U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
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U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
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Class 095
GAS SEPARATION: PROCESSES
Class Definition:
This class provides for processes involving steps resulting
in separation of a gas from a fluid mixture comprising (i) a
gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein, (ii) a
liquid and gas entrained therein, or (iii) a plurality of
gases. As a general rule for this class, there must be a
relationship of process steps embracing: (a) inflow of the
fluid mixture to be treated, (b) a step or steps effective to
cause the separation into constituent parts, and (c) an
outflow of at least one constituent which is separate and
distinct from the outflow of another constituent, including
outflow of a constituent by removing the separating medium
itself. The gas separation for this class is effected by
processes other than chemical reaction.
The basic subject matter of this class is of a
subcombinational nature and may include only such ancillary
process steps (e.g., fluid handling, etc.) as are necessary
to perfect the gas separating function. Significant inclusion
in a claim of features beyond merely perfecting the gas
separating function indicates classification in a more
comprehensive class. Thus, the combination of a gas
separation process of this class and any cleaning or
regenerating of the separation media is properly in this
class, because the cleaning or regenerating is perfecting the
gas separating function. Generally, however, the mere naming
of an art process in a claim to gas separation does not
affect classification. Thus, a claim to filtration of a gas
from a named source with no details of that source is proper
for this class.
(1) Note. The gas separation processes for this class
generally involve the use of physical chemistry,
chromatography, solid sorption, gas and liquid contact, gas
contact, electrical fields, magnetic fields, wave energy,
selective diffusion, filtration, deflection, or other
mechanical means. (Also see Lines with Other Classes,
below.)
(2) Note. This class also provides for processes in which
the fluid mixture is treated to change its make-up, but no
real separation occurs, provided no other suitable
classification exists. Accordingly, in this class are found
processes of using "spark arresters," which merely change the
size of particles entrained in a gas. These devices are
usually deflectors or screens. The processes of using them
are included in this class because of their similarity to
processes which actually separate the fluid mixture into
constituent parts. Similarly, agglomeration, which by itself
may not separate particles entrained in a gas, but cause
small particles entrained therein to join together or
coalesce to form larger particles, is in this class unless
basis for other classification exists.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
The gas separation processes for this class generally involve
the use of physical chemistry, chromatography, solid
sorption, gas and liquid contact, gas contact, electrical
fields, magnetic fields, wave energy, selective diffusion,
filtration, deflection, or other mechanical means. See the
class search note in section III for Class 423, Chemistry of
Inorganic Compounds, for the line concerning the processes in
which the gas separation is caused by a chemical reaction.
Also, see the class search note in section III for Class 588,
Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, for the
line concerning the processes in which the gas separation is
caused by destruction or permanent containment of the
hazardous or toxic waste.
Degassing or purging processes for the removal of a gas from
a solid will be placed in the class where the solid is either
manufactured or treated. The removal of a gas from a solid
sorbent (i.e., regeneration), per se, will be found in Class
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making. However, the use of a solid sorbent to
separate a gas from a fluid mixture and the removal of the
gas from the solid sorbent (i.e., regeneration) will be found
in this class. For the removal of a gas from a solid, where
the solid is not identified, see Class 134, Cleaning and
Liquid Contact With Solids.
The Search Notes below also contain lines with other
classes.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
29, Metal Working, appropriate subclasses indented under
subclass 592, particularly subclass 896.62 for processes of
mechanical manufacture for making a filter.
34, Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, appropriate
subclasses for generic processes for separating liquids from
solids (i.e., drying) and the contacting of solids with
either gases or vapors. Class 95 takes the separation of a
gas from a fluid mixture in combination with the regeneration
of the separating media by drying or by gas or vapor
contact.
47, Plant Husbandry, appropriate subclasses for processes of
separation of a gas from a fluid mixture by use of a plant of
higher order.
48, Gas: Heating and Illuminating, appropriate subclasses for
processes for the manufacture of heating and illuminating
gases.
60, Power Plants, subclasses 273+ for processes of treating
or handling the materials discharging from the combustion
chamber of an internal combustion engine.
62, Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for processes
peculiar to removing heat from a substance, usually by a
change of phase of a coolant or refrigerant and for processes
involving subject matter for Class 95 combined with a
significant refrigeration step. Examples of significant
refrigeration are: (i) expansion of a gas through an orifice
whereby cooling is effected to condense any of the
constituents of the gas by such temperature reduction; (ii) a
significant physical relationship or arrangement between
elements of a refrigeration circuit (e.g., two related
refrigeration coils, detailed description of the circuit,
etc.); (iii) change of phase of a coolant or refrigerant
(i.e., evaporation, melting, or sublimation) whereby cooling
is effected to condense any of the constituents of the gas by
such temperature reduction. Some examples of what may be
found in Class 62 are: (a) separation of a constituent from a
plurality of gases by a significantly claimed refrigeration
step or apparatus; (b) condensation of moisture from the
atmosphere as a result of a refrigeration operation; (c) gas
drying by sorption followed by contacting the dried gas with
a liquid to produce cooling by evaporation; (d) a
refrigerated enclosure combined with sorption means; (e)
refrigeration producing processes and apparatus combined with
steps or means for drying the refrigerant; and (f) extracting
a constituent from a plurality of gases by liquefaction and
separation (e.g., fractionation or distillation, etc.). Class
95 takes gas separation of general application, including
cooling of the sorbent or cooling of gas, but not including
evaporative cooling after sorption of the type noted in (c)
above. Class 95 takes the cold wall-hot wall thermal
diffusion or repulsion type of separation, regardless of any
refrigeration claimed. Class 95 also takes expansion through
an orifice of a liquid and gas entrained therein where the
gas is removed from the liquid through the lowering of the
pressure and the cooling effect which inherently results from
such pressure reduction is not transferred through a wall to
another material; if such heat transfer occurs,
classification in Class 62 is proper.
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 23.2 for gas analysis,
per se, and also the combination of gas separation and
significant gas analysis. The combination of gas separation
and a nominal step of "analyzing" or "detecting" without
further detail of the analysis or detection is insufficient
to cause a patent to be placed in Class 73; that patent will
be placed in Class 95. Also, if there is feedback from the
analytical apparatus to control or effect a change in the gas
separating operation, then classification is in Class 95.
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, appropriate subclasses for
processes for the treatment of liquid or vaporous metal. See
subclass 405 for removal of gas from liquid metal by use of
a gas permeable membrane and subclasses 407+ for filtering
vaporous metal.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, for the corresponding
apparatus to the processes of Class 95. When a patent has a
claim or claims to a Class 95 process and a claim or claims
to a Class 96 apparatus, the patent will be placed as an
original in Class 95, even though there may be an apparatus
claim that is more comprehensive than a process claim.
128, Surgery, subclass 200.24 for methods of supplying a
breathable gas to, or exhausting such gas from, a living
body. Subclass 200.24 and the subclasses mentioned below
require that the method be adapted for use on or in the
living body and also include diagnostic or therapeutic
methods when the only disclosed utility is for diagnosis or
treatment of a living body. See especially subclass 200.25
for an artificial gill or means for separating entrained air
from a liquid stream; subclass 201.25 for a respiratory
device including body or head supported means covering user's
scalp and means for removing a substance from respiratory
gas; subclass 204.16 for removal of a substance from
respiratory gas by cooling; subclass 205.12 for means for
supplying respiratory gas under positive pressure including
means for removing a substance from the respiratory gas; and
subclass 205.27 for a respiratory device including means for
removing a substance from respiratory gas.
137, Fluid Handling, appropriate subclasses for combinations
of fluid handling and gas separation involving more than mere
flow control to or from the separating means. (a) For
classification in either Class 137 or Class 95, where both
the fluid handling and gas separation are included in the
combination, classification will be based upon the ultimate
purpose of the subject matter and not upon the ancillary or
subordinate feature of the combination consistent with the
objects and aims therefor (e.g., it is not intended that the
inclusion of filtering, no matter how specifically defined,
will be sufficient to carry a "gas field storage and
distribution process" to Class 95 whether the filtering
protects the apparatus used in the process or is the last
step in the process). The fluid handling for Class 95 should
be no more than that necessary to convey or conduct the fluid
mixture to, at, or away from the point of separation. (b)
Class 137 also takes separation of gases from gases, liquids,
or solids by gravity only (i.e., where no specific means is
claimed for effecting the separation).
140, Wireworking, subclasses 3+ for wire fabric making.
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, subclasses 4+ for processes of transferring
fluent material through a flow confining system, the source
and receiver parts of which are normally separable, including
varying gaseous conditions (e.g., causing a vacuum, etc.) in
the receiver.
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
appropriate subclasses for processes there classified for
adhesively bonding and otherwise manufacturing filters.
165, Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses for processes
where only indirect heat exchange is involved and especially
subclasses 201+ and 58+ for heating and cooling including
addition or removal of water vapor from air. Cold wall-hot
wall thermal diffusion processes will be found in Class 95,
subclass 289.
166, Wells, for processes involving shafts or deep borings in
the earth for the extraction of fluids from the earth. See
especially subclasses 265+ for processes involving
separating material leaving the well. A gas separation
process including a nominal recitation of a well process is
proper for Class 95. For classification in Class 166, some
details specific to a well process should be recited for the
combination of a gas separation process and a well process.
However, in the situation in which one of the constituents
separated is inserted into an input well, a mere broad
recitation of such well process is sufficient for
classification in Class 166.
203, Distillation: Processes, Separatory, subclasses 39+
for processes for separating a liquid mixture (distilland) by
vaporizing and condensing at least a portion thereof to
isolate in the condensed liquid (distillate) or in the
unvaporized portion (residue) a comparatively pure compound
combined with subjecting the vapor to a disparate physical
treatment to remove a substance. For Class 203, the liquid
mixture (distilland) must have a boiling point above 0 deg.C
under normal atmospheric pressure (760 mm Hg).
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, appropriate
subclasses for processes in which a chemical change is
brought about by the application of an electric current or
wave energy to material being treated wherein more than the
mere thermal effect of the current or energy is involved and
subclasses 554+ for processes for the separation or
purification of liquids by the physical or physical-chemical
action of an electrical stress. See particularly subclass
157.3 for processes in which an initial normally gaseous
mixture is treated by wave energy so as to remove therefrom
by a chemical reaction or change to a different chemical form
at least one of the components therein.
208, Mineral Oils: Processes and Products, for processes for
the recovery or treatment of naturally occurring mineral oil
which result in the production of a purified or modified
mineral oil. See particularly subclass 310 for the
separation of mineral oils into hydrocarbon fractions, at
least one of which is a mineral oil, wherein a mineral oil
containing fluid mixture is contacted with a solid material
which selectively adsorbs a mineral oil fraction from the
fluid mixture. See also subclass 340 for the recovery of
liquid mineral oils from natural gases or from uncondensed
gas-vapor mixtures obtained from a mineral oil conversion
operation including separation of mineral oils into
hydrocarbon fractions, at least one of which is a mineral
oil. Processes which involve a gas separation procedure
classifiable in Class 95 followed by the recovery of a
mineral oil by name only (e.g., reciting only rectification,
vacuum pressure or flash distillation, etc.) are classified
in Class 95. Processes wherein the mineral oil recovery step
includes any details thereof or includes some subsequent
treatment of the separated mineral oil are classified in
Class 208.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids,
subclasses indented under subclass 21 and 133 that include
"deposition" in their titles for processes for the separating
and segregating into grades components of solid mixtures
employing a gaseous suspending medium which is separated from
the solids.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, appropriate
subclasses for the separation of a constituent from a
flowable liquid mixture; except for the separation of a gas
initially present in a liquid mixture. Class 210 is superior
to Class 95 and takes separating processes, per se,
generically disclosed or claimed as fluid separation or if
the disclosure or a claim is restricted to liquid separation.
Class 210 also takes processes which remove or vent gas
formed incidentally to the handling of the fluid mixture or
as a result of a Class 210 treatment (see particularly
subclass 603, 640, 664, 718, and 750). However, Class 95
takes processes operating to remove gas initially present in
an inflowing liquid mixture, with or without liquid
separation. The removal of a volatile organic compound (e.g.,
ethanol (C[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]H[subscrpt]5[end
subscrpt]OH), gasoline, etc.) from a liquid is not taken to
be degasification of a liquid for Class 95 when the volatile
organic compound is initially present as a liquid mixed with
another liquid. The removal of a volatile organic compound
from a liquid may be found in Class 210 for liquid
purification or separation or Class 203 for separatory
distillation processes. Class 95 will also take a process
including a liquid separation step in a Class 95 operation
(e.g., regenerating a scrubbing liquid in a gas scrubbing
operation).
241, Solid Material Comminution or Disintegration, subclasses
18+ for processes for combinations of comminution and
separation of solids from a gas. Class 241 is superior to the
material separation classes and, therefore, provides for
processes in which comminution is combined with steps to
separate the material into classes according to the physical
characteristics of its components before, during, or after
the comminuting operation. Class 95 takes processes, such as
deflection or the like, that may act to comminute material as
a secondary or incidental function of what is basically a
holding back or separating procedure (e.g., disintegration or
attrition of ignited particles in spark arresters). Such
processes are classified on the basis of their essential
function in Class 95.
250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 282+ for methods for the
ionic separation of materials utilizing the charge-to-mass
ratios of particles. These methods may be for subjecting the
ionized particles to the effects of an electric or magnetic
field, which causes the particles to travel through a curved
trajectory, the particles of a certain charge-to-mass ratio
having a trajectory different from those particles having
other charge-to-mass ratios.
252, Compositions, subclasses 189+ for substances (e.g.,
liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or
binding carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur (S), negative elements,
or acids; subclass 193 for substances (e.g., liquid sorbent
compositions, etc.) for use in absorbing or binding ammonia,
alkalis, or other bases; and subclass 194 for substances
(e.g., liquid sorbent compositions, etc.) for use in
absorbing or binding water.
