Importance

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Abstract

Disclosed are methods and apparatus for the controlled heating and utilization of fluids by the use of vapor generators of the kind in which a flowing fuel/air mixture is combusted for heating a stream of feedwater to produce a stream of steam and non-condensibles, preferably at low pressure. The hot stream is then heat exchanged with a stream of the fluid desired to be heated and utilized, to heat it to the level desired for use, including partly or completely vaporizing it, if the use so requires. The fluid may be divided into two or more streams during the heat exchange, with different amounts of heat delivered into each stream. Preferably, the heat exchange is so conducted as to condense the steam from the stream of steam and non-condensibles, and the condensate so formed is selectively recycled to the vapor generator as feedwater. Also, disclosed are means for incorporating a feedback control network including remotely actuatable valves, temperature sensors and related feedback devices for utilizing the steam of heated fluid for commercial heating of petroleum reservoirs and pipelines as well as comfort heating of living spaces.

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First Claim