Abstract:
This invention presents a sulphurous acid generator which employs a combination of novel blending, contact and mixing mechanisms which maximize the efficiency and duration of contact between sulphur dioxide gas and water to form sulphurous acid in an open nonpressurized system, without employing a countercurrent absorption tower. The present invention also incorporates a novel high temperature concrete for use in constructing portions of the present invention.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/643,097, filed Aug. 21, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,506,347, issued Jan. 14, 2003; which is a continuation-in-part of patent application Ser. No. 08/888,376, filed Jul. 7, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,299, issued Jun. 19, 2001. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. The Field of the Invention 
     Only a fraction of the Earth&#39;s total water supply is available and suitable for agriculture, industry and domestic needs. The demand for water is great and new technologies together with growing populations increase the demand for water while pollution diminishes the limited supply of usable water. The growing demand for water requires efficient use of available water resources. 
     Agricultural use of water places a large demand on the world&#39;s water supply. In some communities, the water supply may be adequate for farming but the quality of the water is unsuitable for agriculture because the water is alkaline. Alkalinity is an important factor affecting the quality, efficiency and performance of soil and irrigation water. A relative increase in irrigation alkalinity due to the water&#39;s sodium to calcium ratio or a high pH renders irrigation water detrimental to soil, crop growth and irrigation water efficiency. Such water can be reclaimed for soil rehabilitation and irrigation by adding lower pH sulphurous acid to the alkaline water to reduce its alkalinity or pH. 
     The invention of this application is directed toward a device which generates sulphurous acid in a simplified, efficient way. In particular, it is directed toward a sulphurous acid generator which produces sulphurous acid by burning sulphur to produce sulphur dioxide gas. The sulphur dioxide gas is then drawn toward and held in contact with water eventually reacting with the water and producing sulphurous acid, while substantially reducing dangerous emissions of sulphur dioxide gas to the air. 
     2. The Relevant Technology 
     There are several sulphurous acid generators in the art. The prior art devices utilize sulphur burn chambers and absorption towers. However, known systems utilize countercurrent current flow or pressurized systems as the principle means to accomplish the generation of sulphurous acid. For example, many devices employ the absorption tower to introduce the majority of the water to the system in countercurrent flow to the flow of sulphur dioxide gas. U.S. Pat. No. 4,526,771 teaches introducing 90% of the system water for the first time in countercurrent flow at the top of the absorption tower. In such devices, the integrity of the absorption towers is vital, and any deficiencies or inefficiencies of the absorption tower lead to diminished reaction and results. Other devices utilize pressurized gas to facilitate flow of gas through the system, see U.S. Pat. No. 3,226,201. Pressurized devices, however, require expensive manufacture to ensure the containment of dangerous sulphur dioxide gas to avoid leakage. Even negative pressure machines have the drawback of requiring a source of energy to power the negative pressure generator such as an exhaust fan. Still other devices rely upon secondary combustion chambers to further oxidize the sulphur, see U.S. Pat. No. 4,526,771. Many sulphurous acid generators emit significant or dangerous levels of unreacted sulphur dioxide gas, a harmful and noxious pollutant, into the surrounding environment. 
     SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention is directed to a sulphurous acid generator which can be used to improve alkaline irrigation water by adding the sulphurous acid produced by the generator to alkaline water to reduce the alkalinity and/or pH of the water. In addition to making the water less alkaline, adding sulphurous acid to alkaline water increases the availability of sulphur in the water to act as a nutrient, improves capillary action of the soil, increases cation exchange capacity, and decreases tail water run-off and tillage and fertilizer costs. 
     In many agricultural settings, complicated farm machinery is not practical because it requires technical training to operate and special skills to service and maintain. For sulphur generators, improved design can reduce costs, simplify operation, service and maintenance and increase efficiency and safety thereby making the machine more practical for agricultural use. The present invention is directed toward a sulphurous acid generator that is simple to produce, operate, service and maintain, and which efficiency produces, contains and reacts sulphur dioxide gas and sulphurous acid without exposing the user or other living things in proximity to the machine to dangerous sulphur dioxide emissions. 
     It will be appreciated that a specific energy source is not necessarily required by the present invention, and therefore its use is not necessarily restricted to locations where a particular power source, like electricity, is available or can be generated for use. All of the above objectives are met by the present invention. 
     Unlike the prior art, the present invention is designed to maximize the amount of water in contact with sulphur dioxide gas and the duration of the contact of water with sulphur dioxide gas without creating or minimizing back pressure in the system or relying upon pressurization of the gas to cause the sulphur dioxide gas to flow through the sulphurous acid generator. This reduces the complexity of the sulphurous acid generator and the need for additional equipment such as air compressors used by prior art devices. 
     The invention primarily relates to a sulphur hopper, a burn chamber, a gas pipeline, a mixing tank, an exhaust pipeline, and an exhaust scrubbing tower. 
     The sulphur hopper preferably has a capacity of several hundred pounds of sulphur in powder, flake, split-pea or pastile form. The sulphur hopper can be constructed of various materials or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the sulphur hopper is constructed of stainless steel and plastic. In the preferred embodiment the hopper is constructed of Saggregate™ concrete. The sulphur hopper is connected to the burn chamber by a passageway positioned at the base of the sulphur hopper. The conduit joins the burn chamber at its base. The weight of the sulphur in the sulphur hopper forces sulphur through the passageway at the base and into the burn chamber, providing a continual supply of sulphur for burning. 