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, appropriate subclasses
for apparatus for degasifying liquid (e.g., deaerating feed
water heater, etc.) wherein the liquid is merely contacted
with a gas in a chamber or space for deaeration thereof; for
apparatus wherein a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a
liquid spray, sheet, stream, or bath to precipitate dust or
to sorb a constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture; for
apparatus comprising a nonabsorbent element on which a
gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid if the
element is continuously supplied with a liquid or is
continuously moved into and out of a liquid bath or supply;
and for apparatus comprising an absorbent porous sheet or
mass on which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a
liquid if the sheet or mass is: (a) continuously supplied
with liquid, (b) cyclically or periodically moved through a
liquid reservoir, (c) maintained wet by liquid applying
means, or (d) moistened by maintaining some part of a
continuous wick type member immersed in liquid, by following
the law of the machine, or during normal operation of a gas
contacting function. Note that under the provisions of (a)
and (b) there must be no affirmative means to dry the sheet
or mass, nor means to assure a dry condition of the sheet or
mass before gas flow is resumed or the sheet or mass is
returned to the gas contacting position. If apparatus for
degasifying liquid by contact with a gas has other means to
cause gas separation of the liquid with gas entrained
therein, of the separated gas, or of the separated liquid,
then the apparatus is classified in Class 96. If apparatus in
which a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid to
precipitate dust or to sorb a constituent from the gaseous
fluid mixture has other means to cause gas separation or has
means to treat the contact liquid, then the apparatus is
classified in Class 96.
(1) Note. Apparatus for separating ammonia
(NH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]) or acid anhydrides
(CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], SO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt],
etc.) from a gas by mere contact with a liquid is classified
in Class 261.
(2) Note. Processes for gas separation by contacting a
gaseous fluid mixture with a liquid and processes of
degasifying a liquid are classified in Class 95.
376, Induced Nuclear Reactions: Processes, Systems, and
Elements, for processes for induced nuclear reactions
combined with steps for reaction product treatment. See
particularly subclasses 146+, 189, 195, 198, and 201. See
subclasses 308+ for processes including fission reactor
material treatment.
406, Conveyors: Fluid Current, subclasses 154+ for
processes to convey solid material in a fluid current with
separation of the solids from the fluid at the conveyor
outlet.
422, Chemical Apparatus and Process Disinfecting,
Deodorizing, Preserving or Sterilizing, subclass 4 for
processes of acting on a gas for maintaining a protective
environment or counteracting a destructive environment by
disinfecting, deodorizing, preserving, or sterilizing. The
deodorizing for Class 422 generally involves adding a
substance to a gas to mask an odor. Class 95 takes
deodorizing a gas that involves gas separation of the type
that meets the requirements for gas separation in the
definition for Class 95. Class 422 is the residual place for
deodorizing a gas that does not meet the requirements of the
definitions for Class 95 or Class 423.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, subclasses 210+ for
gas separation methods relying upon a chemical reaction
(including combustion). However, for a Class 95 process
including a chemical reaction not involved in the separation,
per se, see the Class 95 Glossary for TREATMENT. A particular
chemical must be claimed and the chemical reaction must be
inherent or disclosed for patents to be placed in Class 423.
Broadly reciting the separating material as a "chemical" or
as "gas purifying material" does not exclude the patent from
Class 95. Absorption and adsorption are not considered
chemical reactions in this respect. Processes for separating
a gaseous fluid mixture having therein ammonia
(NH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]) or acid anhydrides (e.g.,
CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt], SO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt],
etc.) by contacting the gaseous fluid mixture with water and
thus dissolving these gases out of the gaseous fluid mixture
are in Class 95, notwithstanding the fact that a chemical
reaction occurs in the solution and that ammonium hydroxide
or the acids are formed. Corresponding gas and liquid contact
apparatus, per se, is classified in Class 261. See the search
class note for Class 261 in this section for the line. See
subclass 658.2 for hydriding an alloy of two or more metals
and recovering hydrogen from the hydride.
435, Chemistry: Molecular Biology and Microbiology, for
processes of using a micro-organism or enzyme to synthesize
a chemical product and for processes of treating a material
with a micro-organism or enzyme to separate, liberate, or
purify a preexisting substance. See particularly subclass 266
for processes of treating a gas, emulsion, or foam with an
enzyme or immobilized enzyme or micro-organism or plant or
animal cells to isolate or recover a preexisting substance
which is chemically unchanged by the process.
494, Imperforate Bowl: Centrifugal Separators, for processes
for the breaking up or subdividing of material, which
material comprises a mixture of fluids or fluent substances,
into two or more components by utilizing a rotatable,
receptaclelike member having a generally solid wall, and
commonly termed a bowl, for subjecting the material to
centrifugal force. Thus, gas separation processes that use an
imperforate bowl, centrifugal separator are proper for Class
494.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, subclasses 20+ for regenerating or
rehabilitating solid sorbent compositions, per se, subclasses
60+ for zeolite compositions and for processes of making
zeolite compositions, and subclasses 400+ for other solid
sorbent compositions and for processes of making solid
sorbent compositions. Class 95 will take the combination of
gas separation using a solid sorbent composition and
regenerating or rehabilitating the solid sorbent
composition.
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for colloid systems or
agents for such systems or making or stabilizing such systems
or agents, appropriate subclasses for processes of or
compositions for or subcombination compositions for the
breaking of or inhibiting of colloid systems ( subclasses
115+ for defoaming); in each instance, when generically
claimed or when there is no hierarchically superior provision
in the USPC for the specifically claimed art.
585, Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, subclasses 800+
for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon compound
with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more
desirable condition, by a treatment which comprises
separating the hydrocarbon from the other substance or making
the other substance less noxious.
588, Hazardous or Toxic Waste Destruction or Containment, for
hazardous or toxic waste destruction by any means to include
heating, chemical action, or the interaction with any form of
radiation and hazardous or toxic waste conversion by any
means (e.g., chemical, physical, etc.) to an environmentally
safe substance. Class 588 includes such destruction or
conversion in combination with gas separation.
GLOSSARY:
DETECT
The term "detect," which is used in many of the control
subclasses, is used in both a quantitative and a qualitative
sense. This means that a definite measurement of a process
variable is made (e.g., temperature, pressure, concentration,
etc.) or that the presence of a particular event is
determined (e.g., presence of sparking, change in liquid
level determined by position of float, etc.).
FILTER
An article or mass of material made of closely spaced or
intimately arranged intermeshed or unconnected fibers,
elements, strands, or particles that collectively act as a
barrier to physically retain at least one constituent of a
fluid mixture on its surfaces or in the spaces between the
fibers, elements, strands, or particles while permitting
passage of the remaining constituents.
A filter has no "chemical" affinity for a constituent of a
fluid mixture. The retention of the constituent by the filter
depends upon a mechanical entrapment of solid or liquid
particles because of their relatively large size compared
with the interstices or spaces between individual fibers,
elements, strands, or particles. The retained particles can
be removed by brushing, wiping, shaking, or similar
mechanical action.
FLUID MIXTURE
The phrase "fluid mixture" is used throughout the definitions
to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein, (b) a liquid and gas entrained therein, or (c) a
plurality of gases.
GAS
Matter of very low density and viscosity, relatively great
expansion and contraction with changes in pressure and
temperature, that is readily diffusive, with a tendency to
expand indefinitely, with molecules in free movement. The
term "gas" includes "vapor" (q.v.).
GASEOUS FLUID MIXTURE
The phrase "gaseous fluid mixture" is used throughout the
definitions to mean (a) a gas and solid or liquid particles
entrained therein or (b) a plurality of gases.
LIQUID SORBENT
A liquid capable of retaining part of a fluid mixture with
which it is contacted. The action in most cases is that of
selective retention (i.e., the sorbent removes only that part
of the fluid mixture for which it has the greatest
affinity).
REGENERATION
Restoration of the separatory material to the condition it
was in before the separatory process.
SEPARATING APPARATUS
The entire gas separating means, which consists of all of the
apparatus parts related to gas separation and includes
apparatus parts that are in addition to the separator.
SEPARATING MEDIUM (MEDIA)
Liquid sorbent or means that effects the separation into
constituent parts (e.g., deflector, filter, molecular sieve,
sorber, etc.). (Media has been used in the singular and in
the plural.)
SEPARATOR
The portion of the apparatus that consists of a separating
medium and the structure supporting, retaining, or
substantially confining the separating medium.
SOLID SORBENT
A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates a
constituent (e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture
containing such constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner.
The action in most instances is that of selective retention
(i.e., the sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture
for which it has the greatest affinity). The retained
constituent cannot be removed by shaking, brushing, or
similar mechanical action, but generally can be removed by
heating, pressure reduction, or use of a stripping or
denuding fluid.
TREATMENT
(a) With respect to the class subject matter, the term is
restricted to reversible and nonchemical changes in physical
characteristics of the fluid mixture or a separated
constituent (e.g., heating, cooling, humidity control,
agitating, pressure regulation, etc.). (b) With respect to
the media used to perform the gas separation or to a material
used to condition the fluid mixture for separation, the term
may include chemical preparation, reconditioning, or
reaction.
VAPOR
The gaseous state of matter that is liquid or solid under a
temperature of 0 deg.C and 760 mm Hg pressure.
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
WITH CONTROL RESPONSIVE TO SENSED CONDITION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the separation is regulated by detecting a
characteristic or a change in a characteristic of the process
and by implementing an action in the process based upon the
detected characteristic or change therein.
(1) Note. In this subclass and the subclasses indented
hereunder, a single means may be used both to detect the
characteristic or the change in the characteristic in the
process and to implement an action in the process based upon
the detected characteristic or change therein. There must be
a positive action made by the means because of the detected
characteristic or change therein. An example is the use of a
pressure relief valve in which a certain pressure must be
reached before the valve opens to relieve the high pressure
in the process. Another example is the use of a bimetallic
element in a thermostat in which a certain temperature must
be reached before a switch is tripped in order to control the
temperature in the process. A third example is the use of
increased weight on a separating media because of
accumulation of a separated constituent to cause the
separating media to move to a position of nonuse or
regeneration. Excluded from this subclass and the subclasses
indented hereunder are processes in which there is no
positive action made by the single means because of the
detected characteristic or change therein. An example of a
process which is excluded and placed below is the flow of
liquid over a baffle once the liquid level reaches the top of
the baffle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 23.2 for gas analysis,
and see the class definition of Class 95 for a statement of
the line.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 18+ for
electrical separation apparatus with control means responsive
to sensed condition; subclass 102 for chromatography
apparatus with control means responsive to sensed condition;
subclasses 109+ for solid sorbent apparatus with control
means responsive to sensed condition; subclasses 156+ for
degasifying means with control means responsive to sensed
condition; subclasses 397+ for gas separation apparatus with
automatic control means for gas or nongaseous constituent
discharge; and subclasses 417+ for gas separation apparatus
with signals, indicators, measuring, or testing means.
Subclass:
2
Electric or electrostatic field (e.g., electrostatic
precipitation, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
there is a step including discharge of an electric current
into the fluid mixture or electrifying a fluid or solid that
contacts the fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 57+ for processes using electric or
electrostatic fields without control responsive to a sensed
condition.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 18+ for
electrical separation apparatus with control means responsive
to sensed condition.
Subclass:
3
Concentration sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which
concentration of a constituent present in the process or a
change therein (e.g., dust, humidity, etc.) is detected and
is used to control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
4
Temperature sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which
temperature or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
5
Sparking sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which
the presence or frequency of sparking in the gas phase, often
accompanied by short bursts of increasing current flow or
decreasing electrode voltage, is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
6
Current sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which
current flowing between discharge and collector electrodes or
a change therein is detected and is used to control some
aspect of the process.
Subclass:
7
Voltage sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Process in which
voltage applied, either directly to an electrode or
indirectly to the fluid mixture, or a change therein is
detected and is used to control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
8
Concentration sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
concentration of a constituent present in the process or a
change therein (e.g., pH, humidity, dust content, etc.) is
detected and is used to control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
9
pH sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which
pH or a change therein is detected and is used to control
some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
10
Humidity sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which
humidity or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
11
Flow of fluid mixture to sorber stopped or diverted to other
equipment, or sorbent regenerated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which
the flow of the fluid mixture to a sorber is stopped or the
flow of the fluid mixture is switched to another sorber based
upon the detected concentration or change therein; or process
in which a sorbent is regenerated based upon the detected
concentration or change therein.
Subclass:
12
Gas flow rate modified:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which
flow rate of a gas is changed based upon the detected
concentration or change therein.
Subclass:
13
Sorbent flow rate modified:
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Process in which
flow rate of a sorbent is changed based upon the detected
concentration or change therein.
Subclass:
14
Temperature sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
temperature or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
15
And pressure sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which
pressure or a change therein is also detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
16
Modification of flow rate of liquid which is added to gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which
flow rate of liquid which is added to a gas is modified based
upon the detected temperature or change therein.
Subclass:
17
Cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which
the fluid mixture, a separated constituent, or an apparatus
involved in the process is cooled based upon the detected
temperature or change therein.
Subclass:
18
Heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 14. Process in which
the fluid mixture, a separated constituent, or an apparatus
involved in the process is heated based upon the detected
temperature or change therein.
Subclass:
19
Pressure sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
pressure or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
20
Apparatus cleaned:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Process in which
apparatus is cleaned based upon the detected pressure or
change therein.
Subclass:
21
Sorbent regenerated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Process in which
a sorbent is regenerated based upon the detected pressure or
change therein.
Subclass:
22
Gas flow rate modified:
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. Process in which
flow rate of a gas is changed based upon the detected
pressure or change therein.
