Vacuum loader and process for removing asbestos and other hazardous material

A specially arranged, five stage, four compartment, vacuum loader is provided to collect, remove, and dispose asbestos and other hazardous material in an efficient, effective, and safe manner without exposing surrounding personnel to the collected asbestos or other hazardous material.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
This invention pertains to machines and processes for removing dry and wet 
liquid particulates, and more particularly, to a vacuum cleaner loader and 
process for removing asbestos and other hazardous materials. 
Government studies and numerous health reports have linked exposure to 
asbestos fibers with serious diseases including asbestoses, fibrosis, and 
lung cancer. Asbestoses has also been thought to cause or aggravate other 
maladies, such as emphysema, tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, 
inflammations, and infections. Many people who worked in asbestos 
manufacturing plants or who were employed installing asbestos insulation, 
have developed cancer and died. 
For many decades, asbestos was commonly used as an insulator for houses, 
schools, factories, and public buildings. Asbestos fibers are readily 
circulated in the air and are dangerous if inhaled. The presence of 
asbestos in insulation in buildings can be harmful and injurious to the 
health, safety, and well being of children and adults alike. 
Contamination of buildings with asbestos insulation can be cured by 
removing the asbestos. Asbestos removal, however, is not easy. Various 
industrial vacuum cleaners, loaders, and collectors have been tried but 
have not been very effective. Furthermore, collection, and disposal of 
asbestos with conventional prior art equipment often exposes the operator 
and surrounding personnel to concentrated amounts of the collected 
asbestos, which can be dangerous, harmful, and even fatal. 
Also, in industry, voluminous amounts of particulate matter, debris, dust, 
waste, and other hazardous material are emitted during machining, foundry, 
milling, shipment, warehousing, assembling, fabricating, and other 
manufacturing operations. Particulates of hazardous material emitted 
during a manufacturing operation can include metal slivers, plastic chips, 
wood shavings, dirt, sand, and other debris. Particulates accumulate on 
floors, machines, packaging materials, equipment, and personnel. 
Particulates of hazardous material can also be carried and circulated in 
the air and can be harmful, if breathed, swallowed, or stuck in an eye. 
Particulates of hazardous material can damage, erode, and adversely effect 
the efficiency and operability of equipment. Hazardous material can also 
pollute the atmosphere. It may also impair the quality of the products 
manufactured. 
Asbestos emissions and emissions of other hazardous material are not only 
dangerous and troublesome, but are particularly aggravating and grievous 
in schools, houses, public buildings, and where relatively dust-free 
conditions and sterile environments are required, such as in food 
processing plants and medical supply houses. 
Over the years, a variety of vacuum cleaners, loaders, collectors, and 
other equipment have been suggested for removing dust and debris and for 
other purposes. Typifying these vacuum cleaners, loaders, collectors, and 
equipment are those found in U.S Pat. Nos. 485,915, 795,412, 2,276,805, 
2,372,316, 2,496,180, 2,604,956, 3,320,727, 3,485,671, 3,541,631, 
3,554,520, 3,577,705, 3,608,283, 3,650,420, 3,717,901, 3,731,464, 
3,780,502, 3,955,236, 3,970,489, 4,032,424, 4,062,664, 4,111,670, 
4,174,206, and 4,224,043. These prior art vacuum cleaners, loaders, 
collectors, and equipment have met with varying degrees of success. 
It is, therefore, desirable to provide an improved vacuum loader and 
process which overcomes most, if not all, of the preceding problems. 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
An improved vacuum loader is provided to remove, collect, seal, and dispose 
asbestos and other hazardous material without exposing surrounding 
personnel to the collected hazardous material. Advantageously, the vacuum 
loader is efficient, effective and safe. In the preferred form, the novel 
vacuum loader comprises a unique industrial asbestos and hazardous 
material collector with four special compartments and five stages. 
The first bulk separator compartment provides a primary material collection 
receiver which makes a gross cut separation of the asbestos and other 
hazardous material. The bulk separator compartment has a vacuum tank which 
contains a impermeable outer bag. A porous or perforated inner bag is 
positioned within the outer bag and provides a sieve-like membrane that 
blocks and prevents the passage of and collects the elongated asbestos 
fibers and larger particulates of hazardous material while permitting 
passage of air and liquid containing asbestos fines and smaller 
particulates of hazardous material. The neck of the inner bag is secured 
to an inlet conduit. The outer bag is preferably positioned against an 
outer perforated shell which accommodates expansion of the bags. An 
annular shroud can cover the perforations of the shell to protect and 
prevent the exterior surface of the outer bag from being contaminated with 
asbestos fines and other hazardous material. One or more spray down 
nozzles can be located in proximity to the access door of the vacuum tank 
to accommodate a water wash (spray) down cycle prior to removal of the 
filled bags. 
While the vacuum loader can be fixedly mounted in a stationary location, it 
is preferably mounted on a road trailer for mobility. Desirably, the road 
trailer has a tubular frame assembly which provides conduits and a water 
collection reservoir (basin) that can be connected to a drain pipe in the 
vacuum tank to receive contaminated water from the bulk separator 
compartment. 
The vacuum loader also has at least one filtering compartments positioned 
downstream and connected to the bulk separator compartment to remove the 
remaining particulates of asbestos and other hazardous material. In the 
preferred form, there are two filtering compartments: a two stage 
filtering compartment, which provides the second compartment of the 
preferred vacuum loader, and a one stage Hepa-type filtering compartment, 
which provides the third compartment of the preferred vacuum loader. The 
two stage filtering compartment has a first stage containing a set of 
overhead nozzles and a lower second stage containing a set of annular 
filters. The one stage Hepa-type filtering compartment is positioned 
downstream of and connected to the two stage filtering compartment and 
contains a Hepa-type filter. 
Preferably, the vacuum loader includes a fourth collector compartment 
comprising a dust settlement chamber which receives the filtered asbestos 
and other hazardous material from the two stage filtering compartment. In 
the preferred from, the dust settlement chamber has a reciprocating piston 
to compress and compact the collected filtered asbestos and other 
material. The compressed asbestos and other material is vacuumed back to 
the first bulk separator compartment. 
The vacuum loader can also be equipped with a compressor engine, muffler 
and other equipment. 
As used in this Patent Application, the term "dust" means particulate 
matter, debris and waste, including particulates of asbestos and/or other 
hazardous material. 
The terms "dedust" and "dedusted" as used herein mean removing a 
substantial amount of dust. 
The term "fines" as used herein means small, minute, particulates. 
A more detailed explanation of the invention is provided in the following 
description and appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying 
drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
A five stage, four compartment, trailer mounted, portable vacuum loader 10 
provides a heavy-duty vacuum-operated machine and industrial asbestos and 
hazardous waste (material) collector for efficiently vacuuming, 
effectively removing, compactly collecting, and safely disposing asbestos 
and other hazardous material comprising dry, wet, or fluid entrained, 
flowable materials such as fibers, slivers, chips, granular material, 
pellets, chunks, powders, slurries, liquids, particulate matter, debris, 
and/or waste. Advantageously, the vacuum loader removes, collects, seals, 
and disposes asbestos and other material without exposing the operator and 
other surrounding personnel to the collected asbestos or other collected 
material. 
