The invention relates to a composition for cosmetic or topical application comprising particles of an at least partially crosslinked elastomeric solid polyorganosiloxane suspended in an aqueous phase, wherein the composition is substantially water-resistant. This composition is more especially a make-up composition or a care composition for the lips or a foundation composition for making up the human face or body. This composition is soft and feels fresh when applied, it spreads easily, it is non-sticky and it does not dry out the skin or the lips. It is entirely suitable for greasy skin, on account of its high matte-effect power.

The present invention relates to a care composition and/or a make-up composition for the skin and/or lips of human beings which has not only matte-effect and freshness properties, but also water-resistance properties. Such compositions may be in the form of a lip composition, an eyeliner, a face powder, an eye-shadow, a foundation, an anti-sun product, a deodorant, or a treatment shampoo, in the form of an aqueous gel, a lotion or a cream, or cast as a stick or as a dish.
The known lip and foundation compositions generally comprise fatty substances such as oils, pasty compounds and waxes, as well as a particulate phase generally composed of fillers and pigments. The fillers generally serve to modify the texture of the composition, as well as to give a matte-effect to the film or coat of composition applied to the skin and/or the lips, while the pigments generally serve to bring color to the composition.
A matte-effect is particularly desired for users with combination or greasy skin, as well for use in hot and humid climates. Matte-effect fillers are usually absorbent fillers such as talc, silica, kaolin or fillers which have optical properties of scattering light, these properties being known as the xe2x80x9csoft focusxe2x80x9d effect.
As taught in European patent application no. EP-A-790 055, matte-effect polymers, such as crosslinked silicone polymers known under the commercial references KSG (KSG 6, 16, 17 and 18) from the company Shin Etsu, Trefils from the company Dow Corning, or Gransils from the company Grand Industrie, have recently been used is cosmetic compositions.
The drawback with these commercial products is that they contain linear or cyclic silicone oils of the non-crosslinked polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) type, which give an oily, greasy effect and do not feel fresh. Accordingly, it is difficult or impossible to use the resulting products in a hot and humid environment and/or by users with greasy skin. Furthermore, these commercial products, even those which are free of silicone oil (Trefils 505 C from Dow Corning, for example) are difficult to disperse in an aqueous medium. On account of their high incompatibility with water, these polymers have excellent properties of water-resistance or water-remanence, and are presented as xe2x80x9cwater-insolublexe2x80x9d elastomeric silicone polymers. See, for example, European patent application no. EP-A-0 855 178. Such properties allow elastomeric silicone polymers to be used in so-called xe2x80x9cwaterproofxe2x80x9d compositions, in particular waterproof mascara, eye-liner or anti-sun compositions, the latter being particularly sought after by consumers on holiday by the sea or next to a body of water.
However, the matte-effect power of these polymers has a tendency to fade away over time, once again leading to shiny and greasy effects on the skin, which are aesthetically unattractive. As taught in U.S. Pat. No. 5,412,004 to Kose and U.S. Pat. No. 5,599,533 to Estxc3xa9e Lauder, in order to improve their cosmetic properties, emulsions have recently been formulated containing this type of polymer. Although they have a more fresh and less greasy effect than anhydrous products, these stable emulsions lose their matte-effect property initially provided by the crosslinked silicone polymers.
Compounds of the crosslinked organosiloxane type which can be dispersed in aqueous medium exist. For example, KSG 20 or KSG 21 sold by the company Shin Etsu, exhibit a specific chemical structure that allows it to be dispersed in an aqueous medium. Specifically, the presence of polar groups give the resulting compounds surfactant properties. However, these compounds, unlike those of the composition of the invention, do not provide any particular matte-effect or freshness.
Moreover, the company Procter and Gamble has envisaged, in its International patent application no. WO-A-96/36323, mascara compositions of the water-in-oil emulsion type which are long-lasting, show water resistance and leave no traces. These compositions contain, inter alia, an aqueous polymer dispersion, generally known as a latex, combined with a surfactant of the alkyl or alkoxy dimethicone copolyol type, hydrocarbon-based oils, pigments and fillers, as well as waxes. However, these mascara compositions are unsuitable for use on the skin, because after the water has evaporated, they form a continuous film on the skin which leads to tautness and discomfort, particularly dryness.
The need thus remains for a water-resistant matte-effect composition whose properties persist on the skin over time and which at the same time provide freshness and comfort.
The Inventor has surprisingly discovered that the introduction of particles of a specific polyorganosiloxane into a composition for topical application, and more especially a care composition or a make-up composition for the skin or the lips, makes it possible to overcome the above-described drawbacks. Specifically, the inventive compositions make it possible to obtain a water-resistant film whose cosmetic properties are better than those of the water-resistant products of the prior art. In particular, the present invention provides a water-resistant film that exhibits properties that are superior to those of the prior art, e.g., improved properties related to ease of application, e.g., slipperiness, tautness, dryness, specifically on the lips, freshness, as well as the ability to provide a matte effect.
The invention applies not only to make-up products for the lips and skin of human beings, but also to care products and/or treatment products for human lips and skin. The composition of the invention can also be in the form of a topical composition, which can be applied to the scalp, i.e., areas of superficial keratinous growths, for example.
Thus, one object of the present invention is a composition for cosmetic or topical application comprising particles of an at least partially crosslinked elastomeric solid polyorganosiloxane suspended in an aqueous phase that exhibits improved water-resistance.
Still another object of the present invention is a composition for cosmetic or topical application comprising particles of an at least partially crosslinked elastomeric solid polyorganosiloxane suspended in an aqueous phase that provides a water-resistant make-up or care composition for keratin substances.
