Alliedsignal Inc.

Alton D Romig

Joel E Rodgers

Ambrose J Schmitz

A solvent vapor control apparatus used in conjunction with a degreaser or defluxer into which articles to be degreaser or defluxed are conveyed into intimate contact with liquid solvent and/or a vapor phase thereof is disclosed. The vapor control apparatus includes a housing having a conveyor flow path with an inlet opening in communication with solvent vapor in the degreaser/defluxer and an outlet in communication with ambient air. The inlet is preferably disposed elevationally above the solvent vapor zone to impede outflux of solvent vapor. A baffle defining the uppermost extent of the conveyor flow path establishes a low point in the path disposed elevationally below adjacent upstream and downstream sections of the path. The low point is provided with chilled air which condenses solvent vapor as the articles are forced to enter the chilled air section. Solvent condensate is recovered and a separate drain is provided to collect water condensate from ambient air entering the chilled air section through the flow path outlet. The solvent vapor control arrangement may be provided as retrofit additions to one or both entrance and exit ends of the degreaser/defluxer or may be constructed as integral components of new or existing degreasing/defluxing equipment. A method of recovering solvent vapor is also disclosed.

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Mine Hill, NJ, United States of America

Alton D Romig