WO2008113069A2

WO2008113069A2 - Cleaning system and method of use

Info

Publication number: WO2008113069A2
Application number: PCT/US2008/057211
Authority: WO
Inventors: David B. Gregory
Original assignee: Johnsondiversey Inc.
Priority date: 2007-03-15
Filing date: 2008-03-17
Publication date: 2008-09-18
Also published as: WO2008113069A3

Abstract

An apparatus for cleaning an inner surface of a container is provided. In some embodiments, the apparatus comprises a lid that carries a fluid dispenser and is removably supported on an opening in container having an inner surface to be cleaned. The lid can support the fluid dispenser in a position within the container to be cleaned. Two filters can be connectable in parallel between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser. A flow diverter can be connected between the fluid source and respective inlets of the first and second filters, and can be operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets of the first and second filters so that the other of the filters can be serviced without interrupting a cleaning process.

Description

CLEANING SYSTEM AND METHOD OF USE

REFERENCE TO CO-PENDING APPLICATION

[001] This is a continuation in part of co-pending U.S. Patent Application Serial No.

1 1/803,459 filed on May 15, 2007, which is a divisional of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 1 1/476,453 filed on June 28, 2006 and issued as U.S. Patent No. 7,264,009 on September 4, 2007, which is a divisional of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 10/994,562 filed November 22, 2004 and issued as U.S. Patent No. 7,159,598 on January 9, 2007, and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 60/523,554, filed November 20, 2003 and U.S. Provisional Patent App. No. 60/918,300 filed on March 15, 2007. The entire contents of each of these previously-filed patent applications is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

[002] This invention relates generally to cleaning apparatii, and more particularly to cleaning apparatii and their method of use for dispensing fluid under pressure onto a surface or surfaces being cleaned.

2. Related Art

[003] Generally, large containers, such as rail car tanks for example, or other vessels used in transporting, mixing, or storing liquids, often accumulate a build-up of material on interior surfaces over time. This is particularly troublesome with solutions prone to build-up on surfaces in the form of solids, sludges, and slimes, such as occurs with latex, silicone, enamel, and the like. To avoid contamination, when the particular liquid is emptied from the container, it is often necessary to clean the container prior to reusing the container. In many cases, cleaning the container involves one or more persons climbing into the container and utilizing an extremely high pressure, e.g. 20,000-40,000 psi, power wash hose to remove the build-up from the container surfaces. Generally, each person cleaning the container is capable of cleaning a single surface at any given moment in time. Using high pressure hoses to clean interior container surfaces is not only time consuming, and thus, costly, but it can prove hazardous if the person comes in contact with the high pressure jet stream. In addition, the person within the container must often take proper precautions to avoid exposure to potentially hazardous chemicals and dangers of working in a confined space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[004] In some embodiments, a cleaning apparatus is provided for cleaning an inner surface of a container, wherein the apparatus comprises a fluid dispenser in operable fluid communication with a fluid source and configured to disperse fluid received from the fluid source. A lid can be provided to carry the fluid dispenser, and can be configured to be removably supported on a container having an inner surface to be cleaned. The lid can be further configured to support the fluid dispenser in a position within the container to be cleaned. In some embodiments, the apparatus also includes a first filter connectable in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser, and configured to filter fluid to be dispersed through the fluid dispenser. A second filter can be connectable in parallel with the first filter in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser, and can be configured to filter fluid to be dispersed through the fluid dispenser. Also in some embodiments, a flow diverter is connected between the fluid source and respective inlets of the first and second filters, and is operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets of the first and second filters so that the other of the filters can be serviced without interrupting a cleaning process. [005] Also provided is a method of servicing a filter while cleaning an inner surface of a container. In some embodiments, the method includes providing a cleaning apparatus comprising a first filter connectable in operable fluid communication between a source of pressurized fluid and a fluid dispenser, a second filter connectable in parallel with the first filter in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser, a flow diverter connected between the fluid source and respective inlets of the first and second filters and operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets of the first and second filters; and a lid carrying the fluid dispenser. The method can further include removably supporting the lid on a container to be cleaned such that the fluid dispenser is positioned within the container to be cleaned, providing pressurized liquid cleaner solution to the fluid dispenser through the first filter, dispensing the liquid cleaner solution into the container through the fluid dispenser, actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow away from the first filter inlet, servicing the first filter, and actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow back to the first filter inlet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[006] Some of the potential objects, features and advantages of the at least some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the presently preferred embodiments and best mode, appended claims and accompanying drawings, in which:

[007] Figures IA- IE are schematic diagrams representing a cleaning system according to one embodiment of the invention;

[008] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a pump apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention;

[009] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 2; [0010] Figure 4 is a side view of the apparatus of Figure 2;

[0011] Figure 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a spray nozzle assembly according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0012] Figure 6 is a schematic control diagram for one embodiment of the cleaning apparatus system of the invention;

[0013] Figure 7 is another schematic control diagram showing another embodiment of the cleaning apparatus;

[0014] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a double-filter assembly according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0015] Figure 9 is a partial cross-sectional side view of one of the filters of the double-filter assembly of Figure 8;

[0016] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a filter basket partially inserted into a filter canister of one of the filters of the double-filter assembly of Figure 8;

[0017] Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of the filter basket of Figure 10 seated within the filter canister of Figure 10;

[0018] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a filter sock of one of the filters of the double-filter assembly of Figure 8, shown partially inserted into the filter basket of Figure 10; and

[0019] .Figure 13 is a perspective view of the filter sock of Figure 12 fully seated within the filter basket of Figure 10, and the filter basket of Figure 10 shown fully seated within the filter canister of Figure 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Before any embodiments of the present invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, "connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. Also, all percentages specified herein are by volume, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0021] It also is understood that any numerical range recited herein includes all values from the lower value to the upper value. For example, if a concentration range is stated as 1% to 50%, it is intended that values such as 2% to 40%, 10% to 30%, or 1% to 3%, etc., are expressly enumerated in this specification. These are only examples of what is specifically intended, and all possible combinations of numerical values between and including the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application.