Trailer 
As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the vacuum loader preferably includes and is mounted 
upon a special portable, over-the-road, tandem axle, four wheel, trailer 
12 to move the vacuum loader to and from various collection (hazardous 
waste) sites as well as to receive, collect, and contain contaminated 
water from the dedusting operation of the primary material collection 
receiver 100. The road trailer 12 has a trailer frame assembly 14 
comprising a main frame made of carbon steel, stainless steel, anodized 
steel, or other metal. The main frame includes an annular peripheral frame 
16 which is preferably rectangular in shape. 
The annular peripheral frame 16 includes interconnected tubular bar or 
pipes 18, 20, 22, and 24, which provide conduits, a collection basin, and 
water reservoir 26 for receiving, collecting, and containing contaminated 
water from the first bulk separator compartment 100. The annular 
peripheral frame has a front end bar 18, which is connected to the water 
drain pipe 168 of the first bulk separator compartment 100, a rear end bar 
20, which extends laterally and is positioned parallel to the front end 
bar 18, and parallel elongated side bars 22 and 24 which extend 
longitudinally between and are connected to the end bars 18 and 20. A 
water level site tube or window 28 (FIG. 3) is connected to the side bar 
24 near the front end bar 18 to visually detect the water level in the 
water reservoir. A water outlet and trailer drain pipe 30 extends from the 
side bar 24 near the site tube 28 for discharging the water in the water 
reservoir, either by gravity or with an auxiliary suction tube. The water 
outlet is sealed with a closure cap when not in use. 
Parallel transverse support bars 32 and 34 (FIGS. 1 and 3) extend laterally 
between and are connected to the sides bars 22 and 24 of the peripheral 
frame 16 in proximity to the rearward end 18 of the trailer assembly. A 
center support bar 36 extends longitudinally between and connects the 
transverse support bar 32 to the rear end bar 20 along the longitudinal 
centerline of the trailer assembly. Diagonal braces 38 and 40 diagonally 
connect the rearward portion of the side bars 22 and 24 to the rear end 
bar 20 about the rearward corners of the trailer assembly to enhance the 
strength and rigidity of the rearward portion of the trailer assembly. 
Parallel, elongated longitudinal bars 42 and 44 extend longitudinally 
between and connect the transverse bars 32 and 34 to the front end bar 18. 
If desired, the transverse and longitudinal support bars, as well as the 
diagonal braces can be formed of tubular conduits or pipes and fluidly 
connected and in communication with the water reservoir 26 to increase the 
water-carrying capacity of the reservoir. 
As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the support bars 32, 34, 36, 42, and 44 and braces 
38 and 40 of the main frame have sufficient strength and rigidity to 
readily support the first bulk separator compartment 100 comprising a 
primary material collection receiver and bag assembly, a second two stage 
filtering compartment 200, a third one stage Hepa-type filtering 
compartment 300, and a fourth collector compartment 400 comprising a dust 
settlement chamber, as well as other equipment. 
The trailer has a tow bar 46 which extends rearwardly and longitudinally 
outwardly from the abutment plate or flange plate 48 of the rear end bar 
20 along the longitudinal centerline of the trailer assembly. The tow bar 
has a drum ball tow coupler and tow hitch 50 to enable the vacuum loader 
to be pulled to the collection or storage site by a tow truck or other 
suitable vehicle equipped with a mating tow bar, ball, or hitch. The tow 
bar is connected to a top wind jack 52 with an upper crank 54 and lower 
base plate or foot 56. A front wind jack 58 can be connected to the front 
end bar 18. If desired, more jacks, such as four jacks, can be used. In 
use, the jacks level, stabilize, and balance the trailer and vacuum loader 
on driveways, inclined pavements, floors, and other surfaces at the 
collection site during stationary vacuum operation of the vacuum loader. 
As best shown in FIG. 2, the underframe of the trailer assembly includes a 
set of wheel assemblies 60 and 62 positioned about the middle of the 
trailer. The wheel assemblies comprises four wheels and preferably have 
oil lubricated hub and drums 64 and 66, electric brakes 68, and tandem 
axles 70 and 71. The trailer assembly can also have a hydraulic surge 
braking system, break away safety chains, and a fire extinguisher. 
Power Supply Equipment 
A gas tank 72 (FIG. 2) with a gas inlet tube 74 is mounted to the trailer 
assembly near the front end bar 18. A battery 76 is seated upon and 
secured to the trailer assembly near the rear end bar 20. The gas tank and 
battery are connected to a drive engine packgage 78 mounted on the 
rearward portion of the trailer assembly. 
The drive engine package 78 includes a V-belt driven air blower, vaccum 
pump, fan, or exhauster engine 80 and a compressor engine or compressor 
82. The drive engine package is controlled by and operatively connected to 
a control panel 84. The air blower is operatively connected to and driven 
by a motor 86 via drive belts 88. The air blower (vacuum pump) creates a 
vacuum (suction) to draw dust and direct influent dusty air (air laden 
with particulates of of asbestos and/or other hazardous material) through 
an inlet conduit 114 of the first bulk separator compartment 100 
comprising the primary material collection receiver. 
A muffler 90 is connected to the exhauster engine 80 and the compressor 82 
by a blower outlet conduit 92. The muffler 90 provides a silencer with an 
overhead discharge outlet 94 covered by an exhaust rain flap 96. 
First Bulk Separator Compartment Primary Material Collection Receiver 
The first bulk separator compartment 100 comprises a primary material 
collection receiver and bag assembly for making a gross cut searpation of 
the asbestos and large particulates of other hazardous material. The first 
bulk separtor compartment 100 separates, removes, collects, contains, 
sealing, and safely disposes asbestos and other hazardous material. 
As shown in FIG. 4, the primary collection receiver 100 has an inner 
collection membrane bag 102 positioned within the interior of at least one 
outer protection membrane bag 104. The inner bag 102 has a closed concave 
rearward end or rounded bottom 106 and an elongated circular, tubular 
sidewall 108 which extends longitudinally (axially) forwardly from the 
bottom 106 and terminates in a neck 110 or top portion at its front end 
about an inner access opening and inlet 112. The neck 110 is detachably 
connected, compressibly secured, and clamped against a disposable plastic 
inlet tube 114 by a detachable collar 116 or hose clamp. The inlet tube 
114 extends into the inlet access opening 112 of the inner bag. 
