Modular furnace system

US6394794B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• BTU International, Inc. · US

Inventors

• David A. Bloom · Alburtis, US
• Robert Bouchard · Terrebonne, CA
• David Harvey · Westford, US
• Geoffrey C. Neiley, III · Medford, US
• Donald A. Seccombe, Jr. · Cheshire, US
• Terrance Wong · Newton, US
• Richard Tarczon · Bradford, US
• Stephen J. Parrott · Derry, US
• Paul Edgington · Cambridge, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 2, 2001
• Grant date: May 28, 2002
• Expiry date: Feb 2, 2021

Classification

• Technology area (CPC F): Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
• CPC primary: F27D2007/045
• WIPO field: Thermal processes and apparatus
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A modular furnace is fabricated from at least one module having a frame, a removable cover mounted to the frame, exterior cover panels on the frame, and an insulated case fastened to the interior of the module. A conveyor assembly extends through the module. A plurality of process zones, such as heating and cooling zones, are disposed within the module. Field replaceable universal blower assemblies are associated with each process zone. The motor shaft in each blower assembly is provided with a sealed bearing in the motor housing. Insulation within each module is held in place by gas permeable fabric covering large vent openings in cover panels to allow oxygen to diffuse out of the insulation rapidly upon start up.