Another object of the invention is a process for increasing the water-remanence of a cosmetic composition, which comprises introducing into the composition, by mixing, for example, particles of an at least partially crosslinked elastomeric polyorganosiloxane suspended in an aqueous phase.
It is entirely surprising that the composition is water-resistant although it comprises a continuous aqueous phase. At the present time, no commercially available water-resistant cosmetic product exists which has a continuous aqueous phase.
The term xe2x80x9celastomericxe2x80x9d means a flexible, deformable material which has viscoelastic properties and in particular the consistency of a sponge or a flexible sphere. Its modulus of elasticity is such that this material withstands deformation and has a limited capacity for stretching and contracting. This material is capable of regaining its original shape after it has been stretched. This elastomer is formed from high molecular weight polymer chains whose mobility is limited by a uniform network of crosslinking points.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes of the composition of the invention have properties of structuring an aqueous medium and are capable of increasing the viscosity of the aqueous phase. They do not dry out the skin and provide good cosmetic properties, in particular softness, freshness and a matte effect. These novel elastomers lead to compositions which feel comfortable when applied, spread well, and feel soft and non-sticky to the touch. These cosmetic properties are due both to the texture of the polyorganosiloxanes and to their properties which are comparable to those of microsponges, which trap aqueous media, particularly those of the composition and those due to the perspiration of the skin. They thus make it possible to obtain thickened compositions which have good water-remanence. In addition to the above advantages, the compositions of the invention have good stability.
The compositions of the invention can be in the form of a paste, a solid or a more or less fluid cream. They can be oil-in-water or water-in-oil emulsions which are a fluid, solid or soft hydrophilic gel. The compositions can have the appearance of a lotion, gel, cream or cast product, and can even be in the form of an aerosol.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes in accordance with the invention are partially or totally crosslinked hydrophilic compounds of three-dimensional structure. The thickening of the aqueous phase with these elastomers can be total or partial. It is entirely surprising that hydrophilic polymers have water-remanence properties.
The elastomers of the invention are in the form of a powder or an emulsified gel containing an elastomeric polyorganosiloxane of three-dimensional structure, dispersed in water. The particle dispersion or suspension is homogeneous.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes of the present invention can be chosen from the crosslinked polymers described in Japanese patent application no. JP-A-10/175816, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. According to this Japanese application, elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes are obtained by an addition and crosslinking reaction, in the presence of a catalyst, in particular of the platinum type, of:
(a) at least one polyorganosiloxane (i) with xcex1-xcfx89 positions in the silicone chain, having at least two vinyl groups in the xcex1-xcfx89 positions of the silicone chain per molecule; and
(b) at least one organosiloxane (ii) containing at least one hydrogen atom linked to a silicon atom per molecule.
In particular, the polyorganosiloxane (i) is chosen from polydimethylsiloxanes, and is more specifically an xcex1,xcfx89-dimethylvinylpolydimethylsiloxane. It is understood that while one vinyl group in each of the xcex1 and xcfx89 positions of the silicone chain per molecule imparts the desired properties, preferably, a polyorganosiloxane having at least two vinyl groups in the xcex1-xcfx89 positions of the silicone chain per molecule is used.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes of the composition according to the invention are advantageously in the form of an aqueous suspension. This suspension can be obtained in particular as follows:
(a) mixing the polyorganosiloxane (i) and the organosiloxane (ii);
(b) adding the aqueous phase containing an emulsifier to the mixture of (a);
(c) emulsifying the aqueous phase and the mixture;
(d) adding water to the emulsion of (c); and
(e) polymerizing the polyorganosiloxane (i) and the organosiloxane (ii) as an emulsion in the presence of a platinum catalyst.
The water is advantageously added at a temperature above room temperature, preferably 40-60xc2x0 C. After polymerization, it is possible to dry the particles obtained in order to evaporate therefrom all or some of the trapped water.
The polyorganosiloxanes are in the form of hydrophilic deformable solid particles which have a certain hardness, measurable with a Shore A durometer (according to ASTM standard D2240) at room temperature or by the Japanese method JIS-A. This hardness can be measured on a block of elastomer prepared for this purpose as follows: mixing the polyorganosiloxane (i) and the organosiloxane (ii); removing air from the mixture; molding and vulcanizing in an oven at 100xc2x0 C. for 30 minutes; cooling to room temperature and then measuring the hardness. The density can also be determined on this block of elastomer.
The Shore hardness is less than or equal to 80, and preferably less than 65. The polyorganosiloxanes of the composition of the invention are, for example, those sold under the names BY 29-122 and BY 29-119 by the company Dow-Corning Electric. A mixture of these commercial products can also be used. A block of elastomers according to the product comprising BY-29-122 has a hardness of 7, and according to the product comprising BY-29-119 has a hardness of 30. The density of these products is typically 0.97 to 0.98.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxane powder, which acts as a water-dispersible filler, is present in the composition in an amount of from 1 to 99%, and preferably in an amount of from 5 to 70%. The above amounts correspond to an active material content of the polymer of from 0.5 to 65% by weight, and preferably of from 3 to 45%, respectively.
The elastomeric polyorganosiloxane particles, as active material, have a size ranging from 0.1 to 500 xcexcm, and preferably from 3 to 200 xcexcm. While these particles can be flat or amorphous, they preferably have a spherical shape.
In order to disperse stably in water, these polyorganosiloxane particles can be combined with one or more nonionic, cationic or anionic surfactants with a hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB)xe2x89xa78.
As taught in the description of Japanese patent application no. JP-A-10/175816, the proportion of surfactants is preferably from 0.1 to 20 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the elastomeric polyorganosiloxane composition, and more preferably from 0.5 to 10 parts by weight.
