Abstract:
A system for producing a gas includes a reactor (pressure vessel) containing in its interior a feedstock and a set of electrodes. A computer is operatively interfaced to a power supply, the power supply providing power to the electrodes. Software stored in a non-transitory storage that is accessed by the computer, runs on the computer and accepts operator control commands. Responsive to the operator control commands, the software instructs the computer to control the power supply and form an electric arc between electrodes. The software controls a pump to flow the feedstock through a plasma of the electric arc. The electric arc converts at least some of the feedstock into a gas. The gas is collected for later use. The software reads a level sensor that is interfaced to the reactor. When the level sensor indicates a feedstock level is low, the software initiates flow of additional feedstock into the reactor by way of controlling a second pump.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application No. 62/012,013 filed on Jun. 13, 2014, the disclosure of which are incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD 
       [0002]    This invention relates to the field of gas production and more particularly to a system, method and apparatus for controlling the production of an arc-produced gas here within referred to as Magnegas. 
       BACKGROUND 
       [0003]    It has been demonstrated that, by exposing and/or flowing certain fluids through the plasma of a submerged electric arc, a unique gas is produced. The composition of the produced gas is dependent upon the feedstock in use and the materials of the arc, but the family of gases produced by exposing and/or flowing certain fluids through the plasma of an electric arc are herein referred to as Magnegas®. Various types and sources of feedstock have been used to produce Magnegas®. The resulting gas burns clean and at higher temperatures than gases occurring in nature or gases produced in different ways. 
         [0004]    In general, the feedstock is presented into a reaction chamber, in which a submerged electric arc is formed between electrodes. As the feedstock is exposed to the arc, the arc releases gases from the feedstock which are captured and stored for future uses. 
         [0005]    In various systems, different methods have been anticipated to form the arc, control the electrodes, replenish/replacing the electrodes, capture the gas, capture heat produced, etc. Examples of fully operational systems for the production of Magnegas® can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,924 issued Aug. 24, 2010, U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,604 issued Feb. 6, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,966 issued Apr. 1, 2003, U.S. Pat. No. 6,972,118 issued Dec. 6, 2005, U.S. Pat. No. 6,673,322 issued Jan. 6, 2004, U.S. Pat. No. 6,663,752 issued Dec. 16, 2003, U.S. Pat. No. 6,926,872 issued Aug. 9, 2005, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,236,150 issued Aug. 7, 2012, all of which are incorporated by reference. 
         [0006]    In many of the systems for generation of Magnegas®, the reactor (or chamber) is filled with the feedstock and then the feedstock if pumped into and/or around the plasma of the arc, producing the gas which is then collected. As time goes by, as portions of the feedstock change into gas, dissolved and/or suspended particles within the feedstock change the properties of the feedstock. For example, consider flowing salt water through such an arc over a period of time. As the water (H 2 O) is transformed into hydrogen (H) and Oxygen (O 2 ), the salt content of the remaining salt water increases. If such a process is allowed to continue, eventually the only material left in the reactor will be salt, though before that point, a very viscous liquid containing small amounts of water and large amounts of salts will be present. 
         [0007]    Likewise, in examples where the feedstock is, for example, used vegetable oils (e.g. oils previously used to cook food), as the vegetable oils transform into Magnegas®, dissolved and/or suspended particles within the feedstock remain, again changing the properties of the feedstock such as increasing the viscosity of the feedstock and/or changing the electrical conductance of the feedstock. 
         [0008]    Over time, temperatures of the reactor vary, the condition of the electrodes change, etc., all needing monitoring and control. 
         [0009]    What is needed is a system that monitors gas production, feedstock volume and properties, temperature, etc., and instantaneously effects the operating parameters of the reactor to compensate for changes and variances and to provide maximum efficiencies. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0010]    In a first embodiment, a system for producing a gas includes a reactor containing in its interior a feedstock and a set of electrodes. The system has a controller for controlling the electrodes, operatively forming an electric arc between the electrodes. There is a mechanism for passing the feedstock through a plasma of the electric arc thereby converting at least some of the feedstock into a gas and a mechanism for collecting the gas. Further, there is a mechanism for introducing additional feedstock into the reactor, under control of the controller. 
         [0011]    In another embodiment, a system for producing a gas includes a reactor containing in its interior a feedstock and a set of electrodes. A computer is operatively interfaced to a power supply, the power supply providing power to the electrodes. Software stored in a non-transitory storage that is accessed by the computer, runs on the computer and accepts operator control commands. Responsive to the operator control commands, the software instructs the computer to control the power supply and form an electric arc between electrodes. The software controls a pump to flow the feedstock through a plasma of the electric arc. The electric arc converts at least some of the feedstock into a gas. The gas is collected for later use. The software reads a level sensor that is interfaced to the reactor. When the level sensor indicates a feedstock level is low, the software initiates flow of additional feedstock into the reactor by way of controlling a second pump. 
         [0012]    In another embodiment, a system for producing a gas includes a reactor containing in its interior a feedstock and a set of electrodes. The system also has a computer that is electrically interfaced to the set of electrodes. Software stored in a non-transitory storage that is accessed by the computer accepts operator control commands and responsive to the operator control commands, the software instructs the computer to operatively form an arc between electrodes of the set of electrodes. The software controls a pump to flow the feedstock through a plasma of the arc, the arc thereby converting at least some of the feedstock into a gas. The gas is collected for later use. The software reads a viscosity of the feedstock through a sensor that is interfaced to the reactor and to the computer. The software initiates operation of a second pump to inject a material into the reactor responsive to the software determining that the viscosity of the feedstock is greater than a pre-determined viscosity. The material is selected from the group consisting of additional feedstock, a solvent, tap water, and distilled water. 
         [0013]    In another embodiment, a system for producing a gas includes a pressure vessel containing in its interior a feedstock and at least one set of electrodes in which an electric arc is formed between the electrodes. The system includes a mechanism for passing of the feedstock through a plasma of the electric arc thereby converting at least some of the feedstock into a gas (e.g., a circulation system). The system has a way to controlling the electric arc by, for example, a controller adjusting the position of the electrodes of the arc and/or voltage applied to those electrodes. The system collects the gas (e.g. moves the gas to a storage tank). During the production of the gas, the system measures at least one of a conductance of the feedstock and a viscosity of the feedstock and, based on this/these measurements, the system introduces a material into the pressure vessel such as fresh feedstock, a solvent, tap water, distilled water, etc. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0014]    The invention can be best understood by those having ordinary skill in the art by reference to the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which: 
           [0015]      FIG. 1  illustrates a schematic view of an exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0016]      FIG. 2  illustrates a second schematic view of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0017]      FIG. 3  illustrates a third schematic view of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0018]      FIG. 4  illustrates a fourth schematic view of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0019]      FIG. 5  illustrates a schematic for power distribution of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0020]      FIG. 6  illustrates a schematic for electrical connection of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0021]      FIG. 7  illustrates a second schematic for electrical connection of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0022]      FIG. 8  illustrates a third schematic for electrical connection of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0023]      FIG. 9  illustrates a circuit board and connections for the controller of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0024]      FIG. 10  illustrates a schematic view of gas distribution within the exemplary system for producing gas. 
           [0025]      FIG. 11  illustrates a schematic view of user interface of the exemplary system for producing gas. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0026]    Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Throughout the following detailed description, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements in all figures. 