Subclass:
23
Gas flow rate sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
gas flow rate or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
24
Liquid level sensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 1. Process in which
liquid level or a change therein is detected and is used to
control some aspect of the process.
Subclass:
25
WITH RECORDING OR SIGNALING CONDITION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which a characteristic or a change in a characteristic of
the fluid mixture, of a separated constituent, or of
apparatus used in the process is set down for preservation in
permanent form or is indicated by means giving information of
an audible or a visual nature (e.g., alarm, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 23.2 for gas analysis
and see the class definition of Class 95 for a statement of
the line.
Subclass:
26
WITH TIMING OF OPERATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the time at which an operation occurs is controlled
or the length of time in which an operation is performed is
controlled.
Subclass:
27
MAGNETIZED PARTICLE BED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which magnetic lines of force are applied to a bed of
loose particles that contain a magnetizable component.
(1) Note. The application of magnetic lines of force to a
magnetizable particle bed may be to stabilize the bed, to
prevent back-mixing, or to control porosity of the bed.
Subclass:
28
MAGNETIC SEPARATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the separation is caused or aided by magnetic lines
of force.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 1+ for apparatus
which separates a gas by magnetic lines of force.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, subclass
38, 39, 40, 212, and 213+ for classifying, separating, and
assorting solids using apparatus of the magnetic type.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 222+ for
magnetic apparatus for purification or separation of a liquid
and subclass 695 for processes of purifying or separating a
liquid using magnetic force.
Subclass:
29
SOUND WAVES USED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the separation is effected or enhanced by the energy
of compressional vibratory waves in a fluid medium, the waves
being below, within, or above the audible spectrum.
(1) Note. Pressure pulses in a fluid generated merely by
intermittent discharge of a gas are not considered to be
compressional vibratory waves under this definition. However,
compressional vibratory waves under this definition may be
produced by intermittent discharge of a gas, as in a siren.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 292 for cleaning means for
separating media of the sonic type.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 389 for gas
separation apparatus using wound waves.
Subclass:
30
Degasification of liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 29. Process in which
the wave energy is used to separate gas from a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
46 for processes of degasification of a liquid by selective
diffusion of gases through a substantially solid barrier.
subclasses 156+ for processes of contacting a gas with a
liquid and degasification of the contact liquid.
subclasses 241+ for other processes of degasification of a
liquid.
Subclass:
31
DIFFERENCE IN MOLECULAR VELOCITY, DENSITY, OR MOMENTUM OF
GASES USED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the plurality of gases is separated into constituent
gaseous parts by making use of physical differences in
molecular speed, weight, or inertia of the constituent
gaseous parts.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 267+ for processes of separating solid or liquid
particles from a gas by deflection.
Subclass:
32
Passing gases through nozzle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Process in which
gaseous constituents having different molecular weights or
different gas kinetic cross sections are separated, with the
plurality of gases flowing out of a short tube, usually
tapering, that forms the vent of a hose or pipe in order to
effect the separation.
Subclass:
33
Directing gas streams toward one another:
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Process in which
gas streams or jets are directed toward one another and are
deflected.
Subclass:
34
Centrifugal force:
This subclass is indented under subclass 31. Process in which
the plurality of gases is separated by the effect of
centrifugal action which causes the gases to assume a rapid
arcuate or circular movement, with this movement causing the
constituents of the mixture to separate into more or less
distinct layers, depending upon the density of the
constituents.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 269+ for processes of separating solid or liquid
particles from a gas by using centrifugal force.
Subclass:
35
Created by rotating equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Process in which
the centrifugal force is caused by a rotating element moving
around an axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
270 for processes of separating solid or liquid particles
from a gas by using centrifugal force created by rotating
equipment.
Subclass:
36
LIQUID-SOLID SLURRY USED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the separation is accomplished by contacting the
fluid mixture with a pumpable mixture of a solid and a
liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
92 for a two-step process of solid sorption and liquid
sorption.
Subclass:
37
Organic compound removed from gas
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Process in which
an organic compound is removed from gas by contact with a
liquid-solid slurry.
Subclass:
38
Halogen containing compound removed from gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 36. Process in which
a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br),
iodine (I), astatine (At)) containing compound is removed
from gas by contact with a liquid-solid slurry.
Subclass:
39
COMPRESSING AND INDIRECT COOLING OF GASEOUS FLUID MIXTURE TO
SEPARATE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the separation of a constituent from a gaseous fluid
mixture is accomplished by extracting heat in an indirect
heat exchanger before, after, or while increasing the
pressure on the gaseous fluid mixture.
(1) Note. The cooling must not involve details of a
refrigeration process or apparatus. See the class definition
for the line between Class 95 and Class 62.
Subclass:
40
And use of heat absorbing agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Process in which
a substance is added to the gaseous fluid mixture to prevent
a material rise in temperature of the gaseous fluid mixture
by absorbing the heat of compression.
Subclass:
41
And solid sorption:
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Process in which
a solid sorbent is used to remove a constituent from the
gaseous fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 90+ for processes of solid sorption without
compressing and cooling of the gaseous fluid mixture in order
to separate.
Subclass:
42
And liquid contact (e.g., scrubbing, sorption, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 39. Process in which
a liquid is used to remove a constituent from the gaseous
fluid mixture (e.g., scrubbing, sorption, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 149+ for processes of liquid contact without
compressing and cooling of the gaseous fluid mixture in order
to separate.
Subclass:
43
SELECTIVE DIFFUSION OF GASES:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which a fluid mixture containing a gas to be separated
contacts a solid, liquid, or gaseous barrier, with the gas
separating because of the differential permeability of the
barrier with respect to the gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 4+ for apparatus
for selective diffusion of gases.
Subclass:
44
Selective diffusion of gases through immobilized liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Process in which
a plurality of gases containing a gas to be separated
contacts a liquid barrier that is supported or immobilized in
or on a porous medium, with the plurality of gases being
separated because of the differential permeability of the
liquid with respect to the gases.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 149+ for processes of contacting a fluid mixture
with a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 5 for corresponding
apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced from Class 96,
subclass 5 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation processes
may be found in the apparatus area.
Subclass:
45
Selective diffusion of gases through substantially solid
barrier (e.g., semipermeable membrane, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Process in which
a plurality of gases or a mixture of gas entrained in a
liquid contacts a substantially solid surface (e.g.,
semipermeable membrane, etc.) and a gas is separated from
another gas or a gas is separated from the liquid because of
the differential permeability of the surface of the solid
with respect to the gases.
(1) Note. Class 95 will take dissociation of a gas molecule
at the barrier boundary when such dissociation facilitates
passage of the gas through the barrier; the atoms reconvert
to the gas molecule on the downstream side of the barrier. If
the dissociation of the gas occurs away from the barrier and
a resulting product diffuses through the barrier, then the
patent will be in Class 423 for an inorganic gas and in the
appropriate organic class for an organic gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
205, Electrolysis: Processes, Compositions Used Therein, and
Methods of Preparing the Compositions, subclasses 334+ for
processes using a solid electrolyte membrane (SEM) situated
between two electrodes positioned to apply external voltage
across the membrane. These membranes are used where the
partial pressure of the gas to be diffused through the
membrane on the feed side of the membrane is lower than that
on the permeate side. Molecules on the feed side of a cell
containing a solid electrolyte membrane are electrochemically
dissociated into ions on the cathode. The ions are then
transported across the matrix of the membrane by the applied
voltage and recombined to form molecules on the anode. Class
95 takes the use of a solid electrolyte membrane which
functions without electrodes and without externally applied
voltage. These membranes are used where the partial pressure
of the gas to be diffused through the membrane on the
permeate side is lower than that on the feed side.
Electrodeless solid electrolyte membrane cells are operated
by maintaining a pressure on the feed side such that a
positive driving force for ion transport can be achieved in
the absence of an externally applied voltage and power
source.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclass 96.2, 257.2,
and 321.6+ for apparatus having membranes or dialyzers for
separating liquids, subclasses 500.21+ for semipermeable
membranes used in the separation of liquids, and subclasses
634+ for processes of separating a liquid by selective
diffusion of a component of a liquid through a membrane or
septum.
427, Coating Processes, subclasses 245+ for methods of
coating a base so that the resulting product is foraminous or
porous, wherein the coating includes openings or holes which
are very small, generally microscopic in size.
520, Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers, for synthetic
resins or natural rubbers that may be used for selective
diffusion of gases.
585, Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, subclasses 818+
for processes in which a liquid hydrocarbon is recovered from
a liquid mixture containing the hydrocarbon by the use of
selective diffusion through a semipermeable membrane.
Subclass:
46
Degasification of liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
gas is separated from a liquid by selective diffusion of the
gas through a substantially solid barrier.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 for processes of degasification of a liquid by use of
sound waves.
subclasses 156+ for processes of contacting a gas with a
liquid and degasification of the contact liquid.
subclasses 241+ for other processes of degasification of a
liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
75, Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions for Use
Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures, subclass 405 for processes of
removing gas from liquid metal by use of a gas permeable
membrane.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 6 for corresponding
apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced from Class 96,
subclass 6 to this subclass based only on disclosure.
Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas separation processes
may be found in the apparatus area.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclass 640 for
processes of separating a constituent from a liquid by
selective diffusion of the constituent through a membrane or
septum wherein the constituent is not initially present as a
gas in the liquid and passes through the membrane or septum
in vapor phase.
Subclass:
47
Nitrogen or nitrogen containing compound permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
nitrogen (N[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) or a nitrogen
containing compound selectively diffuses through a
substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
48
Halogen containing compound permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br),
iodine (I), astatine (At)) containing compound selectively
diffuses through a substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
49
Sulfur containing compound permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
a sulfur (S) containing compound selectively diffuses through
a substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
50
Organic compound permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
an organic compound selectively diffuses through a
substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
51
Carbon dioxide or carbon monoxide permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
carbon dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) or carbon
monoxide (CO) selectively diffuses through a substantially
solid barrier.
Subclass:
52
Water vapor permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
water (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]O) vapor selectively
diffuses through a substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
53
Helium permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
helium (He) selectively diffuses through a substantially
solid barrier.
Subclass:
54
Oxygen permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
oxygen (O[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) selectively diffuses
through a substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
55
Hydrogen permeates barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 45. Process in which
hydrogen (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) selectively diffuses
through a substantially solid barrier.
Subclass:
56
Elemental metal or alloy barrier:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Process in which
hydrogen (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) selectively diffuses
through a substantially solid barrier that is made of
elemental metal or alloy or contains a layer of elemental
metal or alloy.
(1) Note. The hydrogen (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) molecule
may dissociate into hydrogen (H) atoms at the surface of the
barrier. The atoms will then diffuse through the barrier and
recombine into a hydrogen (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt])
molecule on the downstream side of the barrier.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclass 500.25 for
a metal-containing semipermeable membrane used in liquid
separation.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, subclass 658.2 for
processes of producing elemental hydrogen (H) by direct
decomposition of a binary compound (e.g., chemical storage,
etc.).
Subclass:
57
ELECTRIC OR ELECTROSTATIC FIELD (E.G., ELECTROSTATIC
PRECIPITATION, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which an electric current is discharged into the fluid
mixture or the fluid mixture is contacted with a fluid or
solid which has been electrified.
(1) Note. The separation of the fluid mixture need not be
accomplished directly by the electrical treatment, provided
that the overall process results in separation of the fluid
mixture. The electrical treatment may be for the purpose of
causing entrained particles to become agglomerated for easier
removal by other means, such as filtration or deflection.
(2) Note. Gas separation processes including the mere
application of electricity to a material contacting the fluid
mixture for the purpose of resistance heating is classified
below.
(3) Note. Processes for separating isotopes are classified
based upon the specific methods used (e.g., the separation of
liquid isotopes by distillation is classified in Class 203,
subclass 5; isotope separation involving chemical reaction
brought about by wave energy is found in Class 204,
subclasses 157.2+, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 2+ for processes involving an electric field
with control responsive to sensed condition.
25 for processes involving an electric field with recording
or signaling of a condition.
26 for processes involving an electric field with timing of
an operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 15+ for apparatus
using an electric field to separate gas constituents. Also,
see other collected search class notes regarding related
subject matter.
204, Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy, subclasses 164+
for processes involving gas treatment by chemical reaction
and electrical discharge or chemical change by electrical
discharge, and subclasses 554+ and 660+ for similar processes
and apparatus for electrical separation or purification of
liquids and for degasification of liquid aided by electrical
discharge involving the conversion of constituents to other
compounds. When such chemical conversion is in doubt,
placement of electrical processes and apparatus for
degasifying liquid is proper for Class 95 or Class 96,
respectively.
209, Classifying, Separating, and Assorting Solids, subclass
12.2 for a combination process or apparatus of classifying,
separating, and assorting solids including an electrostatic
field; and subclasses 127.1+ for process and apparatus for
classifying, separating, or assorting solids by an
electrostatic field.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclass 748 for
processes of treating a liquid by directly subjecting the
liquid to an electric field or a current or to a regular
pulsating source of energy. Also, see the search class note
to Class 204.
250, Radiant Energy, subclasses 282+ for methods of
separating certain accelerated ionized material from similar
accelerated ionized material having different
mass-to-electric-charge ratios by use of electrostatic or
magnetic fields.
Subclass:
58
With addition of solid, gas, or vapor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which
includes adding a solid, gas, or vapor to the fluid mixture
undergoing treatment or separation.
(1) Note. To come under this definition, the added solid,
gas, or vapor must not be merely a different amount of the
same fluid mixture that is to be separated, but may be a
constituent of this mixture, which may be derived from a
previous separation process.
(2) Note. The addition of solid includes the use of a
fluidized solid particle bed, regardless of whether the solid
remains entrained in the gas after passage through the bed.