These elastomeric polyorganosiloxane powders can be combined with fatty substances that are liquid at room temperature, known as oils, such as those described in Japanese patent application no. JP-A-10/175816, waxes or gums that are solid at room temperature, pasty fatty substances of animal, plant, mineral or synthetic origin, mixtures thereof and inorganic powders such as those described in the above Japanese patent application.
The additional fatty phase can be any fatty phase and can contain products that are fluid at room temperature, such as silicone oils, fluoro oils, fluorosilicone oils and hydrocarbon-based oils which are optionally partially silicone-containing. These oils can be volatile at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. The expression xe2x80x9cvolatile oilxe2x80x9d in particular means an oil which can evaporate in less than one hour when placed in contact with the skin or the lips. These oils can represent from 0 to 80% of the total weight of the composition.
As oils which can be used in the composition of the invention, mention may be made in particular of:
hydrocarbon-based oils of animal origin, such as perhydrosqualene;
hydrocarbon-based plant oils, such as liquid fatty acid triglycerides, for example sunflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, marrow oil, grape seed oil, sesame oil, hazelnut oil, apricot oil, macadamia oil, castor oil, avocado oil, caprylic /capric acid triglycerides such as those sold by the company Stearineries Dubois or those sold under the names Miglyol 810, 812 and 818 by the company Dynamit Nobel;
oils of formula R1COOR2 in which R1 represents a higher fatty acid residue comprising from 7 to 19 carbon atoms and R2 represents a branched hydrocarbon-based chain containing from 3 to 20 carbon atoms, such as, for example, purcellin oil;
linear or branched hydrocarbons of mineral or synthetic origin, such as volatile or non-volatile liquid paraffins and derivatives thereof, petroleum jelly, polydecenes, and hydrogenated polyisobutene such as parleam;
synthetic esters and ethers, such as isopropyl myristate and alkyl or polyalkyl octanoates, decanoates and ricinoleates;
fatty alcohols, such as octyldodecanol and oleyl alcohol;
partially hydocarbon-based and/or silicone-based fluoro oils, such as those described in Japanese patent application no. JP-A-2 295 912, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety;
silicone oils, such as polymethylsiloxanes containing a linear or cyclic silicone chain, which are liquid or pasty at room temperature, phenyl dimethicones, phenyl trimethicones and polymethylphenylsiloxanes;
mixtures thereof.
Advantageously, the compositions according to the invention can contain hydrocarbon-based waxes, fluoro waxes or silicone waxes or mixtures thereof, which may be solid or semi-solid (in the form of a paste) at room temperature. These waxes may be of plant, mineral, animal and/or synthetic origin. In particular, these waxes have a melting point of greater than 25xc2x0 C., and preferably greater than 45xc2x0 C.
The silicone waxes can be waxes comprising a silicone structure and units containing one or more alkyl or alkoxy chains pendant and/or at the end of the silicone structure, these chains being linear or branched and comprising from 10 to 45 carbon atoms. These waxes are referred to respectively as alkyldimethicones and alkoxydimethicones. Moreover, these alkyl chains can comprise one or more ester functions.
As other waxes which can be used in the invention, mention may be made of waxes of animal origin, such as lanolin or beeswax; waxes of plant origin, such as carnauba wax or candelilla wax; waxes of mineral origin, for example, paraffin wax, lignite wax or microcrystalline waxes, ceresine or ozokerite; synthetic waxes, such as polyethylene waxes; and mixtures thereof.
These fatty substances can be chosen in a varied manner by a person skilled in the art in order to prepare a composition which has the desired properties, for example, in terms of consistency or texture.
In particular, the presence of waxes makes it possible to provide good mechanical strength, in particular when the composition is in the form of a stick.
In general, the composition can comprise from 0 to 50% of wax relative to the total weight of the composition, and preferably from 10 to 30%.
The composition of the invention can also comprise at least one additional ingredient usually used in the field concerned, chosen from antioxidants, essential oils, preserving agents, cosmetic or dermatological active agents such as moisturizers (glycerol), vitamins, essential fatty acids and lypophilic sunscreens, lyposoluble polymers, in particular hydrocarbon-based polymers such as polyalkylenes, aqueous-phase gelling agents, fatty-phase gelling agents, fragrances, surfactants, and mixtures thereof.
These additional ingredients can be present in the composition according to the invention in the amounts usually used. For example, additional ingredients can be found in a proportion of from 0 to 20% relative to the total weight of the composition, and preferably from 0.1 to 10%.
Advantageously, the compositions of the invention contain, as an additional ingredient, one or more aqueous-phase gelling agents. Among the aqueous-phase gelling agents which can be used according to the invention, mention may be made of: water-soluble cellulosic gelling agents such a hydroxyethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose and carboxymethylcellulose; guar gum; quaternized guar gum; nonionic guar gums comprising C1-C6 hydroxyalkyl groups; xanthan gum, carob gum, scleroglucan gum, gellan, rhamsan gum and karaya gum; alginates, maltodextrin, starch and its derivatives; hyaluronic acid and its salts; clays, in particular montmorillonites, hectorites or bentonites, and laponites; polymers containing a carboxylic group, such as at least partially neutralized crosslinked polyacrylic acids, for instance the xe2x80x9cCarbopolsxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9cCarbomersxe2x80x9d from the company Goodrich, e.g., Carbomer 980 neutralized with triethanolamine-abbreviated to TEA; polyglyceryl (meth)acrylate polymers; polyvinylpyrrolidone; polyvinyl alcohol; crosslinked acrylamide polymers and copolymers; crosslinked methacryloyloxyethyltrimethylammonium chloride homopolymers; associative polyurethanes; and mixtures thereof.