         [0027]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , an exemplary system for the production of a combustible fluid herein called Magnegas, which is typically in gaseous form as used herein. This is but an example of one system for the production of Magnegas, as other such systems are also anticipated. Examples of fully operational systems for the production of Magnegas can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,924 issued Aug. 24, 2010, U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,604 issued Feb. 6, 2001, U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,966 issued Apr. 1, 2003, U.S. Pat. No. 6,972,118 issued Dec. 6, 2005, U.S. Pat. No. 6,673,322 issued Jan. 6, 2004, U.S. Pat. No. 6,663,752 issued Dec. 16, 2003, U.S. Pat. No. 6,926,872 issued Aug. 9, 2005, and U.S. Pat. No. 8,236,150 issued Aug. 7, 2012, all of which are incorporated by reference. 
         [0028]    As exemplified in  FIGS. 1-4 , the production of such a fluid (e.g. Magnegas) is performed within the plasma  18  of a submerged electric arc formed by providing an electrical potential between an anode  14  and a cathode  16  that are of sufficient proximity to each other as to allow arcing between the anode  14  and the cathode  16 . An appropriate power supply  10  provides sufficient power (voltage and current) as to initiate and maintain the arc. 
         [0029]    A feedstock  22  is circulated within a tank  12  by, for example, a pump  50  and the feedstock  22  is injected into the plasma  18  of the electric arc formed between two electrodes  14 / 16 , causing the feedstock  22  to react, depending upon the composition of the feedstock  22  and the composition of the electrodes  14 / 16  used to create the arc. One exemplary feedstock  22  is oil, and more particularly, used vegetable or animal oil such as that from deep-fat fryers, etc. Of course, any oil is anticipated, including unused vegetable oil and oil from animal fat. 
         [0030]    Any feedstock  22  is anticipated either in fluid form or a fluid mixed with solids, preferably fine-grain solids such as carbon dust, etc. 
         [0031]    In one example, the feedstock  22  is vegetable oil and the electrodes  14 / 16  are carbon, the vegetable oil molecules separate within the plasma  18  of the electric arc forming a gas  24  referred to here-within as Magnegas  24 , typically including hydrogen (H 2 ) and carbon monoxide (CO) atoms, which percolate to the surface of the feedstock  22  for collection (e.g. extracted through a collection pipe  26 ) and stored in a collection tank  30 . This gas  24  (e.g. Magnegas) is similar to synthetic natural gas or syngas, but the gas produced though this process behaves differently and produces a higher temperature burn. In embodiments in which at least one of the electrodes  14 / 16  that form the arc  18  is made from carbon, such electrode(s)  14 / 16  serve as a source of charged carbon particles (e.g. carbon nanoparticles) that become suspended within the gas  24  and are collected along with the gas  24 , thereby changing the burning properties of the resulting gas  24 . 
         [0032]    In examples in which the feedstock  22  is a petroleum-based liquid, the exposure of this petroleum-based feedstock  22  to the plasma  18  results in production of a gas that includes polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons which, in some embodiments, are quasi-nanoparticles that are not stable and, therefore, some of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons will form/join to become nanoparticles or a liquid. Therefore, some polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as well as some carbon particles/nanoparticles are present in the resulting gas  24 . In some embodiments, some of the carbon particles or nanoparticles are trapped or enclosed in poly cyclic bonds. Analysis of the produced gas  24  typically shows inclusion of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that range from C6 to C14. The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons as well as carbon particles or nanoparticles contributes to the unique burn properties of the resulting gas  24 . This leads to higher burning temperatures. 
         [0033]    In another example, when the feedstock  22  is petroleum based (e.g. used motor oil) and at least one of the electrodes  14 / 16  is/are carbon, the petroleum molecules separate within the plasma  18  of the electric arc into a gas  24  that includes hydrogen (H 2 ) and aromatic hydrocarbons, which percolate to the surface of the petroleum liquid  22  for collection (e.g. extracted through a collection pipe  26 ) and stored in a collection tank  30 . In some embodiments, the gas  24  (Magnegas) produced though this process includes suspended carbon particles since at least one of the electrodes of the arc  18  is made from carbon and serves as the source for the charged carbon particles or nanoparticles that travel with the manufactured hydrogen and aromatic hydrocarbon gas  24  and are collected along with, for example, the hydrogen and aromatic hydrocarbon molecules, thereby changing the burning properties of the resulting gas  24 , leading to a hotter flame. In this example, if the feedstock  22  is oil (e.g. used oil) and the fluid/gas  24  collected includes any or all of the following: hydrogen, ethylene, ethane, methane, acetylene, and other combustible gases to a lesser extent, plus suspended charged carbon particles or nanoparticles that travel with these gases. 
         [0034]    In another example, when the feedstock  22  is water based (e.g. sewerage or waste water) the water molecules separate within the plasma  18  of the electric arc into a gas  24  that includes hydrogen (H 2 ), which percolate to the surface of the feedstock  22  for collection (e.g. extracted through a collection pipe  26 ) and stored in a collection tank  30 . In some embodiments, the gas  24  (Magnegas) produced though this process includes suspended carbon particles since at least one of the electrodes of the arc  18  is made from carbon and serves as the source for the charged carbon particles or nanoparticles that travel with the produced gas  24  and are collected along with, for example, the hydrogen molecules, thereby changing the burning properties of the resulting gas  24 , leading to a hotter flame. 
         [0035]    The resulting gas is stored in, for example, a tank  30  and moved/distributed as known in the gaseous/liquid fuel industry. 
         [0036]    In the example shown in  FIG. 1 , a circulation pump  50  runs continuously, flowing the feedstock  22  through the plasma  18  of the arc formed between the electrodes  14 / 16 . In such, manual adjustment of the arc, power, and refilling of the feedstock are performed. 
         [0037]    In the example shown in  FIG. 2 , the circulation pump  50 , the power supply, and/or the electrodes  14 / 16  are controlled by a control system  40 , typically a computer-based controller. The control system  40  monitors the performance of the arc, controlling the voltage applied to the arc by the power supply  10 , moving the anode  14  and/or cathode  16  closer to each other or farther away from each other to adjust the resulting plasma  18 , cycling the electrodes  14 / 16  as one or both electrodes erode due to the arc, and adjusting speed of the circulation pump  50  and, therefore, flow rate through the plasma  18 . 
         [0038]    For example, as some types of feedstock  22  are transformed into the gas  24 , the remaining feedstock  22  becomes more viscous, especially when impurities are suspended in the feedstock. One example of such is used motor oil. As the viscosity of the feedstock  22  increases due to higher concentrations of, for example, fine metal particles, it takes more work for the circulation pump  50  to maintain the same flow rate through the plasma  18 . In some embodiments, the load of the circulation pump motor is measured, which will correlate the viscosity of the feedstock  22  being pumped. As the load of the motor increases, the control system  40  increases power to the circulation pump  50  to maintain a certain level of flow, for example, a constant flow rate. In other embodiments, a viscosity sensor  42  provides a signal to the control system  40 , informing the control system  40  of the current viscosity of the feedstock  22  and the control system  40  adjusts the pump speed to compensate for the measured viscosity. At some point, the measured viscosity exceeds a pre-determined level and the control system  40  indicates such to an operator for stopping, cleaning, and/or refilling the system. Any known viscosity sensor  42  is anticipated for use in this application. 
         [0039]      FIGS. 5-10  show and disclose an exemplary control system. The System has three modes of operation; “Gasification”, “Sterilization”, “Total-Linear” and “Batch” the following sections describes the functionality and system functionality for these modes of operation. 
         [0040]    Gasification mode gasifies the target feedstock  22  for the maximum conversion of the liquid feedstock  22  to gas and is most suitable for oily or hazardous wastes feedstock  22  that require elimination and/or neutralization. This mode is a closed loop system where the feedstock  22  is repeatedly circulated through the reactor  12  to create the gas  24 , heat, and residual carbonized solids. 
         [0041]    In this mode, the feedstock  22  is pumped through the reactor  12  where the arc creates a plasma  18  within the feedstock  22  and converts the liquid feedstock  22  molecules into a gas  24 . The feedstock  22  then flows through the heat exchangers which cools the fluid prior to returning to the arc chamber. As the feedstock volume decreases following conversion in the reactor  12 , the control system automatically replenishes the level from a raw feedstock storage tank. 
         [0042]    During the process the gas  24  rises to the surface in the reactor  22  and is transferred for collection in the storage tank  30  prior to, for example, being compressed and bottled in the high pressure cylinders. 
         [0043]    The residual solids byproducts produced during this process are collected by the various strainers and filters located in the system. 
