Abstract: A system is provided for making frozen comestibles, and the like, having an over-run. The system comprises a swept surface heat exchanger which includes a manifolded cylinder in which is disposed a tube having a dasher. Refrigeration means are connected to the manifolded cylinder and the tube is provided with an inlet and an outlet. The system further comprises an air/mix or over-run control system which includes a positive displacement pump having a variable drive, an inlet for a mix, and an outlet. A magnetic flow meter receives mix from the pump outlet and provides a signal proportional to the flow of mix therethrough. An air mass flow control is connected between the mix conduit and a source of pressured air. A control circuit, such as a programmable computer, receives signals from the flow meter and controls both the variable drive on the pump and the pressured air through the air mass flow control.

Abstract: An improved evaporative cooling unit. The unit efficiently cools air when the evaporative cooling pad is dry and utilizes the turbulent intermixing of air and water to evaporatively cool air without requiring excess water flow onto and from the cooling pad.

Abstract: An air and water cooling system includes an evaporator tank partially filled with water with a vacuum pump maintaining a partial vacuum in the tank. A spray of water is directed from a header into the tank, and the partial vacuum effects an evaporation of some of the sprayed water so as to absorb heat from the main pool of water contained within the tank. This cooled water supply may then be pumped through a cooling coil positioned within a heat exchanger, and a flow of air through the heat exchanger will acquire a desired air cooling effect. The water in the cooling coil is then pumped back to the spray header positioned within the evaporator tank to complete the closed cycle. Since the vacuum pump will result in the removal of evaporated water, a float operated water makeup feed is provided to maintain a constant level of water within the evaporator tank.

Abstract: A substantially conventional evaporative cooler assembly is provided incorporating a water sump having an overflow and with which a float valve equipped pressurized supply of cool ground water is operatively associated for admitting water into the sump to an operating level slightly below the overflow level. A pump assembly is provided for pumping water from the sump to an evaporative pad through which air flowing through the cooler passes and a mechanical refrigeration unit including a compressor, evaporator coil and condenser coil is operatively associated with the cooler assembly.

Abstract: A temperature responsive cooling apparatus for an air conditioner or a refrigeration system for reducing the cost of operation and maintenance without utilizing electricity, without the need of a supply of fluid that is specially pressurized and without the deposition of nonevaporative components associated with the pretreated fluid. The air conditioner or refrigeration system has an air cooled coil and means for producing a current of air for cooling the coil.

Abstract: An automatic thermostatic control system for a heater and an evaporative cooler which turns the cooler on only when needed, which automatically switches the blower of the cooler between low and high speeds as required so as to maintain essentially constant temperature, and which provides automatic change-over from a cooling to a heating condition.

Abstract: Water flow through air/water spray heads of an automatic in duct humidification and evaporative cooling system for buildings is modulated by a pneumatic control signal delivered to rear chambers of the system's spray heads through a pneumatic signal reversing relay connected with a pneumatic signal sending line in the pneumatic control section of the system.

Abstract: An automobile cooling system where electrical energy derived from solar cells are used to drive the pump and fan of a vehicle mounted evaporative cooling system. Automatic control of the system is provided by a thermostatic switch located within the vehicle.

Abstract: An evaporative air conditioning device which in the cooling phase subjects the air to be treated to evaporative treatment. Prior to evaporative treatment the air to be treated is enthalpically heated to expand the air utilizing radiant solar energy to lower the water content per unit of volume and also the wet bulb temperature. In the preferred embodiment, a heat absorbent material is placed adjacent the inlet ducts to the unit. In the heating phase, the device is thermostatically controlled to provide solar induced heating during periods when sufficient solar energy induced heat is available.

Abstract: An improved, energy-efficient method and apparatus for cooling and conditioning the air being supplied to an air-conditioned area in which the volumetric flow rate of the air being directed through a spray chamber is varied in response to changes in the heat load in the air-conditioned area while the volume of water sprayed by the spray chamber is also varied so as to maintain a predetermined ratio between the volumes of spray water and air flow.

Abstract: In order to provide a control system for an evaporative cooler which is simple to install correctly and which affords a high degree of safety in use, there is disclosed a circuit employing opto-isolators to switch power triacs which, in turn, control the flow of a-c power to the water pump motor and to the low and high speed fan motor windings. Logic means ensure that energization of the low and high speed fan motor windings is mutually exclusive. The electronic switching devices are selected to afford a high degree of electrical isolation between the thermostat and potentially lethal voltages. The system is housed in a molded fiberglass box for long-term use in a damp environment.

