Solar heated rotary kiln
AssigneeThe United States of America as represented by the United States Department of Energy
InventorPamela K. Shell
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A solar heated rotary kiln utilized for decomposition of materials, such as zinc sulfate. The rotary kiln has an open end and is enclosed in a sealed container having a window positioned for directing solar energy into the open end of the kiln. The material to be decomposed is directed through the container into the kiln by a feed tube. The container is also provided with an outlet for exhaust gases and an outlet for spent solids, and rests on a tiltable base. The window may be cooled and kept clear of debris by coolant gases.
Claims19
A solar heated rotary kiln for decomposing material comprising:
- a sealed container having a window therein for admitting solar energy therethrough,
- a kiln rotatably mounted entirely within said sealed container,
- said kiln being of a substantially cylindrical configuration and having one end fully open and aligned with said window such that solar energy passing through said window is directed only into said fully open one end of said kiln,
- said kiln including an inner layer, a layer of insulation, and an outer wall,
- means for directing material to be decomposed into said kiln through a partially closed end thereof located opposite said open end,
- means for rotating said kiln,
- means for exhausting gas from said sealed container, and
- means located adjacent said fully open end of said kiln for collecting solids passing through said kiln.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.