         [0044]    In the Sterilization Mode a process that sterilizes a feedstock  22  such as sewage or agricultural wastes is performed. Any effluent is anticipated for the feedstock  22 , where eliminating bacteriological activity is beneficial to treat the feedstock  22  prior to releasing into the environment. This result of the process is again, the gas  24 , carbon precipitates, and “sterilized” liquid. This mode consists in passing the feedstock  22  through the plasma arc one, single time. 
         [0045]    Additional equipment such as belt presses, automated filters, and a centrifuge may be added for the removal of carbonized substances in suspension. It is also anticipated that the filtered liquid feedstock  22  be passed through one or more sand filters to remove the suspended solids, perhaps down to the micron level. 
         [0046]    Following the sand filters, in some embodiments, a carbon filter is added for the removal of the remaining contaminants. 
         [0047]    To assure complete sterilization, in some embodiments, an Ultraviolet (UV) Station is added to complete the sterilization process of the feedstock  22 . This mode results in the gas  24  and sterilized feedstock  22 . 
         [0048]    The Total-Linear mode is essentially similar to the Sterilization mode with partial recirculation. This means that the feedstock  22  is passed through the plasma arc several times. Certain liquid wastes, such as; city sludge, dairy liquid wastes, leather processing liquid waste, and others liquid bio-waste materials, contain a high percentage of water trapped in the colloidal lattice structure of the feedstock  22 . This condition prevents the efficient use of the sterilization mode and does not allow the initial filtration of biomasses. In this case, it is desired to first to break down the lattice structure via the Gasification mode followed by the sterilization mode for final processing. 
         [0049]    In the Total-Linear Mode, feedstock  22  is pumped into the reactor  12  with the option of being passed through a macerator to reduce the size of the particulates in the feedstock  22 . Next the feedstock  22  enters the recirculation pump and is passed through the plasma arc  18  in the reactor  12 . Depending on the flow rate and the type of the feedstock  22  being processed, the feedstock  22  passes through the arc multiple times. 
         [0050]    After passing through the reactor  12 , the feedstock  22  passes through heat exchangers to cool the feedstock  22  prior to exiting the system as a treated fluid. 
         [0051]    Typically in this mode, the reactor  12  is filled with the liquid feedstock  22  and the system is initially operated in the gasification mode until the feedstock  22  reaches a temperature of approximately 1750 F, at that point the system mode is switched to sterilization and the temperature is held constant over the boiling value of the feedstock  22 . 
         [0052]    The process results in gas  24  production and sterilized feedstock  22 . 
         [0053]    Referring to  FIGS. 5-11 , the exemplary controller  40  includes a System Control Computer such as a standard industrial PC running a standard operating system. The computer preferably has a touch screen panel and USB ports for keyboards, trackballs, or mice, etc. 
         [0054]    The computer is capable of remote operation over the internet via, for example, a standard Ethernet port located on computer. 
         [0055]    A sample system control user interface is shown in  FIG. 11 . 
         [0056]    System capabilities include Run Modes selected by the operator display. “STOP”—Implements a systematic shut-down of the system. “GASIFICATION”—Starts and runs the system in the GASIFICATION mode. “STERILATION”—Starts and runs the system in the STERILIZATION mode. “TOTAL-LINEAR”—Starts and runs the system in the TOTAL-LINEAR mode. “BATCH”—Starts and runs the system in “Gasification” mode for the designated period. 
         [0057]    Various alarms signal abnormal conditions by visual and/or audible indication of the health of system and its components while operating. 
         [0058]    “ALARM STATUS”—Indicates the overall status of the system and provides the ability to silence the audible alarm. 
         [0059]    “REMOTE CONTROL”—Identifies whether the system is being controlled locally or remotely. 
         [0060]    “ELECTRONIC SYSTEM ON/OFF”—Indicates the on/off state or the Electronic System. 
         [0061]    “LEVEL”—Fluid level in the PAT Vessel is outside of system parameter settings. 
         [0062]    “FLOW”—Indicates no or little Feedstock flow in the system. 
         [0063]    “ELECTRODE”—Anode “End of Travel” limit switch has been activated. 
         [0064]    “STRAINER”—Strainer is not operating correctly. 
         [0065]    “FILTER”—Filter is not operating correctly. 
         [0066]    “SHUTTLE”—Cathode Shuttle Motor is not operating correctly. 
         [0067]    “VESSEL PRESSURE”—PAT Vessel pressure is in excess of the system parameter setting. 
         [0068]    “LIQUID TEMP.”—Feedstock temperature is in excess of the system parameter setting. 
         [0069]    “ANODE TEMP.”—Anode temperature is in excess or the system parameter setting. 
         [0070]    “CATHODE TEMP.”—Cathode temperature is in excess of the system parameter setting. 
         [0071]    “ANODE SAFETY”—Anode Safety Tube Pressure Switch has been activated. 
         [0072]    “CATHODE SAFETY”—Cathode Safety Tube Pressure Switch has been activated. 
         [0073]    “MOTOR”—Anode Stepper Motor is not operating correctly. “HOME SWITCH”—Indicates if the Anode is or is not in the “Home Position”. 
         [0074]    “REFILL RESERVOIR”—Indicates if the Feedstock level in the Refill Reservoir is OK or low. 
         [0075]    Control of the individual system components is provided as well as an indication of the individual component operational states.
       “STEPPER MOTOR”—Controls the position of the Anode.   Control of the stepper motor is either:   “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on the selected Run Mode and System Parameter Setting or   “MAN” (Manual). While in the manual mode the Stepper Motor can be controlled from the Stepper Motor. The “up” and “down” indicators identify the direction the Stepper Motor is moving the Anode.   “P.A.T PUMP”—Controls the flow of the fluid through the reactor  12 . Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will manually turn on/off the pump. The “on” and “off” indicators identify the pump state.   “TOTAL-LINEAR PUMP”—The Total-Linear Pump, pumps feedstock  22  into the system and located after the optional macerator in systems capable of Total-Linear mode. Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter setting or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the pump. The “on” and “off” indicators identify the pump state.   “CUT-OFF VALVE”—The Cut-Off valve opens or closes the out flow of processed fluid from the system. Control of the valve is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “OPEN”/“CLOSED (manual operation). The “on” and “off” indicators identify the valve state.   “OUT-FLOW VALVE”—The Out-Flow valve is a variable flow valve that maintains the pressure in the reactor  12 . Control of the valve is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “OPEN”/“CLOSED (manual operation). The “opening”, “closing”, on”, and “off” indicators identify the valve state.   “COOLING PUMP”—The Cooling Pump recirculates the cooling liquid between the Cooling Tower and the Heat Exchangers. Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on the system parameter setting or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the pump. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the pump state.   “COOLING FANS”—The Cooling Fans are located in the Cooling Tower. Control of the fans is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter setting or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the fans. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the pump state.   “MACERATOR”—The Macerator is used to grind up large particulates in the Feedstock  22  prior to entering the reactor  12 . Control of the macerator pump is manual “ON” or “OFF”. The “on” and “off” indicators identify the pump state.   “LINEAR PUMP”—The Linear Pump (also called the Sterilization Pump) pumps Feedstock into the system in systems capable of Total-Linear mode. Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the pump. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the pump state.   “REFILL PUMP #1”—The Refill Pump #1 (also called the Gasification Pump) adds raw Feedstock  22  into the reactor  12 . Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the pump. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the pump state.   “REFILL PUMP #2”—The Refill Pump #2 (also called the Total-Linear Pump) adds raw Feedstock  22  into the reactor  12 . Control of the pump is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the pump. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the pump state.   “DC POWER GEN.”—The DC Power Generator is the DC Power Source to the electrodes. Control of the DC Power Source is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the generator. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the generator state.   “COMPRESSOR #1”—The Compressor transfers and compresses the gas  24  stored in the Compressor Storage Tank into the high pressure cylinders. Control of the Compressor is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter setting or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the compressor. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the Compressor state.   “COMPRESSOR #2”—Control of the Compressor is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the compressor. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the Compressor state.   “COMPRESSOR #3”—Control of the Compressor is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the Compressor. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the Compressor state.   “SHUTTLE”—The Shuttle Motor moves the Cathode electrode horizontally within the reactor  12 . Control of the Shuttle is either “AUTO” (automatic) which is based on system parameter settings or “MAN” (manual control). The “MAN” selection will turn on/off the motor. The “on”, “off”, and “OFF” indicators identify the motor state.       
 