     A cooling ring is disposed at the base of the hopper. The cooling ring enters the base of the hopper, traverses a unshaped pattern near the passageway into the burn chamber protruding above the base of the hopper. The cooling ring creates a physical and temperature barrier preventing molten sulphur from flowing across the entire base of the hopper. 
     The burn chamber has an ignition inlet on the top of the burn chamber through which the sulphur is ignited and an air inlet on the side of the chamber through which oxygen enters to fuel the burning sulphur. The burning sulphur generates sulphur dioxide gas. In the preferred embodiment, the top of the chamber is removable, facilitating access to the chamber for maintenance and service. The burn chamber is constructed of material capable of withstanding the corrosiveness of the sulphur and the heat of combustion, namely stainless steel but preferably Saggregate™ concrete. Saggregate™ concrete is preferred because it significantly decreases the cost of the hopper and burning chamber. Saggregate™ concrete is a unique blend of cement and aggregates. 
     Sulphur dioxide gas exits the burn chamber through an exhaust outlet on the top of the burn chamber and is drawn into a first conduit. The first conduit may be manufactured from stainless steel. 
     A supply of water is conducted by a second conduit and may be brought from a water source through the second conduit by any means capable of delivering sufficient water and pressure, such as an elevated water tank or a mechanical or electric pump. 
     The first conduit and second conduit meet and couple with a third conduit. The third conduit may comprise a blending portion, a contact containment portion, an agitation portion and a means for discharging the sulphurous acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas. In the third conduit, the sulphur dioxide gas and water are brought in contact with each other to form sulphurous acid. The third conduit may be constructed of polyethylene plastic, pvc or any durable plastic. 
     The blending portion of the third conduit comprises a means for bringing the sulphur dioxide gas in the first conduit and the water in the second conduit into contained, codirectional flow into contact with each other. The majority of water used to create sulphurous acid in the system and method is introduced into the third conduit and flows through one or more mixing portions in the third conduit, thereafter discharging naturally by gravity into a mixing tank. 
     Water is introduced into the third conduit in codirectional flow with the sulphur dioxide gas so as to create an annular column of water with the sulphur dioxide gas flowing inside the annular column of water thereby blending the water and sulphur dioxide gas together. In the preferred embodiment, water is introduced into the gas pipeline and passes through an eductor or venturi, which causes sulphur dioxide gas to be drawn through the first conduit without the need of pressuring the sulphur dioxide gas and without using an exhaust fan. The water and sulphur dioxide gas remain in contact with each other for the period of time it takes to flow through a portion of the third conduit. In the contact area, a portion of the sulphur dioxide gas reacts with the water, creating sulphurous acid. 
     In different embodiments, an agitation portion comprises a means for mixing and agitating the codirectionally flowing sulphur dioxide gas and water/sulphurous acid. The agitation portions enhance sulphur dioxide gas reaction and dispersion. Bends in or a length of the third conduit or obstructions within the third conduit are contemplated as means for mixing and agitating in the agitation portion. Agitation of the codirectional flow of the sulphur dioxide gas and water further facilitates reaction of the sulphur dioxide gas with water. Sulphurous acid and sulphur dioxide gas flow out of the third conduit through means for discharging the sulphurous acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas. 
     A discharge outlet represents a possible embodiment of means for discharging the sulphurous acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas. Tire discharge outlet permits conduit contents to enter a gas submersion zone. 
     The sulphurous acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas exit the third conduit through the discharge and enter a gas submersion zone or mixing tank. In one embodiment, a weir divides the mixing tank into two sections, namely a pooling section and an effluent or outlet section. Sulphurous acid and sulphur dioxide gas exit the discharge of the third conduit into the pooling section. As the sulphurous acid pours into the mixing tank, it creates a pool of sulphurous acid equal in depth to the height of the weir. At all times, the water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas discharge from the third conduit above the level of the liquid in the pooling section of the mixing tank. In another embodiment, water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas discharge from the third conduit to mix in a single cell mixing tank, discharging out the bottom of the mixing tank. 
     In other words, the discharge from the third conduit is positioned sufficiently high in the mixing tank so that sulphur dioxide gas exiting the pipeline can pass directly into and be submerged within the pool while in an open (nonclosed) arrangement. In other words, the discharge from the third conduit does not create any significant back pressure on the flow of sulphurous acid or sulphur dioxide gas in the third conduit or gas pipeline. Nevertheless, the vertical position of the discharge from the third conduit into the pool reduces the likelihood that the unreacted sulphur dioxide gas will exit from the discharge without being submerged in the pool. In one embodiment, the discharge is removed a distance from the sidewall of the mixing tank toward the center of the pooling section to allow the pool to be efficiently churned by the inflow of sulphurous acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas from the third conduit. In another embodiment, discharge out the bottom of the mixing tank upstream from a u-trap efficiently churns unreacted sulphur dioxide gas with the aqueous fluid of the system. 
