Liquid Level Sensed Patents (Class 95/24)
  • Patent number: 7931718
    Abstract: An oil mist separator includes a body inside which a filtering chamber is formed for a filtering unit made up with several centrifugal dust collectors. With an air intake unit, the outside oil mist is sent into the filtering chamber. Then, the centrifugal dust collectors are used to cause a spiral airstream. With a centrifugal force caused by the spiral airstream, the oil mist is made to separate from the air. Next, the filtered air of zero pollution is vented to the atmosphere, and the separated oil mist is collected and recycled. Thus, the oil mist may be separated and the recycled oil mist may be made into a low-level oil product or a release agent used in the building industry for achievement of the effect of environmental protection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: San Ford Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mao-Nan Cheng
  • Patent number: 7909922
    Abstract: A dehumidifier is provided. A dehumidifier includes a cabinet defining an outer appearance, a barrier installed in the cabinet to collect condensed water removed from air, a bucket assembly for storing the condensed water directed from the barrier, and a condensed water detecting unit for detecting an amount or level of the condensed water stored in the bucket assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Duck-Yong Jang, Chi-Wao Kim
  • Patent number: 7850769
    Abstract: An air filtering apparatus including a housing having an air suction port and air blow-out port, an electrolytic bath for generating electrolytic water, a gas-liquid contact member disposed in the housing, an electrolytic water supply unit for supplying the electrolytic water to the gas-liquid contact member so that the electrolytic water infiltrates into the gas-liquid contact member, an air blowing fan for bringing indoor air sucked from the air suction port into contact with the electrolytic water infiltrating in the gas-liquid contact member and blowing out the indoor air from the air blow-out port, a water receiving portion for receiving the electrolytic water passed through the gas-liquid contact member, and a foreign material removing mechanism for removing foreign materials contained in the electrolytic water. The foreign material may be a filter member disposed in front of the gas-liquid contact member, or a dam member disposed in the water receiving portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuo Takahashi, Yoichi Uchida, Hiroaki Usui, Tetsuya Yamamoto, Keiko Kurokawa, Masayuki Motegi, Tomohito Koizumi, Hiroyuki Umezawa, Tsuyoshi Rakuma, Toshio Fukushima, Toru Arakawa, Hiroyuki Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 7842121
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for providing aqueous stream purification services. The system includes at least one separation unit. Each separation unit may include a mechanical vapor recompression separator, a steam stripper, and a secondary recovery heat exchanger. The system for wastewater purification may receive water from a waste water storage, purify the water, and return the purified water to a purified water storage. The system may include a controller. The controller may include an operating conditions module configured to interpret at least one operating condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Capital Corporation
    Inventors: Larry D. Sanderson, James W. Schleiffarth, Leslie D. Merrill, Bradford M. Rohwer
  • Patent number: 7806960
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating a fluid is provided and includes a fluid storage tank for partially containing a fluid and a gas, wherein the fluid storage tank includes a fluid inlet pipe and a fluid outlet pipe. The fluid treatment apparatus also includes a first aeration device, wherein the first aeration device is configured to be in flow communication with the fluid inlet pipe and the fluid portion of the tank cavity. The fluid treatment apparatus further includes a pumping device, wherein the pumping device is configured to cause the fluid portion of the tank cavity to flow through the fluid outlet pipe and a second aeration device, wherein the second aeration device is configured to be in flow communication with the fluid outlet pipe and the fluid portion of the tank cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Inventor: Raymond Leroy Frosti
  • Patent number: 7727306
    Abstract: A system for use in the treatment of contaminated fluid is provided. The system includes a source from which contaminated fluid may be introduced into the system, and a reservoir for an adsorbent material designed to remove contaminants from the fluid. The system also includes a reactor within which the adsorbent material and the contaminated fluid may be accommodated for treatment. A separation device may further be included for removing spent adsorbent materials from the system. A method for treating contaminated fluid is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Perry Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Krogue, Timothy L. Holmes, Michelle Hewitt
  • Publication number: 20100116128