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, a removable, inlet tube-retainer bar 118 and 
inlet tube-clamp assembly 120 comprising an over center hinged locking 
clamp 122 with a 5-shaped bar support 124 can be releasably connected and 
securely engaged to the inlet tube 114 at a location spaced forwardly of 
the inner bag 102 and collar 116 to help center and support the inlet tube 
114. A drive guard 125 (FIG. 2) can also be provided. 
The inner bag 102 (FIG. 4) is flexible and expandable within the interior 
of the outer bag 104 from a deflated storage position to an inflated 
expanded collection position. The sidewall 108 of the inner bag is porous, 
perforated, or foraminous with a set of pores, perforations, openings, 
apertures, or holes 126 to provide an array of fluid flow passageways. The 
fluid flow passageways 126 extend from a position spaced rearwardly of the 
neck 110 and inlet access opening 112 to a position in proximity to the 
closed bottom rearward end 106 of the inner bag. The fluid flow 
passageways 126 are of a size, shape, pattern, and matrix arrangement to 
block and prevent the passage of and collect elongated asbestos fibers and 
large particulates of hazardous matter while allowing the passage of 
fluid, such as air and water, containing smaller minute particulates of 
asbestos and/or smaller particulates of other hazardous material. The 
fluid flow passageways 126 provide a porous or sieve-like sidewall 108 
which serves to make a gross cut separation of the larger particles of 
asbestos and other hazardous material from the asbestos fines and smaller 
particulates of hazardous material. 
The outer bag 104 (FIG. 4) is spaced outwardly and positioned about the 
inner bag 102. The outer bag is flexible, solid, pliable, and imperforate. 
The outer bag is expandable about the exterior of the inner bag from a 
deflated storage position to an inflated expanded collection (vacuuming) 
position. Preferably, the outer bag 104 has a maximum diameter and 
expansion larger than the inner bag 102 so that the solid imperforate 
sidewall 128 of the outer bag is spaced radially outwardly of the 
perforated sieve-like sidewall 108 of the inner bag when the bags are in 
their expanded collection positions. 
The outer bag 104 (FIG. 4) can be a single or double ply, membrane bag or a 
double bag. The outer bag has a closed concave rearward end or rounded 
bottom 130 and an imperforate, solid, elongated, circular tubular sidewall 
128 which extends longitudinally (axially) forwardly from the bottom 130 
and terminates in an open end or outer neck 132 at its front end about an 
outer access opening and outlet 134. The outer access opening 134 provides 
a mouth or outlet for the egress (exiting) of air and water containing 
asbestos fines and smaller particles of hazardous material. The outer rim 
or edge 136 of the open end of the outer bag is sewn or otherwise securely 
connected about or attached to an annular, circular, retainer spring 138 
or circular draw string. 
The outer and inner membrane bags can be made of canvas or other waterproof 
fabric, rubber, rubberized material, paper or paperboard coated or 
otherwise treated with water resistant material, or plastic, such as 
polypropylene, reinforced vinyl, or polyvinylchloride (PVC). Other 
materials can be used. For enhanced strength and more effective sealing, 
the sidewalls of the bags are preferably seamless. 
As shown in FIG. 4, a rigid, open ended, foraminous, circular, inner 
tubular shell 140 provides an inner air distribution tube which is 
positioned diametrically outwardly and annularly about the sidewall 128 of 
the outer bag 104. Preferably, the interior (inner) surface of the inner 
shell has a maximum inside diameter less than the maximum diametric span 
of sidewall 128 of the outer bag 104 to engage the outer exterior surface 
of the outer bag's sidewall 128. The inner shell comprises an annular 
perforated tube with an array, matrix, and set of air holes, apertures, 
perforations, or openings which provide pneumatic vacuum passageways 142 . 
The vacuum passageways provide for passage of air during use to create a 
vacuum suction which expands and draws the outer bag's sidewall against 
the interior surface of the inner shell. 
The inner shell 140 (FIG. 4) has an open rearward end 144 positioned 
generally about the bottom of the outer and inner bags and an open forward 
end 146 positioned about the neck of the inner bag. The open forward end 
146 of the inner shell provides an outlet opening with an outwardly flared 
lip or rim 148 which abuts against and supports the open end of the outer 
bag. During vacuum separation and collection, the annular retainer spring 
138 is seated against the rearward portion of the flared lip 148 of the 
inner shell and the open end portion of the outer bag is stretched over 
the forward portion of the flared lip of the inner shell. 
In order to protect and prevent backflow contamination of the outer 
exterior surface of the outer bag 104, a solid shroud 150 (FIG. 4) extends 
about the vacuum passageways 142 of the inner shell 140. The shroud 150 
has an annular end 152, which extends diametrically outwardly from the 
forward end 146 of the inner shell in proximity to the flared lip 148, and 
has a rigid, elongated annular, circular skirt 154, which extends 
longitudinally (axially) rearwardly from the annular end 152 of the shroud 
to a position slightly forwardly of the rearward end 144 of the inner 
shell 140. The skirt provides a protective barrier to cover the vacuum 
passageways of the inner shell. 
A rigid vacuum tank 156 (FIG. 1-4) provides a substantially solid outer 
shell which is positioned about, houses, and encloses the inner bag 102, 
inlet tube 114, outer bag 104, inner perforated shell 140, and shroud 150. 
The vacuum tank 156 has a rounded rearward end portion and concave bottom 
158 to arcuately support and abut against the bottom of the outer bag 104, 
an elongated annular, circular sidewall 160 which extends longitudinally 
(axially) forwardly from the rearward end 140 of the tank, and a pivotable 
rounded concave lid, hatch or access door 162 which is hinged to the front 
portion of the sidewall of the tank to close the tank and permit access 
into the tank to insert, seal (close), and remove the inner and outer bags 
when the inner bag is filled with the collected material. 
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the door 162 can have as a handle and lock, such 
as a turn buckle latch or crank 159, and can be sealed to the sidewall of 
the tank by a door gasket 161 or other seal. An inlet pipe 163 (FIG. 3) 
extends longitudinally (axially) through the central portion of the door 
and is connected to the inlet tube 114. The inlet pipe 163 can be sealed 
to the inlet tube 114 by an inlet tube gasket 165 or other seal. The inlet 
pipe 163 can extend outwardly of the door and can terminate in a coupling 
167 for attachment to a vacuum inlet hose 169 or suction line. 
As shown in FIGS. 1, 3, and 4, a tank vacuum pressure, relief valve and 
vacuum breaker 164 can be connected to and extend from the door 162 of the 
tank to relieve the suction pressure and facilitate opening of the door. A 
material packing, vacuum pressure relief valve and vacuum breaker 171 can 
be connected to and extend radially from the inlet pipe 161 at a location 
spaced outwardly of the door 162 and bags to relieve and bypass the vacuum 
suction when the inner bag is filled, such as when the inner bag reaches a 
resistance pressure of 9 psi, as well as to permit intermittent periodic 
surges of air to clean the inlet tube and compress (pack) the collected 
asbestos and other material in the inner bag 102. 