         [0095]    In this exemplary control system, display information provides real-time status of key system parameters in the system. The bar under each readout gives the measurement percentage relative to the System Parameter Settings.
       “ANODE TEMP.”—Temperature of Anode electrode, degrees F.   “CATHODE TEMP.”—Temperature of Cathode electrode, degrees F.   “LIQUID TEMP.”—Temperature of Feedstock  22  within the reactor  12 , degrees F.   “VESSEL PRESSURE”—Pressure within the reactor  12 , Pounds per Square Inch (PSI).   “ARC VOLTAGE.”—DC Power Source output voltage to electrodes, volts DC.   “LIQUID LEVEL.”—Level of the Feedstock  22  within the reactor  12 , DOTs (LED light bar level).   “OUT FLUID TEMP.”—Temperature of the feedstock  22  after the Heat Exchangers, degrees F.   “ANODE SHIFT”—Number of inches the Anode is shifted from the “Home” position and indicates the amount of anode electrode consumption, inches.   “GAS STORAGE”—Pressure in the gas  24  Compressor Storage Tank, Pounds per Square Inch (PSI).       
 
         [0105]    System parameter settings are made through the controller. Function description of exemplary parameters, range for each parameter, defaults settings, editing process and associated warnings follow. 
         [0106]    “EDIT”—Enables the editing of the system parameters. To enable editing the operator enters the system password. This is also the function is which the system password is administered. 
         [0107]    “SEND”—Sends the changed parameters to the system. 
         [0108]    “X1”, “X10”, and “X100”—Multiplier for system parameters being edited. “&lt;” and “&gt;”—Left and right scrolling through system parameter fields. “UP” and “DOWN”—Up and down scrolling through the system parameters list. Typical parameters follow below. 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 System Parameters 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Min 
                 Max 
                 Default 
               
