Converter system esp. for recovering usable materials from waste - has treatment chamber through which waste is conveyed to undergo thermal decomposition in absence of air

摘要

A continuous converter system includes a heated treatment chamber through which organic, pseudo-organic (e.g. silicone) and/or inorganic materials, particularly waste materials, are transported on the upper flight of an endless conveyor to undergo thermal decomposition in the absence of air. Conical sumps are spaced along the base of the chamber and communicate via conduits with respective collection containers located externally of the chamber to receive liquid decomposition products. The upper portions of the containers communicate with a manifold connected via a condenser and serial scrubbers with a pump which draws vapors and gases from the chamber at a rate selected to maintain an above-atmospheric pressure in the chamber. Spent material leaving the chamber on the conveyor is collected and cooled in a further container.