As shown in FIGS. 1-4, an overhead outlet tube 166 or tank discharge pipe 
extends radially outwardly and upwardly from the sidewall of the vacuum 
tank 156 in proximity to the tank's rearward end 158 and is connected to 
the second two stage filtering compartment 200. A water drain pipe 168 
(FIGS. 2 and 4) extends radially outwardly and downwardly from the 
sidewall of the vacuum tank in proximity to the door 162 and flared lip 
148 of the inner shell 140. 
The sidewall 160 (FIG. 4) of the vacuum tank 156 is positioned about and 
spaced radially outwardly of the shroud 150 to provide an annular chamber 
therebetween for passage of air containing asbestos fines and smaller 
particulates of other hazardous material. The air containing the asbestos 
fines and particulates of other matter flow from the outlet opening 134, 
through the annular chamber, to the outlet tube 166 of the vacuum tank. 
The vacuum tank 156, shroud 150, and inner shell 140 can be made of steel 
or other metal. 
In order to safely seal and close the bags when the inner bag is filled 
with collected material, a circular closure plate or disc 170 (FIGS. 5 and 
6) is provided. The closure plate is solid, substantially rigid, and 
impervious to the passage of asbestos and other hazardous material. The 
closure plate engages the open end of the outer bag 104 and closes the 
outer access opening 134 of the outer bag. The annular retaining spring 
138 of the outer bag is removed from compressive engagement with the 
flared lip 148 of the inner shell 140 and slipped over the closure plate. 
The retaining spring 138 has a retracted (unexpanded) normal diameter 
smaller than the flared lip 148 of the inner shell 140 and the peripheral 
outer circular edge of the closure plate 170. Elastic draw cords 172 and 
174 can be crisscrossed through an eyebolt or eyelet 176 and secured to 
the annular retaining spring 138 by S-hooks 178 as shown in FIG. 3. The 
eyebolt or eyelet 176 extends longitudinally outwardly (forwardly) from 
and is connected to the closure plate 170. An elongated hook 182 can be 
attached to the eyelet and pulled with a forklift truck to remove the 
closed sealed bags from the vacuum tank. 
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a vacuum hose connection or port 184 can extend 
longitudinally (axially) forwardly from the closure plate 170 for 
connection to a vacuum hose 266. The vacuum hose connection or port 184 is 
radially offset from the eyelet 176 and center of the closure plate 170. 
The primary material collection receiver and bags of the first bulk 
separator compartment 100 produced unexpected surprisingly good results in 
removing, collecting, sealing, and disposing asbestos fibers and large 
particulates of hazardous material over conventional, prior art equipment 
and bags. 
Second Two Stage Filtering Compartment 
The second two stage filtering compartment 200 (FIGS. 1-3) is connected to 
the outlet conduit 166 of the first bulk separator compartment 100 
comprising the primary material collection receiver and bag assembly. The 
two stage filtering compartment 200 has a first stage 202 comprising an 
upper nozzle chamber and a second stage 204 comprising a lower filter 
chamber. 
As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the upper nozzle chamber (first stage) 202 has a 
domed roof or top 206 which is connected to and communicates with an 
intermediate conduit that provides the outlet conduit 166 of the first 
bulk separator compartment 100 comprising th primary material collection 
receiver. The domed roof 206 has a downwardly extending vertical skirt 
20B. The upper nozzle chamber (first stage) 202 has an overhead array of 
downwardly facing ports, slots or nozzles 210 fluidly sealed by rubber 
o-rings, gaskets, or seals 212 for passing, conveying, and injecting the 
partially dedusted air containing asbestos fines and smaller particulates 
of hazardous material into the second stage 204 comprising the lower 
filter chamber. 
The downwardly facing overhead nozzles 210 include a central nozzle 214, 
positioned in the center of the upper nozzle chamber 202 along the 
vertical axis of the second two stage filtering compartment 200, and a 
circular set, array, or series of four nozzles 216, 218, 220, and 222, 
which radially and circumferentially surround the central nozzle 214. 
While the above arrangement of nozzles are preferred for best results, a 
different arrangement of nozzles, or more or less nozzles or ports can be 
used, if desired. 
As shown in FIG. 2, the lower filter chamber (second stage) 204 has an 
annular cylindrical or circular upright wall 224. The upper portion of the 
wall 224 has an outwardly extending, circular flange 226 which is sealed 
to the skirt 208 of the domed roof 206 by a rubber, annular circular 
gasket, o-ring, or seal 228. The lower portion of the upright wall 224 
terminates in an outwardly extending, annular mounting flange 230 about a 
circular, filtered material discharge outlet 232. The mounting flange 230 
is welded, bolted, or otherwise secured to the ceiling (top) 404 of the 
fourth collector compartment 400 comprising the dust settlement chamber. 
The circular, filtered material discharge outlet 232 communicates with the 
inlet opening 412 of the dust settlement chamber 400 to discharge and pass 
filtered asbestos and other filtered hazardous material from the second 
two stage filtering compartment 200 into the fourth collector compartment 
400. 
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the second stage, lower filter chamber 204 
contains a set of two, and preferably four, filter-canisters or primary 
tubular filters 234, 236, 238, and 240 which are positioned in a circular 
array. Each of the canisters contains a vertically positioned, tubular 
annular filter 242 and has a V-shaped retainer 244. While the preceding 
arrangement is preferred for best results, more or less filters can be 
used, if desired. 
The downwardly facing overhead nozzles 210 (FIGS. 2 and 3) are arranged to 
cooperate with each other to direct the partially dedusted air containing 
asbestos fines and small particulates of other hazardous material, 
downwardly in a downwardly annular flow pattern about the outside of the 
filters 234-240, so that the air will pass inwardly through and be 
filtered by the filters. The filtered air is deflected and drawn upwardly 
through the centers of the tubular filters 234-240 and is discharged 
through a second compartment discharge outlet conduit 246, which extends 
radially outwardly of the upper portion of the upright wall 224 near the 
dome 206, into the third Hepa-type filtering compartment 300. The filters 
234-240 partially filter and remove the asbestos fines and remaining 
particulates of hazardous material to provide an upwardly flow partially 
filtered stream containing a lesser concentration of particulates of 
asbestos or other hazardous material than the influent partially dedusted 
stream entering the second two stage filtering compartment 200. 
In the two stage filtering compartment 200, the downwardly facing nozzles 
210 of the first stage, upper nozzle chamber 202 provide forced downward 
air flow to remove asbestos fines and particulates of hazardous material 
by kinetic energy and the filters 234-240 of the second stage, lower 
filtering chamber 204 provide annular and lateral air flow to partially 
filter and remove most of the remaining fines and particulates. It has 
been unexpectedly and surprisingly found that the second two stage 
filtering compartment 200 produces unexpected surprisingly good results 
with superior downward distribution and partial dedusting of the dusty air 
by virtue of the kinetic energy of the fines and particulates as they 
leave the nozzles while the cleaner air is drawn laterally into the 
tubular filters 234-240. 