According to the invention, the aqueous-phase gelling agent is preferably chosen from xanthan gum, clays (bentonite or laponite), associative polyurethanes, cellulosic thickeners, in particular hydroxyethylcellulose, and at least partially neutralized crosslinked polyacrylic acids.
It would be readily apparent to a person skilled in the art to select the optional additional ingredients and/or the amount thereof such that the advantageous properties of the composition according to the invention are not, or are not substantially, adversely affected by the addition envisaged. In particular, these additives must not harm the homogeneity, stability, comfort, matte-effect, freshness or water-resistance of the composition.
The composition according to the invention can be in the form of a colored product and especially a make-up product for the skin, in particular a foundation, a face powder, an eye-shadow, a mascara, an eye-liner, a concealer stick, a nail varnish or a make-up product for the lips, such as a lipstick. They can also be in non-colored form, optionally containing cosmetic or dermatological active agents. In this case, they can be used as a care base for the lips (lip balms for protecting the lips against the cold and/or the sun and/or the wind) or a fixing base to be applied over a conventional lipstick.
The composition of the invention can also be in the form of a dermatological or cosmetic composition for treating or caring for the skin (including the scalp), keratin fibres (hair, eyelashes, eyebrows), the nails or the lips, or in the form of an anti-sun or artificial tanning composition, or alternatively in the form of a cleansing product or a product for removing make-up from the skin or keratin fibres, a deodorant product or a fragrancing product.
The composition of the invention should be cosmetically and dermatologically acceptable, i.e. non-toxic, and able to be applied to the skin, including the inside of the eyelids, or to the lips of human beings.
Preferably, the composition of the invention can comprise a dyestuff, particularly containing a particulate phase. Generally, a dyestuff can be present in a proportion of from 0 to 60% relative to the total weight of the composition, more preferably of from greater than 0.1 to 60% relative to the total weight of the composition, and still more preferably from 5 to 35%. The dyestuff can comprise pigments and/or nacres and/or fillers usually used in cosmetic compositions. Alternatively, dyes which are soluble in the medium, and in particular water-soluble or liposoluble dyes can be used.
The term xe2x80x9cpigmentsxe2x80x9d should be understood to mean white or colored, inorganic or organic particles which are insoluble in the medium of the composition and are intended to color and/or opacify the composition. The term xe2x80x9cfillersxe2x80x9d should be understood to mean colorless or white, inorganic or synthetic, lamellar or non-lamellar particles. The term xe2x80x9cnacresxe2x80x9d should be understood to mean iridescent particles, produced in particular by certain mollusks in their shell, or else synthesized. These fillers and nacres serve to modify the texture of the composition as well as the matte-effect/gloss.
The pigments can be present in the composition in a proportion of from 0 to 60% relative to the weight of the final composition, and preferably in a proportion of from 4 to 25%. As inorganic pigments which can be used in the invention, mention may be made of titanium oxide, zirconium oxide or cerium oxide, as well as zinc oxide, iron oxide or chromium oxide and ferric blue. Among the organic pigments which can be used in the invention, mention may be made of carbon black and barium, strontium, calcium and aluminium lakes, and mixtures thereof.
The nacres can be present in the composition in a proportion of from 0 to 20% relative to the total weight of the composition, and preferably in a proportion from about 2 to 15%. Among the nacres which can be used in the invention, mention may be made of mica coated with titanium oxide, with iron oxide, with natural pigment or with bismuth oxychloride, such as colored titanium mica.
The fillers can be present in a proportion of from 0 to 35% relative to the total weight of the composition, and preferably from 5 to 15%. Mention may be made in particular of talc, mica, silica, Nylon(copyright) powder (Orgasol(copyright) in particular from Atochem) and polyethylene powder, Teflon(copyright), starch, boron nitride, and silicone resin microbeads (TospearI(copyright) from Toshiba, for example), and mixtures thereof.
The water-soluble dyes are, in particular, beetroot juice or methylene blue and can represent from 0 to 6% relative to the total weight of the composition.
The composition according to the invention can be manufactured without heating or by heating one or more elastomeric polyorganosiloxanes in the form of a powder dispersed in water, adding one or more pigments, one or more fillers and/or one or more other additives, optionally adding the fatty phase in liquid form (in particular brought to the highest melting point of the waxes), followed by emulsification, if necessary.
The composition can also be obtained by extrusion as described in European patent application no. EP-A-667 146, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. This process consists in blending the paste (waxes +oils +additives +pigments) during the cooling in order to create, in the bulk zones for crushing, a paste with the aid of a roll mill or a screw extruder-mixer. This process makes it possible to obtain a composition in the form of a soft paste.

Composition comprising particles of a hydrophilic polyorganosiloxane suspended in an aqueous phase


A variable cutoff web printing press is provided including a first plate cylinder for printing a first color of first and second images and a second plate cylinder for printing a second color of the first and the second images. The printing press also includes a common blanket cylinder. The first and second plate cylinders contact the common blanket cylinder and transfer the first and second images to the common blanket cylinder. The printing press also includes a first transfer body for receiving the first image from the common blanket cylinder and transferring the first image to a web and a second transfer body for receiving the second image from the common blanket cylinder and transferring the second image to the web. A method of variable cutoff web printing is also provided.