[0022] Some embodiments of the present invention relate to surfactant penetrant cleaner solutions (hereinafter "the cleaner solutions") and their use in cleaning apparatii. In this regard, some embodiments of the present invention can provide exceptional (and in some cases surprising) results in conjunction with the two types of cleaner solutions described immediately below. In some embodiments, the cleaner solutions are environmentally friendly, non-hazardous and pH neutral. The cleaner solutions can be used to clean the internal and external surfaces of machinery, including, without limitation, rail cars and other containers as described herein.

[0023] The cleaner solutions of the present invention include two types. The first type is an enzymatic surfactant penetrant cleaner solution (hereinafter "the enzymatic solution") and the second is a defoaming surfactant penetrant cleaner solution (hereinafter "the defoaming solution"). [0024] The Enzymatic Solution

[0025] The enzymatic solution can be produced as a base aqueous mixture having substantially no anti -bacterial activity. The enzymatic solution comprises a surfactant- penetrant-releasing agent and an enzymatic agent. The surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent acts at least in part to inhibit harm to a typical biomass wastewater treatment system by preventing the biomass from being smothered by oil, grease and fat waste. Surfactant- penetrant-releasing agents comprise a surfactant-solvent, a binder-thickener, a penetrant or detergent, and water. In some embodiments, the surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent comprises about 2.3% to about 2.4% N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (surfactant-solvent), about 0.2% to about 0.4% ethoxylated octylphenol (binder-thickener), about 1.5% to about 1.6% texanol (penetrant or detergent), and the balance water. A commercially available surfactant- penetrant-releasing agent includes Renew Systems' Aqueous ReActivator" (available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay, City, Michigan). In some embodiments, Renew Systems' Decontaminator^{1 M} (also available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay City, Michigan) may be added to the surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent to soften the chemistry of the surfactant- penetrant-releasing agent. [0026] The enzymatic agent may contain one or more enzymes in an enzyme protectant stabilizer solution comprising water and propylene glycol (e.g., 1.8-1.9%), or the like. The term enzyme is intended herein to include the well-known complex proteins produced by living cells of high molecular weight and consisting of multiple amino acids combined in a characteristic sterically-oriented structure and newer and genetically engineered enzyme compositions. A variety of basic enzyme types may include hydrolases, isomerases, ligases, lyases, oxidoreductases, and transferases. More specifically, the enzyme may come from the fermentation of a strain of Baccilus licheniformis. Examples of suitable enzymes include lipase, alpha-amylase, protease (1.8-1.9%), or the like, or a mix thereof. A commercially available enzymatic agent includes Renew Systems' Xzyme^® (available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay City, Michigan). The percentage of enzymes by volume used in the aqueous enzymatic solution may be in the range of about 0.01% to about 3% by volume. [0027] The enzymatic solution can be made by mixing the surfactant-penetrant- releasing agent with the enzymatic agent in a volume ratio of about 8 to about 10 parts surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent to 1 part enzymatic agent. In some embodiments, the enzymatic solution is made by mixing about 9 parts surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent to 1 part enzymatic agent. In another embodiment, the enzymatic solution is made by mixing about 10 parts surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent to 1 part enzymatic agent. The resulting enzymatic solution can be blended for about two hours, after which turbidity and pH measurements are taken. The pH is desirably maintained in a neutral pH range such as about 5 to about 8 on the pH scale. If the pH is not within the neutral range, a basic solution, such as an aqueous solution of sodium borate (NaBO₄), may be used to raise the pH of the enzymatic solution, and an acidic solution, such as an aqueous solution of citric acid or hydrochloric acid, may be used to reduce the pH of the enzymatic solution. A commercially available enzymatic solution includes Renew Systems' Silzyme" (available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay City, Michigan). The enzymatic solution may be diluted with water to provide from about 0.065% to about 50%, preferably from about 10% to about 30%, and more preferably about 20% enzymatic solution before use. [0028] The Defoaming Solution

[0029] The defoaming solution comprises the surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent described above and a defoaming (or anti-foaming) agent. The defoaming agent may comprise silicone emulsions and stabilizers and may be used to reduce the foaming due to proteins, gases, surfactants or soaps, and nitrogenous materials that may interfere with processing. Examples of defoaming agents include 2-octanol, sulfonated oils, organic phosphates, silicone fluids, methylpolysiloxane, and combinations thereof. A commercially available defoaming agent includes Foam Out" (available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay City, Michigan).

[0030] The defoaming solution can be made by mixing the surfactant-penetrant- releasing agent with the defoaming agent in a volume ratio of at least about 98 parts surfactant-penetrant-releasing agent to about 2 parts defoaming agent. The resulting defoaming solution can be blended for about two hours, after which turbidity and pH measurements are taken. The pH is desirably maintained in a neutral pH range such as about 5 to about 8 on the pH scale. If the pH is not within the neutral range, a basic solution, such as an aqueous solution of sodium borate (NaBO₄), may be used to raise the pH of the defoaming solution, and an acidic solution, such as an aqueous solution of citric acid or hydrochloric acid, may be used to reduce the pH of the defoaming solution. A commercially available defoaming solution includes Renew Systems' NuFiber™ (available from Renew Systems, Inc. in Bay City, Michigan).