As shown in FIGS. 1-3, reverse pulse filter cleaners comprising air 
injectors 248, 250, 252, and 254 extend radially outwardly from the upper 
portion of the upright wall 224 to periodically inject intermittent blasts 
of clean air upon the inside or outside of the tubular filters 234-240 to 
help clean the filters. The injectors are connected by pneumatic tubes or 
conduits 256 to an air supply source, such as compressed air canister, 
compressed air tanks, or an auxiliary compressor. In the illustrative 
embodiment, there is a circular array of four compressed air canisters 
258, 260, 262, and 264 mounted about the exterior surface of the 
cylindrical upright wall of the filter chamber and there is a circular set 
or array of four downwardly facing, overhead air injectors 248, 250, 252, 
and 254 positioned above the center of the filters and connected to the 
compressed air canisters to sequentially inject pulses of compressed air 
into the center of the tubular filters to shake loose the dust collected, 
accumulated, or caked on the filters. More or less air injectors and 
compressed air canisters can be used. While the illustrated arrangement is 
preferred for best results, a different shaped array of air injectors 
and/or air canisters can be used, if desired. Furthermore, if desired, the 
air injectors can be positioned to inject air upon the outside of the 
filters. 
The removed asbestos fines and partially filtered particulates collected 
and accumulated in the second two stage filtering compartment 200 is 
discharged into the fourth collector compartment 400 comprising the dust 
settlement chamber. 
Third Single Stage Filtering Compartment 
The third, one stage, Hepa-type filtering compartment 300 (FIGS. 1-3) has a 
chamber, housing, or Hepa-type filter tank 302 with a ceiling 304, a floor 
306, upright side wall 308 and 310, and end walls 312 and 314. The right 
side wall 308 includes an access door 316 with a handle 318 for access 
into the interior of the third one stage filtering compartment 300. The 
door 316 is sealed to the end walls 312 and 314 by a rubber gasket or seal 
319. The front end wall 312 is connected to and communicates with the 
discharge outlet conduit 246 from the second, two stage filtering 
compartment 200. 
A turnbuckle and clevis hanger assembly 320 (FIG. 2) has an upper vertical 
bar 322 which is connected to and hangs downwardly from the ceiling 304 of 
the third one stage filtering. The turnbuckle and clevis hanger assembly 
320 has a pair of cross bars 324 and 326 which can be hooked to the 
ceiling 304 by a chain 328. The turnbuckle and clevis hanger assembly 320 
has a lower vertical bar 330 which is connected to a horizontal C-bar and 
filter support 332. 
A Hepa-type filter 334 (FIG. 2) hangs downwardly from and is supported and 
carried by the C-bar and filter support 332. The Hepa-type filter 334 
removes and filters the remaining asbestos fines and other particulates of 
hazardous material in the influent partially filtered stream from the 
second two stage filtering compartment 200. The Hepa-type filter can be a 
model 13XT absolute Hepa filter manufactured by Cambridge Filter 
Corporation of Syracuse, N.Y., having an efficiency of greater than 
99.999% when tested with 0.12 micron thermally generated particles. Such 
filters have an X-body construction with tapered separtors for high 
capacity capabilities and exceed the leak-free scan requirements set forth 
in Federal Standard 209 when tested to a penetration level of 0.001%. 
These filters can also have a glass or a glass-paper media, aluminum 
separators, a 16 gauge steel casing, a urethane seal, and neoprene 
gaskets. 
A discharge outlet and conduit, preferably comprising a rubber hose 336 
(FIG. 2), is connected to and communicates with the floor 306 of the third 
one stage filtering compartment 300 and to the inlet tube and pipe toe 338 
of the air blower 80, via hose clamps 340, to discharge the clean, 
filtered, purified air from the third one stage filtering compartment 300 
to the air blower 80. The purified air is drawn (sucked) through the air 
blower 80 and passed through the muffler (silencer) 90 and safely 
discharged through the muffler's overhead discharge outlet 94 into the 
atmosphere or surrounding area. 
The front end wall 312 of the third one stage filtering compartment 300 can 
have a lower full coupling 342 for operative connection to a 0-30" Hg 
vacuum gauge and a 0-5" water vacuum differential gauge and switch 
connection. The front end wall 312 of the third one stage filtering 
compartment 300 can also have an intermediate full coupling 344 for 
operative connection to a 0-5" water vacuum differential gauge and 
differential switch connection. 
Fourth Collector Compartment Dust Settlement Chamber 
The fourth collector compartment 400 (FIGS. 1-3, 7, and 8) comprises a dust 
settlement chamber, carryover collection chamber, and plenum chamber, 
which is located below and communicates with the second two stage 
filtering compartment 200 to receive, collect, contain, and gather the 
removed filtered asbestos fines and particulates of hazardous material 
from the second two stage filtering compartment before passing, 
discharging, and vacuuming the collected, compacted asbestos fines and 
particulates back to the first bulk separator compartment 100 comprising 
the primary material collection receiver. 
As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the dust settlement chamber (fourth collector 
compartment) 400 comprises a rectangular settling tank and collection 
basin 402 with an open ended, horizontal top wall 404 providing a ceiling, 
an imperforate horizontal bottom wall 406 providing a floor, and elongated 
vertical side walls 408 and 410 which extend laterally between and 
transversely connect the ceiling 404 and floor 406 of the dust settlement 
chamber 400. 
The ceiling 404 (FIGS. 7 and 8) of the dust settlement chamber 400 is 
mounted flush against and secured to the mounting flange 230 of the lower 
portion of the circular upright wall 224 of the second two stage filtering 
compartment 200. The ceiling 404 the the dust settlement chamber 400 has a 
circular inlet opening and hole 412 which is aligned in registration and 
communicates with the circular discharge outlet 232 of the second two 
stage filtering compartment to receive the filtered asbestos fines and 
particulates from the second two stage filtering compartment 200. 
Preferably, the inlet opening 412 and the discharge outlet 232 are about 
the same size and diameter. An annular, circular, sponge rubber gasket 414 
seals the ceiling 404 of the dust settlement chamber 400 to the mounting 
flange 230 of the lower portion of the circular upright wall 224 of the 
second two stage filtering compartment 200. 
A rod-supporting right end wall 416 (FIGS. 7 and 8) extends longitudinally 
between and connections the right hand end portions the side walls 408 and 
410. A sponge rubber gasket 418 is mounted against the inner face of the 
rod-supporting right end wall 412. 