     As acidic/water and gas continue to enter the mixing tank from the third conduit in one embodiment, the level of the pool eventually exceeds the height of the weir. Sulphurous acid spills over the weir and into the effluent or outlet section of the mixing tank where the sulphurous acid exits the mixing tank through an effluent outlet. The top of the effluent outlet is positioned below height of the weir and below the discharge from the third conduit in order to reduce the amount of free floating unreacted sulphur dioxide gas exiting the chamber through the effluent outlet. In another embodiment, a discharge in the bottom of a weirless mixing tank employs the column of water to inhibit unreacted sulphur dioxide from exiting the mixing chamber through the bottom discharge outlet. Free floating, unreacted sulphur dioxide gas remaining in the mixing tank rises up to the top of the mixing tank. The top of the mixing tank is adapted with a lid. Undissolved sulphur dioxide gas flowing through the effluent outlet are trapped by a standard u-trap, forcing accumulated gas back into the mixing tank while sulfurous acid exits the system through a first discharge pipe. 
     To ensure further elimination of any significant emissions of sulphur dioxide gas from the generator into the environment, the sulphur dioxide gas remaining in the mixing tank may be drawn into an exhaust conduit coupled with an exhaust vent on the lid of the mixing tank. The exhaust conduit defines a fourth conduit. Positioned in the fourth conduit is a means for introducing water into the fourth conduit. The water which enters the fourth conduit may be brought from a water source by any means capable of delivering sufficient water to the fourth conduit. As the water is introduced into the fourth conduit, it reacts with the sulphur dioxide gas that has migrated out through the lid of the mixing tank of the absorption tower, and creates sulphurous acid. 
     In the preferred embodiment, water introduced into the fourth conduit, passes through a second eductor or venturi causing the sulphur dioxide gas to be drawn through the vent and into the fourth conduit. The gas and water are contained in contact as they flow in codirectional flow through one or more contact secondary containment and/or agitation portions of the fourth conduit. Sulphurous acid exits the fourth conduit through a second discharge pipe. The fourth conduit may be constructed of high density polyethylene plastic, pvc or any suitably durable plastic. The material of construction is chosen for its durability and resistance to ultra violet ray degradation. In a preferred embodiment, the second discharge pipe also comprises a u-trap configuration. 
     In a preferred embodiment upstream from the u-trap of the second discharge pipe, a vent stack houses an exhaust scrubbing tower providing a tertiary containment area. The exhaust scrubbing tower defines grill holes through which the rising, undissolved gases rise. In a preferred embodiment, the exhaust scrubbing tower comprises a cylindrical body which is constructed of polyethylene plastic which is durable, lightweight and resistant to ultra violet ray degradation. At the top of the exhaust scrubbing tower, a third source of water introduces a shower of water through an emitter inside the exhaust tower showering water downward, resulting in a countercurrent flow of undissolved gases and descending water. The rising sulphur dioxide gas comes into countercurrent contact with the descending water, creating sulphurous acid. 
     The exhaust scrubbing tower is packed with path diverters, which force the countercurrent flow of sulphur dioxide gas and water to pass through a tortuous maze, increasing the duration of time the gas and water remain in contact and the surface area of the contact. Substantially all the free floating sulphur dioxide gas from the mixing tank will react with water in the tower to form sulphurous acid. Sulphurous acid created in the tower flows down into the secondary discharge. Any undissolved gases pass out of the open, upward end of the exhaust scrubbing tower to the atmosphere. 
     As mentioned, the water introduced into the system to the third conduit, fourth conduit and exhaust scrubbing tower may be brought from a water source to the system by any means capable of delivering sufficient water and pressure, such as a standing, elevated water tank, or mechanical, electric or diesel powered water pump. 
     The present invention also contemplates means for controlling the burn rate of sulphur in the burning chamber, that is, dampening the flow or amount of air made available into the burning chamber. 
     It is an object of this invention to create a sulfurous acid generator that is simple to manufacture, use, maintain and service. 
     It is also an object of this invention to construct the hopper and burn chamber out of a high-temperature concrete to reduce manufacturing costs. 
     It is another object of this invention to eliminate reliance upon countercurrent absorption as the prior mechanism for creating sulphurous acid as taught by the prior art. 
     It is further an object of this invention to create a sulfurous acid generator that is capable of operating without any electrical equipment such as pumps, air compressor or exhaust fans requiring a specific energy source requirement, such as electricity or diesel fuels. 
     It is another object of this invention to produce a sulphurous acid generator which converts substantially all sulfur dioxide gas generated into sulphurous acid. 
     It is another object of the invention to produce a sulfurous acid generator which uses an induced draw created by the flow of water through the system to draw gases through the otherwise open system. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide a sulphurous acid generator with one or more contact containment and/or agitation and mixing mechanisms to increase the duration of time during which the sulphur dioxide gas is in contact with and mixed with water. 
     It is an object of this invention to produce a sulphurous acid generator which substantially eliminates emission of harmful sulphur dioxide gas. 
    
    
     
       These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and objects of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly depicted above will be rendered by reference to a specific embodiment thereof which is illustrated in the appended drawings. With the understanding that these drawings depict only a typical embodiment of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the sulphurous acid generator. 
         FIG. 2  is a side elevation view partly in cutaway cross-section of the components of the sulphurous acid generator. 
         FIG. 3  is a side elevation view partly in cut-away cross-section of an alternative embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of the Saggregate™ concrete embodiment of the sulphur hopper and burning chamber. 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged view of a portion of a third conduit. 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged view of a portion of a fourth conduit. 
         FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view of the exhaust scrubbing tower. 
         FIGS. 8A  to  8 E illustrate alternative embodiments dampening available air or oxygen flowing into the burning chamber for combustion. 
         FIG. 9  is a flow chart explaining the inventive process. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Including by reference the figures listed above, applicant&#39;s sulfurous acid generator comprises a system which generates sulphur dioxide gas and keeps the gas substantially contained and in contact with water for extended periods of time substantially eliminating any significant release of harmful sulphur dioxide gas from the system as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2 , and  3 . The principal elements of the present invention are shown in  FIGS. 1-8 . 
     The sulphur hopper  20  comprises enclosure  24  with a lid  26 . Lid  26  may define a closeable aperture, not shown. Enclosure  24  may be of any geometric shape; square is shown, cylindrical may also be employed. Lid  26  of enclosure  24  is readily removable to allow sulphur to be loaded into hopper  20 . Enclosure  24  defines a hopper outlet  30 . Hopper  20  is configured such that sulphur in hopper  20  is directed toward hopper outlet  30  by the pull of gravity. Hopper outlet  30  allows sulphur to pass through and out of hopper  20 . 
       FIG. 1A  illustrates a plan view of open hopper  20 . Hopper  20  comprises a base or floor  22 . In the preferred embodiment, a cooling ring  28  is disposed about ½ inch above base  22 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , untreated irrigation water is circulated through cooling ring  28 . See also FIG.  1 B.  FIGS. 1A and 1B  also disclose vertical standing baffles  29 . In practice of the invention it has been discovered that baffles  29  assist in directing the dry sulphur to hopper outlet  30 . Practice of the invention has also revealed that cooling ring  28  is most effective when placed closer to hopper outlet  30  rather than the middle of base  22  or farther away from hopper outlet  30 . The effect cooling ring  28  has on molten sulphur will be discussed below. 
     A passageway conduit  36  communicates between hopper outlet  30  and burn chamber inlet  50  of burn chamber  40 . 
     Burn chamber  40  comprises floor member  42 , chamber sidewall  44  and roof member  46 . Roof member  46  is removably attached to chamber sidewall  44  supporting roof member  46 . Roof member  46  defines an ignition inlet  52  as having a removably attached ignition inlet cover  54 . An air inlet  56  defined by chamber sidewall  44  has a removably attached air inlet cover  58 . The air inlet  56  preferably enters the chamber sidewall  44  tangentially. An exhaust opening  60  in the burn chamber  40  is defined by the roof member  46 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3 , and  4 , roof member  46  also defines a downwardly extending annular ring  48 . In the preferred embodiment, ring  48  extends downwardly into burn chamber  40  at least as low as air inlet  56  is disposed. It is understood and believed that this configuration causes not only inlet air to swirl in a cyclone effect into burn chamber  40  but induces a swirling or cyclone effect of the combusted sulphur dioxide gas as it rises in burn chamber  40  and passing up through exhaust opening  60  and gas pipeline  70 . Roof member  46  is secured to sidewall  44  of burn chamber  40  by either bolting roof member  46  to burn chamber to the top of sidewall  44  in any conventional fashion, or as shown in  FIG. 4 , by employing removable C-clamps  49 . 
     Hopper  20 , passageway conduit  36  and bum chamber  40  may be constructed of stainless steel. In such case, roof member  46  could be removably bolted to bum chamber  40 . In an alternative embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , hopper  20 , passageway conduit  36  and burn chamber  40  as well as a platform or legs  10  may be constructed of Saggregate™ concrete. Saggregate™ concrete is a unique blend of cement and other components. The Saggregate™ concrete comprises a cement component, two aggregate components, and a water component. The preferred cement component is Lumnite MG® (“Lumnite® cement”), Heidelberger Calcium Aluminate Cement from Heidelberger Calcium Aluminates, Inc., Allentown, Pa., United States of America. The preferred Lumnite® has a 7000 pound crush weight nature. The first aggregate is preferably a pea-sized medium or granular shale sold by Utelite Corp., Wanship, Utah, 84017, United States of America. A second aggregate is preferably a crushed mesh or crushed fines inorganic aggregate. The preferred fine-sized aggregate is PAKMLX® Lightweight Soil Conditioner produced by Utelite Corp., Wanship, Utah, 84017, United States of America. The Pakinix® aggregate comprises No. 10 crushed fines of shale capable of bearing temperatures up to 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. 
     The mixing ratio of the cement, first aggregate, second aggregate and water are as follows. The ratio of Lumnite® cement to combined aggregates is 1:3 by volume. The ratio of water to Lumnite® cement by weight is 0.4:1. Operational results are achieved when the volume ratio of pea-sized medium shale aggregate to Lumnite® cement ranges from about 0:1 to about 3.0:1 and where the volume ratio of crushed mesh/crushed shale fines aggregate to Lumnite® cement ranges from about 0:1 to about 3.0:1. More satisfactory results are achieved when the volume ratio of pea-sized medium shale aggregate to Lumnite® cement ranges from about 1:1 to about 1.5:1 and where the volume ratio of crushed mesh/crushed shale fines aggregate to Lumnite® cement ranges from about 1.5:1 to about 2.0:1. The most favorable results occur when the pea-sized medium shale aggregate is mixed in a ratio to Lumnite® cement in a range from about 1.2:1 to about 1.3:1 by volume and wherein the crushed mesh/crushed shale fines aggregate component is present in a ratio to Lumnite® cement in a range from about 1.7:1 to about 1.8:1 by volume. 