[0031] Referring in more detail to the drawings, Figures IA- IE illustrate a cleaning apparatus 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The cleaning apparatus 10 is generally suitable for cleaning interior and/or exterior surfaces as desired, and is shown here, by way of example and without limitation, being used to clean an inner surface 12 of a rail tank car 14. The cleaning apparatus 10 can be used to clean an inner and/or outer surface of any tank, vessel, or other container, pipe, or the like. In some embodiments, the cleaning apparatus 10 allows the illustrated rail tank car 14 to be cleaned in the absence of a person being present inside the tank car 14, thereby eliminating potential sources of hazard to a person, such as being exposed to an extremely high pressure jet stream of liquid, e.g., 20,000- 40,000 psi, or being exposed to toxic chemicals. In addition, the cleaning apparatus 10 can greatly reduce the amount of water consumed during the cleaning process, thus reducing the associated costs for cleaning the rail tank car 14.

[0032] In Figure IA, the rail tank car 14 is shown having an enzymatic cleaner solution 1 1 dispensed therein after being drawn from a fluid source 13 containing the cleaner solution 11. In some embodiments, the cleaner solution 1 1 is Silzyme®. Other cleaner solutions may be used with the cleaning apparatus 10, such as, by way of example, and without limitations, Aqueous Reactivator ™, Xzyme ™, and Decontaminator ™, all available from ReNew Systems, Inc.

[0033] Preferably, about 500 to 1500 gallons of the cleaner solution 11 are dispensed into the rail tank car 14, when the rail tank car 14 generally has a 22,000 gallon tank capacity. Any suitable pump, such as a fluid pump 76 of the cleaning apparatus 10 (see Figs. 3, 6, and 7) may be used to dispense the cleaner solution 1 1 through an opening 16 in the rail tank car 14. In other words, the cleaning apparatus 10 includes a fluid pump 76 that is usable as a transfer pump.

[0034] As shown in Figure IB, upon dispensing the desired amount of cleaner solution 1 1 into the rail car 14, a fluid dispenser 19 including a first spray head 18, referred to hereafter as a misting head 18, is disposed within the rail car 14 to disperse a fine mist of the cleaner solution within the rail car in a soaking or misting procedure and to create a pool 17 of the cleaner solution 11 within the tank as shown in Figures IB and 1C. As is also shown in Figures IB and 1C, the misting head 18 can be disposed above the pool 17 of cleaner solution 1 1. One embodiment of the misting head 18 is readily available from Auto Jet Technologies, a division of Spraying Systems Company of Wheaton, Illinois, U.S.A., under model number 8050. The illustrated misting head 18 is in operable fluid communication with the pool 17 of cleaner solution 11 in a bottom portion 20 of the rail car 14, and in some embodiments a sump pump 22 is used to pump the cleaning fluid 11 from the pool 17 of cleaner solution 11 through a fluid line 24 to the misting head 18 in a recirculatory fashion to issue fine droplets on the order of a micron or less in diameter. In other words, the pool 17 of cleaner solution 1 1 serves as the fluid source 13. To facilitate creating a closed-loop environment, the misting head 18 and the sump pump 22 can be attached to a flange mount or lid 26 and depend therefrom into the rail car 14. The lid 26 can be sized to create a liquid-tight seal with the opening 16 in the rail car 14. The recirculatory, closed-loop flow of the cleaning fluid 1 1 is best shown in Figures IB, 1C, and schematically in Figures 6, and 7.

[0035] In some embodiments, the dispenser misting head 18 has a plurality of spray nozzles 28 for dispensing the cleaner solution 1 1 in spray mist 30 over a 360 degree circular spray pattern. A fog like atmosphere created by the fine spray mist 30 of cleaner solution 1 1 can cause the inner surface 12 of the tank above the pool 17 of cleaner solution 1 1 to be completely covered with the cleaner solution 1 1 as shown in Figures IB and 1C. Depending on the severity of the cleaning required, the recirculatory misting procedure can continue in a soaking step between about 2-16 hours in some embodiments, or between about 6-10 hours, as needed. Some dwell time before other processing may also be incorporated in the soaking step, in which case the temperature at the interior surface can be substantially maintained. It should be recognized that the misting procedure does not require the continued presence of a person, and that it can be left under automated controls, including timers for turning on and off the pump 22, and the like.

[0036] To facilitate cleaning efficacy, a heat source and/or atomizer, such as, by way of example and without limitation, a steam line or combination air/steam line 32, can be connected to the misting head 18 to communicate steam and/or air under pressure with the cleaner solution 1 1 to heat and/or atomize the cleaner solution as it is being dispensed from the spray nozzles 28. When cleaning a latex or similar composition, the cleaner solution 1 1 can be heated to a temperature between about 145-160 degrees Fahrenheit (F) to ultimately bring the temperature of the fog inside the rail car 14 to a temperature between about 145 and 160 degrees (F). Upon the cleaner solution and the tank interior wall surface reaching the upper temperature limit (e.g., 160 (F)), with the fog filling the tank, the steam can be shut off, and thereafter the pressure of the air alone can be used to disperse the recirculating heated cleaner solution from the misting head 18. It should be recognized the heating temperature may be other than as described above, for example, if cleaning a silicone or foods, by way of example and without limitation, the temperature could be lower, such as about 120 degrees

(F).

[0037] Upon completion of the misting procedure described above, as shown in

Figure 1C, a second spray head of the fluid dispenser 19, referred to hereafter as a jet stream head 34, may be supported above the pool 17 of liquid cleaner solution 11 and used to dispense the cleaner solution 1 1 in a high pressure stream to impinge the inner surface 12 of the rail car 14 in a washing or blasting procedure. The cleaner solution in this illustrated embodiment is withdrawn via drain line 58 and furnished to the jet head 34 in a manner which presently will be described in detail. Depending on the severity of cleaning required, the washing procedure can be generally performed between about 4-16 hours. The misting head 18 can still be used in conjunction with the jet stream head 34, as shown in Figure 1C, if desired. In some embodiments, the jet stream head 34 is in operable fluid communication with the pool 17 of cleaner solution 11 in the rail car 14 in a recirculatory mode, as shown in Figure 1C, though the jet stream head 34 could be arranged for fluid communication with a different source 13 of cleaner solution external to the rail car 14, such as if the particulate material being removed required it. The jet stream head 34 may also be obtained from the Auto Jet Technologies division previously mentioned. To facilitate creating a liquid tight sealed environment, the jet stream head 34 can be attached to the lid 26 and can depend therefrom a predetermined distance into the rail car 14. The jet stream head 34 can also be movably supported to allow cleaner solution to be dispensed in different directions within the rail car 14. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the jet stream head 34 is pivotally supported via a liquid tight ball joint 36 so it can be oriented as desired within the rail car 14. Additionally, a liquid tight compression sleeve 38 is used in the illustrated embodiment to allow the jet stream head 34 to be raised and lowered within the rail car 14 as necessary to position the jet stream head 34 to the desired height within the rail car 14. [0038] The jet stream head 34 can be operably connected to an air line 40 (Figure

