Method and apparatus to remove obstructions from sewers without cutters or chemicals
US5988188A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 31, 1997 |
| Grant date | Nov 23, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 31, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB08B9/0495
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Adapter fittings formed with an opening therethrough are inserted into a sewer manhole with the outlet opening facing an obstruction, or build-up along the sewer walls. A forwardly thrusting nozzle adapted to spray jets of high-pressure, high-temperature water or steam is connected to a hose. Alternately, a nozzle adapted to spray jets of high-pressure, high-temperature water of steam forwardly therefrom is connected to a hose and a stiffened push wand. The nozzle and hose and/or push wand are then inserted through the adapter fittings to exit from the outlet opening into the leg of the sewer with the build-up or obstruction. A hot water/steam supply connected to the upstream end of the hose provides a supply of steam or hot, pressurized water to the nozzle. The nozzle is advanced through the sewer line to remove the build-up from the sewer walls with the aid of the hot, pressurized jets of water, and/or to an obstruction whereupon the obstruction is cleared with one of several alternate methods utilizing the hot, pressurized water or steam.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.