Apparatus and method for injecting cryogenic liquid into containers
US6363729B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 27, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 2, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S62/911
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A compact device for injecting cryogenic liquid into containers is capable of use with containers of varying sizes. A vessel containing the cryogenic liquid is connected to a nozzle by a thermally-insulated, flexible hose. The nozzle is connected to an arm which is mounted to a support, such that the arm can move in different directions relative to the support. The nozzle can thus be moved with three degrees of freedom, and can be easily positioned over a container to be filled. The apparatus also includes conduits for conveying excess gas from the vessel into a process controller housing, to keep moisture out of that housing. The nozzle includes ports which receive gas formed by vaporizing cryogenic liquid from a supply. Gas flowing into these ports can be used to control the formation of droplets. When heated, such gas can also be used to prevent ice formation in the nozzle, or to remove ice that has already formed. The device of the present invention will work easily with nozzles or nozzle orifices of varying sizes, and can be installed in relatively cramped surroundings.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.