1 C), wherein the air line 40 channels pressurized air provided by an air motor or compressor 42, with an air pressure resulting in some embodiments between 5-20 psi. The pressurized air causes a spray nozzle or nozzles 44 of the jet stream head 34 in the illustrated embodiment to rotate so that the entire inner surface 12 of the rail car 14 is impinged by the high pressure stream over a time, for example, of about 10-45 minutes. To facilitate a balanced 360 degree rotation of the spray nozzle 44, a counterweight 46 or second spray nozzle can be attached to the jet stream head 34 opposite the spray nozzle 44 so the spray nozzle 44 or nozzles rotate about a centroid 45 of the jet stream head 34.

[0039] As shown in Figure 5, to facilitate creating the high pressure stream, the illustrated spray nozzle 44 has a barrel 48 with a rifled or helical inner groove 50. In some embodiments, the helical groove 50 makes a complete 360 degree turn between about 4-9 times per foot, such that the cleaner solution 1 1 dispensed under pressure though the spray nozzle 44 takes on a vortical stream pattern to facilitate maintaining a relatively high momentum upon impacting the inner surface 12 of the rail car 14. Also in some embodiments, the jet stream head 34 is generally capable of dispensing the cleaner solution 11 radially outwardly about 40 feet with considerable force, thereby rendering the jet stream head 34 capable of cleaning a tank having an inner span or diameter of about 80 feet. The jet stream can be dispensed under a pressure generally between 500-2000 psi, while consuming generally between 3-45 gpm of solution from the source 13 of fluid supply, whether it be from the rail car 14 being cleaned in a recirculation mode of operation, i.e., from the pool 17 of cleaner solution 1 1 , or from a separate container external to the rail car 14. Depending on the nature of the cleaning being performed, other types and models of spray nozzle assemblies may be used in place of the misting head 18 and the jet stream head 34, as desired. [0040] In some embodiments, the jet stream head 34 is attached in a closed loop to a pump assembly, such as that represented generally at 52 in Figures 2-4. The pump assembly 52 can have at least one, and shown here as a pair, of hoses 54, 56, with one of the hoses 54 being arranged for fluid communication with the misting head 18, and the other of the hoses 56 being arranged for fluid communication with the jet stream head 34. As such, the pair of hose lines 54, 56 facilitates cleaning at least one or more surfaces with the same cleaning apparatus 10 at the same time. The return hose 58 can be connected to a lower most portion of the rail car 14 so the cleaner solution 1 1 can be routed with the assistance of gravity to the pump assembly 52.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, a filter 60 capable of filtering out sediment greater in size than about 5-10 microns is incorporated in line with the return line 58 to remove sediment from the cleaner solution before the cleaning solution returns to the pump assembly 52. The filter 60 can remove contaminants that might otherwise clog the spray heads, and allows the spray heads to be designed to produce smaller droplets of fluid than would otherwise be possible.

[0042] By way of example, and without limitation, the filter 60 can be provided in a

55 gallon drum and be constructed to be an intentional "weak link" in the system. Accordingly, if the pump assembly 52 is being starved of fluid, or if some other problem arises in the flow of fluid throughout the cleaning apparatus 10, the drum can be designed to collapse and shut down the apparatus 10, thereby minimizing or eliminating any damage to other components within the apparatus 10.

[0043] Upon completion of the washing procedure, as shown in Figure ID, a rinsing procedure can be performed by directing water or other mild rinse solution via the pump assembly 52 to the jet spray head 34. The rinsing procedure may include a first rinse using a defoamer such as FoamOut® available from ReNew Systems. This defoaming rinse step may be followed by one or more additional rinse steps such as a sanitizing rinse. The water (or other rinse solution) from the jet spray head 34 impinges the inner surface 12 of the rail car 14, as described above, and the resulting flow of water can be routed via the return hose 58 to a drain or collection area. It should be recognized that rather than using gravitational assistance to allow the cleaner solution and water to flow from the rail car 14 via the return hose 58, a pump (not shown) could be used in combination with gravity, or solely, such as in cases where the tank being cleaned is below ground, or otherwise in a position rendering gravitational assistance impossible.

[0044] Upon completing the rinsing procedure, as shown in Figure I E, the rail car 14 can be inspected, such as with a camera 62 disposed within the rail car 14 along with suitable lighting, or by a person. If the inspection shows any residue, a standard power hose can be used to spot clean the inner surface 12 of the rail car 14. [0045] The pump assembly 52, as shown in Figures 2-4 constructed according to one embodiment of the invention, has a frame 64 supported on a pair of front and rear casters 66, 67 to facilitate moving the pump assembly 52 from one location to another to increase its usefulness. The casters 66, 67 can be lockable to prevent movement of the pump assembly 52 while in use, and otherwise unlockable to allow the pump assembly 52 to be transported on the casters 66, 67. Desirably, at least one pair of casters 67 can be pivotal to facilitate turning the pump assembly 52.