    Abstract: A liquid/gas separator device for separating the liquid and gaseous phases of a fluid, the device having first and second vertically-disposed elongate reservoirs. The first reservoir has a first bottom orifice connected to an arrival pipe for the fluid that includes a pressure-lowering device, at least one first top orifice, and a plurality of first intermediate orifices. The first reservoir is connected to a plurality of second reservoirs via a plurality of first transfer pipes, and via at least one second transfer pipe. Each of second reservoirs has a second top orifice connected to a common gas discharge pipe, and a second bottom orifice connected to a common degassed fluid discharge pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Stéphanie Abrand, Marc Bonnissel, Roberto Di Sil Vestro, Raymond Hallot
  • Publication number: 20090223246
    Abstract: A liquid hydrocarbon slug-containing vessel for incorporation into a system integrating a low-pressure separator with a vapor recovery process system, and a method for regulating the temperature of a gas to be compressed by a two stage compressor so as to prevent liquification of the gas and to prevent over-heating of the compressor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Rodney T. Heath, Forrest D. Heath, Gary Heath
  • Publication number: 20090178555
    Abstract: When water sprays into an empty tank or into the freeboard of filters, considerable flashing occurs to release about 50 to 80% of carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and other gases. The injection of air with the water enhances this degasification and produces a partial drained tank, in which it is required for the spraying or flashing to occur. When the water level reaches a low point, a switch signals for the vent to be opened and the air is stopped. But the inlet water continues to fill the tank and to displace the gasses through the vent. When the water reaches the vent, a high level switch closes the vent. Air injection starts again to repeat the cycle. Alternately, the injection of air with the influent water into a partially drained tank with a level controller and venting also effects this degasification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: George J. Crits, William J. Runyan
  • Publication number: 20090139399
    Abstract: An apparatus for collecting airborne particles includes a cyclone into which external air and an absorbing liquid are sprayed to absorb the airborne particles in the external air with the absorbing liquid, a reservoir in fluid communication with the cyclone and which stores the absorbing liquid to be sprayed into the cyclone as an absorbing liquid film, a collector in fluid communication with the cyclone and which collects the absorbing liquid film from the cyclone, and a feedback pipe in fluid communication with the collector and the reservoir and which transports the absorbing liquid film collected in the collector to the reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: KyoungHo KANG, Yunwoo NAM, JungJoo HWANG, Aleksandr Danilovich TOLCHINSKY, Vladimir Ivanovich SIGAEV, Aleksander Nikolaevich VARFOLOMEEV, Alexey Antonovich MAZHINSKY, Pavel Konstantinovich SOLOVIEV, Vadim Viktorovich BUNIN
  • Patent number: 7517387
    Abstract: A description is given of a gas separation device for a physiological fluid, comprising a containing body (6) having at least a first inlet aperture (7) for a physiological fluid, positioned with a tangential direction of access, at least one outlet aperture (9) for the said fluid, spaced apart from the said inlet aperture, and a guide element (17) housed within the said body. The guide element (17) has a continuous active surface (15) designed to contact and guide the said fluid and delimits, together with the containing body (6), a first annular chamber (20) into which the first inlet aperture (7) opens directly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Jacques Chevallet, Nicolas Semenzato, Alain Frugier, Francesco Ribolzi
  • Patent number: 7494534
    Abstract: A device for controlling a dissolved amount of gas. The device is formed of: a pressure reducing part constructed by connecting a hole provided at an upper part of a closed tank to a vacuum pump through a pipe; an injection supply part for injecting fluid to be treated pressurized by a pressurizing pump from the upper part of the tank; a liquid foam generating container where the injected fluid to be treated is received, then gas of the reduced pressure space is involved in, and an air bubble group rises along an inner peripheral wall and is separated from the liquid, and then changes into liquid bubbles in an upper region; a recovery pump part for allowing the liquid bubbles having overflowed from the container; and a tank water level sensor part for maintaining a water level of the treated fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Masayuki Fukagawa, Kesayoshi Hadano, Tetsuhiko Fujisato, Ryosaku Fujisato
  • Publication number: 20080190288
    Abstract: A method and an equipment for improving global warming and air pollution are proposed, wherein hot exhaust gas generated by a thermal machine is injected into an exhaust boosting unit to be compressed and mixed with a liquid medium for atomization. Pollutants in the hot exhaust gas and heat generated due to combustion are adsorbed by the liquid medium. After the liquid medium passes a dust collecting unit, the pollutants adsorbed by the liquid medium will adhere to the dust collecting unit. Humid and hot clean air is extracted to the atmosphere, and rises to high altitudes and is cooled there. Water will drop to the ground in the form or rain or snow to cool the ground temperature and remove other pollutants in the air. Heat circulation and water circulation can be sped up to improve the situation of global warming and render more water resource to the Earth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2007