     Embodiments of the Saggregate™ concrete of the present invention discussed above and illustrated in  FIG. 4  were made in the following manner: 
     EXAMPLE 1 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   1.5 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   1.5 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one and one-half cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Measure one and one-half cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete was used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     Other embodiments of the Saggregate™ concrete of the present invention discussed above and illustrated in  FIG. 4  may be made in the following manner: 
     EXAMPLE 2 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   3.0 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   None       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®           cement                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure three cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Use no crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement and pea-sized medium shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the three cubic feet of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 3 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   None       crushed fine shale   3.0 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®           cement                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Use no pea-sized medium shale. Measure three cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heal of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 4 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   .4 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   2.6 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®           cement                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure 0.4 cubic foot of pea-sized medium shale. Measure 2.6 cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 5 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   one volume unit       crushed fine shale   2.0 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one cubic foot of pea-sized medium shale. Measure two cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete, Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 6 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   1.1 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   1.9 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one and one-tenth cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Measure one and nine-tenths cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 7 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   1.2 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   1.8 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one and two-tenths cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Measure one and eight-tenths cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 8 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   1.3 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   1.7 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one and three-tenths cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Measure one and seven-tenths cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add die amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     EXAMPLE 9 
                                 Component   Amount                   Lumnite ® cement   one volume unit       pea-sized medium shale   1.4 × one volume unit       crushed fine shale   1.6 × one volume unit       water   .4 × weight of one volume unit of Lumnite ®                    
For example, one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement is measured and weighed, the weight of one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement being noted. Measure one and four-tenths cubic feet of pea-sized medium shale. Measure one and six-tenths cubic feet of crushed fine shale. Mix the Lumnite® cement, pea-sized medium shale and crushed fine shale together to create a dry mix. Measure an amount of water equal to 0.4 times the weight of the one cubic foot of Lumnite® cement. Add the amount of water to the dry mix to create Saggregate™ concrete. Mix, handle, pour, cure and treat the Saggregate™ concrete like conventional concrete. In the context of the present invention, Saggregate™ concrete is used with suitable molds to form the desired hopper-burn chamber assembly capable of withstanding the heat of burning and molten sulphur in use.
 
     The dry mix of Lumnite® cement and aggregates can be pre-mixed and bagged together. This greatly simplifies construction for the user because all components of the Saggregate™ concrete are provided except water which can be provided on site. When mixed and cured, the Saggregate™ concrete is easily capable of withstanding the 400 to 600 degree Fahrenheit temperature of the burning and molten sulphur in burning chamber  40 . 
     In the preferred embodiment using Saggregate™ concrete to construct base  22  and sidewall  24  of hopper  20  should be 2½ to 3 inches thick. Similarly, the walls of the conduit passageway  36  and base  42  and sidewall  44  of burn chamber  40  should also have Saggregate™ concrete in the thickness of about 2½ to 3 inches. In the configuration shown in  FIG. 4 , lid  26  may be constructed of virtually any material, including wood, plastic, or any other material. Due to the extreme heat generated in burn chamber  40 , roof member  46  must be made of a material that will withstand such extreme temperatures. Preferably, roof member  46  is constructed of stainless steel. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , feet  10  may also be constructed of Saggregate™ concrete. Feet  10  are used to permit air to radiate under the bottom of hopper  20  and burning chamber  40  to dissipate radiant heat. As shown in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B and  4 , an additional advantage of placing cooling ring  28  in the hopper near passage conduit  36  results in a physical barrier and temperature barrier of any molten sulphur flowing from burning chamber  40  through conduit passageway  36  into hopper  20 . In other words, the physical location of cooling ring  28  and the temperature gradient caused thereby, impedes the flow of any molten sulphur out of conduit passageway  36  so as to confine molten sulphur between cooling ring  28  and fluid conduit passageway  36 . In a preferred embodiment, the hopper is in a square shape that has a cross-section of about 18 inches by 18 inches and is about 30 inches high in its inside dimensions. If a cylindrical shaped hopper is employed, an inside diameter of about 18 inches is preferred. In such a case, the inside height dimension of conduit passageway  36  is about 5 inches in inside height and about 10 inches in inside width with the burning chamber  40  being about 12 inches in height and having an inside diameter of 10 inches. This embodiment burns about 5 pounds of sulphur or less per hour and is capable of treating about 15 to 100 gallons of water per minute. 
     In another larger embodiment, the hopper, if square, could have inside dimensions of about 32 inches by 42 inches, with a height of about 48 inches with the inside height dimension of conduit passageway  36  being about 6 inches in inside height and about 11 inches in inside width with a burn chamber having a height of about 16 inches and an inside diameter of about 18 inches. In this embodiment, tests have revealed that about 20 pounds of sulphur or less per hour is burned and the amount of water being treated may range from about 20 gallons per minute to about 300 gallons per minute. 