[0046] The illustrated frame 64 has a top surface 68 supported by a plurality of upright supports 70 extending upwardly from a base 72 and defining a space between the base 72 and the top surface 68. Within the illustrated space, as best shown in Figure 3, a motor 74 and a pump 76 are carried in operable communication with one another on the base 72. The motor 74 is represented here, for example and without limitation, as a General Electric Model No. S245, having the following specifications: 15hp, 230/460 VAC 3 phase, 60hz, and a 254 T frame. The pump 76 is represented, for example and without limitation, as a Cat Triplex plunger, with a 316 stainless steel manifold. This pump 76 can deliver 800psi at 27 gallons per minute (gpm), has a 42amp current draw, requires 4 inches of head minimum, and generally requires 35 gpm of fluid to be available. It should be recognized that other motors and pumps may be used, such as, by way of example and without limitation, a 25hp motor and a pump delivering 150psi at 78 gpm, for example.

[0047] The pump 76 in the illustrated embodiment has an inlet connector 78 (Figures

2 and 3) with a pair of inlet openings 80, 81 , with one of the openings 80 being arranged for connection to a supply hose (such as the return hose 58) providing fluid communication in a recirculation mode with the fluid in the rail car tank 14 being cleaned (Figures IA- IE, 6 and 7), or with a separate container of solution 83, for example, cleaner solutions available from ReNew Systems, Inc., for directing the solution into the pump 76 and through an outlet 82 (Figures 3, 6 and 7) of the pump 76. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, an outlet fluid line or conduit 84 in the illustrated embodiment extends from the outlet 82 to a bifurcated junction 86 where the conduit 84 diverges into two separate output conduits 88, 89. As shown in Figures 4, 6 and 7, each separate conduit 88, 89 in the illustrated embodiment has a manually or electrically operated valve, represented here, for example, as ball valves 90, 92 for operably turning the flow of fluid through the separate output conduits 88, 89 on or off, as desired.

[0048] To prevent unwanted pressure buildup in the outlet conduit 84, a pressure regulating valve 94 can be inserted between the junction 86 and the outlet 82 of the pump 76. The pressure regulating valve 94 can be in fluid communication with a bypass conduit 96, wherein the bypass conduit 96 redirects fluid back to the inlet opening 81 of the inlet connector 78. To provide an operator with a precise pressure reading, a pressure gauge 98 can be attached to the outlet conduit 84 between the pressure regulating valve 94 and the outlet 82 of the pump 76. It should be recognized that the pressure regulating valve 94 is preferably adjustable to regulate the pressure through the pressure regulating valve 94. Accordingly, an operator can adjust the amount of fluid pressure traveling to the pair of output conduits 88, 89 downstream of the pressure regulating valve 94. [0049] Referring again to Figure 2 of the illustrated embodiment, a control module

100 is carried by the frame 64, such as by being attached to one or more of the upright supports 70. The control module 100 can have a power cord with a plug adaptor constructed for attachment to a power supply, such as a 220, 240, or 480V power supply. The control module 100 can be in electrical communication via a wire harness with the motor 74 and the pump 76. In some embodiments, the control module 100 allows an operator to adjust the speed of the motor 74, and thus, the gpm of fluid output of the pump 76. [0050] As shown in Figures 2 and 4 of the illustrated embodiment, a pair of hose reels

104, 105 is rotatably carried by the frame 64, such as by being supported on the top surface 68 of the frame 64. Each hose reel 104, 105 has a separate one of the hose lines 54, 56 coiled about a separate hollowed axle (Figure 3) with an end (not shown) of each hose line 54, 56 attached in fluid communication with a separate one of the hollowed axles. Each axle can be supported by a pair of bearing blocks. Each of the pair of output conduits 88, 89 is attached in fluid communication with a separate one of the hose lines 54, 56 via the hollowed axles at a separate inlet port 106 in each of the separate axles. Accordingly, with the valves 90, 92 in their open or on position, fluid is free to flow through the output conduits 88, 89, through the hollowed axles, and through the separate hose lines 54, 56. It should be recognized that one or both of the hose lines 54, 56 may be used, depending on whether one or both of the valves 90, 92 is in the on or off position, as desired.

[0051] In Figure 6, a schematic diagram shows an embodiment of the cleaning apparatus 10 utilizing both of the hose lines 54, 56 for dispensing the cleaner solution 11 from the misting head 18 and jet stream head 34. As mentioned above, depending on the application of the cleaning apparatus 10, any suitable spray nozzle may be attached to the ends of the hose lines 54, 56. Accordingly, while an operator attaches one of the misting head 18 or jet stream head 34 to one hose line 54 to clean the inner surface 12 of the tank 14, a separate spray nozzle (not shown) may be attached to the other hose line 56 to spray an external surface of the tank 14, or some other surface, as desired. This is particularly useful when cleaning tanker truck vessels, rail car vessels, pharmaceutical tanks, food processing tanks, paint blenders, and other large storage tanks, for example.

[0052] Another embodiment of a cleaning apparatus 10 is shown schematically in

Figure 7, wherein at least one, and shown here as a pair, of chemical solution tanks 1 10, 1 12 are attached for fluid communication between the pair of ball valves 90, 92 and the spray heads 18, 34. The chemical solution tanks 1 10, 112 can be equipped with separate pumps 114, 116 for controlling the disbursement of the chemical solution within the tanks 110, 112 into a separate one of the hoses 54, 56. In addition, the pumps 114, 116 for the cleaner solution tanks 110, 112 may be operably controlled or programmed at the control module 100 through electrical connections or wires 118 between the control module 100 and the pumps 114, 116. Accordingly, each chemical solution tank 110, 112 may have a different chemical solution therein, thereby providing the operator with the ability to dispense different chemical solutions with different mixture concentrations from each head 18, 34, depending on the type of cleaning being performed.