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Inventor: Rey-Chin CHU
  • Patent number: 7361210
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for separating froth into liquid and gas components. One apparatus includes a container that is configured to hold froth therein and change at least a portion of the froth into substantially separate liquid and gas portions when an electrostatic charge is discharged through at least a portion of the froth between at least two electrodes at least partially arranged within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Inventor: David N. Olsen
  • Patent number: 7332010
    Abstract: Disclosed is a two or three phase separator including a centrifugal separator, a demister (if a three phase separator), and a filter contained within a housing. The filter uses an outside-in flow principle. The filter includes an inner layer or a center core that defines a hollow interior. An outer layer is positioned adjacent and surrounding the inner layer. The outer layer includes a re-enforcement layer, a first particle filter layer, a coalescer layer, and a second particle filter layer. An access cover of the separator includes a cover plug, an actuator cam, a plurality of idler cam plates, and a plurality of mechanisms. The access cover cooperates with an opening and an annular groove in the housing to close off and seal the separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: TM Industrial Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl A. Steiner
  • Patent number: 7314509
    Abstract: A gas/liquid phase separator includes a fluid inlet, a vapor outlet, a liquid outlet, and first and second valves disposed in fluid communication with the liquid outlet. Both valves are controllable in response to a fluid level in the gas/liquid phase separator. Both valves are further disposed in parallel fluid communication with each other. A method of controlling a liquid level in the phase separator includes sensing an amount of liquid in the phase separator, sensing a system pressure, and selectively opening a valve disposed in fluid communication with the phase separator to drain the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Proton Energy System, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Andrzej E. Stanek, Angelo A. Morson, Justin D. Baltrucki
  • Patent number: 7273560
    Abstract: An apparatus for recycling the stripper solutions with higher recycling rate is disclosed. The apparatus includes a stripper condenser; a first buffer tank; a second buffer tank connecting to said stripper condenser by a first pipe and connecting to said first buffer tank by a second pipe; a recycling device connecting to said first buffer tank by a fourth pipe; a first pump mounted on said first pipe; a second pump mounted on said second pipe; a concentration detector mounted in said stripper condenser; and a controller electrically connected to said concentration detector, said flow meter, and said liquid level sensor for receiving the signals therefrom, and electrically connected to said first pump and said second pump for sending on-off messages to said second pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.
    Inventors: Ta Sen Su, Chien Chou, Ji Luen Chen
  • Patent number: 7156896
    Abstract: A separating tank assembly enables a dental vacuum separating tank to be drained without using a pump and without turning off or isolating the vacuum source from the tank. A drain tank is provided in fluid communication with the separating tank, and a control valve controls a pressure differential between the drain tank and the fluid tank. When the separating tank is filling, the drain tank and separating tank pressures are equalized, and the tanks are in fluid communication. When the fluid in the drain tank reaches a predetermined level, the solenoid opens the drain tank to atmosphere, blocking fluid communication between the separating tank and the drain tank and opening fluid communication between the drain tank and a sewer drain. After the fluid is drained, the solenoid reopens fluid communication between the separating tank and the drain tank, and the pressures in the respective tanks are equalized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Ramvac Dental Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Travis Schenk, James Isaac Meyer, Jeffrey Jochim, Gary M. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 7008464
    Abstract: A system for removing moisture from a wet gas stream including a vessel having a contact area containing deliquescing salts that produces brine as water is absorbed, the brine flowing to a collection area in the bottom of the vessel. A venturi positioned in a wet gas inlet stream produces an area of reduced pressure that is applied to a brine flow path connected to the brine collection area. In this way, the brine is recirculated into intimate contact with the wet gas inlet stream causing the brine to be diluted with water extracted from the wet gas stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: National Tank Company