     The present invention also contemplates a means for controlling the burn rate of sulphur in burn chamber  40 .  FIGS. 8A through 8E  represent different means for dampening air intake through air inlet  56 .  FIG. 8A  illustrates a curved and/or occluded end of air inlet  56 . Tests have revealed that a substantially centered hole having a diameter of about 1 to about 2 inches permits effective control of the burn of sulphur in chamber  40 . 
       FIG. 8B  illustrates a conventional gate valve which can be placed along air inlet  56  to selectively dampen the flow of air into burn chamber  40 . 
     Similarly,  FIG. 8C  illustrates a conventional ball valve effective in restricting flow. Use of such a ball valve permits selective dampening or control of air through air inlet  56  into burn chamber  40 . 
       FIG. 8D  illustrates another embodiment in which a bend in air inlet  56  is followed by a ring disposed within air inlet  56  defining an opening  61  substantially perpendicular to the direction of flow of air. Air inlet  56  also has a second bend. 
     The preferred means for dampening the flow of air into burn chamber  40  is illustrated in FIG.  8 E. Air inlet  56  has a curve or bend and is packed with stainless steel mesh or wool  63 . 
     In all the embodiments of  FIGS. 8A through 8E , air inlet  56  comprises a pipe or conduit having a diameter of about 3 inches. 
     Sulphur supplied to the burn chamber  40  through the conduit inlet  50  can be ignited through the ignition inlet  52 . The air inlet  56  allows oxygen, necessary for the combustion process, to enter into the burn chamber  40  and thus permits regulation of the rate of combustion. The exhaust opening  60  allows the sulphur dioxide gas to pass up through the exhaust opening  60  and into the gas pipeline  70 . 
     The gas pipeline  70  has two ends, the first end  78  communicating with the exhaust opening  60 , the second end terminating at a third conduit  76 . The gas pipeline or first conduit  70  may comprise an ascending pipe  72  and a transverse pipe  74 . The ascending pipe  72  may communicate with the transverse pipe  74  by means a first 90 degree elbow joint. Disposed about and secured to the ascending pipe  72  is a protective grate  90  to prevent unintended external contact with member  72  which is hot when in use. 
     Water is conducted through a second conduit  282  to a point at which the second conduit  282  couples with the first conduit  70  at a third conduit  76 . 
     Conduit  76  comprises a means  100  for bringing the sulphur dioxide gas in the first conduit  70  and the water in second conduit  282  into contained codirectional flow. Water and sulphur dioxide gas are brought into contact with each other whereby sulphur dioxide gas dissolves into the water. 
     The codirectional flow means  100  shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3 , and  5  comprises a central body  102 , central body  102  defining a gas entry  104  and a sulfur dioxide gas exiting outlet  114 , central body  102  further comprising a secondary conduit inlet  106 , and a water eductor  112 . Eductor  112  generates a swirling annular column of water to encircle gas exiting outlet  114 . The water flow, thermal cooling and reaction are believed to assist in drawing sulphur dioxide gas from burn chamber  40  into gas pipeline  70  where the gas is brought into contact with water to create sulphurous acid. 
     The codirection flow means  100  allows water to be introduced into the third conduit  76  initially through a second conduit inlet  106 . The water entering the codirectional means  100  passes through the eductor  112  and, exits adjacent the sulphur dioxide gas outlet  114 . The water enters the third conduit  76  and comes into contact with the sulphur dioxide gas by surrounding the sulphur dioxide gas where the sulphur dioxide gas and water are contained in contact with each other. The water and sulphur dioxide gas react to form an acid of sulphur. This first contact containment portion of conduit  76  does not obstruct the flow of the sulphur dioxide gas. It is believed that a substantial portion of the sulphur dioxide gas will react with the water in this first contact containment area. 
     After the acid and any host water (hereafter “water/acid”) and any remaining unreacted gas continue to flow through third conduit  76 , the water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas are mixed and agitated to further facilitate reaction of the sulphur dioxide with the water/acid. Means for mixing and agitating the flow of water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas is accomplished in a number of ways. For example, as shown in  FIG. 2 , mixing and agitating can be accomplished by changing the direction of the flow such as a bend  84  in the third conduit  76 . Another example includes placing an object  77  inside the third conduit  76  to alter the flow pattern in the third conduit  76  as shown in FIG.  5 . This could entail a flow altering wedge, flange, bump or other member  77  along the codirectional flow path in third conduit  76 . By placing an object in the flow path, a straight or substantially straight conduit may be employed. The distinction of this invention over the prior art is mixing and agitating the flow of water/acid and sulphur dioxide in an open codirectionally flowing system. One embodiment of the present invention can treat between 20 and 300 gallons of water per minute coursing through third conduit  76  being held in contained contact with the sulphur dioxide gas. 