As shown in FIGS. 1, 7, and 8, the left hand portion of the fourth 
collector compartment 400 comprises a gathering chamber, portion, or 
section 426. The gathering chamber 426 has an open ended, right hand 
portion 428 which communicates with the interior of the dust settlement 
chamber 400. The right hand portion 428 of the gathering chamber 426 has a 
composite seal 430 comprising a pure gum rubber diaphragm or flange 432 
and an outer sponge rubber gasket 434 which seals the right hand portion 
428 of the gathering chamber against the open ended, intermediate left 
portion 436 of the dust settlement chamber 400. The flange, diaphragms, 
and gaskets extend outwardly from the ceiling and sides of the dust 
settlement chamber 400. 
The ceiling portion 438 (FIGS. 7 and 8) of the gathering chamber 426 is 
aligned and in coplanar relationship with the ceiling 404 of the dust 
settlement chamber 400. The floor portion 440 of the gathering chamber 426 
is aligned and in coplanar relationship with the floor 406 of the dust 
settlement chamber 400. The vertical side portions 442 and 444 of the 
gathering chamber extend vertically between and connect the ceiling 
portion 438 and the floor portion 440 of the gathering chamber and are 
aligned and in coplanar relationship with the sides 408 and 410, 
respectively, of the dust settlement chamber. The solid, imperforate, left 
end wall 446 of the gathering chamber 426 extends longitudinally between 
and connects the side portions 442 and 444 of the gathering chamber and 
extends vertically between and connects the ceiling portion 438 and floor 
portion 440 of the gathering chamber to provide a closed left portion of 
the gathering chamber and collection compartment 400. 
The gathering chamber 426 (FIGS. 7 and 8) receives gathered and compressed 
(compacted) particulates of asbestos and other material. Vertical end air 
tubes 452 and 454 extend vertically upwardly from the floor portion 440 of 
the gathering chamber 426 and are positioned against the side portions 442 
and 444, respectively, end wall 446, and corners of the closed left 
portion of the gathering chamber 426. The vertical and air tubes 452 and 
454 are symmetrical and about the same size and height. Each of the 
vertical end air tubes 452 and 454 have a rectangular cross section 458 
with an inclined or beveled open bottom end 448 or 450 positioned inwardly 
at an angles of about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, preferably about 45 
degrees. The inward side 462 of each vertical end air tube 452 and 454 is 
shorter than the outward side 460 of each vertical end air tube 452 and 
454. 
As shown in FIG. 2, the fourth collector compartment 400 has an inlet air 
pipe and vent (suction) conduit portion 466 which extends above the right 
hand ceiling portion of the gathering chamber 426 and has an outlet pipe 
and discharge conduit portion 468 which extends above the left hand 
ceiling portion of the gathering chamber 426. The right inlet air pipe and 
conduit portion 466 is aligned and in communication with the right 
vertical end air tube 454. The left outlet pipe and conduit portion 468 is 
aligned and in communication with the left vertical end air tube 452. 
Preferably, the inlet and outlet pipes 466 and 468 are of a similar size 
and height. In order to evacuate and empty the compacted asbestos and 
other hazardous material in the fourth collector compartment, an auxiliary 
hose or the vacuum inlet hose 169 is connected to the outlet pipe 468 and 
to the inlet tube 114 of the first bulk separator compartment 100 
comprising the primary material collection receiver and the inlet pipe 466 
is left open to draw in ambient suction air to vacuum, pass, and convey 
the compacted asbestos and other hazardous material in the fourth 
collector compartment 400 to the first bulk separator compartment 100. 
As shown in FIG. 1, closure caps 470 and 472 close, seal, and cover the 
inlet and outlet pipes 466 and 468, respectively, when the fourth 
collector compartment 400 is not being evacuated and emptied. 
As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the central middle portion of the 
rod-supporting, right end wall 416 of the dust settlement chamber has a 
hole or opening 474 about a rubber sleeve 476 or seal which slidably 
receives an elongated push pull rod 478. The left end of the rod 478 is 
connected to the central middle portion of a rectangular moveable, solid 
vertical wall 480 providing a piston and diaphragm. The rectangular 
periphery of the piston 480 slidably engages the ceiling 404, floor 406, 
and sides 408 and 410 of the dust settlement chamber 400 and the ceiling 
portion 438, floor portion 440, and side portions 442 and 444 of the 
gathering chamber 426 of the fourth collector compartment. The piston 480 
is reciprocatingly pushed, driven, and slid by the rod 478 to move, 
compress, and compact the filtered asbestos fines and particulates of 
other hazardous material collected in the dust settlement chamber 400 
against the end wall 446 of the gathering chamber 426 for subsequent 
vacuuming to the first bulk separator compartment 100 comprising the 
primary material collection receiver. A gum rubber gasket or seal 481 can 
be mounted about the periphery of the piston. The rod 478 can be power 
driven by an engine, motor, or other suitable machinery or can be manually 
driven, reciprocatingly pushed, and pulled, such as with a manually 
grippable handle 482 comprising a crossbar at the right end of the rod 
478. The handle is located and spaced laterally outwardly from the right 
end wall 416 of the dust settlement chamber 400. 
Operation 
In operation, the inner and outer bags 102 and 104 are installed in the 
vacuum tank 156 of the first bulk separator compartment 100 comprising the 
primary material collection receiver as shown in FIG. 4 and the door 162 
of the vacuum tank 156 is closed as shown in FIG. 1. The V-belt driven, 
air blower engine 80 is then started and idled, such as at 650 rpm for a 
warm-up period. During this period, the tank door vacuum pressure relief 
valve (vacuum breaker) 164 and the material packing, vacuum relief valve 
(vacuum breaker) 171 are open and air will not flow through the vacuum 
inlet hose 169 and inlet tube 114. The air compressor 84 is then started 
to provide air pressure, such as 40 psi or 100 psi, for reverse-pulse air 
cleaning of the primary tubular filters and operation of the vacuum 
breakers 164 and 171. 
The electrical control panel 84 is activated (energized) to start the four 
step repeat cycle sequential timer for reverse-pulse cleaning of the four 
primary tubular filters 234-240. The control panel 84 also provides 12 
volt power for operation of the double solenoid valves connected to the 
vacuum breakers 164 and 171 through a vacuum switch and relays, as well as 
for operation of the solenoid air valves for reverse-pulse cleaning of the 
primary tubular filters 234-240. The control panel has gauges which 
indicate the vacuum in inches mercury (Hg) at the pump, a primary filter 
differential gauge, and a final Hepa filter differential gauge, engine 
gauges, and indicating warning lights. 
The throttle of the blower engine 80 is then moved to increase the speed of 
the air blower, such as to 2600 rpm, to attain the desired suction and 
vacuum pressure. The vacuum button of the control panel 84 is then 
depressed to commence vacuuming. This will close the tank door vacuum 
relief valve (vacuum breaker) 164 connected to the tank door 162 and the 
material packing, vacuum relief valve (vacuum breaker) 171 connected to 
the inlet pipe 163. 