    Inventor: Jack A. Deetz
  • Patent number: 6984257
    Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for use with a natural gas dehydrator. The apparatus and method of the invention provide for recirculation of gaseous or combustible materials so that they are not released into the atmosphere and to provide fuel for the process. Likewise, liquid hydrocarbons are collected. Various components, including separators, an absorber, wet glycol, dry glycol, an effluent condenser, heat exchangers, and a reboiler are utilized in accordance with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventors: Rodney T. Heath, Forrest D. Heath
  • Patent number: 6869504
    Abstract: A vacuum pump (P0) provides vacuum to a paper machine deaeration tank (11) which has an inlet duct (10) through which the tank is supplied with wire water. A discharge duct (12) extends from the deaeration tank (11). There is an overflow (14) for the wire water in the discharge duct at the discharge end of the discharge duct (12). The overflow (14) of the discharge duct (12) is located below the deaeration tank (11) and opens to a free air space. The discharge duct (12) includes a branch duct (15a1) for a flow which is passed to the headbox (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Matti Hietaniemi
  • Publication number: 20040197622
    Abstract: An apparatus for separating liquid from a gas stream. The apparatus includes an elongated housing having a cylindrical inner surface and a gas stream inlet that is tangential to the side wall of the housing so as to cause the entering gas stream to swirl within the housing. A gas stream outlet is located at the top of the housing and a liquid outlet at the bottom. The gas stream outlet can include an elongated tubular member that extends into the housing and has an opening that is located below the housing gas stream inlet. Liquid components of the gas stream separate from the stream under the influence of centrifugal forces that are created by the swirling flow path of the stream within the housing. A liquid outlet and liquid outlet valve are provided for maintaining a minimum level of liquid within the housing so as to maintain a liquid seal within the housing. A level indicator may optionally be provided to monitor the liquid level within the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Texaco Inc.
    Inventors: William Spencer Wheat, David Wayne Harrison, Daniel G. Casey, Kerry Kennedy Spilker
  • Patent number: 6716268
    Abstract: A method of controlling occurrence of slugging in a riser of a pipeline arrangement including a riser base and pipeline conveying a multiphase fluid system in which the gas phase may be natural gas. The upper end of riser is connected to a separator vessel. The gas phase of the multiphase fluid system is separated from the liquid phase so that the separated gas leaves through gas outlet pipe controlled by a first valve, and the liquid leaves through an outlet pipe controlled by a first valve. The first valve regulates the velocity of gas along the pipeline towards the riser. A pressure sensor observes the gas pressure in the riser base, and if the observed pressure exceeds a predetermined control pressure value a three term pressure indication control causes the first valve to be operated to pen to an extent that increases the gas outflow through the pipe, and thus increases the velocity of gas in the pipeline to avoid occurrence of severe slugging in the riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Lattice Intellectual Property Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter David Molyneux, John Paul Kinvig
  • Patent number: 6551379
    Abstract: Apparatus for use with a natural gas dehydrator wherein a portion of the wet glycol in an emissions separator is pumped under pressure as circulating wet glycol which may be used as a coolant for effluent removed from a reboiler and/or a power source for an eductor to form a vacuum in a first chamber of a liquid water removal separator apparatus. The cooled effluent, comprising at least liquid water, liquid hydrocarbons and uncondensed vapors, moves into the first chamber wherein the liquid water and/or the liquid hydrocarbons are separated from the uncondensed vapors. At least, the uncondensed vapors are removed from the first chamber and move into the eductor wherein they are compressed and combined into the circulating wet glycol. The separated liquid water is transferred to a second chamber of the liquid water removal separator apparatus and then removed therefrom. In some instances, the liquid hydrocarbons are transferred to a third chamber and removed therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Rodney T. Heath
  • Publication number: 20020073843
