Importance

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Abstract

A system for and a method of establishing and maintaining fluid at desired viscosity and temperature levels in a flow system. The system includes a driven pump that circulates fluid from a fluid source through a hydraulic loading system that includes an unloading valve. As fluid flows through the valve, a pressure drop is created across the valve operator, which restricts flow through the valve. This pressure drop across the valve operator results in the dissipation of heat, increasing the temperature of the fluid flowing through the valve. During operation of the system, if a low temperature condition is sensed in the system, power will be supplied to the pump, which pumps fluid through the valve at a controlled low pressure drop to result in a controlled heating of the fluid. When the fluid is restored to a desired temperature level, power to the pump is discontinued to terminate flow through the valve. The level of heat produced in the fluid may be adjusted by adjusting the degree that the pressure drops as the fluid flow through the valve. This is accomplished by adjusting the degree of the restriction to flow across the valve operator.

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First Claim