Abstract: An apparatus for applying a cooling water spray to the heat exchanger of an air conditioning condenser unit is disclosed. The apparatus includes a solenoid valve for controlling the flow of water, a spray nozzle positioned so as to direct the cooling water spray onto the air intake side of the heat exchanger, and a control unit for controlling the solenoid valve. The control unit is essentially a very low frequency oscillator or timer, the "OFF" and "ON" durations of which are independently selectable.

Abstract: An improved evaporative cooler contains a first pump for supplying cooling liquid to the evaporative pads and a second pump for draining liquid in the sump pan through a drain/overflow pipe. Both pumps are coupled to an electronic control mechanism which activates the first pump for a first predetermined period of time within each successive second predetermined period of time (e.g. the first 2.5 minutes of every successive 10 minute period). The control mechanism causes the second pump to drain the sump pan through the drain/overflow pipe for a third predetermined period of time following the first occurence of the first predetermined period of time (e.g. for 5.0 minutes after the first 2.5 minute wetting cycle). This draining process occurs only once each time the evaporative cooler is turned on. The drain/overflow pipe has an upper end coupled to the outlet of the second pump and also has an aperture in the wall thereof through which excess liquid in the sump pump will flow and be discharged.

Abstract: The invention provides a variable cycle moisturizing control circuit for a gas-liquid contact pad (8, 18) in humidifiers (1), precoolers (17) and the like, supplied with fluid from a solenoid valve (34). Temperature sensitive electric circuit means (FIG. 4) cyclically actuates the valve between ON and OFF states for intermittently moisturizing the pad with an intermittent flow of liquid, and includes means (26, 30) for variably changing the intermittent flow in response to temperature by changing the relative timing of the ON and OFF timed intervals such that the duration of one increases relative to the other. User accessible preadjustment means (38, 40) manually changes the length of one of the timing intervals, to preset the initial relative timing of the intervals according to pad size to afford a relatively longer ON time for larger pads, whereafter the other interval is automatically varied in response to increasing temperature.

Abstract: An improved, energy-efficient method and apparatus for cooling and conditioning the air being supplied to an air-conditioned area in which the volumetric flow rate of the air being directed through a spray chamber is varied in response to changes in the heat load in the air-conditioned area while the volume of water sprayed by the spray chamber is also varied so as to maintain a predetermined ratio between the volumes of spray water and air flow.

Abstract: A cooling apparatus for an air conditioner or a refrigeration system for reducing the cost of operation and maintenance without utilizing electricity, without the need of a supply of fluid that is specially pressurized and without the deposition of nonevaporative components of the fluid. The air conditioner or refrigeration system has an air cooled coil and means for producing a current of air for cooling the coil.

Abstract: A variable air volume air conditioning system is disclosed which is capable of accurately controlling temperature and humidity levels in a conditional zone while achieving significant economy of operation.

Abstract: An environmental control system utilizing a single moisture and dust impervious temperature probe of a multistage thermostat to both control a fogging system in a hog house or the like and other temperature altering devices such as an adjustable ventilation system, fans, heaters and the like. In a cooling cycle of operation, when the sensed temperature rises to a first preselected level, one of the stages causes actuation of one of the temperature cooling apparatus. If the temperature continues to rise to another excessively higher preselected temperature, another stage causes actuation of the fogging system. When the sensed temperature then drops by a preselected amount, the fogging system is deactuated. The actuation and deactuation temperatures are selectively variable to minimize excessive fogging. In the heating cycle of operation, heating devices are suitably controlled in accordance with temperatures.

Abstract: This invention relates to an evaporator coil structure for use in building air conditioner systems which improves the operating efficiency of the system, as well as to a method of cycling the on and off operation of the system's compressor to further improve its overall operating efficiency.More specifically a coil structure is provided that will inherently save a large portion of the energy normally wasted due to the energy absorbed by condensation of moisture as air is conducted through the coil.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are disclosed for refreshing the water in an evaporative cooler. The apparatus includes a sump in which water for the cooler is collected. The sump is divided into two portions by a dividing dam. A pump supplying water to the cooler is positioned in one portion of the sump; a drain is positioned in the other portion. The drain is normally closed by a ball and flapper assembly and the sump is normally filled to a preselected level higher than the dividing dam. Periodically the ball and flapper are raised to flush the water from the sump so that contaminates and minerals are flushed from the sump and the water can be replaced by fresh water. During the flushing cycle enough water is trapped in the first portion of the sump by the dam so that the pump can continue to operate. In one embodiment the periodic flushing is accomplished by a mechanical flushing timer incorporated with the pump motor.

Abstract: Apparatus (10) for applying mist or spray to an environment such as one in which plants (11) are growing including a monitoring head (12) arranged in the environment to sense the humidity therein by measurements of temperature and a control device (13) for actuating mist or spray heads (15) to apply mist or spray to the plants (11) in accordance with the humidity sensed by the monitoring head (12).