    Abstract: Apparatus for use with a natural gas dehydrator wherein a portion of the wet glycol in an emissions separator is pumped under pressure as circulating wet glycol which may be used as a coolant for effluent removed from a reboiler and/or a power source for an eductor to form a vacuum in a first chamber of a liquid water removal separator apparatus. The cooled effluent, comprising at least liquid water, liquid hydrocarbons and uncondensed vapors, moves into the first chamber wherein the liquid water and/or the liquid hydrocarbons are separated from the uncondensed vapors. At least, the uncondensed vapors are removed from the first chamber and move into the eductor wherein they are compressed and combined into the circulating wet glycol. The separated liquid water is transferred to a second chamber of the liquid water removal separator apparatus and then removed therefrom. In some instances, the liquid hydrocarbons are transferred to a third chamber and removed therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Rodney T. Heath
  • Patent number: 6391093
    Abstract: A weld chamber has an air intake and an exhaust or evacuating ductwork for evacuating gases and other particles from the welding chamber. The evacuating ductwork is connected to a vacuum source to remove gases and by products from the weld chamber during welding. A throttle plate is provided in the evacuating ductwork adjacent the weld chamber to adjust or regulate the air velocity evacuating from the weld chamber. The evacuating duct then leads to a sealed water filtering tank. All of the exhausted/evacuated gases and by products are led beneath the water line and bubble through the water before emerging from the sealed water. The soot and iron particles are immediately cooled and trapped in the water tank. Moreover, particles become wet and are less likely to become airborne thus leading to a substantial portion of the particles being trapped in the sealed water tank. Thee remaining gases are then evacuated to the vacuum source and further filtered by a mechanical filtration device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Howard French, John E. McManus, Jr., Bimal B. Patel
  • Patent number: 6372024
    Abstract: The system removes contaminating gases, such as radon, from water using a bubbling action. Contaminated water is sprayed together with air through a duct to a bottom region of a bubbling container. The water and air move generally in the same direction through the system, allowing the flow rate to be varied while maintaining forced air/water contact. The aerated contaminated water bubbles upwardly through the bubbling container and passes through one or more diffusing or mixing plates causing the aerated contaminated water to further break out contaminating gases into the air. At the top region of the bubbling container, the contaminating gases are vented while the decontaminated water flows into a tank. The decontaminated water can then be pumped to a desired location, for example, to a house water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventors: Russell E. Prescott, Perrin T. Prescott
  • Patent number: 6364933
    Abstract: Apparatus for use with a natural gas dehydrator wherein a portion of the wet glycol in an emissions separator is pumped under pressure as circulating wet glycol which may be used as a coolant for effluent removed from a reboiler and/or a power source for an eductor to form a vacuum in a first chamber of a liquid water removal separator apparatus. The cooled effluent, comprising at least liquid water, liquid hydrocarbons and uncondensed vapors, moves into the first chamber wherein the liquid water and/or the liquid hydrocarbons are separated from the uncondensed vapors. At least, the uncondensed vapors are removed from the first chamber and move into the eductor wherein they are compressed and combined into the circulating wet glycol. The separated liquid water is transferred to a second chamber of the liquid water removal separator apparatus and then removed therefrom. In some instances, the liquid hydrocarbons are transferred to a third chamber and removed therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Rodney T. Heath
  • Patent number: 6315814
    Abstract: A gas separation plant includes, downstream of the line for feeding the gas separation module with a compressed gas mixture, a liquid particle separation device which includes a liquid detector, for example, of the optronic type, delivering an output signal, connected to an alarm device and to a central control unit of the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: L'Air Liquide, Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges Claude
    Inventors: Lionel Barry, Patrice Goeler
  • Patent number: 6251167
    Abstract: An enclosed tank with a liquid inlet, a liquid outlet, a gas inlet, and a gas outlet. A liquid is forced to flow turbulently through the tank. Simultaneously a scrubbing gas is pumped through the tank. Turbulence induced in the liquid encourages gasses dissolved in the liquid to transfer to the scrubbing gas and thence to exit the gas outlet. Liquid pressure is provided externally to the invention, such as by a water utility or house water pump. The liquid inlet has a nozzle that injects the liquid against baffles in the tank to create turbulence. The liquid level in the tank is stabilized by controlling the scrubbing gas pressure. A lower layer of liquid and an upper layer of scrubbing gas are maintained in the tank as they flow through the tank together. Various liquid level stabilizing means are shown as examples. An electronic feedback system optionally controls the scrubbing gas flow rate according to the contamination level of the liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignee: Berson Research Corp.