               
                 # 
                 Parameter 
                 Description 
                 Value 
                 Value 
                 Value 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1 
                 Step motor manual 
                 Controls the speed of the 
                 1 
                 10000 
                 500 
               
               
                   
                 positioning speed 
                 step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 manual mode 
               
               
                 2 
                 Step motor manual 
                 Controls the torque of the 
                 1 
                 99 
                 75 
               
               
                   
                 positioning torque 
                 step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 manual mode 
               
               
                 3 
                 Step motor manual 
                 Controls the acceleration 
                 1 
                 1000000 
                 30000 
               
               
                   
                 positioning 
                 of the step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                 acceleration 
                 manual mode 
               
               
                 4 
                 Step motor manual 
                 Controls the deceleration 
                 1 
                 1000000 
                 30000 
               
               
                   
                 positioning 
                 of the step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                 deceleration 
                 manual mode 
               
               
                 5 
                 Step motor Auto 
                 Controls the speed of the 
                 1 
                 10000 
                 200 
               
               
                   
                 work speed 
                 step motor while in auto 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mode 
               
               
                 6 
                 Step motor Auto 
                 Controls the speed of the 
                 1 
                 99 
                 50 
               
               
                   
                 work torque 
                 step motor while in auto 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mode 
               
               
                 7 
                 Step motor Auto 
                 Controls the acceleration 
                 1 
                 1000000 
                 800 
               
               
                   
                 work acceleration 
                 of the step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 auto mode 
               
               
                 8 
                 Step motor Auto 
                 Controls the deceleration 
                 1 
                 1000000 
                 800 
               
               
                   
                 work deceleration 
                 of the step motor while in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 auto mode 
               
               
                 9 
                 Displacement ratio 
                 Set mechanical 
                 1 
                 10000 
                 2500 
               
               
                   
                   
                 displacement ratio, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 corrected value = 
               
               
                   
                   
                 reduction ratio × spindle 
               
               
                   
                   
                 pitch) 
               
               
                 12 
                 Work Arc Voltage 
                 Target DC voltage applied 
                 1.0 
                 100.0 
                 37.0 
               
               
                   
                   
                 to electrodes, volts 
               
               
                 13 
                 Stabilization Max 
                 Work Arc Voltage 
                 1 
                 100 
                 3 
               
               
                   
                 tolerance 
                 maximum variation, % 
               
               
                 14 
                 Optimization delay 
                 Time delay in DC voltage 
                 0 
                 100 
                 0 
               
               
                   
                 (0 = no Optimization) 
                 optimization, 0 is 
               
               
                   
                   
                 inhibited, seconds 
               
               
                 15 
                 Arc not present 
                 Maximum voltage setting 
                 1.0 
                 100.0 
                 41.0 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 considered as “Arc 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Present”, volts 
               
               
                 18 
                 Integration Time 
                 Maximum integration 
                 10 
                 225 
                 10 
               
               
                   
                   
                 time to measure voltage 
               
               
                   
                   
                 dips, msec. 
               
               
                 20 
                 Step motor 
                 Rotational direction of the 
                 0 
                 1 
                 0 
               
               
                   
                 direction of rotation 
                 step motor (0 = clockwise, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 1 = counter clockwise) 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 2 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 System Patameters 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Min 
                 Max 
                 Default 
               
               
                 # 
                 Parameter 
                 Description 
                 Value 
                 Value 
                 Value 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 22 
                 Short circuit 
                 Anode - Cathode short 
                 0 
                 99.9 
                 20.0 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 circuit condition, volts 
               
               
                 24 
                 Arc voltage digital 
                 Voltage digital filter 
                 0 
                 255 
                 2 
               
               
                   
                 filter 
                 algorithm (high value, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 more filter action), value 
               
               
                 25 
                 End of work 
                 Time delay moving anode 
                 0 
                 99 
                 2 
               
               
                   
                 electrode opening 
                 after the system has been 
               
               
                   
                 time 
                 stopped, avoids initial 
               
               
                   
                   
                 short circuit on start-up, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 seconds 
               
               
                 26 
                 Max short circuit 
                 Amount of time that short 
                 0.1 
                 99.0 
                 7.0 
               
               
                   
                 time 
                 circuit is allowed before 
               
               
                   
                   
                 shutting down Shuttle 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Motor and DC Power 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Source, seconds. 
               
