John J Lawless

US Patent:

39699080, Jul 20, 1976

Filed:

Apr 29, 1975

Appl. No.:

5/572778

Inventors:

John F. Lawless - Rydal PA
Leonard J. Ohrin - Roslyn PA
William M. Emery - Levittown PA

International Classification:

F25C 304

US Classification:

62 74

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for making artificial snow at ambient temperatures substantially exceeding the freezing point of water. The apparatus comprises a mixing chamber surrounded by a thermally insulated jacket to insulate the chamber from the ambient atmosphere. Means are provided for supplying water in the form of atomized droplets to the chamber. Other means are provided for supplying compressed air to the chamber for expansion therein. Cooling means are provided for substantially cooling the compressed air so that when it expands it is effective to reduce the temperature of the water droplets substantially below the freezing point of water such that said droplets instanty freeze to form artificial snow. The cooling means comprises a Vortex tube which is provided with compressed air. The Vortex tube is operative for causing the compressed air to flow in a gyratory, helical motion therethrough such that a portion of the air exits the tube at temperatures well below 0. degree. F.