The use of a stationary particle bed is not considered to be
addition of a solid, and patents in which a stationary
particle bed is used will be found elsewhere under subclass
57. Also, for the purposes of this subclass, the added solid,
gas, or vapor may include any combination thereof (except for
a different amount of the fluid mixture to be separated, as
in (1) Note), including aerosols.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 27 for means to add
charged solid or liquid particles to the gas stream, subclass
52 for vapor or liquid contact apparatus involving electrical
separation, and subclass 74 for gas separation apparatus
including an electrical precipitator and means to treat or
condition the gas before, during, or after precipitation.
Subclass:
59
Electrode treating (e.g., coating, cleaning, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process which
includes the physical treatment of an electrode (e.g., by
addition of a protective or reactive layer to the electrode
or the removal of collected material from the electrode,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 74+ for processes with cleaning of a collecting
electrode but without the addition of a solid, gas, or
vapor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 28+ for
electrical separation apparatus with electrode cleaner,
apparatus part flusher or discharger, or wet collector.
Subclass:
60
Heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process in which
the fluid mixture to be separated is heated or cooled either
by or along with the addition of solid, gas, or vapor.
Subclass:
61
Solid is electrically conducting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process in which
a solid of low electrical resistance is added to the fluid
mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 28+ for
electrical separation apparatus containing electrodes coated
with a wet conductive film.
Subclass:
62
Agglomerating gas-borne particles:
This subclass is indented under subclass 58. Process in which
solid or liquid particles to be separated from a gas are
agglomerated into larger conglomerates either in the gas
phase or on a collecting surface, with the agglomeration
being facilitated by addition of a solid, gas, or vapor to
the incoming fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 77 for electrical
separation apparatus containing electrical means for
agglomerating particles.
Subclass:
63
And nonelectrical separation of fluid mixture:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which
includes methods of separation of the fluid mixture other
than those explicitly connected with an electrical separation
technique.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 74+ for processes involving the removal of
material from a collecting electrode.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 27 for electrical
separation apparatus with means to add charged liquid or
solid particles to the gaseous fluid mixture, subclass 52 for
electrical separation apparatus with means to add a liquid or
vapor to the gaseous fluid mixture, and subclass 55 for
electrical separation apparatus with serially arranged
nonelectrical separators.
Subclass:
64
Liquid addition to gaseous fluid mixture:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which
a liquid is added to a gaseous fluid mixture before, during,
or after electrical treatment either (a) to cause separation
or (b) to condition the gaseous fluid mixture in any way.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
75 for processes involving the removal of material from a
collecting electrode by flushing with a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 52+ for
electrical separation apparatus with vapor or liquid
contact.
Subclass:
65
Liquid addition precedes electrical precipitation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 64. Process in which
liquid addition is made before the gaseous fluid mixture is
subjected to electrical separation.
Subclass:
66
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 65. Process
including heating or cooling either as a result of the liquid
addition or as a separate, additional gas treatment.
Subclass:
67
By heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which
nonelectrical gas separation is caused by heating or cooling
a gaseous fluid mixture.
Subclass:
68
Including cleaning or regeneration of separating means (e.g.,
particulate bed filter, deflector, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process which
includes removal of collected material from or regeneration
of a nonelectrical gas separating means, such as a
particulate bed filter or deflector.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 90+ for processes of solid sorption which may
include regeneration of the solid sorbent.
276 for processes of cleaning a particulate filter bed.
278 for processes of cleaning a cohesive filter.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 282+ for gas separating
apparatus with nonliquid cleaning means for separating media,
and subclass 431 for means contacting an apparatus part with
a fluid for discharge of material residue.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 228 for gas
separation apparatus with means using liquid to clean the gas
separation apparatus.
Subclass:
69
Distinct separation step precedes electric or electrostatic
treatment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which
at least one nonelectrical separating step is performed on
the fluid mixture before electric or electrostatic
treatment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 315+ for serial diverse
separating media not including an electrical separation
apparatus.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 55+ for
electrical separation apparatus with serially arranged
diverse separators; in particular, subclass 57 for such
apparatus preceded by a nonelectrical separator.
Subclass:
70
Distinct separation step follows electric or electrostatic
treatment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Process in which
at least one nonelectrical separating step is performed on
the fluid mixture after electric or electrostatic treatment.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 315+ for serial diverse
separating media not including electrical separation
apparatus.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 55+ for
electrical separation apparatus with serially arranged
diverse separators.
Subclass:
71
With addition of liquid to gaseous fluid mixture:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which
a liquid is added to a gaseous fluid mixture undergoing
treatment, but does not directly result in the separation of
gas constituents.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 64+ for processes involving contacting a gaseous
fluid mixture with a liquid in a diverse type operation (in
which gas constituents are also separated by nonelectrical
methods, such as directly results from liquid addition).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 52 for corresponding
electrical field separation apparatus with means to add
liquid or vapor to the gas and subclasses 243+ for gas
separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact means.
Subclass:
72
Vaporization of liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Process in which
the added liquid is vaporized to join the gas phase.
Subclass:
73
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which
includes heating or cooling of the fluid mixture being
treated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
67 for related processes in which a nonelectrical gas
separation is caused by heat exchange with the gas.
Subclass:
74
With cleaning of collector electrode:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process which
includes cleaning or removing of a deposited constituent from
an electrical element provided to attract and retain the
constituent.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 28+ for
corresponding electrode cleaning means.
134, Cleaning and Liquid Contact With Solids, for cleaning
matter from solid materials or objects.
Subclass:
75
By liquid flushing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Process in which
the cleaning of the element is performed by the application
of a liquid stream.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 43+ for
corresponding apparatus with fluid contacting means.
Subclass:
76
By scraping or vibrating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Process in which
the cleaning of the element is performed by the application
of mechanical contacting or jarring means to remove retained
material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 32+ for
corresponding apparatus with vibrating means, and subclass 51
for corresponding apparatus with scraping means.
Subclass:
77
Continuously moving electrode:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which
an element discharging electricity into the fluid mixture or
collecting deposits therefrom continually moves during
operation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 39+ for
electrical separation apparatus with movably mounted
electrode assembly for cleaning purposes and subclass 94 for
electrode supporting means permitting movement thereof during
use or for orientation.
Subclass:
78
Including baffling, deflection, or restriction of gas flow:
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which
a restriction or redirection of gas flow is caused by
inclusion of a baffle, deflector, or specially shaped
electrode for the purpose of such restriction.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 60+ for
corresponding apparatus with gas flow distribution means,
subclasses 95+ for apparatus with specific type or shape of
discharge electrode, and subclasses 98+ for specific
collector means.
Subclass:
79
Plural separate stages or zones (e.g., separate ionization
and collection regions, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process in which
a gaseous fluid mixture passes through two or more distinct
regions or units, such regions providing either multiple
identical gas treatments or plural diverse treatments for
removal of entrained particles.
(1) Note. The stages or zones may be arranged in series or
in parallel.
(2) Note. A single stage with two or more regions or zones
of differing applied voltage is included under this
definition.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 63+ for processes with nonelectrical gas
separating steps.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 55+ for
electrical separation apparatus with serial diverse
separators and subclasses 75+ for electrical separation
apparatus with diverse or serially distinct electrical
fields.
Subclass:
80
Pulsing or time-varying electric field (e.g., AC, pulsed DC,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 79. Process
involving the application of a voltage which fluctuates with
time during treatment of the gaseous fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 54 for electrical
separation apparatus having an alternating current field.
Subclass:
81
Pulsing or time-varying electric field (e.g., AC, pulsed DC,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 57. Process
involving the application of a voltage which fluctuates with
time during treatment of the gaseous fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 54 for electrical
separation apparatus having an alternating current field.
Subclass:
82
CHROMATOGRAPHY:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which (a) the plurality of gases to be separated enters a
column to contact a liquid, known as the "stationary liquid
phase," supported by a base of solid material to successively
sorb therein the different gases of the mixture or (b) the
plurality of gases to be separated enters a column to contact
a solid sorbent to successively sorb thereon the different
gases of the mixture with or without subsequently
successively eluting or displacing the sorbed gases in (a) or
(b) with a gas which is inert with respect to the sorbed
gases and sorbent; and subcombinations of the processes in
(a) and (b) that do not result in separation when the
subcombinations are not provided for elsewhere.
(1) Note. The plurality of gases is usually allowed to flow
slowly through a column of particulate sorbent. Different
gases will pass at different speeds through the column and
will eventually be separated into zones. The zones can be
eluted by passing an inert gas through the column and
collecting the various fractions.
(2) Note. When a liquid is supported by a base of solid
material for the separation of the mixture of gases, the
process is known as "gas-liquid chromatography" or "GLC." If
liquid is not present, the process is known as "gas-solid
chromatography." Other phrases used when referring to
chromatography are "gas-chromatography" or "GC," "vapor-phase
chromatography" or "VPC," "gas-liquid partition
chromatography," "vapor fractometry," "capillary column gas
chromatography" or "CC-GC," and "partition chromatography."
(3) Note. Sometimes a "carrier" gas is mixed with or used to
propel the plurality of gases to be separated through the
chromatography column.
(4) Note. The plurality of gases to be separated may be
obtained by vaporizing a liquid. The liquid that is injected
into the chromatography column is vaporized, and then the
resulting vapors are separated in the chromatography column.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 245+ and 263+, for processes of separating gases
from liquids by contacting the liquid with a gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 19.02, 23.22+, and 23.35+
for chromatography including analysis of eluted or displaced
gas.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 101+ for gas
chromatography apparatus.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 656+ and
198.2+ for processes and apparatus of liquid purification or
separation involving chromatography.
436, Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclasses 161+ for processes which involve a chemical
reaction for analytical testing including chromatography and
for processes of analysis of the chemical properties of a
sample including chromatography.
Subclass:
83
Liquid supported on surface of capillary column:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
the base of solid material supporting the stationary liquid
phase as a thin film is the inner surface of a capillary tube
or column.
Subclass:
84
Liquid supported on particulate packing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
the base of solid material supporting the stationary liquid
phase is a granular solid.
Subclass:
85
Including use of gas flow distributor in column:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
gas is directed or channelled by use of a deflector inside
the column.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 107 for
corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 107 to this subclass based only on
disclosure. Therefore, relevant disclosures to gas separation
processes may be found in the apparatus area.
Subclass:
86
Plural separate columns:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
the plurality of gases passes through two or more parallel or
serial columns.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 104 for
chromatos:graphic apparatus having two or more separate and
distinct stages or zones.
Subclass:
87
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
the plurality of gases, a liquid, a separated constituent, or
an apparatus involved in the process is heated or cooled
(e.g., the column may be heated in order to degas the solid
sorbent or a gas may be heated or cooled, etc.).
Subclass:
88
Specific column packing or sorbent material (e.g., particle
size, composition, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
a specified packing or sorbent material (e.g., sorbent
compositions, particle size, etc.) is used.
Subclass:
89
Injection, per se, without separation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 82. Process in which
a method of injecting the plurality of gases or a liquid into
the chromatography column is claimed, per se, without gas
separation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, for processes and apparatus for the transfer
of fluent material through a flow confining system, the
source and receiver parts of which are normally separable.
Subclass:
90
SOLID SORPTION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which a solid sorbent is used to retain on its internal or
external surfaces a constituent of the fluid mixture passing
in contact therewith.
(1) Note. A solid sorbent is a solid material which
separates a constituent (e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a
fluid mixture containing such constituents in a
"quasi-chemical" manner. The action in most instances is that
of selective retention (i.e., the sorbent removes only the
part of the fluid mixture for which it has the greatest
affinity). The retained constituent cannot be removed by
shaking, brushing, or similar mechanical action, but
generally can be removed by heating, pressure reduction, or
use of a stripping or denuding fluid. A filter (particulate
solids or other) has no particular "chemical" affinity for a
constituent of a fluid mixture. The separation in the case of
a filter depends on a mechanical entrapment of solid or
liquid particles because of their relatively large size
compared with the interstices or spaces between individual
elements of the filter. The retained particles can be removed
by brushing, wiping, shaking, or similar mechanical action.
(2) Note. "Absorption" is the holding of a constituent by
cohesion or capillary action in the pores of a solid.
"Adsorption" is the ability of a sorbent to hold or
concentrate gases, liquids, or dissolved substances upon its
surface.
(3) Note. The desorption of a solid sorbent, which may
appear in one of the subclasses below, must be before or
after its use as a sorbent, as claimed. The mere treatment of
a solid sorbent to drive off the fluid sorbed thereon or
therein is proper subject matter for Class 502. See search
class note below.
(4) Note. This subclass and the subclasses indented
hereunder will take the degasification of a liquid by use of
a solid sorbent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
41 for processes using compressing and cooling of a fluid
mixture to separate a constituent from the mixture in
addition to using a solid sorbent to separate a constituent
from the gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 108+ for
apparatus containing solid sorbents.
203, Distillation: Processes, Separatory, subclass 41 for a
separatory distillation process including the step of passing
the produced vapor through a solid sorbent.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 660+ for
processes of using a solid sorbent to purify or separate a
liquid.
420, Alloys or Metallic Compositions, subclass 900 for
hydrogen (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) storage alloys or
metallic compositions.
423, Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, subclass 658.2 for
processes of producing elemental hydrogen (H) by direct
decomposition of a binary compound (e.g., chemical storage,
etc.).
436, Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclass 167 for processes wherein the basis for analysis is
an optical result of a chemical reaction that is measured
mechanically or visually, including solid sorption of a gas.
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, subclasses 20+ for regenerating or
rehabilitating solid sorbent compositions, per se, subclasses
60+ for zeolite compositions and for processes of making
zeolite compositions, and subclasses 400+ for other solid
sorbent compositions and for processes of making solid
sorbent compositions. Class 95 will take the combination of
gas separation using a solid sorbent composition and
regenerating or rehabilitating the solid sorbent
composition.
585, Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, subclasses 820+
for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon compound
with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more
desirable condition, by a treatment which comprises
separating the hydrocarbon from the other substance by
contact with a solid sorbent.
Subclass:
91
Soluble or deliquescent material used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
the solid sorbent dissolves in the constituent retained or
sorbed therein or thereon.
(1) Note. The resultant solution may be used in a liquid
contacting zone to aid in the separation.
(2) Note. A deliquescent material is a water-soluble
chemical salt used to sorb atmospheric water vapor.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 118+ for
apparatus containing a soluble or deliquescent sorbent
material.
Subclass:
92
And liquid contact (e.g., scrubbing, sorption, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
a gaseous fluid mixture is contacted by a liquid in addition
to a solid sorbent in order to remove a gas, solid, or liquid
therefrom.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 36+ for processes in which a liquid-solid slurry
is used to cause gas separation.
Subclass:
93
Sweep gas used on solid sorbent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Process in which
a gas is used to purge the constituent separated from the
solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 97+ and 104+, for processes of using a sweep gas
on a solid sorbent including reduction of pressure.
Subclass:
94
And recycle or reuse of contact liquid for further contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 92. Process in which
(a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further contact
with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b) the
contact liquid is used in another step of the process for
further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof.
Subclass:
95
Including reduction of pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
pressure over a mass of solid sorbent is decreased in order
to separate from the solid sorbent the constituent sorbed in
the gas separation process.
Subclass:
96
Plural pressure varying steps (e.g., pressure swing
adsorption, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Process in which
there is more than one step of increasing or decreasing the
pressure on the solid sorbent.
Subclass:
97
Sweep gas used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Process in which
a gas is used to purge the constituent separated from the
solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93 for processes of solid sorption and liquid contact
including use of a sweep gas on a solid sorbent.
subclasses 104+ for processes in which a sweep gas is used
to carry desorbed gas without the use of plural pressure
varying.
Subclass:
98
Feed gas or constituent thereof is sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 97. Process in which
the sweep gas is the gaseous fluid mixture or a portion
thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
Subclass:
99
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Process in which
the solid sorbent or a gas is heated or cooled.
Subclass:
100
Stepped pressure reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Process in which
the pressure over the solid sorbent is decreased in more than
one step.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
103 for processes in which there is use of pressure
reduction in more than one step without the use of a sweep
gas to carry desorbed gas.
Subclass:
101
Vacuum applied:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Process in
which a step of pressure reduction is accomplished by using a
pressure below that of the atmosphere.
Subclass:
102
Vacuum applied:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Process in which
a step of pressure reduction is accomplished by using a
pressure below that of the atmosphere.
Subclass:
103
Stepped pressure reduction:
This subclass is indented under subclass 96. Process in which
the pressure over the solid sorbent is decreased in more than
one step.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
100 for processes in which there is use of pressure
reduction in more than one step with the use of a sweep gas
to carry desorbed gas.
Subclass:
104
Sweep gas used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Process in which
a gas is used to purge the constituent separated from the
sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid sorbent.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
93 for processes of solid sorption and liquid contact
including use of a sweep gas on a solid sorbent.
subclasses 97+ for processes in which a sweep gas is used
to carry desorbed gas with the use of plural pressure
varying.
Subclass:
105
Feed gas or constituent thereof is sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 104. Process in
which the sweep gas is the gaseous fluid mixture or a portion
thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
Subclass:
106
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Process in which
the solid sorbent or a gas is heated or cooled.
Subclass:
107
Moving sorbent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
the solid sorbent is moved from one zone to another by moving
a housing, is moved from one zone to another in a stationary
housing, or is blown about or fluidized by a gas in a
housing.
(1) Note. The zones need not all be for sorbing the gas or
for desorbing the solid sorbent; it is sufficient that the
solid sorbent be moved from one zone to another, in each of
which zones the solid sorbent either is treated or is used to
treat.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 150 for apparatus
having a moving solid sorbent.
Subclass:
108
Fluidized bed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Process in
which the solid sorbent is blown about or fluidized by a gas
in a housing.
Subclass:
109
Having gravity flow of sorbent from zone to zone:
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Process in
which the solid sorbent is moved from one zone to another in
a stationary housing by the forces of gravity.
Subclass:
110
Gravity flow of sorbent from zone to zone:
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Process in
which the solid sorbent is moved from one zone to another in
a stationary housing by the forces of gravity.
Subclass:
111
Sweep gas used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Process in
which a gas is used to purge a constituent separated from the
solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
Subclass:
112
Steam is sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 111. Process in
which the sweep gas is steam.
Subclass:
113
Rotating housing containing fixed sorbent or rotating
plurality of housings:
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Process in
which the housing containing a fixed solid sorbent turns on
its axis in order to move the solid sorbent from one
treatment zone to another or a plurality of housings is
turned about a central axis to the housings to place a
housing in a position of use or nonuse or regeneration.
Subclass:
114
With plural indirect heat transfer steps on solid sorbent or
gaseous fluid mixture or constituent thereof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
there is more than one step of heating or cooling the solid
sorbent or the gaseous fluid mixture or constituent thereof
through a wall before or after separation.
(1) Note. The heat transfer steps must be part of a larger
process containing subject matter for Class 95, such as will
be found in this and the indented subclass where the heat
transfer steps are combined with sorption of a constituent
from a gas on a solid sorbent. If the only separation
involved is conducted by the heat transfer steps, then
classification in Class 165 is proper.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
165, Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses for processes
where only indirect heat exchange causes the separation of a
constituent from a gas.
Subclass:
115
Heating and cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Process in
which there is heating and cooling of the solid sorbent or of
a gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
165, Heat Exchange, subclasses 58+ and 201+ for processes
of heating and cooling where only the indirect heat exchange
causes the separation of a constituent from a gas.
Subclass:
116
Inorganic gas or liquid particle sorbed (e.g., vapor, mist,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
an inorganic gas or liquid particle (e.g., vapor, mist, etc.)
is sorbed from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid particles.
(1) Note. For purposes of classification in this area,
"inorganic" compounds or elements are those that would fall
within the definition of Class 423. For example, the cyanides
(CN joined only to a metal or to hydrogen) and the carbon
oxides are found in the indented subclasses.
Subclass:
117
Water sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which water is sorbed from the plurality of gases or the gas
with entrained liquid particles.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
91 for processes in which water-soluble chemical salts are
used to sorb atmospheric water vapor.
Subclass:
118
Plural separating treatments of gas by solid sorbent to
remove water:
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Process in
which the gas is passed through a plurality of discrete or
diverse separating stages or steps, with the solid sorbent
being the same or a different solid sorbent in each step of
the process.
Subclass:
119
And regeneration of any solid sorbent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 118. Process in
which at least one of the solid sorbents is revivified or
regenerated.
Subclass:
120
Heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 119. Process in
which the solid sorbent or a gas is heated or cooled.
Subclass:
121
And regeneration of solid sorbent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 117. Process in
which the solid sorbent is revivified or regenerated.
Subclass:
122
Sweep gas used:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Process in
which a gas is used to purge the water separated from the
solid sorbent or a gas is used to regenerate the solid
sorbent.
Subclass:
123
Hot sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 122. Process in
which there is a positive step of raising the temperature of
the sweep gas above the ambient temperature or the sweep gas
is already at a temperature above the ambient temperature.
Subclass:
124
And cooling of sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Process in
which the sweep gas is cooled.
Subclass:
125
And cooling of solid sorbent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Process in
which the solid sorbent is cooled.
Subclass:
126
By heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Process in
which the solid sorbent is revivified or regenerated by
heating.
Subclass:
127
Noble gas sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which a noble gas (i.e., helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar),
krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), or radon (Rn)) is sorbed.
Subclass:
128
Nitrogen containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which a nitrogen containing compound is sorbed.
Subclass:
129
Nitrogen oxide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 128. Process in
which a nitrogen oxide (e.g., nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen
dioxide (NO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]), etc.) is sorbed.
Subclass:
130
Nitrogen sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which nitrogen (N[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) is sorbed.
Subclass:
131
Halogen or halogen containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine
(Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) or a halogen containing
compound is sorbed.
Subclass:
132
Chlorine or chlorine containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 131. Process in
which chlorine (Cl) or a chlorine containing compound is
sorbed.
Subclass:
133
Metal or metal containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which a metal or metal containing compound is sorbed.
(1) Note. Arsenic (As) is considered to be a metal.
Subclass:
134
Mercury sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 133. Process in
which mercury (Hg) is sorbed.
Subclass:
135
Sulfur containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which a sulfur (S) containing compound is sorbed.
Subclass:
136
Hydrogen sulfide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Process in
which hydrogen sulfide (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]S) is
sorbed.
Subclass:
137
Sulfur dioxide or sulfur trioxide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 135. Process in
which sulfur dioxide (SO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) or sulfur
trioxide (SO[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]) is sorbed.
Subclass:
138
Oxygen or ozone sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which oxygen (O[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) or ozone
(O[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]) is sorbed.
Subclass:
139
Carbon dioxide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which carbon dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) is
sorbed.
Subclass:
140
Carbon monoxide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 116. Process in
which carbon monoxide (CO) is sorbed.
Subclass:
141
Organic gas or liquid particle sorbed (e.g., vapor, mist,
etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
an organic gas or liquid particle (e.g., vapor, mist, etc.)
is sorbed from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid particles.
(1) Note. For purposes of classification in this area,
"organic" compounds are those that would fall within the
definitions of Class 260.
Subclass:
142
Halogen containing compound sorbed (e.g., phosgene, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Process in
which a halogen containing (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine
(Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) compound
(e.g., phosgene, etc.) is sorbed.
Subclass:
143
Hydrocarbon sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 141. Process in
which a hydrocarbon is sorbed.
Subclass:
144
Alkene sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Process in
which an alkene (i.e., olefin) is sorbed.
Subclass:
145
Alkyne sorbed (e.g., acetylene, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Process in
which an alkyne (i.e., alkine) is sorbed (e.g., acetylene,
etc.).
Subclass:
146
Gasoline sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Process in
which gasoline is sorbed.
Subclass:
147
Benzene ring containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 143. Process in
which a benzene ring containing compound is sorbed.
Subclass:
148
And regeneration:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Process in which
the solid sorbent is revivified or regenerated.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 95+ for processes of regeneration of the solid
sorbent including the reduction of pressure.
subclasses 107+ for processes of regeneration of the solid
sorbent including the use of a moving sorbent.
subclasses 114+ for processes of regeneration of the solid
sorbent including plural indirect heat transfer steps.
subclasses 116+ and 141+, for processes of regeneration of
the solid sorbent including the sorption of a specifically
named compound.
Subclass:
149
LIQUID CONTACTING (E.G., SORPTION, SCRUBBING, ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which the fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid.
(1) Note. The contact of the fluid mixture with a liquid
generally results in separation of a gas, solid particles, or
liquid particles from a gaseous fluid mixture (e.g.,
sorption, scrubbing, etc.). The contact of the fluid mixture
with a liquid does not have to cause separation of the
mixture, however, but may be used for other reasons (e.g., to
humidify a gas, etc.). As long as there is separation of the
fluid mixture by some process of this class along with the
contacting of the mixture with a liquid for reasons other
than separation, the patent will be placed here (e.g.,
filtration plus humidification, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
44 for selective diffusion of gases through an immobilized
liquid.
subclasses 64+ and 71+, for electric or electrostatic field
processes combined with liquid addition to the gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 243+ for gas
separation apparatus using gas and liquid contact means
combined with means to further handle the process
constituents before, during, or after separation. See the
class line to Class 261 in section III of this class for
further details about gas and liquid contact apparatus and
processes.
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, for gas and liquid
contact apparatus, per se, with or without separation, and
for gas and liquid contact processes, per se, without
separation (e.g., humidification, etc.). See the class line
to Class 261 in section III of this class for further details
about gas and liquid contact apparatus and processes.
436, Chemistry: Analytical and Immunological Testing,
subclass 168 for processes wherein the basis for analysis is
an optical result of a chemical reaction that is measured
mechanically or visually, including liquid sorption of a
gas.
585, Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, subclasses 833+
for processes in which a mixture of a hydrocarbon compound
with another substance is treated to recover that same
compound in a more usable condition, that is, a purer or more
desirable condition, by a treatment which comprises
separating the hydrocarbon from the other substance by
addition of an extraneous agent (e.g., solvent, etc.).
Subclass:
150
Including foaming of liquid to aid in the separation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which a frothy or sudslike dispersion of gas in the contact
liquid is formed to aid in the separation.
(1) Note. When foam is intentionally formed, it will be
assumed to aid in the separation unless otherwise stated.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, appropriate subclasses for colloid systems or
agents for such systems or making or stabilizing such systems
or agents ( subclasses 10+ for foaming), appropriate
subclasses for processes of or compositions for or
subcombination compositions for the breaking of or inhibiting
of colloid systems (subclasses 115+ for defoaming); in each
instance, when generically claimed or when there is no
hierarchically superior provision in the USPC for the
specifically claimed art.
Subclass:
151
Mechanical agitation of liquid body to contact gaseous fluid
mixture:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the gaseous fluid mixture is contacted with the liquid
by mechanically stirring a liquid body or mass or by
mechanically disturbing the surface of a liquid body or mass
in such a way that the liquid is flung into the mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
150 for processes in which agitation of the liquid body
causes foaming of the liquid.
185 for processes of contacting a fluid mixture with a
liquid combined with mechanical agitating in order to
degasify the liquid.
260 for processes of degasification of a liquid by
agitating.
Subclass:
152
Coagulating or flocculating agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which solid particles are removed from a gas by a contact
liquid that contains an agent that causes the solid particles
to agglomerate.