               
                 27 
                 Arc present 
                 Voltage measurement, 
                 0 
                 10000 
                 50 
               
               
                   
                 integration time 
                 integration period when 
               
               
                   
                   
                 arc is present, csec. 
               
               
                 40 
                 PAT Pump Turn on 
                 Delay for PAT Pump turn- 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 delay 
                 on, seconds. Set at 0 for 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Gasification. 
               
               
                 41 
                 PAT Pump Turn off 
                 Delay for PAT Pump turn- 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 3600.0 
               
               
                   
                 delay 
                 off, seconds. 
               
               
                 42 
                 Refill Pump #1 Turn 
                 Delay for Refill Pump #1 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 on delay 
                 turn-on, seconds. 
               
               
                 43 
                 Refill Pump #1 Turn 
                 Delay for Refill Pump #1 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 off delay 
                 turn-off, seconds. 
               
               
                 44 
                 Refill Pump #2 Turn 
                 Delay for Refill Pump #2 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 on delay 
                 turn-on, seconds. 
               
               
                 45 
                 Refill Pump #2 Turn 
                 Delay for Refill Pump #2 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 off delay 
                 turn-off, seconds. 
               
               
                 46 
                 Linear Pump Turn 
                 Delay for Linear Pump 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 10.0 
               
               
                   
                 on delay 
                 turn-on, seconds. 
               
               
                 47 
                 Linear Pump Turn 
                 Delay for Linear pump 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 off delay 
                 turn-off, seconds. 
               
               
                 48 
                 Total-Linear Pump 
                 Delay for Total-Linear 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 10.0 
               
               
                   
                 Turn on delay 
                 Pump turn-on, seconds. 
               
               
                 49 
                 Total-Linear Pump 
                 Delay for Total-Linear 
                 0 
                 6000.0 
                 0.0 
               
               
                   
                 Turn off delay 
                 Pump turn-off, second. 
               
               
                 50 
                 Shuttle Turn on 
                 Delay for Shuttle Motor 
                 0 
                 99 
                 10 
               
               
                   
                 delay 
                 turn-on after arc is 
               
               
                   
                   
                 present, seconds. 
               
               
                 51 
                 Shuttle Turn off 
                 Delay for Shuttle Motor 
                 0 
                 99 
                 0 
               
               
                   
                 delay 
                 turn-off after arc is lost, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 seconds. 
               
               
                 60 
                 Total Linear flow 
                 Total-Linear flow meter 
                 0 
                 10.0 
                 5.0 
               
               
                   
                 setpoint 
                 voltage. 
               
               
                 61 
                 Linear flow setpoint 
                 Linear flow meter voltage. 
                 0 
                 10.0 
                 5.0 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 3 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 System Patameters 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                   
                   
                 Min 
                 Max 
                 Default 
               
               
                 # 
                 Parameter 
                 Description 
                 Value 
                 Value 
                 Value 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 62 
                 Refill Pump #1 
                 Refill Pump #1 flow meter 
                 0 
                 10.0 
                 5.0 
               
               
                   
                 setpoint 
                 voltage. 
               
               
                 63 
                 Refill Pump #2 
                 Refill Pump #2 flow meter 
                 0 
                 10.0 
                 5.0 
               
               
                   
                 setpoint 
                 voltage. 
               
               
                 64 
                 Linear and Total- 
                 Set point for PAT Vessel 
                 1 
                 96 
                 75 
               
               
                   
                 Linear set point 
                 liquid, Dots. 
               
               
                 65 
                 Total MIN level 
                 Minimum level in PAT 
                 1 
                 96 
                 40 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Vessel, causes shutdown, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Dots. 
               
               
                 66 
                 Total MAX level 
                 Maximum level in PAT 
                 1 
                 96 
                 80 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Vessel, causes shutdown, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Dots. 
               
               
                 70 
                 Batch Mode Timer 
                 Batch duration in minutes. 
                 1 
                 99 
                 15 
               
               
                 80 
                 Liquid temp cooling 
                 Cooling fan turn-on point 
                 0 
                 500 
                 100 
               
               
                   
                 fans START 
                 based on temperature of 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 cooling liquid, degrees F. 
               
               
                 81 
                 Liquid temp cooling 
                 Cooling fan turn-off point 
                 0 
                 500 
                 80 
               
               
                   
                 fan STOP threshold 
                 based on temperature of 
               
               
                   
                   
                 cooling liquid, degrees F. 
               
               
                 82 
                 Liquid temp cooling 
                 Cooling pump turn-on 
                 0 
                 500 
                 100 
               
               
                   
                 pump START 
                 point based on 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 temperature of cooling 
               
               
                   
                   
                 liquid, degrees F. 
               
               
                 83 
                 Liquid temp cooling 
                 Cooling fan turn-off point 
                 0 
                 500 
                 80 
               
               
                   
                 pump STOP 
                 based on temperature of 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 cooling liquid, degrees F. 
               
               
                 84 
                 Liquid temp Alarm 
                 Point where alarm 
                 0 
                 500 
                 200 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 triggered, degrees F. 
               
               
                 85 
                 Liquid Temp Stop 
                 Point where the system 
                 0 
                 500 
                 230 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 shuts down, degrees F. 
               
               
                 86 
                 Anode temp Alarm 
                 Anode electrode 
                 0 
                 500 
                 300 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 temperature, degrees F. 
               
               
                 87 
                 Cathode temp 
                 Cathode electrode 
                 0 
                 500 
                 300 
               
               
                   
                 Alarm threshold 
                 temperature, degrees F. 
               