The present invention relates generally to a printing press and more specifically to a variable cut off printing apparatus and method.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,950,536 discloses a variable cutoff offset press unit wherein a fixed cutoff press is adapted to a variable cutoff press while maintaining the size of the blanket cylinders. A plate cylinder sleeve has a variable outer diameter, whereby a length of an image to be printed is varied proportionally to a variable outer diameter while maintaining an outer diameter of the gapless blanket cylinder sleeve constant. The size of a plate cylinder is changed by using a sleeve mounted over the plate cylinder or adding packing under a plate to increase the diameter of the plate cylinder.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,327,975 discloses a method and apparatus for printing elongate images on a web. A first printing unit prints a first image portion on the web at prescribed spacings, by moving the impression cylinder away from the blanket cylinder each time one first image portion is printed. A second printing unit prints a second image portion on the spacings left on the web by the first printing unit, also by moving the impression cylinder away from the blanket cylinder each time one second image portion is printed. A variable speed motor rotates each blanket cylinder, while each time the associated impression cylinder is held away to create a space on the web for causing printing of the first or the second printing portion at required spacings.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,066,088 discloses a variable cut-off offset press system and method of operation which utilizes a continuous image transfer belt. The offset printing system comprises at least two plate cylinders adapted to have thereon respective printing sleeves. Each of the printing sleeves is adapted to receive colored ink from a respective ink source. The system further comprises at least a impression cylinder, wherein the image transfer belt is positioned to contact each of the printing sleeves at respective nips formed between respective ones of the plate cylinders and the at least one impression cylinder.

Variable cutoff printing press with common blanket cylinder


The present invention provides a method, apparatus and system for treating fire ant mounds. The invention comprises a pressure vessel for holding water and steam, a water heating coil for heating water and a steam heating coil for heating steam. A heat source contemporaneously heats the water heating coil, the steam heating coil and the pressure vessel. Steam is generated, superheated and is supplied to a probe for applying steam to fire ant mounds. A nozzle containing countersunken ports may be attached to the probe. A sliding hammer to aid insertion and extraction may be fixed to the probe. An articulated protective shroud attached to the probe remains in contact with the ant mound surface.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method, apparatus and system for eliminating fire ant infestations.
2. Description of the Related Art
Fire ant infestation is a major agricultural and lifestyle-inhibiting problem. It costs the agricultural industry billions of dollars in terms of crop loss, damage, and death to livestock. In more residential environments they are at best a nuisance and in certain cases, a health threat. In this environment they are also highly destructive to structures, dwelling places and electrical installations.
There are two types of imported fire ants. First is the Black fire ant that was imported around 1918 into Mobile, Ala. from South America. Their presence is generally limited to Mississippi and Alabama. Whereas the more pervasive Red Fire ant exists predominately in the South ranging from Florida to New Mexico, with some isolated colonies in Arizona, Nevada, and California, and as far North as Tennessee and South Carolina. Ant infestations have damaged agricultural crops, killed livestock, and are surprisingly considered more destructive than termites to dwellings. Infestations have resulted in death, destruction and lost income on the order of billions of dollars over the years since their accidental introduction into the United States in the 1930's.
The predominant population within an ant mound is the worker ants. Populations can easily reach levels of 100,000-500,000. The two other members of the colony are the winged males and the queen. Though mating can occur anytime of the year, it predominantly occurs in the spring and fall. A young queen will leave the mound and fly 2-4 feet above the mound where a winged male joins her in flight and mates. The male soon dies and the female flies to another location where she sheds her wings and begins to form a new colony. This could be as short as a few feet away from the original colony or as far away as ½-1 mile. At the new location the queen will lay approximately 1 dozen eggs which will reach maturity in approximately 1 month. They will then begin to feed the queen which will be able to eventually lay 800 eggs per day. Due to this capability, the queen can easily re-establish a colony with as little as 1-2 dozen worker ants. Therefore it is extremely important to kill the queen, not just the worker ants. The life cycle of the worker ants is generally about five weeks whereas that of the queen can be 7 years or more.
The worker ants are capable of multiple and very painful stings which have resulted in some deaths in hyper-sensitive people and secondary infections in others. They will attack any and all perceived attackers, even those who innocently just stand in close proximity to the mound. Once a threat is perceived the worker ants will immediately whisk the queen away down the multiple pathways and foraging tunnels that exist within the mound. Ants can clear a mound in less than one minute. The mound and subterranean colony itself can reach 4-6 feet deep and be connected to foraging tunnels which run as much as 75-130 feet away from the mound. Therefore in order to prevent re-infestation, the queen must be killed quickly and without alarming the mound. Fortunately the queen's lair lies directly below the top of the mound.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,319,878 to Moffet et al. 'Method and apparatus for extermination of imported fireants' discloses that the extermination of imported fireants is accomplished by a process in which water, heated to a temperature in the range of 200-212 degrees, is applied by impulse inundation within the central core region of a fireant mound, initiated below ground level, continuing as the probe is inserted to a lowermost region, and thereafter continuing as the probe is withdrawn, and repeating the process from different angles and orientations.
The Moffet et al. invention comprises a large cart carrying a 30 gallon water tank, a car or tractor battery, a battery operated hydraulic pump, a boiler and a propane tank. The invention calls for injecting hot water into a fire ant mound via a probe. The invention has several potential drawbacks that make it impractical for residential use. A tractor or ATV is required to move the invention. Capital costs are large because expensive equipment is required and it is costly to build. Vibration and aerial disturbance produced by the invention alarms ant colonies. The invention is not self-contained. A source of electricity or external power is required to operate a high-pressure pump. The invention injects only hot water, which under the force of gravity will move downward instead of in all directions. A preferred embodiment of the invention calls for the addition of a foaming gel. Some users may find the injection probe handle unwieldy; it may require strength to insert. Additionally, the injection probe nozzle is wider than the probe itself. This creates a void space behind the nozzle and thereby creates a flow path through which the heated water can escape out the top of the mound instead of being injected into the mound.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,026,609 to Rawls, 'Hot steam and water fire ant killing device' discloses a mechanical device for killing fire ants by the introduction of hot water and steam to the fire ant mound. The invention uses a hydraulic cylinder to ram a metal probe deep into an ant mound. The probe has a plurality of orifices which emit jets of hot water and steam, thereby scalding and killing the ant queen before she can be removed to safety. In the preferred embodiment, the invention is adapted to be mounted on an agricultural tractor.