     After the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas have passed through an agitation and mixing portion of third conduit  76 , the water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas are again contained in contact with each other to further facilitate reaction between the components to create an acid of sulphur. This is accomplished by means for containing the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas in contact with each other. One embodiment is shown in  FIG. 2  as a portion  85  of third conduit  76 . Portion  85  acts much in the same way as the earlier described contact containment portion. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , additional means for mixing and agitating the codirectional flow of water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas is employed. One embodiment is illustrated as portion  86  of third conduit  76  in which again the directional flow of the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas is directionally altered. In this way, the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas are forced to mix and agitate, further facilitating reaction of the sulphur dioxide gas to further produce or concentrate an acid of sulphur. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , third conduit  76  also incorporates means for discharging the water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas from third conduit  76 . One embodiment is shown in  FIG. 2  as discharge opening  80  defined by third conduit  76 . Discharge opening  80  is preferably positioned approximately in the center of the pooling section, described below. In the preferred embodiment, discharge  80  is configured so as to direct the discharge of water/acid and unreacted sulphur dioxide gas downward into a submersion pool  158  without creating a back pressure. In other words, discharge  80  is sufficiently close to the surface  133  of the fluid in the submersion pool to cause unreacted sulphur dioxide gas to be forced into the submersion pool, but not below the surface of the fluid in the submersion pool, thereby maintaining the open nature of the system and to avoid creating back pressure in the system. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , one embodiment of the present invention also utilizes a tank  130  having a bottom  132 , a tank sidewall  134 , and a lid  164 . Tank  130  may also comprise a fluid dispersion member  137  to disperse churning sulphurous acid and sulphur dioxide gas throughout tank  130 . Dispersion member  137  may have a conical shape or any other shape which facilitates dispersion. A weir  148  may be attached on one side to the bottom member  132  and is attached on two sides to the tank sidewall  134 . The weir  148  extends upwardly to a distance stopping below the discharge  80 . The weir  148  divides the mixing tank  130  into a submersion pool  158  and an outlet section  152 . The third conduit  76  penetrates either tank sidewall  134  or lid  164  (not shown). An outlet aperture  154  is positioned in the tank sidewall  134  near the bottom member  132  in the outlet section. The drainage aperture  154  is connected to a drainage pipe  156 . Drainage pipe  156  is adapted with a u-trap  157 . U-trap  157  acts as means to trap and force undissolved gases in a submersion zone, including sulphur dioxide gas, back into chamber  130  to exit through lid  164  into vent conduit  210 . Sulphurous acid exits pipe  156  or primary discharge. 
     As sulphurous acid flows out of the third conduit  76 , the weir  148  dams the water/acid coming into the mixing tank  130  creating a churning submersion pool  158  of sulphurous acid. Sulphur dioxide gas carried by but not yet reacted in the sulphurous acid is carried into submersion pool of acid  158  because of the proximity of the discharge  80  to the surface  133  of the pool  158 ; The carried gas is submerged in the churning submersion pool  158 . The suspended gas is momentarily churned in contact with acid in pool  158  to further concentrate the acid. As unreacted gas rises up through the pool, the unreacted gas is held in contact with water and further reacts to further form concentrate sulphurous acid. The combination of the discharge  80  and its close proximity to the surface  133  of pool of acid  158  creates a means for facilitating and maintaining the submersion of unreacted sulphur dioxide gas discharged from the third conduit into the submersion pool of sulphurous acid to substantially reduce the separation of unreacted sulphur dioxide gas from contact with the sulphurous acid to promote further reaction of the sulphur dioxide gas in the sulphurous acid in an open system without subjecting, the sulphur dioxide gas discharged from the third conduit to back pressure or system pressure. That is, discharge  80  positions below the level of the top of weir  148  is contemplated as inconsistent with the open system illustrated by FIG.  2 . However, discharge  80  may be positioned below the level of the top of weir  148  or below the surface of submersion pool  158 . 
     As sulphurous acid enters the mixing tank  130  from the third conduit  76  the level of the pool  158  of sulphurous acid rises until the acid spills over the weir  148  into the outlet section  152 . Sulphurous acid and sulphur dioxide gas flow out of the mixing tank  130  into the drainage pipe  156 . Drainage pipe  156  is provided with a submersion zone in the u-trap  157  in which sulphur dioxide gas is again mixed into the sulphurous acid and which prevents sulphur dioxide gas from exiting the drainage pipe or primary discharge  156  in any significant amount. 
     Referring to the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 3 , first conduit  70  and second conduit  282  are coupled as discussed above. However, in this embodiment, third conduit  76  may have a bend  84  to transition to length  85  and define a discharge opening  80  into mixing tank  130 . As shown in this embodiment, the water/acid and undissolved sulphur dioxide enter the mixing tank in a downward angle direction. Another embodiment, not shown, contemplates third conduit  76  entering directly into the top of mixing chamber  130  through lid  164 . 
     Mixing tank  130  of the embodiment of  FIG. 3  comprises a bottom member  132  defining an outlet aperture  154 . Mixing tank  130  has a diameter of about 6 to 8 inches. As a result, the inside volume of mixing tank  130  is such that as water/acid begins to fill tank  130  and interacts with u-trap  157 , the level of water/acid rises and falls in a flushing action. 
     As water/acid discharges from third conduit  76  into mixing tank  130 , it results in a turbulent washing machine effect forcing undissolved sulphur dioxide gas into the churning water/acid in mixing tank  130 . As depicted in  FIG. 3 , u-trap  157  extends vertically a distance up into mixing tank  130  through floor member  132 . This configuration provides a further agitation zone  131  in which descending waters/acid must change its direction and ascend in tank  130  before exiting out u-trap  157 . As a result, submersion pool  158  in use represents a churning pool wherein undissolved sulphur dioxide is contained hi water/acid for further dissolution and/or in u-trap  157  acts to trap and direct undissolved gases back up through submersion pool  158  to escape out exhaust vent  202  and enter into vent conduit  210 . On the other hand, sulphurous acid exits the system through drainage pipe or primary discharge  156 . 