    Inventor: William Berson
  • Patent number: 6168647
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for separating liquids and solids from a gas stream and simultaneously coalescing liquids from the gas stream. The apparatus includes a closed vessel having a longitudinally extending length, an initially open interior, an input port at an extent and an output port at an opposite extent thereof. There is a partition located within the vessel interior that divides the vessel interior into a first stage and a second stage. There is at least one opening in the partition. A separator/coalescer filter element is disposed within the vessel to sealingly extend from within the first stage through the opening into the second stage. There is a chevron-type seal or an O-ring seal between the filter element and the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Perry Equipment Corporation
    Inventors: Marney Dunman Perry, Jr., Stephen A. von Phul, John A. Krogue, David J. Burns
  • Patent number: 6136204
    Abstract: An automatic control apparatus for effecting the continuous removal of contaminants, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from a process fluid, such as water used to wash print towels or the like. The apparatus includes a pump for circulating wash water from a washer to a treatment tank. A diffuser is provided for air stripping the contaminants from the wash water in the tank. The diffused gas is exhausted through a vent in the tank, and a contaminant emissions concentration sensor detects the composition of VOCs in the exhaust. A controller signals the pump to vary the circulation based on the emissions concentration detected by the sensor. The wash water is continuously recirculated to the washer until a predetermined emissions concentration is reached. A drain in the tank releases the treated wash water to the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Aramark Uniform and Career Apparel, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip P. Krejci
  • Patent number: 6099616
    Abstract: In a method for recovering vapors during the dispensing of a bituminous product into a tank, an inlet opening of the tank is closed with a fitting. The bituminous product is dispensed into the tank via the fitting. The bituminous product emits vapors inside the tank. The vapors are exhausted from the tank without direct contact of the vapors with moving parts. The vapors are transported to a condenser, and condensed to a liquid in the condenser. The condensed liquid is returned to the tank via the fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Jenne, Joseph M. Konieczka
  • Patent number: 5958108
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for separating fluids of differing specific gravities are discussed. More specifically, apparatus and methods for separating a high volume flow mixture of air and water into an essentially dry air component and a pure water component are discussed. The separator is high volume and is structured around three physical elements which are defined as an input, a water chamber and an air separator chamber. A composite flow enters the input where most of the heavier water component separates, under the force of gravity, and flows into the water chamber. The remaining fluid, which is air and water in the form of vapor, mist, or droplets, is drawn into the air separator chamber using a vacuum pump, and subsequently flows through a condensate sub chamber which physically is an element of the air separator chamber. Any moisture in this flow is condensed within, and drained from, the condensate chamber such that dry air is discharged from the air separator chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas J. Minihan
  • Patent number: 5919284
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for separating liquids and solids from a gas stream and simultaneously coalescing liquids from the gas stream. The apparatus includes a closed vessel having a longitudinally extending length, an initially open interior, an input port at an extent and an output port at an opposite extent thereof. There is a partition located within the vessel interior that divides the vessel interior into a first stage and a second stage. There is at least one opening in the partition. A separator/coalescer filter element is disposed within the vessel to sealingly extend from within the first stage through the opening into the second stage. There is a chevron-type seal or an O-ring seal between the filter element and the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventors: Marney Dunman Perry, Jr., Stephen A. von Phul, John A. Krogue, David J. Burns
  • Patent number: 5824135
    Abstract: This invention consists of apparatus and methods for separating fluids of differing specific gravities, and more particularly apparatus and methods for separating a high volume flow of fluid comprising a mixture of air and water into an essentially dry air component and a pure water component. The separator is high volume and is structured around three physical elements which are defined as an input, a water chamber and an air separator chamber. A composite flow enters the input where most of and flows into the water chamber. The remaining fluid, which is air and water in the form of vapors mist, or droplets, is drawn into the air separator chamber using a vacuum pump, and subsequently flows through a condensate sub chamber which physically is an element of the air separator chamber. Any moisture in this flow is condensed within, and drained from, the condensate chamber such that dry air is discharged from the air separator chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas J. Minihan
  • Patent number: 5792237
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for eliminating trapped air from a liquid flow by using a buffer tank and an electrical control box such that substantially all the trapped air are accumulated in the buffer tank and further, when the tank is optionally equipped with a sensor system, the liquid flow can be shut-off when the liquid level in the buffer tank drops below a threshold level to prevent the trapped air from accidentally flowing into a process machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co Ltd