Asbestos and other hazardous material are vacuumed into the first bulk 
separator compartment 100 comprising the primary material collection 
receiver 100 through the inlet hose 169, pipe 163, and tube 114 at a 
vacuum suction pressure, e.g. 18" Hg. The air flow carrying the material 
vacuumed into the inlet tube 114 will flow rearwardly into the perforated 
inlet collection bag 102 where the asbestos fibers and larger particulates 
of vacuumed material will be deposited and collected. The air exits the 
inner collection bag 102 by flowing outwardly through the holes or pores 
providing the fluid flow passageways 126 of the inner bag. 
The effluent air containing asbestos fines and smaller particulates of 
vacuumed matter then flows forwardly through the gap (space) between the 
inner perforated bag 102 and the outer solid bag 104 which has been 
expanded and pulled against the perforated inner tube comprising the inner 
shell 140 by air flowing radially outwardly through the perforations 154 
of the inner shell. The air gap between the inner and outer bags will be 
maintained by the air flow because of the pneumatic circuitry provided by 
the primary material collection receiver 100. The solid outer bag 104 
provides secondary containment for the collected material in the inner bag 
102. 
The effluent air containing asbestos fines and smaller particulates of 
vacuumed matter exits the outer access opening (outlet) 134 of the outer 
bag and passes rearwardly through the annular chamber (gap) between the 
shroud 150 and the tank's circular sidewall 160 into the outlet tube 166 
for passage to the second two stage filtering compartment 200. The shroud 
150 protects the exterior outer surface of the outer bag 104 from becoming 
dusted and contaminated with entrained asbestos fines and particulates 
being carried by the exiting air in the annular chamber between the shroud 
150 and the tank's circular sidewall 160. 
During vacuuming, the asbestos fibers and other particulates collected in 
the inner perforated bag 102 become packed and compressed. The packing of 
vacuumed material in the perforated inner bag 102 is the result of 
resistance to air flow through the collected material in the inner bag as 
the inner bag fills. As filling progresses, the resistance to air flow at 
the vacuum pump, air blower, or compressor will increase, causing the 
asbestos fibers and other particulates to be packed and compress tighter 
together, leaving less voids (gaps) between the collected material until a 
significant mass resistance to flow reaches, such as at about 18" Hg. 
Lesser or greater vacuum pressures will cause lesser or higher densities 
of the collected material load. 
The partially dedusted air stream is passed laterally through the outlet 
conduit 166 of the vacuum tank 156 into the first stage, upper nozzle 
chamber 202 of the second two stage filtering compartment 200 and injected 
downwardly by the nozzles or ports 210 to the second stage, lower 
filtering chamber 204 about the outside of the tubular filters 234-240. 
The air is then passed laterally and radially inwardly through the tubular 
filters 234-240 and deflected upwardly through centers of the tubular 
filters 234-240 for discharge through the outlet 246 of the second two 
stage filtering compartment 200 into the third single stage Hepa-type 
filtering compartment 300. The second two stage filtering compartment 200 
partially filters and removes the asbestos fines and other remaining 
particulates of hazardous material. 
The Hepa-type filter 334 of the third one stage filtering compartment 300 
removes and filters the remaining asbestos fines and other particulates of 
hazardous material in the partially filtered stream from the second two 
stage filtering compartment 200. The clean, filtered, purified air from 
the third one stage filtering compartment 300 is discharged through the 
third compartment discharge outlet and hose 336 to the air blower 82. The 
purified air is drawn (sucked) through the air blower 82 and passed 
through the muffler (silencer) 90 and exits through the muffler's overhead 
discharge outlet 94 for safe discharge to the surrounding area, 
environment, or atmosphere. 
The fourth collector compartment 400 comprising a dust settlement chamber, 
carryover collection chamber, and compressions chamber, receive, collect, 
contain, and gather the removed filtered asbestos fines and particulates 
of hazardous material from the second two stage filtering compartment 200 
before passing, discharging, and vacuuming the collected, compacted 
asbestos fines and particulates to the first bulk separator compartment 
100 comprising the primary material collection receiver. The asbestos 
fines and particulates of other hazardous material from the second two 
stage filtering compartment 200, exit the open bottom discharge outlet 232 
of the second two stage filtering compartment 200 and enter the open ended 
ceiling 404 of the the fourth collector compartment 400 and gravitate to 
the floor 406 of the dust settlement chamber. Periodically, the piston 480 
is reciprocatingly pushed, driven, and slid by the rod 478 to move and 
gather the filtered asbestos fines and particulates of other hazardous 
material collected in the dust settlement chamber against the end wall 446 
of the gathering chamber 426 for subsequent vacuuming to the first bulk 
separator compartment 100 comprising the primary material collection 
receiver. 
The carryover collection chamber providing the fourth collector compartment 
400 is emptied by externally sealed vacuuming the carryover asbestos fines 
and particulates of hazardous material back into the primary material 
collection receiver 100 for sealed disposal. In order to evacuate and 
empty the compacted asbestos and other hazardous material in the fourth 
collector compartment 400, an auxiliary hose or the vacuum inlet hose 169 
is connected to the outlet pipe 468 and to the inlet tube 114 of the first 
bulk separator compartment 100 comprising the primary material collection 
receiver and the inlet pipe 466 is left open to draw in ambient suction 
air to vacuum, pass, and convey the compacted asbestos and other hazardous 
material in the fourth collector compartment 400 to the first bulk 
separator compartment 100. The inlet and outlet pipes 466 and 468 are 
capped by closure caps 470 and 472 when vacuuming of the fourth collector 
compartment 400 is completed. 
It is desirable that the vacuumed material remain in the container (bag 
assembly) into which it has been collected and that this same container be 
sealed within the vacuum tank 156 prior to removal for disposal. It is 
also desirable to pack and de-aerate the material in the collection 
container so that a dense load can be achieved and disposed of with 
minimal amount of dead air in the load. The vacuum loader 10 provides all 
of these features. With the vacuum loader 10 the vacuumed material will be 
collected in a filter-collection bag 102 while an outer solid pliable 
plastic bag 104 is in place surrounding the inner bag 102 during the time 
it is being filled. After filling the inner bag 102. The outer bag 104 
will be tied and sealed around the inner bag 102 for sealed disposal. The 
vacuum loader 10 provision for packing and de-aerating material, fibrous 
or otherwise, into the inner collection-filter bag 102 is accomplished by 
pulling a high vacuum on the collected material which is provided by a 
positive displacement vacuum pump 80. The packing and de-aerating of 
material in the bag is the result of resistance to air flow through the 
material as the collection-filter bag 102 fills. As the filling 
progresses, so will the resistance to air flow to the pump increase, thus 
packing the fibers and particles tighter together and leaving less and 
less air gaps between the fibers and particles until the mass resistance 
to flow reaches about 16" or 18" mercury (Hg) vacuum at which time the 
vacuum pump will automatically stop after a twenty second time delay. 