The Rawls invention is mounted in a frame to the rear of a tractor. The frame contains a water tank, water heater, and PTO operated pump and injection probe. It uses the tractors hydraulics to insert a probe into the ant mound in order to inject hot water directly into the mound. Potential drawbacks for this invention include aspects that make it impractical for residential use. It requires a tractor. Capital costs are large because expensive equipment is required and it is costly to build. Vibration and aerial disturbance produced by the invention alarms ant colonies prior to insertion of probe, which potentially allows the queen to escape. This invention injects only hot water, not steam as claimed. The claimed steam injection is merely the misting of the hot water as it exits the injection probe ports. This is because the disclosed pump connected to the PTO shaft cannot pump a gas which steam is. It can only pump a liquid.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,756,118 to Evans, 'Method and apparatus for the destruction of imported fire ants of the genus Solenopsis' discloses a method and apparatus for the mechanical destruction of members of the genus Solenopsis, the South American Fire Ant, by the introduction of intense heat, vapor, insecticides, and/or steam directly into the colony by incorporating the use and application of specific compounds and mixtures of hydrocarbons, pyrethroids, insecticides, oxidizing agents, and/or vaporizing liquids, injected into the individual ant colonies by a variety of methods, including a pressurizing injection gun, with or without a heating attachment. The device is designed to obtain the proper penetration of the Imported Fire Ant colony in order to rapidly and totally infuse the entire chamber area, as well as the lateral foraging tunnels, with a thermal vapor (fog) containing an insecticide known to be lethal to Formicoidea (ants). Additionally, upon cooling, the vapor recondenses into a residue that has a prolonged residual killing effect for continued control purposes. An additional effect of this system is that the mere contact of the superheated vapor is lethal to those ants in the immediate vicinity of the lance so that the system is not totally dependent on insecticidal properties of the active ingredients.
The Evans invention injects high-pressure steam, insecticides, hydrocarbons and other chemicals via a lance. The invention has several potential drawbacks. It relies on dangerously high pressures on the order of 3,000 pounds per square inch and dangerously high temperatures on the order of 2210° Fahrenheit. The invention utilizes insecticides which are harmful to the environment and remain in-situ for up to one year. The required high temperature may reduce the effectiveness or most likely destroy the poison. The invention uses a high-pressure tank containing pressurized gas to develop injection pressure. This must be purchased elsewhere and attached to the system. The invention may be configured for back-pack carrying which is impractical for use by smaller individuals.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,160,336 to Query et al., 'Method for treating fireants' discloses a method and apparatus for treating fireants which combines an insecticide with a refrigerant into a mixture and injects the mixture into the fireant hills. This invention uses a back pack or trailer to carry multiple tanks containing poison and a refrigerant which are injected into the mound with a probe. Potential drawbacks associated with this invention include that it utilizes insecticides which are harmful to the environment, it uses a non-residential poison, and it utilizes a refrigerant, Freon, which is expensive and harmful to the environment.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,054,231, 'Fire ant eradication apparatus and method' to Witherspoon discloses a method for eradicating fire ants that includes connecting a supply of pressurized water to a dispenser handle, forcing water or a water and insecticide mixture out a vertical probe to drench the top of the fire ant mound, then slowly inserting the probe into the fire ant mound with the water or water and insecticide mixture flowing, followed by slowly pulling the probe out of the mound while flooding the mound with the water and insecticide mixture. A dispenser for accomplishing the method includes a handle that may be attached to a source of pressurized water, a bottle attached to the handle containing insecticide, a vertical probe attached to the handle for injecting water and insecticide into a fire ant mound, a conduit to allow water to pass from the pressurized source through the handle and out the probe, and a means of aspirating insecticide into the water flowing through the handle and the probe.
The Witherspoon invention takes water from a garden hose and mixes it with poison, then injects it onto and into the mound with a probe. Potential drawbacks to the invention include insecticides which are harmful to the environment. The invention uses water from a water-hose. Surface tension inherent in water prevents its free flow through the mound. The application on the surface initially before injecting into mound warns the ants and facilitates the escape of queen. As water is heavier than air it will flow down instead of omni-directionally throughout the desired target area.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,109,629, 'Method and apparatus for killing subterranean insects,' to King et al. discloses a system and method for killing ants in a subterranean colony. Liquid insecticide is vaporized in a fogging vaporization chamber by the exhaust of an internal combustion engine such as that mounted on a lawn mower or farm tractor. An insertion probe, having exhaust holes, is connected to an output of the vaporization chamber by a flexible hose. In operation, the probe is inserted into the subterranean colony, whereby vaporized insecticide is applied down in the colony. Such vaporized insecticide travels through passages to various "rooms" of the colony, thereby contacting ants in all parts of the colony.
