowrate and head-space gas flowrate removed in a defined manner, which difference is specific to the particular production factors and is determined in advance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 1, 1997
    Assignee: Messer Griesheim GmbH
    Inventors: Ulrich Lenhard-Lubeseder, Joerg Loehning, Franz Luerken
  • Patent number: 5495894
    Abstract: A firebreak for ventilation ducts comprises at least one package of parallel fireproofing plates made of a material that expands strongly when exposed to heat, the plates being oriented in the direction of flow in the ventilation duct, with the package filling the cross section of the ventilation duct. To prevent the flames from breaking through and/or to prevent deflagrations into the next fire control sector during the expanding material's reaction time, at least one insert that fills the cross section of the ventilation duct is disposed in the vicinity of the package, said insert being filled of expanded material that is a strongly thermally conductive material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Michael M. Spa/ th
  • Patent number: 5415233
    Abstract: An apparatus for extinguishing a deflagration or detonation flame travelling along a pipe includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet and couplings for connecting the inlet and outlet to the pipe. A flame extinguishing device is secured in the housing and has a plurality of serially arranged elements, each element having a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. A turbulence device is positioned between adjacent elements and has surfaces for inducing turbulence in the flame flow through the element. The housing seals the elements in a manner to direct flame flow solely through the elements and the turbulence inducing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1995
    Assignee: Chem-Mech
    Inventors: Nicholas Roussakis, Dwight E. Brooker
  • Patent number: 5402603
    Abstract: A detonation flame arrester device including a left and right housing assembly containing two flapper plates positioned one in either side of the housing assembly and separated by a channeled barrier in the form of a stacked plate flame arrester designed to allow vapor passage under normal non-activated conditions. The flapper plates are positioned at an angle to be forced shut in advance of a detonation or deflagration wave coming from either direction and propagating through a piping system. The flapper plate is activated by the action of the pressure front on the flapper plate, and each plate is of a size and shape to cover the entire cross sectional area of the housing assembly. The flapper plates can optionally be slammed shut by torsion springs activated through alternate activation devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Robert L. Henley
  • Patent number: 5392825
    Abstract: A gas pressure regulator for regulating the output pressure of a gas from a pressurized gas cylinder includes a flashback assembly disposed at the gas outlet of the pressure regulator. The flashback assembly includes three primary components as follows: a porous metal flashback arrestor, a retainer, and a check valve sub-assembly. In the preferred embodiment, the porous metal flashback arrestor is mounted on one end of the retainer and the check valve sub-assembly is disposed within the retainer adjacent the metal flashback arrestor. The flashback assembly can be easily removed and replaced. The porous metal flashback arrestor is designed to reduce the possibility of migration of a flashback upstream from the torch and hose into the pressure regulator. The check valve sub-assembly is designed to reduce the possibility of reverse flow of gas upstream from the hose into the pressure regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Assignee: Victor Equipment Company
    Inventors: Carl W. Mims, Roger D. Zwicker
  • Patent number: 5391209
    Abstract: The invention relates to a gas pressure safety device used in the natural gas distribution systems leading to homes or other customers. This safety device is connected to a gas venting device that allows excess gas to exit therefrom. The safety device is made up of a needle valve, a pressure sensing pilot and a spring-diaphragm actuator. The needle valve is used to restrict the rate of gas flow into the actuator to a rate less than that that can be vented by the pressure sensing pilot. When an excess pressure is generated in the distribution system, the pressure sensing pilot senses when to exhaust the excess gas through the actuator and out of the gas venting device to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Assignee: Leidy Hub, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Pelkey
  • Patent number: 5336083
    Abstract: A detonation arrestor for a line carrying a combustible gas includes a cell housing having a portion that is directed to quenching a detonation front and a portion that is directed primarily to heat absorption so that the heat of a continuous or prolonged burn can be withstood. The quenching portion may be a porous quenching medium. The heat absorption section contains a large mass of metal with porous channels through or between them. An example is a plurality of closely spaced stacked plates, which may be helically wound or plane parallel plates. Crimped ribbon or other spacers may separate them. As an alternative to the quenching medium, the plates may extend long enough to allow flame fronts to be quenched between them. The detonation arrestor is symmetrical and may be placed in the flare line in either direction. If particulate quenching medium is used, a deflector ring encircles the interior of the cell housing and prevents flame fronts from flashing along the edge of the cell housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Inventor: Robert K. Rajewski
  • Patent number: 5211554
    Abstract: A detonation arrestor for a line carrying a combustible gas includes a cell housing having a particulate quenching medium composed of alumina ceramic beads. The media is held in place by a plurality of stacked plates. The detonation arrestor is symmetrical and may be placed in the flare line in either direction. A deflector ring encircles the interior of the cell housing and prevents flame fronts from flashing along the edge of the cell housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1993
    Inventor: Robert K. Rajewski
  • Patent number: 5145360
    Abstract: A detonation arrestor for a flare line includes a cell housing having a particulate quenching medium composed of stainless steel balls. The stainless steel balls are held in place by wire mesh and steel bars. A flame front diffusor is located on either side of the cell housing so that the detonation arrestor is symmetrical may be placed in the flare line in either direction. The flame front diffusor may be a plate or a smaller cell. A deflector ring encircles the interior of the cell housing and prevents flame fronts from flashing along the edge of the cell housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1992
    Inventor: Robert K. Rajewski
  • Patent number: 4997459
    Abstract: The gas distribution system has a main gas line in gas flow connection with several components including a gas pressure safety structure. A pressure regulator is located on a front or forward portion of the main gas line and reduces the gas pressure at a point in the main gas line subsequent to the pressure regulator. There is an auxiliary gas line that extends from a point on the main line before the gas pressure regulator to the gas pressure safety structure. The gas pressure safety structure has in gas flow connection a source pressure regulator, as inspirator and a pressure sensing pilot all in gas flow connection with a gas venting device. Upon overpressurization the pressure sensing pilot will be activated and the inspirator will cause a vacuum to be formed in its connection with the gas venting device. This vacuum will open the gas venting device to permit the excess gas to be vented to the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1991
    Assignee: Enerop Corporation
    Inventor: Mark J. Pelkey