[0053] In any of the above-described embodiments, in place of a single filter 60, a double filter assembly 160 may be used to filter cleaning solution as shown in Figures 8-13. The double filter assembly 160 may include a first filter 162 connectable in operable fluid communication between the fluid source 13 and the fluid dispenser 19. The first filter 162 can therefore be positioned to filter foreign matter such as sediment out of the cleaning fluid 1 1 before the cleaning fluid is dispensed through the fluid dispenser 19. The double filter assembly 160 can also include a second filter 164 connectable in parallel with the first filter 162 and in operable fluid communication between the fluid source 13 and the fluid dispenser 19. Like the first filter 162, the second filter 164 filters foreign matter such as sediment out of fluid that is to be dispensed through the fluid dispenser 19.

[0054] In some embodiments, a flow diverter 166 is connected between the fluid source 13 and respective inlets 168, 170 of the first and second filters 162, 164, and is operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets 168, 170 of the first and second filters 162, 164. The flow diverter 166 can include or be connected to a first filter inlet valve 172 connected between the first filter inlet 168 and the fluid source 13. The first filter inlet valve 172 can be operable, by the manual turning of a first filter inlet valve handle 174, to alternately admit and shut-off fluid flow to the first filter inlet 168 from the fluid source 13. A second filter inlet valve 175 can be connected between the second filter inlet 170 and the fluid source 13. The second filter inlet valve 175 can be operable, by the manual turning of a second filter inlet valve handle 176, to alternately admit and shut-off fluid flow to the second filter inlet 170 from the fluid source 13.

[0055] The double filter assembly 160 may also include a flow splitter 177 that may include first and second splitter outlets 178, 180. The splitter outlets 178, 180 may be connected to the first and second filter inlet valves 172, 175, respectively. The flow splitter 177 may also include a splitter inlet 182 that may be connected in operable fluid communication to the fluid source 13 to split the flow of fluid from the fluid source 13 into two fluid streams, and to direct those streams to the respective first and second filter inlet valves 172, 175.

[0056] In some embodiments, the double filter assembly 160 also includes a downstream flow channel 182 that connects and provides fluid communication between the fluid dispenser 19 and respective outlets 184, 186 of the first and second filters 162, 164. A first filter outlet valve 188 may be connected between the first filter outlet 184 and the downstream flow channel 182. The first filter outlet valve 188 may be operable, by the manual turning of a first filter outlet valve handle 189, to alternately permit and block fluid communication between the first filter 162 and the downstream flow channel 182. This arrangement can prevent back-flow of fluid into the first filter 162 from the second filter outlet 186 when, for example, the second filter 164 is operating and the first filter 162 is being isolated for maintenance or renewal.

[0057] A second filter outlet valve 190 may be connected between the second filter outlet 186 and the downstream flow channel 182. The second filter outlet valve 190 may be operable, by the manual turning of a second filter outlet valve handle 191, to alternately permit and block fluid communication between the second filter 164 and the downstream flow channel 182. This arrangement can prevent back-flow of fluid into the second filter 164 from the first filter outlet 184 when, for example, the first filter 162 is operating and the second filter 164 is being isolated for maintenance or renewal.

[0058] Also, as shown in Figure 8, inlet and outlet couplings 192, 193 can be utilized to allow the first and second filters 162, 164 to be connected to complementary couplings at any convenient point in the cleaning apparatus. This allows the double filter assembly 160 to be incorporated into the cleaning apparatus 10 at any location between the fluid source 13 and the fluid dispenser 19 where complementary couplings have been installed. [0059] As is also shown in Figure 8, some embodiments of the dual filter assembly

160 may also include a flow combiner 194 that includes first and second combiner inlets 196, 198 connected to the first and second filter outlet valves 188, 190, respectively. A combiner outlet 200 is connectable in operable fluid communication to the downstream flow channel 182 via the outlet coupling 193 and directs a flow of fluid from one or both of the first and second filter outlet valves 188, 190 into the downstream flow channel 182. [0060] As shown in Figure 9, in some embodiments a back flow preventer (e.g., in the form of a one-way check valve 201) may be disposed between the flow combiner outlet 200 and the downstream flow channel 182 to prevent backflow into the first and second filters 162, 164 of the filter assembly 160 when the respective first and second filter outlet valves 188, 190 are open.

[0061] As is, again, shown in Figure 8, the dual filter assembly 160 may be mounted on a mobile frame such as a two-wheeled hand cart 202 to provide ease of transport and one- man portability.

[0062] As shown in Figures 9-13, the first and second filters 162, 164 may each comprise a replaceable filter sock 204 that in some embodiments is removably carried by a fluid-permeable or perforated filter basket 206 removably supportable within a filter canister 208, 210. The filter canister 208, 210 can be manufactured from aluminum, steel, stainless steel, or any other metal, plastic, fiberglass or other composite material, ceramic or other refractory material, and the like. Each filter basket 206 can have an annular basket flange 230 that extends radially outward from around an upper rim of each filter basket 206. The basket flange 230 can seat below the level of the respective filter inlets 168, 170, such as on an inner circumferential ledge 211 of each filter canister 208, 210. In some embodiments, each filter sock 204 has a rigid upper annular ring 209 that may be supported by the basket flange 230 of one of the filter canisters 208, 210. Each filter sock 204 may also or instead include a sock handle 205, such as a sock handle spanning a sock ring 209, to allow the sock 204 to be easily grasped and removed from a filter basket 206 for disposal or cleaning as shown in Figure 12. In some embodiments, each filter basket 206 supports a filter sock 204 below the level of the filter inlets 168, 170, as shown in Figures 9 and 13, to allow fluid to pour into the filter sock 204 from the filter inlet 168, 170 of whichever canister 208, 210 the sock 204 and basket 206 are supported in. As best shown in Figure 9, the fluid may then flow in generally radially outward and axially downward directions through the filter sock 204 and the filter basket 206 into a canister interior region 213 surrounding the filter basket 206, leaving behind foreign matter (e.g., sediment) within the filter sock 204. [0063] To allow the filter socks 204 and/or filter baskets 206 to be periodically removed and either cleaned or discarded, the canisters 208, 210 can be provided with caps 220, 222 removably attached to respective upper edge manifolds 224, 226 of the canisters 208, 210 in any suitable manner, such as by fasteners 228 as shown in Figures 8 and 9. Suitable filter socks 204 and baskets 206 are available from Bulldog Fabricating Corp. [0064] As shown in Figures 8 and 9, pressure gauges 234 may be included (such as on the caps 220, 222 of the filter canisters 208, 210, for example) to allow an operator to monitor the pressure level within each canister 208, 210. The canister pressures may be used to indicate when the filter socks 204 need to be serviced. Also, vent valves 236 may be included (e.g., in the caps 220, 222 of the filter canisters 208, 210, in some embodiments) to prevent the pressure within the canisters 208, 210 from building to an unacceptable level. In the illustrated embodiment, the vent valves 236 may each be set to release pressure at 30 psi, while a pressure relief valve for the container being cleaned may be set to a higher level, e.g., 80-120 psi.