(1) Note. These agents are known as "coagulating" agents,
"flocculating" agents, or "flocculent" materials.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 98+ for colloid systems of
continuous or semicontinuous solid phase with discontinuous
liquid phase (gels, pastes, flocs, coagulates) or agents for
such systems or making or stabilizing such systems or agents,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed
art.
Subclass:
153
Hydrate inhibitor:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the contact liquid contains an agent that prevents
formation of a substance containing water combined in the
molecular form (e.g., agent prevents formation of methane
hydrate: CH[subscrpt]4[end subscrpt]-7H[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]O, ethane hydrate: C[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]H[subscrpt]6[end subscrpt]-8H[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]O, chlorine hydrate: Cl[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]-8H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]O, etc.).
Subclass:
154
Surfactant or wetting agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the contact liquid contains an agent that reduces the
surface tension of the contact liquid.
(1) Note. These agents are known as "surfactants," "wetting"
agents, or "surface-active" substances.
Subclass:
155
Defoaming or antifoaming agent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the contact liquid contains an agent that either (a)
resolves or breaks a frothy or sudslike dispersion that was
formed during the liquid-gas contact into separate fluid
phases or (b) prevents formation of a frothy or sudslike
dispersion during the liquid-gas contact.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
157 and 242, for other processes of defoaming a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 115+ for processes of or
compositions for or subcombination compositions for the
breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems, when
generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed
art.
Subclass:
156
And degasification of a liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which a gas is removed from a liquid.
(1) Note. Generally, the patents in this subclass and the
subclasses indented hereunder involve contacting a plurality
of gases, with or without solid or liquid particles entrained
therein, with a liquid in order to sorb or remove a gas or
gases from the plurality of gases, allowing the remaining gas
or gases to pass out of contact with the liquid. The liquid
with gas entrained therein then is treated to remove the
sorbed gas. The removal may be for regenerating the liquid
for further use or may be for obtaining the sorbed gas. In
addition, this area takes processes in which the
degasification of a liquid occurs first and the removed gas
is subjected to a liquid contacting step (see subclass 158).
(2) Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the gas
sorbed by a liquid from a plurality of gases and removed from
the liquid must be normally gaseous at a temperature of 0
deg.C and a pressure of 760 mm Hg (e.g., hydrogen sulfide
(H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]S), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon
dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]), ethane
(C[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]H[subscrpt]6[end subscrpt]),
ammonia (NH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]), etc.). If, however, a
constituent is at a temperature above its boiling temperature
for a particular pressure, then the constituent is presumed
to be a gas and the patent is placed here when the
constituent is sorbed as a gas by a liquid, remains in
gaseous phase in the liquid, and is removed from the liquid
as a gas. The C[subscrpt]4[end subscrpt] hydrocarbons, which
have boiling points above and below a temperature of 0 deg.C,
are classified according to their individual boiling points
in subclasses 149+ (e.g., butane with a boiling point of -0.5
deg.C at 760 mm Hg pressure is a gas at a temperature of 0
deg.C and 760 mm Hg pressure; whereas 1,2-butadiene with a
boiling point of 10.8 deg.C at 760 mm Hg pressure is a liquid
at a temperature of 0 deg.C and 760 mm Hg pressure). This
handling of the C[subscrpt]4[end subscrpt] hydrocarbons is in
contrast to that of Class 203, in which all of the
C[subscrpt]4[end subscrpt] hydrocarbons are arbitrarily
classified as liquids at a temperature of 0 deg.C and 760 mm
Hg pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 for processes of degasification of a liquid by use of
sound waves.
46 for processes of degasification of a liquid by selective
diffusion of gases through a substantially solid barrier.
subclasses 188+ and 206+, for removal of a liquid from the
contact liquid.
subclasses 241+ for processes of degasification of a liquid
without liquid contacting.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 155+ for
degasifying means for liquid.
Subclass:
157
Defoaming:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which a frothy or sudslike dispersion that was formed during
the liquid-gas contact or was present before the liquid-gas
contact is resolved or broken into separate fluid phases.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
155 and 242, for other processes of defoaming a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 176+ for
defoaming apparatus.
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 115+ for processes of or
compositions for or subcombination compositions for the
breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems, when
generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed
art.
Subclass:
158
Degasification step occurs first, with removed gas
subsequently contacted by liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which a liquid with gas entrained therein is degassed and the
removed gas is then contacted with a liquid.
Subclass:
159
By stripping with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which the gas is removed from the contact liquid by passing a
gas through or in contact with the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
83 and 84, for processes of eluting or displacing separated
constituents from a chromatos:graphic column comprising a
liquid solvent on a solid base.
191 and 207, for separation of liquid from contact liquid by
stripping with gas.
subclasses 245+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include stripping with gas.
subclasses 263+ for degasification of liquid by stripping
with gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 202+ for
degasifying means for liquid with gas contacting means.
Subclass:
160
And reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in
which the pressure acting on the contact liquid is
decreased.
(1) Note. The pressure reduction may be used in a separate
step in order to remove gas from the contact liquid in
addition to the step of removing gas from the contact liquid
by stripping with gas, or the pressure reduction may be used
in order to aid the removal by stripping with gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 172+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure.
subclasses 247+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include reduction of pressure.
266 for degasification of liquid by reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 193+ for
degasifying means for liquid of the pressure reducing type.
Subclass:
161
And heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in
which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1) Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in
order to remove gas from the contact liquid in addition to
another step of removing gas from the contact liquid, or the
heating may be used in order to aid the removal by stripping
with gas or by reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 165+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with heating.
subclasses 173+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure combined with heating.
subclasses 178+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by heating.
subclasses 251+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
162
Steam is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 161. Process in
which the stripping gas is steam.
Subclass:
163
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
164
Feed gas or constituent thereof is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 160. Process in
which the stripping gas is the gaseous fluid mixture or a
portion thereof, before or after being treated or separated.
Subclass:
165
And heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in
which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1) Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in
order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step
of removing gas from the liquid by stripping with gas, or the
heating may be used in order to aid the removal by stripping
with gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 161+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with reduction of
pressure and heating.
subclasses 173+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure combined with heating.
subclasses 178+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by heating.
subclasses 251+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
166
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
167
Vaporized component of contact liquid is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Process in
which a constituent of the contact liquid is gasified and
this constituent removes another gas from the contact
liquid.
Subclass:
168
Steam is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 165. Process in
which the stripping gas is steam.
Subclass:
169
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
170
Air is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in
which the stripping gas is air.
Subclass:
171
Inert stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 159. Process in
which the stripping gas is specified as being inert or is one
of the following gases: helium (He), neon (Ne), argon (Ar),
krypton (Kr), xenon (Xe), radon (Rn), nitrogen
(N[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]), or carbon dioxide
(CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]).
Subclass:
172
By reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which the gas is removed from the contact liquid by
decreasing the pressure acting on the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 160+ for processes of liquid contacting and
degasification of liquid by stripping with gas in which there
is reduction of pressure.
192 and 208, for separation of liquid from contact liquid by
reduction of pressure.
subclasses 247+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include reduction of pressure.
266 for degasification of liquid by reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 193+ for
degasifying means for liquid of the pressure reducing type.
Subclass:
173
And heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in
which the contact liquid or a gas is heated.
(1) Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in
order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step
of removing gas from the liquid by reduction of pressure, or
the heating may be used in order to aid the removal by
reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 161+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with reduction of
pressure and heating.
subclasses 165+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with heating.
subclasses 178+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by heating.
subclasses 251+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
174
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 173. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
175
Vacuum applied:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in
which the step of pressure reduction is accomplished by using
a pressure below that of the atmosphere.
Subclass:
176
Removed gas recycled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in
which the gas removed from the contact liquid is recirculated
to the fluid mixture for further contact with liquid.
Subclass:
177
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 172. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
178
By heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which the gas is removed from the contact liquid by heating.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 161+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with reduction of
pressure and heating.
subclasses 165+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas combined with heating.
subclasses 173+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure combined with heating.
193 and 209, for separation of liquid from contact liquid by
heating.
subclasses 251+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
179
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
180
Liquid cooling step before being recycled:
This subclass is indented under subclass 179. Process in
which there is a step of lowering the temperature of the
liquid before it is recycled.
Subclass:
181
Sulfur compound removed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in
which a gaseous sulfur (S) compound is sorbed by the contact
liquid and then is removed from the contact liquid by
heating.
Subclass:
182
Halogen compound removed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in
which a gaseous halogen compound (i.e., a compound with
fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine (Br), iodine (I),
astatine (At)) is sorbed by the contact liquid and then is
removed from the contact liquid by heating.
Subclass:
183
Carbon dioxide removed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in
which carbon dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) is sorbed
by the contact liquid and then is removed from the contact
liquid by heating.
Subclass:
184
Organic compound removed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 178. Process in
which a gaseous organic compound is sorbed by the contact
liquid and then is removed from the contact liquid by
heating.
Subclass:
185
By liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which the gas is removed from the contact liquid by mixing,
stirring, or turbulating by contact with a solid member or
the flow path of the contact liquid is altered.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 260+ for degasifying liquid by liquid flow
modifying or mechanical agitating.
Subclass:
186
Liquid recycled or reused:
This subclass is indented under subclass 156. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process.
Subclass:
187
And recycle or reuse of contact liquid for further contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which (a) the contact liquid is recirculated for further
contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof or (b)
the contact liquid is used in another step of the process for
further contact with the fluid mixture or a portion thereof.
(1) Note. The recycled or reused contact liquid may have
been regenerated or it may be a mixture with the removed
constituent.
Subclass:
188
After separation of liquid from contact liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which the contact liquid is recycled or reused after another
liquid constituent is removed from the contact liquid.
(1) Note. The liquid removed from the contact liquid may
have been originally present as liquid particles entrained in
a gas, or the liquid removed may have been originally present
as vapors as part of a plurality of gases, in which case the
vapors would have condensed to liquid because of the liquid
contact.
(2) Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the
vapors sorbed by a liquid from a plurality of gases and
removed from the liquid must be normally liquid at a
temperature of 0 deg.C and a pressure of 760 mm Hg and the
vapors must have condensed to liquid (e.g., methanol
(CH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]OH), ethanol (C[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]H[subscrpt]5[end subscrpt]OH), etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 156+ for liquid contact and removal of a gas
from a liquid.
subclasses 206+ for separation of a liquid constituent from
the contact liquid without recycling or reusing the contact
liquid.
Subclass:
189
And separation of solid from contact liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in
which a solid is removed from the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
195 and 205, for other processes of separating a solid from
the contact liquid.
Subclass:
190
By liquid-liquid extraction or formation of azeotrope:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in
which (a) a liquid extractant is mixed with the contact
liquid in order to cause separation of a solute from the
contact liquid and then the liquid extractant with the
removed solute is separated from the contact liquid or (b) a
compound that forms a mixture of constant boiling point with
a solute in the contact liquid is added to the contact liquid
and then the azeotropic mixture is separated from the contact
liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclass 634 for
processes, per se, in which a dissolved or suspended
constituent of a liquid is preferentially dissolved or
dispersed into a second liquid.
Subclass:
191
By stripping with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by passing a gas through or in contact with the
contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 159+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas.
207 for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by stripping with gas
without recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
192
By reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by decreasing the pressure acting on the contact
liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 172+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure.
208 for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by reduction of pressure
without recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
193
By heating (e.g., fractional distillation, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 188. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by heating the contact liquid (e.g., fractional
distillation, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 178+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by heating.
209 for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by heating without
recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
194
Indirect heat exchange:
This subclass is indented under subclass 193. Process in
which heat is transferred through a wall.
Subclass:
195
After separation of solid from contact liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which the contact liquid is recycled or reused after a solid
is removed from the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 and 205, for other processes of separating a solid from
the contact liquid.
Subclass:
196
By filtration:
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Process in
which the contact liquid containing the solid to be removed
is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid from the liquid by entrapment and retention while
permitting the liquid to pass through.
Subclass:
197
By gravity separation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 195. Process in
which the solid settles to the bottom of a mass of the
contact liquid in a settling tank or the solid rises to the
top of a mass of the contact liquid in a flotation tank due
to the difference in density of the solid and the contact
liquid, with the layer of the contact liquid containing the
solid being separated from the remainder of the mass of
contact liquid.
Subclass:
198
And deflection to remove liquid particles from gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which the gas and liquid after contact impinge on a surface
to effect an abrupt change in direction of the gas-liquid
mixture or to guide the gas-liquid mixture to cause the
liquid to drop out and remain behind while the gas flows on.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 216+ for other processes of liquid contacting
and deflection.
subclasses 267+ for deflection without liquid contacting.
Subclass:
199
Liquid contact in plural serial stages:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which liquid and gaseous fluid mixture contact is effected in
more than one step or zone in series.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 223+ for liquid contact in plural serial stages
without recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 267+ for gas
separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact means having
diverse means for adding the liquid.
Subclass:
200
Removal of solid or liquid particles from gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Process in
which solid or liquid particles are removed from a gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
202 for removal of solid or liquid particles from gas in a
single stage.
Subclass:
201
Reduction of pressure during liquid contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 199. Process in
which pressure is decreased during the liquid contact.
Subclass:
202
Removal of solid or liquid particles from gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which solid or liquid particles are removed from a gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
200 for removal of solid or liquid particles from gas in
plural serial stages.
Subclass:
203
Reduction of pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 187. Process in
which pressure is decreased.
Subclass:
204
And recycle of gas for further contact:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the gaseous fluid mixture or a separated gaseous
constituent is recirculated for further contact with the
liquid.
Subclass:
205
And separation of solid from contact liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which a solid is removed from the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
189 and 195, for other processes of separating a solid from
the contact liquid.