The King et al. invention uses the exhaust from a lawnmower to vaporize poison, which is then injected into the mound via a probe. Potential drawbacks to this invention include insecticides which are harmful to the environment and a lawn mower which generates noise which in turn scares the fire ants and facilitates the escape of the queen leading to the survival of the colony. Furthermore the heat of the exhaust will at best degrade the effectiveness of the poison and most likely destroy it.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,815,234 to Connolly, 'Method and apparatus for destroying fire ants and fire ant beds,' discloses apparatus for destroying fire ants includes a rotating ant bed destruction member and an apparatus for rotating such destruction member into an ant bed; a fluid delivery assembly is provided for delivering water, ambient or at extremely hot temperatures; or other fluid, to the rotating destruction member to drown and otherwise kill the ants while the rotating destruction member destroys the ant bed. The method of this invention is practiced by simultaneously moving the ant bed destruction member into the bed and delivering a stream of fluid into the ant bed sufficient to co-act with the destruction member to destroy the ant bed.
The Connally invention uses a rotating blade driven by a hydraulic motor which is powered by a riding lawnmower to destroy the ant mound above ground and also allow for the application of hot water to the top of the mound. Potential drawbacks to this invention include that the rotating mechanism connected to a riding lawn mower destroys the ant bed above ground only. It does not kill the queen below. The ant colony will simply relocate. The mechanism simply spreads the ants but doesn't kill them. They will then begin to attack the machine and operators. Noise forewarns the ants and allows the queen to escape. Capital costs are large. The invention requires a riding lawnmower, hydraulic fluid tank and hydraulic motor to drive the rotating mechanism. It also requires a water tank and heating coil to possibly heat up water to be applied to the mound at the surface which adds to the size and cost of the system. The rotating member cuts off passage ways preventing the fluid from effectively reaching below ground level. All of the attachments add to cost, complexity, weight and size.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,031,355 to Ryan, 'Steam arrangement for exterminating the Argentina Fire Ant' discloses an exterminating arrangement for exterminating the Argentina Fire Ant is disclosed. The arrangement includes a holding and pressure tank, a heat exchanger in fluid communication with the holding and pressure tank, a superheater in fluid communication with the heat exchanger, and a dome in fluid communication with the superheater.
The Ryan invention utilizes a trailer mounted heated water supply tank, heated heat exchanger and a super heater to create steam which is then applied to the top of the mound only via a parabolic dome covering the ant mound which is held in place with a strap and cleats. The potential drawbacks of this invention include large capital costs due to all of the components required. The invention requires at least three major components: a 40 gallon Tank, a heat exchanger and a superheater. Additionally it requires three burners, one for each major component. The heat exchanger requires 453 ft of ⅞″ OD coil which is heavy and expensive. The large size of the invention, requiring a trailer to carry it on, will disturb and alarm ants potentially leading to the escape of the queen and survivability of the colony. The invention uses a parabolic dome which is pre-installed over the ant mound and held in place with a strap and cleats. Any disturbance of the ant bed prior to application of steam will alarm ant bed allowing the queen to escape. The dome only applies steam at the surface and relies on the ant passage ways to carry the steam 5-8 ft down.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,366,154 to Thompson, 'Apparatus and method for controlling vegetation using high pressure liquid spray,' discloses an apparatus and method for controlling vegetation, as well as insect infestation, as are typically encountered in agricultural environments. The apparatus is characterized by its construction to include a high pressure pump for a liquid spray material which may be applied to vegetation at a pressure from about 100 psi to as much as about 4,000 psi. The apparatus further includes a heater whereby the liquid spray material may be heated to a temperature of from about 100° F. to about 240° F. before it is sprayed. The apparatus is constructed so that it can be attached to a standard tractor for ease of use. The method of this invention is characterized by its utilization of a high pressure spray so that agricultural chemicals in amounts from virtually 0% to about 50% of their current recommended dose rates can be used with efficacy.
The Thompson invention utilizes multiple booms attached to a tractor which carries a mechanism to heat the water and pump the water through the booms. Potential drawbacks to this invention include its large size (for agricultural use), the multiple booms attached to a tractor which creates vibrations and warns the ants, and it is used above ground mainly to control weeds.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,018 to Livingston, 'Method and apparatus for killing fire ants,' discloses a method for killing fire ants in subterranean tunnels, includes fogging the subterranean tunnels with an insecticidal amount of thermal aerosol fog through a boot covering the subterranean tunnels and then blowing hot air into the subterranean tunnels whereby the thermal aerosol fog is forced further into the subterranean tunnels. The apparatus used in the method includes a heat generator unit capable of producing thermal fog and a boot with skirt connected to said generator and which covers said subterranean tunnels. A dye may be added to the fog to provide a color marking for each fire ant mound treated by the fog.
The Livingston invention utilizes an internal combustion engine to drive an air compressor. The compressed air is mixed with gasoline or diesel fuel and injected into a combustion chamber. Exhaust gases are mixed with poison and applied to the surface of the ant mound below a shroud. Potential drawbacks include the noise and vibration generation of the internal combustion engine giving ants early warning. The invention uses poisons which have environmental impact. Petroleum products and by-products used to create the fog are hazardous to the environment. The invention requires a trailer to transport entire mechanism which causes vibrations and forewarns ants. The invention is expensive and not for residential use.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,165,199 to Tallon, 'Non-toxic method of exterminating insects,' discloses an invention concerning a non-toxic method of exterminating dry wood termites, fleas, roaches, ants, weevils and the like by utilizing an inert freezing liquid such as liquid nitrogen as the killing agent. The liquid nitrogen is inserted so as to envelop the colony of objectionable organisms until the environment is reduced to a temperature of at least zero degrees Fahrenheit and maintained at that temperature for between 2 to 5 minutes. This method effectively kills the organisms by crystallizing the innards and freezing the cells, thereby eliminating the need for more dangerous and toxic poisons that are currently being used.