Abstract: A system for optimizing the control of the water temperature within a cooling tower is disclosed. The temperature and the relative humidity of the air outside the cooling tower are measured and are selectively utilized as inputs to a plurality of modules containing function blocks in a logic arrangement. The function blocks produce an output signal indicative of the wet bulb temperature of the outside air which is compared to the cooling tower water temperature causing the speed of the cooling tower fans to be adjusted in response to the temperature difference therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for operating an evaporative condenser refrigeration system at a low condensing temperature. The refrigeration system includes a condenser, an evaporator, a compressor, and a coolant flowing therethrough. The condenser is sized for sufficient capacity for operation at the annual average wet bulb temperature of the locality of the refrigeration system. The evaporative condenser is operated at full capacity at all times during operation of the refrigeration system. The temperature of the incoming coolant fluid to the condenser is permitted to follow the prevailing wet bulb temperature of the locality. By operating at a low condensing temperature, a compressor arranged in the refrigeration system operates at the lowest practical horsepower requirement.

Abstract: In a method for cooling a process gas stream with a liquid cryogen, said stream being recycled through a pipe in a closed system comprising a reactor containing at least one pipe wherein, at the initiation of the instant method:(i) the flowrate of the stream is in the range of about 10,000 scfm to about 350,000 scfm;(ii) the temperature of the stream is in the range of about 75 degrees F. to about 450 degrees F.; and(iii) the pressure of the system is in the range of about 150 psig to about 1000 psig;and wherein, at any time during the effectuation of the instant method:(iv) the temperature differential between any two points in the pipe separated by at least about eight times the nominal pipe diameter is no greater than about 200 degrees F.; and(v) the minimum temperature of the pipe is at least about minus 20 degrees F.

Abstract: An auxiliary condensing coil is interposed between the compressor and primary coil of a refrigerated air conditioner through a pressure sensor operative in response to excessive head pressure for energizing an auxiliary coil fan motor and sump pump. The auxiliary coil is cooled by ambient air and moisture.

Abstract: An air conducting mechanism for receiving evaporatively cooled air from a source thereof and delivering the evaporatively cooled air to the air inlet face of the condenser coil of a remotely located refrigeration unit.

Abstract: Apparatus for periodically draining, flushing and replacing the water supply in an evaporative cooler during operation thereof and for completely draining the cooler when its operation is terminated. The apparatus includes a siphon drain valve mounted in the sump of the cooler and configured for movement between siphoning and non-siphoning positions with the movement being controlled by a solenoid. When the cooler is in normal operation, the solenoid is deenergized which places the siphon drain valve in the non-siphoning position and when in such normal operation, the water supply will increase in mineral salt concentration and other cooler damaging contaminants. At periodic intervals, such as under control of a time clock, the apparatus is switched to its draining, flushing and water replacing operation mode. This is accomplished by energizing the solenoid to initiate the siphoning action of the siphon drain valve to drain the water from the cooler.

Abstract: A system and method for managing energy in large refrigeration systems and the like by continuously monitoring operating parameters and controlling to optimize the refrigeration system elements. A multiplicity of remote sensors is disposed at the appropriate points in the refrigeration system to produce analog electrical signals representative of various temperatures such as wet bulb temperature, dry bulb temperature, condensing temperature, evaporator air temperature, evaporator refrigerant temperature, and similar temperatures, and various pressures such as head pressure, booster suction pressure, intermediate suction pressure, and the like. A signal processor is provided to receive signals from the sensors, to condition the analog signals, convert to digital signals and to feed a digital computer which has a memory for storing system design parameters and refrigerant characteristics.

Abstract: An energy-saving device is disclosed which is particularly designed to control the temperature of the refrigerant in an air conditioning or refrigeration unit by evaporating a sprayed liquid on the refrigerant-containing vessels. The device may alternatively be utilized to introduce sprayed liquid into the heated air stream of a hot air furnace plenum to provide humidification. The device includes a temperature probe (24) which preferably comprises a thermistor that is positioned adjacent a control area where the temperature is desired to be monitored. A spray nozzle (38) causes a liquid to impinge upon the refrigerant-containing vessels, or to be evaporated in the hot air stream, to effect pre-cooling of the refrigerant prior to entering the condensing coil, or to effect evaporation of the water in the hot air stream to provide humidification.

Abstract: A system for directing a water spray onto the condenser unit of an air-cooled air conditioner in response to the operation of an air actuated valve when the air conditioner is energized; the air actuated valve is disposed in the exhaust air stream of the motor driven fan which normally creates a cooling air flow through the condenser unit of the air conditioner. The air actuated valve directs a stream of water from a line connected to a controlled pressurized water source to a water manifold provided with a plurality of branch conduits, fitted with spray nozzles, positioned to direct a water spray onto the condenser coils.