[0065] As shown in Figure 8, at least one of the first and second filters 162, 164 of the dual filter assembly 160 may be arranged to operate in a closed recirculatory loop 237 with the pump 76. According to this arrangement, the pump 76 draws fluid from the pool 17 of fluid formed in the container by fluid dispersed into the container by the fluid dispenser 19, and then pumps that fluid back to the fluid dispenser 19 through at least one of the first and second filters 162, 164 in a recirculatory fashion. A recirculatory cleaning arrangement is an especially advantageous application for a double filter arrangement both because the presence of two filters significantly improves the ability of the filter assembly 160 to protect spray heads from fouling, and, as described below, it allows such a recirculator process to continue even as a filter is being serviced.

[0066] The filter assembly 160 may be connected into any portion of a recirculatory cleaning apparatus 10 or at any point between a source 13 of cleaning fluid 11 and a spray head in a linear (i.e., non-recirculatory) cleaning apparatus 10. This allows a user a considerable amount of flexibility in most advantageously locating the filter assembly 160. [0067] In some embodiments, either of the first and second filters 162, 164 of the filter assembly 160 may be serviced while the cleaning apparatus 10 is being used to clean an inner surface of a container. In other words, in such embodiments, either of the filters 162, 164 of the filter assembly 160 may be serviced without shutting down a cleaning operation that is in progress. Accordingly, no down-time is required to service the filters 162, 164. [0068] In practice, after the Hd 26 of the apparatus 10 has been removably supported on a container to be cleaned, the pump 76 is actuated to provide liquid cleaner fluid 11 to the fluid dispenser 19 through at least one of the filters 162, 164 and one or both of the first and second spray heads 18, 34 of the fluid dispenser 19, which then dispense the filtered cleaning fluid 11 into the container as described above. To service one of the filters of the illustrated embodiment, e.g., the first filter 162, while a cleaning operation is in progress, the flow diverter 166 is actuated to direct fluid flow away from the inlet 168 of the first filter 162. The flow diverter 166 is so actuated by closing the inlet valve 172 of the first filter 162, thus shutting off fluid flow from the fluid source 13 to the inlet 168 of the first filter 162. In addition, fluid communication may be blocked between the first filter 162 and the downstream flow channel 182 leading to the spray head(s) 18, 34, as well as between the first filter 162 and the outlet 186 of the second filter 164, by closing the outlet valve 188 of the first filter 162 (the filter to be serviced).

[0069] In advance of actuating the flow diverter 166 to direct fluid away from the inlet 168 of the first filter 162 (the filter to be serviced), the flow of cleaning fluid 11 through the second filter 164 (the filter that is not to be serviced), may be confirmed or initiated to insure that fluid will continue to flow to the spray head(s) 18, 34 of the fluid dispenser 19 through the downstream flow channel 182 while the first filter 162 is off-line. More specifically, fluid flow from the fluid source 13 to the inlet 170 of the second filter 164 may be insured by confirming that the inlet and outlet valves 175, 190 of the second filter 164 are both open.

[0070] Once the flow of cleaning fluid 1 1 has been diverted away from the first filter

162 in the illustrated embodiment, the first filter 162 may then be serviced by first releasing the fasteners 228 retaining the cap 220 of the filter canister 208 of the first filter 162. Once the cap 220 has been removed, the filter sock 204 and/or filter basket 206 may be removed from the canister 208, e.g., for cleaning or renewal. A new or serviced/cleaned filter sock 204 can then be inserted into the filter basket 206, and the filter basket installed in the first filter canister 208. The cap 220 can then be fastened back onto the canister 208. [0071] Once servicing is complete, the flow diverter 166 may then be actuated to direct fluid flow back to the first filter inlet 168 by opening the first filter inlet valve 172. The flow diverter 166 may be actuated to release fluid to flow from the first filter 162 and into the downstream flow channel 182 by opening the outlet valve 188 of the first filter 162. [0072] The embodiments discussed above are exemplary embodiments, and thus, are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. The scope of some embodiments of the present invention is defined by the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A cleaning apparatus for cleaning an inner surface of a container, the apparatus comprising: a fluid dispenser in operable fluid communication with a fluid source and configured to disperse fluid received from the fluid source; and a mount carrying the fluid dispenser and configured to be removably supported on a container having an inner surface to be cleaned, and further configured to support the fluid dispenser in a position within the container to be cleaned; a first filter connectable in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser and configured to filter fluid to be dispersed through the fluid dispenser; a second filter connectable in parallel with the first filter and in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser and configured to filter fluid to be dispersed through the fluid dispenser; and a flow diverter connected between the fluid source and respective inlets of the first and second filters and operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets of the first and second filters.

2. The cleaning apparatus of claim 1 in which the flow diverter includes: a first filter inlet valve connected between the first filter inlet and the fluid source, the first filter inlet valve being operable to alternately admit and shut-off fluid flow to the first filter inlet from the fluid source; and a second filter inlet valve connected between the second filter inlet and the fluid source, the second filter inlet valve being operable to alternately admit and shut-off fluid flow to the second filter inlet from the fluid source.