     For the embodiments shown in both  FIGS. 2 and 3 , any free floating sulphur dioxide gas in mixing tank  130  rises up to the lid  164 . The lid  164  defines an exhaust vent  202 . Exhaust vent  202  may be coupled with a vent conduit  210 . The vent conduit  210  has a first end which couples with the exhaust vent  202  and a second end which terminates at a fourth conduit  220 . The vent conduit  210  may consist of a length a pipe between vent  202  and the fourth conduit  220 . The fourth conduit  220  comprises auxiliary means  240  for bringing sulphur dioxide gas in the vent conduit and substantially all the water in a supplemental water conduit  294  into contained, codirectional flow whereby remaining sulphur dioxide gas and water are brought into contact with each other. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  6 , the auxiliary means has a body  240  defining a gas entry  244 , a gas outlet  252 , a supplemental water conduit inlet  246 , and water eductor  250 . 
     Water enters the auxiliary means  240  through the supplemental water conduit  294  at inlet  246 . The water courses through inlet  246  and eductor  250  as discussed earlier as to the codirectional means. Water eductor  250  draws any free floating sulphur dioxide gas into the exhaust vent conduit  210 . Water and sulphur dioxide gas are brought into contact with each other in fourth conduit  220  by surrounding the gas exiting gas outlet  252  with water exiting eductor  250 . The water and gas are contained in contact with each other as the gas and water flow down through fourth conduit  220  to react and form an acid of sulphur. This contact containment area does not obstruct the flow of the sulphur dioxide gas. It is believed that substantially all of the remaining sulphur dioxide gas in vent conduit  210  reacts with the water in this contact containment area. 
     In fourth conduit  220 , the water/acid and unreacted or undissolved sulphur dioxide gas also experience one or more agitation and mixing episodes. For example, as fluid and gas divert in fourth conduit  220  at elbow  262 , the flow of water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas is mixed and agitated. The water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas are again contained in contact with each other thereafter. As a result, like the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas in the third conduit  76 , the water/acid and sulphur dioxide gas in fourth conduit  220  may be subject to one or more contact containment portions and on or move agitation and mixing portions. The fourth conduit may have a u-trap  267 . U-trap  267  acts as means to cause bubbles of unabsorbed diatomic nitrogen gas or undissolved sulphur dioxide, if any, to be held or trapped on the upstream side of u-trap  267  in a submersion zone. Secondary discharge  264  may also be configured with a vent stack  265 . Remaining diatomic nitrogen gas in the system is permitted to escape the system through vent stack  265 . Operation of the system reveals that little, if any, sulphur dioxide escapes the system. It is believed that gas that is escaping the system is harmless diatomic nitrogen. This configuration of a sulphur acid generator eliminates the dependence upon use of a countercurrent absorption tower technology of the prior art to effect production of sulphurous acid. Nevertheless, as an added safety feature to, and to further diminish any possible sulphur smell emitting from a device, vent stack  265  may comprise a limited exhaust scrubbing tower. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 ,  3 , and  7 , vent stack  265  encases two substantially horizontally placed vent screens  269 . In the preferred environment, vent stack  265  is severable and connectable at joint  271 . This facilitates construction shipment and maintenance. The upper vent screen  269  acts to contain path diverters  263  within vent stack  265 . The source of water  295  is disposed to enter vent stack  265  at or near the top of vent stack  265 . A water dispersion device  261  is attached to the end of water conduit  295  inside vent stack  265  above the column of path diverters  263 . The preferred water dispersion device  261  is an i-Mini Wobbler distributed by Senninger Irrigation, Inc., Orlando, Fla., 32835, United States of America. In the present invention the water dispersion device  261  is, contrary to its intended use, inverted 180°. Experimentation has shown that the i-Mini Wobbler is the most effective in an inverted fashion because it duplicates rain in large droplets rather than a mist or spray and due to the wobbling affect of the device, it creates a randomly dispersed water flow thereby more effectively wetting the column of path diverters  263 . This creates a water saturated tortuous path through which any undissolved gases trapped by u-trap  267  and venting out of discharge  264  must filter. In the preferred embodiment, the path diverters  263  are Flexrings® diverters  263 . In this configuration, the only countercurrent flow of water and any undissolved gases is in the exhaust scrubbing tower of vent stack  265 . Experimentation has shown that the majority of water entering the system of the present invention enters at inlet  106 . A lesser amount of water enters the system at inlet  246  with only a fraction of the water entering the system through conduit  295 . The flow of sulphur dioxide gas and water through the apparatus/system is depicted in flow diagram FIG.  9 . 
       FIGS. 1 ,  2  and  3  show a primary pump  280  supplying water through a primary hose  282  to the secondary conduit water inlet  106  at codirectional means  100 . In  FIG. 2 , a supplemental or secondary pump  290  supplies water to auxiliary means  240  through a supplemental water conduit hose  294  and to conduit  295 . It will be appreciated that any pump capable of delivering sufficient water to the system may be utilized and the pump may be powered by any source sufficient to run the pump. A single pump with the appropriate valving may be used or several pumps may be used. It is also contemplated that no pump is necessary at all if an elevated water tank is employed to provide sufficient water flow to the system or if present water systems provide sufficient water pressure and flow. 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.