Subclass:
206
And separation of liquid from contact liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which a liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid.
(1) Note. The liquid removed from the contact liquid may
have been originally present as liquid particles entrained in
a gas, or the liquid removed may have been originally present
as vapors as part of a plurality of gases, in which case the
vapors would have condensed to liquid because of the liquid
contact.
(2) Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the
vapors sorbed by a liquid from a plurality of gases and
removed from the liquid must be normally liquid at a
temperature of 0 deg.C and a pressure of 760 mm Hg and the
vapors must have condensed to liquid (e.g., methanol
(CH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]OH), ethanol (C[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]H[subscrpt]5[end subscrpt]OH), etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 156+ for liquid contact and removal of a gas
from a liquid.
subclasses 188+ for separation of a liquid constituent from
the contact liquid with recycling or reusing the contact
liquid.
Subclass:
207
By stripping with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by passing a gas through or in contact with the
contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 159+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by stripping with gas.
191 for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by stripping with gas
with recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
208
By reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by decreasing the pressure acting on the contact
liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 172+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure.
192 for liquid contacting and separation of a liquid
constituent from the contact liquid by reduction of pressure
with recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
209
By heating (e.g., fractional distillation, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 206. Process in
which the liquid constituent is removed from the contact
liquid by heating the contact liquid (e.g., fractional
distillation, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 178+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by heating.
subclasses 193+ for liquid contacting and separation of a
liquid constituent from the contact liquid by heating with
recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
Subclass:
210
On surface extending mass:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the contact between the gaseous fluid mixture and the
liquid takes place on a material which serves to increase the
area for contact.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 290+ for gas
separation apparatus in which gas and liquid contact takes
place on particulate media, shaped packing elements, or
porous media.
Subclass:
211
Particulate media, fibrous media, or packing elements:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Process in
which the surface extending mass consists of (a) a plurality
of small, discrete solids (e.g., particulate bed, etc.), (b)
a mass of slender, elongated material (e.g., a mass of
wicklike or threadlike material, etc.), or (c) a mass of
randomly oriented or positioned elements which may be molded,
machined, or formed, that possess specific advantages of
surface availability for gas and liquid contacting (e.g.,
Raschig rings, Berl saddles, Intalox saddles, Pall rings,
etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, subclasses 94+ for
apparatus specially adapted to produce an intimate contact
between gases and liquids including a stationary porous mass
of material (not a sheet). See also digest 72 for packing
elements.
Subclass:
212
And cleaning of particulate media, fibrous media, or packing
elements:
This subclass is indented under subclass 211. Process in
which the liquid or the separated constituent is removed from
the particulate media, fibrous media, or packing elements.
Subclass:
213
Apertured partition member:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Process in
which the surface extending mass has one or more openings
through which the gaseous fluid mixture or liquid passes in
order to increase the contact of the gas with the liquid
(e.g., use of perforated plates, bubble cap trays, mesh
screens, parallel wires, parallel bars, etc.).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, subclasses 108+ for
apparatus specially adapted to produce an intimate contact
between gases and liquids including stationary baffles over
which the liquids flow in contact with gases. See
particularly subclass 113 for perforated baffles and subclass
114.2 for apparatus utilizing bubble caps.
Subclass:
214
And filtration of gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein
is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid or liquid particles from the gas by entrapment and
retention while permitting the gaseous or vaporous
constituents to pass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 273+ for filtering without liquid contact.
281 for filtering with cleaning of the filter by use of a
liquid.
Subclass:
215
Including movement of filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 214. Process in
which the filter is not stationary during filtration.
Subclass:
216
And deflection:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the gaseous fluid mixture, liquid, or the gaseous fluid
mixture and liquid after contact (a) are impinged on a solid
or liquid mass and the direction of flow is changed because
of the impinging on the solid or liquid mass or (b) are
contacted by a gas stream to effect an abrupt change in
direction of flow.
(1) Note. The deflection may or may not cause separation of
a constituent from the gaseous fluid mixture.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
198 for other processes of liquid contacting and deflection
with recycle or reuse of the contact liquid.
subclasses 267+ for separation of a constituent from a gas
by deflection.
Subclass:
217
Liquid is in form of curtain:
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in
which the liquid falls through open space freely in a thin
stream for gas-liquid contact.
Subclass:
218
Including movement of deflector:
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in
which the deflection is caused by a solid mass that is not
stationary during deflection.
Subclass:
219
Including rotation of liquid, gaseous fluid mixture, or
gas-liquid mixture through 360 degrees in stationary
apparatus:
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in
which the liquid, gaseous fluid mixture, or gas-liquid
mixture rotates or spins around an axis through 360 deg. in
an apparatus that does not move to cause the rotating or
spinning.
Subclass:
220
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 219. Process in
which the gaseous fluid mixture, a separated constituent, the
contact liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is
heated or cooled.
Subclass:
221
Deflection in plural serial stages:
This subclass is indented under subclass 216. Process in
which the deflection of the gaseous fluid mixture, liquid, or
the gaseous fluid mixture and liquid after contact occurs in
more than one step or zone in series.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 223+ for liquid contact in plural serial stages
without deflection.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 267+ for gas
separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact means having
diverse means for adding the liquid.
Subclass:
222
Using diverse type deflectors:
This subclass is indented under subclass 221. Process in
which two or more discrete deflectors are arranged one
downstream of the other, at least two of the deflectors being
of differing types.
Subclass:
223
In plural serial stages:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the fluid mixture is contacted with a liquid in more
than one step or zone in series.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 199+ for liquid contact in plural serial stages
with recycle or reuse of contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 267+ for gas
separation apparatus with gas and liquid contact means having
diverse means for adding the liquid.
Subclass:
224
Liquid sprays:
This subclass is indented under subclass 223. Process in
which the fluid mixture is treated in each zone or stage with
liquid which has been finely dispersed.
Subclass:
225
With heating or cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 224. Process in
which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent, the contact
liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is heated or
cooled.
Subclass:
226
Gaseous fluid mixture discharged against or beneath surface
of liquid body:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the gaseous fluid mixture to be treated (a) impinges
onto the top layer of a liquid contained in a reservoir or
(b) is discharged beneath the top layer of a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 329+ for gas
separation apparatus having a liquid bath or reservoir for
gas and liquid contact.
261, Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, subclass 121.1 for
devices specially adapted to produce an intimate contact
between gases and liquids by means that discharges gas
beneath the surface of the liquid.
Subclass:
227
With heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent, the contact
liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is heated.
Subclass:
228
With cooling:
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which the fluid mixture, a separated constituent, the contact
liquid, or apparatus involved in the process is cooled.
Subclass:
229
Cooling before liquid contacting:
This subclass is indented under subclass 228. Process in
which the contact with a liquid occurs after the cooling.
Subclass:
230
Inorganic gas, liquid particle, or solid particle sorbed
(e.g., vapor, mist, dust, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which an inorganic gas, liquid particle, or solid particle is
separated from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid or solid particles by the contact with a
liquid.
(1) Note. For purposes of classification in this area,
"inorganic" compounds or elements are those that would fall
within the definition of Class 423. For example, the cyanides
(CN joined only to a metal or to hydrogen) and the carbon
oxides are found in the indented subclasses.
Subclass:
231
Water sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which water is separated.
Subclass:
232
Nitrogen or nitrogen containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which nitrogen (N[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) or a nitrogen
containing compound is separated.
Subclass:
233
Halogen or halogen containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which a halogen (i.e., fluorine (F), chlorine (Cl), bromine
(Br), iodine (I), astatine (At)) or a halogen containing
compound is separated.
Subclass:
234
Metal or metal containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which a metal or a metal containing compound is separated.
Subclass:
235
Sulfur or sulfur containing compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which sulfur (S) or a sulfur containing compound is
separated.
Subclass:
236
Carbon dioxide sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 230. Process in
which carbon dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]) is
separated.
Subclass:
237
Organic gas, liquid particle, or solid particle sorbed (e.g.,
vapor, mist, dust, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 149. Process in
which an organic gas, liquid particle, or solid particle is
separated from the plurality of gases or the gas with
entrained liquid or solid particles by the contact with a
liquid.
(1) Note. For purposes of classification in this area,
"organic" compounds are those that would fall within the
definitions of Class 260.
Subclass:
238
Alkyne sorbed (e.g., acetylene, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Process in
which an alkyne (i.e., alkine) is separated (e.g., acetylene,
etc.).
Subclass:
239
Cyclic compound sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Process in
which a cyclic compound is separated.
Subclass:
240
Alkene sorbed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 237. Process in
which an alkene (i.e., olefin) is separated.
Subclass:
241
DEGASIFICATION OF LIQUID:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which a gas is removed from a liquid.
(1) Note. In order for a patent to be placed here, the gas
removed from the liquid must be normally gaseous at a
temperature of 0 deg.C and a pressure of 760 mm Hg (e.g.,
hydrogen sulfide (H[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]S), carbon
monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]),
ethane (C[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]H[subscrpt]6[end
subscrpt]), ammonia (NH[subscrpt]3[end subscrpt]), etc.). If,
however, a constituent is at a temperature above its boiling
temperature for a particular pressure, then the constituent
is presumed to be a gas, and a patent to a process for
removing the constituent will be placed here when the
constituent is initially present in gaseous phase in the
liquid and is removed from the liquid as a gas.
(2) Note. The removal of a volatile organic compound (e.g.,
ethanol (C[subscrpt]2[end subscrpt]H[subscrpt]5[end
subscrpt]OH), gasoline, etc.) from a liquid is not taken to
be degasification of a liquid for Class 95 when the volatile
organic compound is initially present as a liquid mixed with
another liquid. The removal of a volatile organic compound
from a liquid may be found in Class 210 for liquid
purification or separation or Class 203 for separatory
distillation processes.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
30 for processes of degasification of a liquid by use of
sound waves.
46 for processes of degasification of a liquid by selective
diffusion of gases through a substantially solid barrier.
subclasses 90+ for processes of degasification of a liquid
by use of a solid sorbent.
subclasses 156+ for processes of contacting a gas with a
liquid and degasification of the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 155+ for
degasifying means for liquid.
203, Distillation: Processes, Separatory, for processes for
separating a liquid mixture by vaporizing and condensing at
least a portion thereof to isolate in the condensed liquid
(distillate) or in the unvaporized portion (residue) a
comparatively pure compound that was present as such in the
original mixture.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, for processes of
removing a volatile organic compound from a liquid wherein
the volatile organic compound is initially present as a
liquid mixed with another liquid.
Subclass:
242
Defoaming:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which a frothy or sudslike dispersion is resolved or broken
into separate fluid phases.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
155 and 157, for other processes of defoaming a liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 176+ for
defoaming apparatus.
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 115+ for processes of or
compositions for or subcombination compositions for the
breaking of or inhibiting of foam colloid systems, when
generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed
art.
Subclass:
243
Plural successive degassing treatments:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which the liquid is subjected to more than one degasifying
step, each step occurring at a different time than another
step.
Subclass:
244
Boiler feed water degassing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in
which the liquid that is degasified is the feed going to a
steam generator, whether raw water or condensed steam.
Subclass:
245
By stripping with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in
which in at least one of the degasifying steps the gas is
removed from the liquid by passing a gas through or in
contact with the liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
83 and 84, for processes of eluting or displacing separated
constituents from a chromatos:graphic column comprising a
liquid solvent on a solid base.
subclasses 159+ for contacting a gas with a liquid and
degasifying the contact liquid by stripping with gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 202+ for
degasifying means for liquid with gas contacting means.
Subclass:
246
And reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 245. Process in
which the pressure acting on the liquid is decreased.
(1) Note. The pressure reduction may be used in a separate
step in order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to
the step of removing gas from the liquid by stripping with
gas, or the pressure reduction may be used in order to aid
the removal by stripping with gas.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 160+ for contacting a gas with a liquid and
degasifying the contact liquid by stripping with gas and
reduction of pressure.
subclasses 247+ and 266, for degasification of liquid by
reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 193+ for
degasifying means for liquid of the pressure reducing type.
Subclass:
247
By reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in
which in at least one of the degasifying steps the gas is
removed from the liquid by decreasing the pressure acting on
the liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 172+ for contacting a gas with a liquid and
degasifying the contact liquid by reduction of pressure.
266 for degasification of liquid by reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 193+ for
degasifying means for liquid of the pressure reducing type.
Subclass:
248
And liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Process in
which the liquid is mixed, stirred, or turbulated by contact
with a solid member or the flow path of the contact liquid is
altered.
(1) Note. The liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating
may be used in a separate step in order to remove gas from
the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas from the
liquid by reduction of pressure, or the liquid flow modifying
or mechanical agitating may be used in order to aid the
removal by reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
185 for contacting a gas with a liquid and degasifying the
contact liquid by liquid flow modifying or mechanical
agitating.
subclasses 260+ for degasifying liquid by liquid flow
modifying or mechanical agitating.
Subclass:
249
And heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 248. Process in
which the liquid or the gas is heated.
(1) Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in
order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step
of removing gas from the liquid by reduction of pressure or
liquid flow modifying, or the heating may be used in order to
aid the removal by reduction of pressure or liquid flow
modifying.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 156+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
the contact liquid by heating.
subclasses 251+ for degasifying liquid by heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
250
And heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 247. Process in
which the liquid or the gas is heated.
(1) Note. The heating may be used in a separate step in
order to remove gas from the liquid in addition to the step
of removing gas from the liquid by reduction of pressure, or
the heating may be used in order to aid the removal by
reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 156+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
the contact liquid by heating.
subclasses 251+ for degasifying liquid by heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
251
By heating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 243. Process in
which in at least one of the degasifying steps the gas is
removed from the liquid by heating the liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 156+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
the contact liquid by heating.
subclasses 247+ for degasifying liquid by reduction of
pressure and heating.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 218 for heat
exchange apparatus to degasify liquid.