    Inventors: Cheng-chieh Hung, Ming-chien Wen, Mao-sheng Chuang
  • Patent number: 5762684
    Abstract: A degassing module mounted in an intermediate position of a delivery pipe includes a fluid passage formed of a gas-permeable film material. The fluid passage is enclosed in a gas-tight vacuum chamber. A degassing pipe is connected to the vacuum chamber. The degassing pipe has a switch valve for breaking a communication between a sealed space in the vacuum chamber and a vacuum source, thereby forming a closed section including part of the degassing pipe and the sealed space in the vacuum chamber. A reduced quantity of solvent evaporates from a treating solution flowing through the fluid passage of the degassing module, and passes in the form of solvent vapor through the gas-permeable film material into the sealed space of the vacuum chamber. This minimizes change in the concentration and temperature of the treating solution flowing through the degassing module. The degassing pipe has a trap formed in an intermediate position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toyohide Hayashi, Masaki Iwami
  • Patent number: 5534047
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for degassing a mix of cement and a polymeric binding agent including filler material and/or fiber. The apparatus includes a vacuum chamber and a mechanism for adjusting the pressure inside the vacuum chamber. The vacuum chamber has an upper inlet zone including an inlet port, a lower discharge zone including a discharge port and an intermediate zone therebetween. Structure is provided adjacent to the inlet port which is open to the atmosphere for guiding the mix toward the inlet port. Structure is also positioned in the intermediate zone of the vacuum chamber for receiving, distributing and expediting the degassification of the free falling mix entering the vacuum chamber through the upper inlet port. A vacuum seal is provided by the mix entering the inlet port and by the degassed mix exiting the discharge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventors: Jerry A. Gisko, Larry J. Farrell
  • Patent number: 5509954
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for degassing a high viscosity fluid wherein a vacuum chamber is oriented vertically and adapted for receiving a fluid at its top end and discharging it from a reservoir at its bottom end, the chamber having an assembly having a slotted wide-mouthed nozzle and a channel slide member mounted within the top end so as to receive a fluid fed into the chamber. The nozzle is adapted for spreading the fluid onto the surface of the slide member which is angularly positioned downwardly towards the reservoir such that fluid on the slide member surface exhibits laminar flow as it moves downwardly. A vacuum drawn on the chamber effects a release of any gaseous materials contained within the fluid as it moves down the slide surface and into the reservoir where it may be drawn out for application by one or more nozzles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: Gary A. Derian, Herman E. Turner, Jr., Robert D. Schneider
  • Patent number: 5312552
    Abstract: The present invention entails a method and an apparatus for removing BTX-type gases from a liquid. Herein is disclosed a system where purified water from an oil-water separator is directed into a vacuum chamber. The chamber is closed and a vacuum is pulled on the purified water causing BTX-type gases associated with the water to vaporize and assume a space in the upper portion of the vacuum chamber. The pressure within the vacuum chamber is continuously sensed as well as the liquid level within the chamber. Once the pressure within the vacuum chamber has reached a predetermined level and the level of the purified water is within a certain range within the vacuum chamber, then the BTX-type gases are removed via a vacuum pump and these BTX gases are collected in a collector where they are condensed to form a liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 17, 1994
    Inventor: J. M. Norman
  • Patent number: 5256171
    Abstract: Oil and gas well production flow is gathered in field common line manifolds and conducted through a separator to make a coarse separation of gas from liquid and minimize slug flow in the conduits leading from the manifolds to further separation, treatment and pumping facilities. A liquid level signal transmitter provides a signal to a valve controller which controls separate liquid and gas discharge flow control valves or a variable speed pump to maintain a set point level of liquid in the separator. Liquid level control is accomplished automatically by varying the flow from the fluid discharge conduit which is connected to the lower pressure flow line, which is usually the gas flow line. Manifold pressures may be sensed to prevent exceeding a predetermined pressure in the manifolds and the well flow lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Atlantic Richfield Company
    Inventor: Richard L. Payne
  • Patent number: RE35433
    Abstract: A coalescer filter is illustrated for removing material from a gas wherein a collection of liquid coalesced by passing a gaseous stream upwardly within a coalescing material packed in an upright cylindrical housing is facilitated by creating a pressure drop in a tube .[.by venturi action.]. .Iadd.in an inlet air stream .Iaddend.and communicating the pressure drop to a canister. The use of a float valve is also illustrated for controlling the discharge of liquid collected in a sealed drainage canister receiving coalesced liquid from a lower portion of an upright column or housing containing coalescing material through which a gaseous stream is passed upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1997
    Assignee: Alexander Machinery, Inc.
    Inventor: William J. Alexander, III