Vacuuming in the first bulk separator compartment 100 comprising the 
primary material collection receiver continues until the inner collection 
bag 102 is filled with asbestos or other vacuumed material. This will be 
signaled when the vacuum switch and gauge reaches a steady vacuum 
pressure, such as 16" or 18" Hg. for more than twenty seconds, at which 
time the material inlet tube vacuum breaker 171 connected to the inlet 
pipe 163 will open to stop vacuuming and clear the collection bag entry 
pipeline of the vacuumed material. After a short delay, the vacuum beaker 
164 connected to the tank door 162 will open to relieve the vacuum in the 
tank so that the tank door 162 can be opened and the filled bag removed. 
The air blower 80 and compressor 82 will remain running to provide 
continuous ventilation to the operator when the operator opens the tank 
door 162, thereby exhausting any particulate matter away from the operator 
while the door 162 is open. 
The material inlet tube vacuum breaker 171 connected to the inlet pipe will 
open when a high resistance through the collected material load in the 
perforated inner bag 102 is reached. This will allow atmospheric air to 
flow in through the material inlet tube vacuum breaker at a high volume 
and through the collected material; this change of pressure can be sensed 
by a high vacuum switch at the vacuum pump, air blower, or compressor. The 
instantaneous high flow of air through the collected material in the 
perforated inner bag 102 will cause the collected material to become even 
more dense (compressed). It will also cause vacuuming to cease, as well as 
sweep the material entry tube (inlet tube) 114 clear of vacuumed material 
so that when the tank door 162 is opened, the collected material will not 
fall out. The inlet tube 114 can then be immediately capped by the 
operator. 
After the inner bag 102 is filled with the vacuumed matter, a water spray 
of recycled and filtered water is injected into the vacuum tank 156 about 
the tank door 162 and surrounding areas by one or more tank water nozzles, 
such as by a pair of diametrically opposite nozzles 186 and 188 located 
near the top and bottom portions of the tank door 162, pointed 
longitudinally rearwardly and at an angle of inclination of about 45 
degrees towards the center of the bags, and connected to an external hose 
and water supply tank. The water is discharged (drained) into the drain 
pipe 168 to the water reservoir 26 in the trailer 12. The water in the 
reservoir 26 can be periodically emptied through the trailer outlet 
conduit and drain pipe 30. 
After the water wash down cycle, the operator can then unlatch and swing 
the tank door 162 open. Immediately thereafter, the inner bag retainer bar 
118 is removed from the inlet tube 114 by releasing the over center 
locking clamp 124. The closure plate 170 is then immediately placed 
(pushed) into the front open end 132 of the outer bag 104 to cover the 
disposable inlet tube 114 and close the outer bag 104. The closure plate 
will evacuate any free air contained between the inner and outer bags 102 
and 104 as well as any free air inside the inner bag 102 which will 
minimize excess air in the collected load. Thereafter, the operator will 
pull the outer membrane bag retaining spring 138 over the flared end (lip) 
148 of the perforated tube comprising the inner shell 140, which is welded 
or otherwise permanently secured to the vacuum tank, and snap the 
retaining spring over the outside surface of the closure plate 170. The 
retaining spring 138 will draw the closure plate firmly against the inlet 
tube 114 as well as tighten the outer membrane bag 104 against the inner 
membrane bag 102. The outer membrane bag 104 can be further tightened 
against the circular edge of the closure plate 170 by installing and 
hooking elastic draw cords or springs 172 and 174 across the span of the 
retaining spring 138. The three inch vacuum hose 266 can be connected to a 
hose port in the second two stage filtering compartment 200 to withdraw 
excess air from the bag assembly. Thereafter, the three inch hose 266 can 
be disconnected from the closure plate 170 and the auxiliary three inch 
vacuum hose connection 184 capped. 
The filled, sealed, inner and outer membrane bags can then be pulled out of 
the vacuum tank 156 by connecting an elongated hook 182 chained to the 
tines of a forklift truck, to the eyebolt or eyelet 176. The filled, 
closed, sealed bags 102 and 104 can then be pulled out of the vacuum tank 
by the forklift truck. The forklift truck can then lift the filled bags 
and transport the filled bags to a waste disposal cite. 
The operator can place a new solid outer bag 104 in the vacuum tank 156 and 
retain the outer bag by pushing the rim (open end) of the outer bag upon 
the flared lip of the perforated tube comprising the inner shell 140. A 
new perforated inner collection bag 102 can then be placed inside the 
outer bag and its neck 110 secured to another disposable inlet tube 114, 
such as with a band, hose clamp, or collar 116. The inlet tube can be 
secured to the vacuum tank by connecting the retainer bar 118 to yoke-type 
supports located inside the vacuum tank. The tank door 162 can then be 
closed and secured by locking the turn buckle latch. The primary material 
collection receiver 100 is then ready to continue vacuuming by repeating 
the operating sequence discussed above. 
The power unit with the Hepa-type filter and gasoline engine drive package 
provide the air flow for conveying the asbestos and other hazardous 
material in the vacuum hose, such as at up to 16" or 18" mercury (Hg) 
vacuum. The exhauster can be driven by a 65.9 bhp gasoline engine and can 
have a 50 gallon reserve gas tank 72. The exhauster engine and the 
compressor engine can each have a manual starter switch and throttle. 
The primary filtration package comprising the second two stage filtering 
compartment 200 before the Hepa filter 334 is continuously cleaned during 
vacuuming to prevent clogging and excessive buildup of carryover material 
on the tubular filters 234-240 and to facilitate the continuous running of 
the exhauster without shut down during periods of conveying asbestos and 
other hazardous material, as well as during periods of removal of the 
filled and sealed bags 102 and 104 from the primary material collection 
receiver 100. The 12 volt electrical control panel 84 controls the 
automatic cycling of the filtration cleaning syste and the vacuum breaker 
system. 
Applicant's special vacuum loader produced unexpected surprisingly good 
results in removing, collecting, containing, sealing, and disposing 
asbestos fibers and other hazardous material over conventional vacuum 
loaders. 
Among the many advantages of the four compartment, five stage, vacuum 
loader are: 
1. Excellent separation and removal of asbestos fibers and large 
particulates of hazardous material. 
2. Better solids-gas separation. 
3. Compact collection of asbestos and other material. 
4. Superior containment and sealing of the collected material. 
5. Enhanced air purification. 
6. Greatly reduced operator exposure to asbestos. 
7. Good load-carrying, collection capacity. 
8. Greater efficiency of operation. 
9. Excellent dedusting. 
10. Cost effective. 
11. Economical. 
12. Easy to install, remove, and repair. 
13. Simple to use. 
14. Less maintenance. 
15. Effective. 
16. Efficient. 
17. Dependable. 
18. Safe. 
Although an embodiment of the invention has been shown and described, it is 
to be understood that various modifications and substitutions, as well as 
rearrangements of parts and process steps, can be made by those skilled in 
the art without departing from the novel spirit and scope of this 
invention.