Subclass:
252
And liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 251. Process in
which the liquid is mixed, stirred, or turbulated by contact
with a solid member or the flow path of the contact liquid is
altered.
(1) Note. The liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating
may be used in a separate step in order to remove gas from
the liquid in addition to the step of removing gas from the
liquid by heating, or the liquid flow modifying or mechanical
agitating may be used in order to aid the removal by
heating.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
185 for contacting a gas with a liquid and degasifying the
contact liquid by liquid flow modifying or mechanical
agitating.
subclasses 260+ for degasifying liquid by liquid flow
modifying or mechanical agitating.
Subclass:
253
Emulsion breaking or multiple liquid separating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which two liquids are separated, one of which (a) is
originally finely dispersed in the other, as in an emulsion,
or (b) is mixed in and flows with the other.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 188+ and 206+, for contacting a gas with a
liquid and separation of the liquid from the contact liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 421 for gas separation
apparatus which has means to separate a liquid from a mixture
with one or more additional liquids.
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 182+ for
degasifying means for liquid which has means to separate a
liquid from a mixture with one or more additional liquids.
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, for liquid
purification or separation, and see particularly subclass 708
for emulsion breaking.
516, Colloid Systems and Wetting Agents; Subcombinations
Thereof; Processes of Making, Stabilizing, Breaking, or
Inhibiting, subclasses 135+ for processes of or
compositions for or subcombination compositions for the
breaking of or inhibiting of emulsion colloid systems, by
addition of chemical agent or by action of physical agent,
when generically claimed or when there is no hierarchically
superior provision in the USPC for the specifically claimed
art.
Subclass:
254
And subsequent handling of evolved gas, stripping gas, or
residue liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which the removed gas, a stripping gas, or the remaining
liquid is further treated or used in some manner involving
more than mere removal from the system.
Subclass:
255
Evolved gas removed by sweep gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in
which a purge gas is used to carry off the removed gas.
Subclass:
256
For indirect heat exchange:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in
which the removed gas, the stripping gas, or the remaining
liquid is used to transfer heat to or to accept heat from any
material through a solid wall.
Subclass:
257
Gas condensed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 256. Process in
which the removed gas or the stripping gas is the heat
exchange medium and is condensed to liquid.
Subclass:
258
Gas recycled or further separated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in
which (a) the removed gas is used to further strip gas from
the liquid, (b) the stripping gas is recovered and is used
for further stripping of gas from the liquid, or (c) the gas
is subjected to an additional separating treatment.
Subclass:
259
Liquid further separated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 254. Process in
which the remaining liquid is subjected to an additional
separating treatment.
Subclass:
260
By liquid flow modifying or mechanical agitating:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which the gas is removed from the liquid by mixing, stirring,
or turbulating by contact with a solid member or the flow
path of the liquid is altered.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
185 for contacting a gas with a liquid and degasifying the
contact liquid by liquid flow modifying or mechanical
agitating.
subclasses 248+ and 252, for plural successive liquid
degassing treatments which include liquid flow modifying.
Subclass:
261
Centrifugal force:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Process in
which the gas is removed from the liquid by the effect of
centrifugal action which causes the liquid with gas entrained
therein to assume a rapid arcuate or circular movement.
Subclass:
262
Impinging on baffle:
This subclass is indented under subclass 260. Process in
which the gas is removed from the liquid by causing the
liquid with gas entrained therein to contact a solid surface
in the flow path of the process in order to redirect or alter
the flow path and to cause separation of the gas from the
liquid.
Subclass:
263
By stripping with gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which the gas is removed from the liquid by passing a gas
through or in contact with the liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
83 and 84, for processes of eluting or displacing separated
constituents from a chromatos:graphic column comprising a
liquid solvent on a solid base.
subclasses 159+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
the contact liquid by stripping with gas.
subclasses 245+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include stripping with a gas.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 202+ for
degasifying means for liquid with gas contacting means.
Subclass:
264
Steam is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Process in
which the stripping gas is steam.
Subclass:
265
Nitrogen is stripping gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 263. Process in
which the stripping gas is nitrogen (N[subscrpt]2[end
subscrpt]).
Subclass:
266
By reduction of pressure (e.g., flashing, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 241. Process in
which the gas is removed from the liquid by decreasing the
pressure acting on the liquid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 160+ for processes of liquid contacting and
degasification of liquid by stripping with gas in which there
is reduction of pressure.
subclasses 172+ for liquid contacting and degasification of
liquid by reduction of pressure.
subclasses 247+ for plural successive liquid degassing
treatments which include reduction of pressure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclasses 193+ for
degasifying means for liquid of the pressure reducing type.
Subclass:
267
DEFLECTING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which solid or liquid particles are removed from a gas by
causing the gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein (a) to contact a solid surface to effect an abrupt
change in direction of the gas which (i) causes the solid or
liquid particles to drop out and remain behind while the gas
flows on or (ii) causes the solid or liquid particles to move
to the outer periphery of a rotating gas stream in a
concentrated layer to permit such layer to be separated from
the gas with fewer or no entrained particles or (b) to
contact a gas stream to effect an abrupt change in direction
of the gas which causes the solid or liquid particles to drop
out and remain behind while the gas flows on.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 31+ for processes of separating a plurality of
gases into constituent parts by making use of differences in
molecular velocity, density, or momentum of gases.
198 for processes of contacting a gas with a liquid and
deflection to remove liquid from gas with recycle of contact
liquid.
subclasses 216+ for processes of contacting a gas with a
liquid and deflection.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 434+ for deflectors.
Subclass:
268
And filtering:
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Process in
which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained therein
is passed through a foraminous or porous mass which separates
the solid or liquid particles from the gas by entrapment and
retention while permitting the gaseous or vaporous
constituents to pass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 273+ for filtering without deflection.
Subclass:
269
Centrifugal force:
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Process in
which the solid or liquid particles are removed from the gas
by the effect of centrifugal action causing the gas and the
solid or liquid particles entrained therein to assume a rapid
arcuate or circular movement, with this movement causing the
constituents of the mixture to separate into more or less
distinct layers, depending upon the density of the
constituents.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 34+ for processes of separating a plurality of
gases into constituent parts by making use of centrifugal
force.
Subclass:
270
Created by rotating equipment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 269. Process in
which the centrifugal force is caused by a rotating element
moving around an axis.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
35 for processes of separating a plurality of gases into
constituent parts by making use of centrifugal force in
rotating equipment.
Subclass:
271
Tangential gas inflow (e.g., cyclone, etc.):
This subclass is indented under subclass 269. Process in
which the gas enters deflecting apparatus in a path other
than one that intersects or is parallel to the longitudinal
axis of the apparatus.
Subclass:
272
Tortuous flow path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 267. Process in
which the gas passes through an apparatus in a path that is
repeatedly turned or bent.
Subclass:
273
FILTERING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which a gas and solid or liquid particles entrained
therein are passed through a foraminous or porous mass which
separates the solid or liquid particles from the gas by
entrapment and retention while permitting the gaseous or
vaporous constituents to pass through; and subcombinations of
gas filtration processes that do not result in separation
(e.g., cleaning of a filter, etc.) when the subcombinations
are not provided for elsewhere.
(1) Note. A filter (particulate solids or other) has no
"chemical" affinity for a constituent of a fluid mixture. The
separation in the case of a filter depends on a mechanical
entrapment of solid or liquid particles because of their
relatively large size compared with the interstices or spaces
between individual elements of the filter. The retained
particles can be removed by brushing, wiping, shaking, or
similar mechanical action.
A solid sorbent is a solid material which separates a
constituent (e.g., a gas, vapor, etc.) from a fluid mixture
containing such constituents in a "quasi-chemical" manner.
The action in most instances is that of selective retention
(i.e., the sorbent removes only the part of the fluid mixture
for which it has the greatest affinity). The retained
constituent cannot be removed by shaking, brushing, or
similar mechanical action, but generally can be removed by
heating, pressure reduction, or use of a stripping or
denuding fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 214+ for processes of contacting a gas with a
liquid and filtration of the gas.
268 for processes of filtering with deflection.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, appropriate subclasses for filters.
Subclass:
274
Through particulate solids:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the mass comprises a plurality of small, distinct,
separate, nonfilamentous solids.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 512+ for filtering apparatus
including means for securing or retaining a mass of
particulate solids during use as a filter medium.
Subclass:
275
Moving bed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Process in
which a bed of solid particles is constantly in motion during
the separation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 474 for apparatus in which a
bed of particulate solids is agitated or caused to be moved
to different zones during normal use thereof.
Subclass:
276
With cleaning of filter bed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 274. Process in
which the separated solid or liquid particles are removed
from the particulate solids.
Subclass:
277
Moving filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the filter is in motion during the separation.
Subclass:
278
With cleaning of filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the separated solid or liquid particles are removed
from the filter.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 301+ for cohesive filter
cleaning means.
Subclass:
279
By use of gas:
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in
which the separated solid or liquid particles are removed
from the filter by contacting the filter with a gas, usually
in a direction opposite that of the process fluid flow during
separation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 302+ for cohesive filter
cleaning means using pneumatic reverse flushing.
Subclass:
280
Pulsed gas flow:
This subclass is indented under subclass 279. Process in
which the pressure of the gas that contacts the filter in
order to remove the separated solid or liquid particles
increases and decreases periodically.
Subclass:
281
By use of liquid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in
which the separated solid or liquid particles are removed
from the filter by contacting the filter with a liquid,
usually in a direction opposite that of the process fluid
flow during separation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 233 for gas
separation apparatus having means using liquid to clean a
filter.
Subclass:
282
By mechanical manipulation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 278. Process in
which the separated solid or liquid particles are removed
from the filter by effecting filter motion or a relative
movement among portions thereof whereby accumulations are
removed or prevented.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 304+ for cohesive filter
cleaning means using filter manipulation.
Subclass:
283
With heating of filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the filter is heated.
Subclass:
284
And reduction of pressure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the pressure acting in the process is decreased.
Subclass:
285
Coated or chemically treated filter:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which the filter is coated or in which the filter is treated
with a chemical before its use for filtration.
Subclass:
286
Plural separate media:
This subclass is indented under subclass 273. Process in
which at least two filters that are spaced apart are used.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclasses 482+ for two or more spaced
filters in a flow line or casing.
Subclass:
287
In series:
This subclass is indented under subclass 286. Process in
which the filters are placed one after the other in
succession.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 485 for three or more serially
spaced filters.
Subclass:
288
HEAT EXCHANGING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
in which there is transfer of heat.
(1) Note. The heat transfer steps must be part of a larger
process containing subject matter for Class 95. If the only
separation involved is conducted by indirect heat transfer
steps, then classification in Class 165 is proper. However,
Class 95 does take cold wall-hot wall thermal diffusion and
condensing a constituent of a gas to the solid state.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
62, Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for specialized
refrigeration arrangements. See the class definition of Class
95 for an amplification of the line.
165, Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses for heat exchange
apparatus or processes. See the class definition of Class 95
for an amplification of the line.
Subclass:
289
Cold wall-hot wall thermal diffusion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 288. Process in
which the separation occurs by contacting the plurality of
gases with plural surfaces of different temperatures to cause
migration of gaseous constituents to one surface or another.
(1) Note. This subclass takes specific refrigerating steps
for maintaining the cooler wall at the lower temperature.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
96, Gas Separation: Apparatus, subclass 221 for
corresponding apparatus. Patents are not cross-referenced
from Class 96, subclass 221 to this subclass based only on
disclosure. Therefore, relevant disclosures of gas
separation processes may be found in the apparatus area.
Subclass:
290
Condensing to solid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 288. Process in
which the separated constituent is caused to pass to the
solid state.
Subclass:
291
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Process
not otherwise provided for above.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
The following subclasses represent a collection of patents
found elsewhere in the classification of this class, but
merit isolation for aid in searching certain concepts which
do not form appropriate bases for the placement of original
patents. These concepts are as given in the titles and
definitions of the subclasses listed hereunder.
The cross-reference patents contained in these collections
may be of further assistance to the searcher, either as a
starting point in searching this class or as an indication of
further related fields of search inside or outside the class.
Thus, there is provided here a further path of access for
retrieval of a limited number of types of disclosure.
(1) Note. Disclosures are placed in these subclasses for
their value as references and as leads to appropriate main or
secondary fields of search, without regard to their original
classification or their claimed subject matter.
(2) Note. The disclosures found in the following subclasses
are only examples of the indicated subject matter, and in no
instance do they represent the entire extent of the prior
art.
Subclass:
900
SOLID SORBENT:
Solid sorbent as provided for use in this class in which
particular details are disclosed about the solid sorbent.
(1) Note. Merely stating that a solid sorbent, activated
carbon (C), or molecular sieve is used is insufficient to
cause a patent to be placed here.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
502, Catalyst, Solid Sorbent, or Support Therefor: Product or
Process of Making, for solid sorbents.
Subclass:
901
Activated carbon:
This subclass is indented under subclass 900. Solid sorbent
as provided for use in this class in which particular details
are disclosed about the activated carbon (C), which is a
highly absorbent carbon obtained by heating granulated
charcoal, obtained from vegetable matter, to exhaust
contained gases.
Subclass:
902
Molecular sieve:
This subclass is indented under subclass 900. Solid sorbent
as provided for use in this class in which particular details
are disclosed about the molecular sieve which is usually a
natural or synthetic metal aluminum silicate.
(1) Note. The separation is similar to filtration in that
the interstices of the molecular sieve particle accept and
retain only those molecules which are smaller in size than
the interstices.
Subclass:
903
Carbon:
This subclass is indented under subclass 902. Solid sorbent
as provided for use in this class in which the molecular
sieve material is carbon (C).
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000