3. The cleaning apparatus of claim 2 further comprising a flow splitter including first and second splitter outlets connected to the first and second filter inlet valves, respectively, and further including a splitter inlet connectable in operable fluid communication to the fluid source, and configured to split the flow of fluid from the fluid source into two fluid streams and to direct those streams to the respective first and second filter valves.

4. The cleaning apparatus of claim 2 further comprising: a downstream flow channel connecting and providing fluid communication between the fluid dispenser and respective outlets of the first and second filters; a first filter outlet valve connected between the first filter outlet and the downstream flow channel, the first filter outlet valve being operable to alternately permit and block fluid communication between the first filter and the downstream flow channel; and a second filter outlet valve connected between the second filter outlet and the downstream flow channel, the second filter outlet valve being operable to alternately permit and block fluid communication between the second filter and the downstream flow channel.

5. The cleaning apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a flow combiner including first and second combiner inlets connected to the first and second filter outlet valves, respectively, and further including a combiner outlet connectable in operable fluid communication to the downstream flow channel, and configured to direct a flow of fluid from one or both of the first and second filter outlet valves into the downstream flow channel.

6. The cleaning apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a back flow preventer disposed between the filter outlets and the downstream flow channel.

7. The cleaning apparatus of claim 1 in which the filters are mounted on a mobile frame.

8. The cleaning apparatus of claim 1 in which the first and second filters comprise first and second filter socks removably carried by respective first and second filter canisters.

9. The cleaning apparatus of claim 8 in which the first and second filter socks are removably carried by respective first and second filter baskets supportable within the respective filter canisters.

10. The cleaning apparatus of claim 1 in which the mount includes a lid configured to be removably supported over an opening in a container to be cleaned.

11. The cleaning apparatus of claim 8 in which the lid is configured to provide a liquid- tight seal with an opening in a container to be cleaned.

12. The cleaning apparatus of claim 1 in which: the fluid dispenser includes a spray head carried by the mount in a position to be disposed within a container to be cleaned when the mount is supported on such a container; and the spray head is in operable fluid communication with at least one of the first and second filters.

13. The cleaning apparatus of claim 12 in which the apparatus includes a fluid pump and in which the spray head is arranged with at least one of the first and second filters to operate in a closed recirculatory loop with the pump.

14. A method of servicing a filter while cleaning an inner surface of a container; the method comprising the steps of: providing a cleaning apparatus comprising a first filter connectable in operable fluid communication between a source of pressurized fluid and a fluid dispenser, a second filter connectable in parallel with the first filter in operable fluid communication between the fluid source and the fluid dispenser, a flow diverter connected between the fluid source and respective inlets of the first and second filters and operable to selectably direct fluid flow to the respective inlets of the first and second filters, and a mount carrying the fluid dispenser; removably supporting the mount on a container to be cleaned such that the fluid dispenser is positioned within the container to be cleaned; providing pressurized liquid cleaner solution to the fluid dispenser through the first filter; dispensing the liquid cleaner solution into the container through the fluid dispenser; actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow away from the first filter inlet; servicing the first filter; and actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow back to the first filter inlet.

15. The method of claim 14 in which: in the step of providing a cleaning apparatus, the flow diverter comprises: a first filter inlet valve connected between the first filter inlet and the fluid source; and a second filter inlet valve connected between the second filter inlet and the fluid source; and the step of actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow away from the first filter inlet includes: admitting fluid flow from the fluid source to the second filter inlet by opening the second filter inlet valve; and shutting-off fluid flow from the fluid source to the first filter inlet by closing the first filter inlet valve.

16. The method of claim 15 in which: in the step of providing a cleaning apparatus, the flow diverter further comprises: a first filter outlet valve connected to a first filter outlet and connectable to a downstream flow channel leading to and providing fluid communication with the fluid dispenser; and a second filter outlet valve connected to a second filter outlet and connectable to the downstream flow channel; and the step of actuating the flow diverter to direct fluid flow away from the first filter inlet includes: permitting fluid communication between the second filter and the downstream channel by opening the second filter outlet valve; and blocking fluid communication between the first filter and the downstream flow channel by closing the first filter outlet valve.

17. The method of claim 14 in which the step of dispensing the liquid cleaner solution includes dispensing the liquid cleaner solution as a spray mist and coating at least a portion of the inner surface of the container with the spray mist.

18. The method of claim 14 in which: the step of dispensing the liquid cleaner solution includes creating a pool of the liquid cleaner solution within the container; and the step of removably supporting the mount includes disposing the fluid dispenser in the container above the pool of liquid cleaner solution and in operable closed loop fluid communication with the pool of liquid cleaner solution.

19. The method of claim 14 in which the step of dispensing the liquid cleaner solution comprises: coating an interior surface of the container to be cleaned with liquid cleaner solution by dispensing the liquid cleaner solution in a mist; and impinging the inner surface of the container with a high pressure jet stream of the liquid cleaner solution after coating the interior surface of the container with the liquid cleaner solution.

20. The method of claim 14 comprising the additional step of heating the liquid cleaner solution before the step of dispensing the liquid cleaner solution.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the liquid cleaner solution is heated to a temperature of about 120° F to about 165° F.

22. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution comprises an enzymatic surfactant penetrant cleaner solution.

23. The method of claim 22 wherein the enzymatic surfactant penetrant cleaner solution comprises SILZYME^®

24. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution comprises a defoaming surfactant penetrant cleaner solution.

25. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution has a pH from about 5 to about 8.

26. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution comprises an enzymatic agent.

27. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution comprises a defoaming agent.

28. The method of claim 14 wherein the liquid cleaner solution is about 10% to about 20% Silzyme^® concentrate.