               
                 88 
                 Vessel Pressure 
                 PAT Vessel pressure that 
                 0 
                 160 
                 50 
               
               
                   
                 Alarm and Stop 
                 alarms and shuts down 
               
               
                   
                 threshold 
                 the system, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 89 
                 Compressor #1 
                 Start point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 12 
               
               
                   
                 START Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned on 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 90 
                 Compressor #1 
                 Stop point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 5 
               
               
                   
                 STOP Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned off 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
               
             
               
               
               
               
               
               
             
           
               
                 TABLE 4 
               
             
             
               
                   
               
               
                 System Patameters 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Value 
                 Value 
                 Value 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 91 
                 Compressor #2 
                 Start point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 25 
               
               
                   
                 START Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned on 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 92 
                 Compressor #2 
                 Stop point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 15 
               
               
                   
                 STOP Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned off 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 93 
                 Compressor #3 
                 Start point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 30 
               
               
                   
                 START Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned on 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 94 
                 Compressor #3 
                 Stop point where 
                 0 
                 160 
                 20 
               
               
                   
                 STOP Setpoint 
                 Compressor is turned off 
               
               
                   
                   
                 based on pressure in 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Compressor Supply 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Storage Tank, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                 95 
                 Gas storage max 
                 Maximum pressure 
                 0 
                 160 
                 40 
               
               
                   
                 pressure 
                 allowed in Compressor 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Supply Storage Tank 
               
               
                   
                   
                 before system alarms and 
               
               
                   