Abstract: Apparatus for attachment to an air conditioner condenser for applying a mist of water or other liquid to the coils and fins of the condenser to improve the heat transfer capability of the condenser. The apparatus includes a spray nozzle, support structure for the spray nozzle, fluid conductors, a fluid valve member, a temperature sensing member, and a valve control member. The temperature sensing member, through the valve control member, causes the spray to operate only when certain predetermined temperature conditions exist. The temperature sensing member is positioned so that it, as well as the coils and fins of the condenser, receives water sprayed as a mist by the spray nozzle. Thus, the temperature conditions which exist in the coils and fins also exists in the temperature sensing member.

Abstract: Thermostatic control apparatus for evaporative cooling systems includes a single thermostat and a plurality of relays and relay contacts to select appropriate combinations of cooling, ventilating, and motor control speed for a fan or a blower.

Abstract: An apparatus for supplying a cooling liquid to a condenser of a refrigeration unit. The apparatus comprises a conduit for passing the cooling liquid from a source thereof into thermal communication with the condenser, and a valve to regulate the flow of liquid through the conduit and having an open position allowing the liquid to flow through the conduit. The apparatus further comprises an electronic control for use with a source of an electronic signal, including an electronic switch having an open state in which the electronic signal does not pass through the switch, a closed state in which the electronic signal passes through the switch, and a trigger wherein, when an electronic signal having a predetermined magnitude passes to the trigger, the switch changes from the open state to the closed state.

Abstract: An automatic flushing device for an evaporative cooling system contains a water sump, circulating pump, and float-operated water makeup source. A small, adjustable portion of the return flow enters a separate timing reservoir. When the timing reservoir is full, water from the well and the sump are flushed from the system through a siphon tube which communicates with both chambers.

Abstract: An evaporative spray cooling system for cooling an effluent gas is disclosed including a pressurized supply of coolant fluid, a hydraulic cylinder manifold having a movable piston, individual spray nozzles communicating with ports spaced apart along the length of the hydraulic cylinder manifold, a hydraulic cylinder actuator having a movable piston operatively connected to the piston of the hydraulic cylinder manifold, said pressurized fluid supply communicating with one end of said hydraulic cylinder manifold to supply coolant fluid to the manifold, valve means for selectively supplying the pressurized fluid to one side of the hydraulic cylinder actuator piston for overcoming the supply fluid force on the hydraulic cylinder manifold piston to move the manifold piston in first one direction in response to an increase in effluent gas temperature above a predetermined temperature thereby opening more spray nozzles to decrease the temperature of the effluent gas and decreasing the pressure of the supply fluid on

Abstract: An environmental control unit for regulating humidity and temperature and removing certain constituents from air in a generally confined volumetric region comprises an enclosure having an actuable heating element associated with a blower driven dry air flow path extending through a plurality of parallel high thermal conductivity tubes to an outlet opening to the confined volume. Water may be sprayed by an actuable pump from a reservoir onto a high-surface area evaporative covering on the tubes. A blower driven evaporation path in heat exchange and non-fluid exchange relationships to the dry air flow path extends generally transverse to the tubes about the evaporative covering and through controllable vents to humidify by expelling evaporation path air into the confined volume, and to dehumidify or cool by condensing room air moisture within the chilled tubes.

Abstract: A control system for automatically controlling the operation of a plurality of fans for a cooling tower so that the minimum number of fans and the lowest speeds are used to provide the required cooling necessary at any one time. The fans are individually controlled in response to the temperature of the working fluid, to be either off or operated at a low or high speed so that as the temperature of the working fluid increases, more fans are turned on first to their low speed and then to their high speed. Safety features are provided for starting the system and for changing the speeds of the fans to prevent damage to the control system and unnecessary wear on the fan motors.

Abstract: Apparatus mounted in a motor vehicle for cooling by evaporation the condenser of an air conditioning system in the vehicle. The apparatus includes a coolant tank in the vehicle having a pump to pump coolant to a manifold upon demand from which it is sprayed onto the condenser. A float in the tank activates a switch to stop the pump motor when the coolant level in the tank reaches a predetermined level.

Abstract: A piping arrangement for an air washer is disclosed which enables the air washer to maintain constant dewpoint of air passing from the leaving side of the air washer. Chilled water is sprayed from a first manifold and is used to cool air to a required wet bulb temperature. The air is then passed through subsequent manifolds having spray nozzles which further humidify the air until the air reaches a required dewpoint temperature in a substantially saturated state.

Abstract: When the ambient temperature is high, proper temperature control is assisted within the poultry house using a spray means that sprays water onto a filter pad that is positioned in front of the fresh air inlet. The water spray and pad act to cool air being taken into the building through the inlet without objectionably raising the humidity.