                   
                 shuts down, Pounds per 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Square Inch (PSI). 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0109]    Access Control and Logs—“ADDRESS SYSTEM”—Is a unique address for the system. “DISPLAY HISTORY”—Brings up log file of operational system readings. One output example is a history display. 
         [0110]    “UNLOCK”—Enables editing of the system parameters or the loading of new parameter Menus (files). Selecting the “UNLOCK” button brings up the display screen shown in  FIG. 4-5 . Editing of system parameters and files can begin after the correct password is entered. From the Password display the operator can also change the system password. Once the system has been unlocked for editing by entering the correct password, the “UNLOCK” button will change to “LOCK”. Selecting the “LOCK” button will disable all editing functions. 
         [0111]    “MENUS”—When the “MENUS” button is selected on the top level control screen, a complete listing of the system parameter are displayed as shown in  FIG. 4-6 . “RETURN”—This button will return the operator to the main menu. “SEND PARAMETERS”—Selecting this button will send new parameters to the system. 
         [0112]    “NEW MENU”—Allows the operator to save new parameters to a new menu (system parameters file). 
         [0113]    “MENUS”—Selecting the Menus button will bring up the “LOAD Menu” and a list of stored files containing system parameters, such as the “Test1.” file. After a file has been selected, it can either be loaded with the “LOAD MENU” button or deleted with the “DELETE” button. The “RETURN” button will return to the previous “PARAMETERS MENU” screen. “MENU IN WORK”—Displays the System Parameters file/menu currently in use. 
         [0114]    In the example shown in  FIG. 3 , a replenishment pump  62  and a tank  60  containing new feedstock  23  is included. In this, the circulation pump  50 , the power supply  10 , the feedstock replenishment pump  62 , and/or the electrodes  14 / 16  are controlled by the control system  40 . The control system  40  monitors the performance of the arc, controlling the voltage applied to the arc by the power supply  10 , moving the anode  14  and/or cathode  16  closer to each other or farther away from each other to adjust the resulting plasma  18 , cycling the electrodes  14 / 16  as one or both electrodes erode due to the arc, and adjusts the speed of the circulation pump  50  and, therefore, flow rate through the plasma  18 . The control system  40  also controls the feedstock replenishment pump  62 , signaling the feedstock replenishment pump  62  to pump additional feedstock  22  from a replenishment tank  60  containing additional feedstock  22 . 
         [0115]    As some types of feedstock  22  are transformed into the gas  24 , the remaining feedstock  22  becomes more viscous, especially when impurities are suspended in the feedstock. One example of such is used motor oil, as the oil content is converted to gas  24  by the plasma  18  of the arc, the remaining feedstock  22  (oil) becomes more concentrated with, for example, suspending fine-grain metal particles. As the viscosity of the feedstock  22  increases, it takes more work for the circulation pump  50  to maintain the same flow rate through the plasma  18 . In some embodiments, the load of the circulation pump motor is measured, which will correlate the viscosity of the feedstock  22  being pumped. In some embodiments, a viscosity sensor  42  provides a signal to the control system  40 , informing the control system  40  of the current viscosity of the feedstock  22 . When the control system  40  finds the viscosity to be too high, the control system  40  either adjusts the speed of the circulation pump  50  to compensate for the high viscosity or initiates operation of the feedstock replenishment pump  62  for a specific period of time to further dilute the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  with new (fresh) feedstock  23  from the replenishment tank  60 . In some systems the control system  40  does both, adjusting the pump speed to compensate for the high viscosity and initiating operation of the feedstock replenishment pump  62  to insert a certain amount of fresh feedstock. In some embodiments, the feedstock replenishment pump  62  is operated for a specific period of time or until the measured viscosity lowers to a predetermined level. It is anticipated that various level and pressure sensors are used to make sure that the reactor  12  is not overfilled, etc. 
         [0116]    It is also anticipated that, at some point in the operation, the measured viscosity exceeds a pre-determined level and the control system  40  indicates such to an operator for stopping, cleaning, and/or refilling the system. 
         [0117]    In this same example, as some types of feedstock  22  are transformed into the gas  24 , the conductivity of these feedstocks changes due to certain dissolved or suspended materials concentrating in the remaining feedstock. One example of such is water containing salts. It is known that pure water does not conduct electricity (e.g. distilled water), but as salts are added to this pure water, water with suspended salts now conducts electricity. If the concentration of salts in the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  increases to a certain level, operation of the arc will be affected. Likewise, in examples where the feedstock  22  is used motor oil, as the concentration of fine-grain particles of metal in used motor oil increases, so does the conductivity of the feedstock  22 . 
         [0118]    As the conductivity of the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  increases, operation of the arc is affected. In some embodiments, the load of the arc on the power supply  10  is measured, which will correlate the conductivity of the feedstock  22  being pumped through the plasma  18  as well as the distance between the electrodes  14 / 16 . In some embodiments, a conductivity sensor  44  provides a signal to the control system  40 , informing the control system  40  of the present conductivity of the feedstock  22 . When the control system  40  finds the conductivity to be too high, the control system  40  either changes position of the electrodes  14 / 16  and/or initiates operation of the feedstock replenishment pump  62  for a specific period of time to further dilute the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  with fresh feedstock  22 . In some embodiments, the feedstock replenishment pump  62  is operated for a specific period of time or until the measured conductivity lowers to a predetermined level. It is anticipated that various level and pressure sensors are used to make sure that the reactor  12  is not overfilled, etc. 
         [0119]    Referring now to  FIG. 4 , instead of a replenishment pump  62  and a source of new feedstock  23 , a secondary material tank  70  and secondary material pump  72  is used. In this, the circulation pump  50 , the power supply  10 , the secondary material pump  72 , and/or the electrodes  14 / 16  are controlled by the control system  40 . Again, the control system  40  monitors the performance of the arc, controlling the voltage applied to the arc by the power supply  10 , moving the anode  14  and/or cathode  16  closer to each other or farther away from each other to adjust the resulting plasma  18 , cycling the electrodes  14 / 16  as one or both electrodes erode due to the arc, and adjusts the speed of the circulation pump  50  and, therefore, flow rate through the plasma  18 . The control system  40  also controls the secondary material pump  72 , signaling the secondary material pump  72  to pump a quantity of a secondary material  25  from a replenishment tank  70  containing this secondary material  25 . Any secondary material  25  is anticipated. Examples of secondary materials include, but are not limited to, distilled water, tap water, petroleum-based solvents, alcohol, turpentine, etc. 
         [0120]    As some types of feedstock  22  are transformed into the gas  24 , the remaining feedstock  22  becomes more viscous, especially when impurities are suspended in the feedstock. One example of such is used motor oil, as the oil content is converted to gas  24  by the plasma  18  of the arc, the remaining feedstock  22  (oil) becomes more concentrated with, for example, suspending fine-grain metal particles. As the viscosity of the feedstock  22  increases, it takes more work for the circulation pump  50  to maintain the same flow rate through the plasma  18 . In some embodiments, the load of the circulation pump motor is measured, which will correlate the viscosity of the feedstock  22  being pumped. In some embodiments, a viscosity sensor  42  provides a signal to the control system  40 , informing the control system  40  of the current viscosity of the feedstock  22 . When the control system  40  finds the viscosity to be too high, the control system  40  either adjusts the speed of the circulation pump  50  to compensate for the high viscosity or initiates operation of the secondary material pump  72  for a specific period of time to further dilute the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  with the secondary material  25  from the secondary material tank  70 . In some systems the control system  40  does both, adjusting the pump speed to compensate for the high viscosity and initiating operation of the secondary material pump  72  to insert a certain amount of the secondary material  25 . In some embodiments, the secondary material pump  72  is operated for a specific period of time or until the measured viscosity lowers to a predetermined level. It is anticipated that various level and pressure sensors are used to make sure that the reactor  12  is not overfilled, etc. In the example with used motor oil as a feedstock  22 , a secondary material  25  such as a solvent will dilute the used motor oil, either reducing the viscosity of the used motor oil, reducing the conductance of the used motor oil, or both. 
         [0121]    It is also anticipated that, at some point in the operation, the measured viscosity exceeds a pre-determined level and the control system  40  indicates such to an operator for stopping, cleaning, and/or refilling the system. 
         [0122]    As some types of feedstock  22  are transformed into the gas  24 , the conductivity of these feedstocks changes due to certain dissolved or suspended materials concentrating in the remaining feedstock. One example of such is water containing salts. It is known that pure water does not conduct electricity (e.g. distilled water), but as salts are added to this pure water, water with suspended salts now conducts electricity. If the concentration of salts in the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  increases to a certain level, operation of the arc will be affected. 
         [0123]    As the conductivity of the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  increases, operation of the arc is affected. In some embodiments, the load of the arc on the power supply  10  is measured, which will correlate the conductivity of the feedstock  22  being pumped through the plasma  18  as well as the distance between the electrodes  14 / 16 . In some embodiments, a conductivity sensor  44  provides a signal to the control system  40 , informing the control system  40  of the present conductivity of the feedstock  22 . When the control system  40  finds the conductivity to be too high, the control system  40  either changes position of the electrodes  14 / 16  and/or initiates operation of the secondary material pump  72  for a specific period of time to further dilute the feedstock  22  within the reactor  12  with the secondary material  25 . In some embodiments, the secondary material pump  72  is operated for a specific period of time or until the measured conductivity lowers to a predetermined level. In the example of a feedstock  22  of salts dissolved in water, as the water molecules are converted into the gas  24 , the salt content of the remaining feedstock  22  increases, as does the viscosity and/or conductivity of the remaining feedstock  22 . In this example, when the control system  40  determines that the viscosity and/or conductivity exceeds a predetermined threshold, the secondary material pump  72  is activated for a period of time or until the viscosity and/or conductivity decrease to a lower predetermined threshold. In this example, the secondary material  25  is, for example, distilled water or pure water with lower amounts of salts (e.g. tap water). 
         [0124]    It is anticipated that various level and pressure sensors are used to make sure that the reactor  12  is not overfilled, etc. It is also anticipated that, in some embodiments, any combination of pumps  62 / 72  are present with any combination of additional feedstock  23  and one or more secondary material(s)  25 . For example, in one embodiment, a replenishment pump  62  adds more new feedstock  23  (e.g. raw sewerage) and a secondary material pump  72  adds more secondary material  25  (e.g. fresh water). In another example, one secondary material pump  72  adds more of a first secondary material (e.g. fresh water) and another secondary material pump  72  adds more of a different secondary material (e.g. distilled water). Any number and combination of pumps  62 / 72 , new feedstock tanks  60 , and secondary material tanks  70  are anticipated. It is also anticipated that, for certain sources of new feedstock  23  and secondary material  25 , the new feedstock  23  and/or secondary material  25  are not stored in tanks  60 / 70  and, instead, are fed directly from sources of such materials, for example, directly from sewerage lines, water lines, dredge systems, ocean water pumps, etc. 
         [0125]    Equivalent elements can be substituted for the ones set forth above such that they perform in substantially the same manner in substantially the same way for achieving substantially the same result. 
         [0126]    It is believed that the system and method as described and many of its attendant advantages will be understood by the foregoing description. It is also believed that it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the components thereof without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention or without sacrificing all of its material advantages. The form herein before described being merely exemplary and explanatory embodiment thereof. It is the intention of the following claims to encompass and include such changes.