The Tallon invention injects liquid nitrogen into the mound. Potential drawbacks to this invention include the overall expense, nitrogen is not easily acquired, the invention requires specialized and expensive equipment.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,086 to Campbell, 'Systems to exterminate and control subterranean termites and other subterranean pests,' discloses a system to exterminate and control subterranean termites and other subterranean pests inhabiting a subterranean area surrounding or in close proximity to a structure having a perimeter near ground level and support pads includes a plurality of first pipes, a plurality of second pipes, a source of steam, a plurality of temperature sensors, a temperature display and a controller. Each pipe has a plurality of holes in its sidewall. The first and second pipes are disposed beneath ground level along the perimeter of the structure and along its support pads, respectively. The source of steam is fluidly coupled to the pipes. Each temperature sensor is disposed adjacent to one of the pipes. The temperature sensors generate temperature signals. The temperature display displays a temperature reading of the temperature adjacent to each pipe in response to the temperature signals. The controller regulates pressure and/or temperature of the source of steam in response to the temperature signals.
The Campbell invention is a method that creates a network of underground probes around and under a structure. The probes are either for steam injection or temperature sensing. Both types of probes have temperature sensors that feed information back to a central controller which in turn is connected to a central boiler. The system is permanently installed and periodically raises the temperature around the structure to kill insect and rodent infestations. Potential drawbacks include that it is expensive, requires boiler, network of steam delivery tubes, probes, sensors, and electricity. It is only applicable to area around a structure, not for random infestation of ants in the surrounding grounds. The invention is not designed as a mobile unit to exterminate ants in the yard. The invention requires specialized and expensive equipment. A technician is required to install the invention due to its complicated design and requirements. The invention further requires the digging of a hole which is filled with pea gravel, into which each probe is inserted.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,561,942 to Mungo, 'Fire ant killing device and method,' discloses a hand-portable fire ant killing device for vaporizing liquid resmethrin and infusing vaporized resmethrin throughout a fire ant mound on ground includes a dome, sized for fitting over a fire ant mound to be exterminated, having a top and an interconnected lower lip for contacting the ground entirely around the fire ant mound and for forming a closed interior chamber above the ant mound, a lightweight, high temperature gas discharging device which is mounted on the top of the dome, a high temperature gas discharging manifold directed into the closed interior chamber between the dome and the ant mound, a tank for containing resmethrin without pressurization which is mounted on top of the dome and a metering chamber and conduit which are connected for delivering a predetermined amount of resmethrin by a force overcoming the pressure in the dome for vaporization therein. The vaporized resmethrin in the high temperature gas is discharged under a small positive pressure into the closed interior chamber of the dome for infusion throughout the mound to kill all ant inhabitants.
The Mungo invention uses the exhaust gas from a two-cycle engine to vaporize the poison resmethrin, which in turn is injected into a domed structure sitting on top of a fire ant mound. Potential drawbacks include the use of a poison, which isn't good for the environment. The poison is only applied to the surface of a mound, not quickly and deep down in the mound to contact and kill the queen. The two-cycle engine generates noise and vibrations and alerts the ants allowing them to escape.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,079,149 to Hastings, 'Method and apparatus for the removal and elimination of fire ants,' discloses a liquid bearing member inserted into an ant mound thereby allowing the inundation of the ant mound with a liquid through a liquid bearing member. An evacuation chamber secures over the ant mound, thereby allowing the capture of the liquid within the evacuation chamber. Upon inundating the ant mound with the liquid, the liquid level rises in the evacuation chamber to a level elevated above the surface of the ant mound. The ants and ant larvae, in accordance with their survival instincts, rise to the top level of the liquid within the evacuation chamber thereby entering a collection device in operable communication with the evacuation chamber.
The Hastings invention secures a chamber around the top of the mound. A probe connected to a water hose extends from the top of the chamber to below the top of the mound and is used to inject water into the mound. As the mound is flooded with water, the water level will then rise above the ant mound and the ants will rise to the top. The water rises to an overflow port connected to a tube that extends below the opening in the chamber. At the end of this tube a mesh is used to filter out the ants and larvae from the water flow. Potential drawbacks include that the securing of the chamber warns ants by disturbing the colony. Using water at ambient temperature does not kill the ants, or larvae in place. It relies on them moving to the top of the mound and then floating to the top of the water. Ants have the possibility to aid in the queens and larvae escape through foraging tunnels. Water in the liquid state will not penetrate all of the tunnels. The tunnels water does penetrate will be at a slow rate that allows time for the ants to escape. This invention dislocates the ants, it does not kill them all.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,220,525 to McSherdon, 'Fire ant eradication apparatus,' discloses a fire ant eradication apparatus that comprises a tubular handle having a first end adapted for attachment to a pressurized water source and a second end. The apparatus further includes a conduit having proximal and distal ends relative to a user with the proximal end coupled to the second end of the handle for fluid transmission there between. A dispensing assembly is attached to the handle with the conduit extending there through. Insecticide is aspirated from the dispensing assembly into the conduit as water flows through the conduit. The conduit includes a plurality of longitudinally spaced apart nozzle assemblies for dispersing the insecticide from the conduit. The distal end of the conduit includes a point assembly having a cone section and a tip. The upper end of the cone section has a diameter greater than the diameter of the conduit such that the nozzle assemblies will not become clogged with soil as the apparatus is inserted into the ground.
The McSherdon invention comprises a long tube with holes drilled in the end to form a nozzle. The tube is connected to a water hose and a container full of poison. As water flows through the long tube, the poison is aspirated into the water stream. Potential drawbacks to this invention include the use of poisons, water in the liquid state will not penetrate all of the tunnels (as would water in the gas phase), the tunnels water does penetrate will be at a slower rate that allows time for the ants to escape, and the probe end is bigger than the nozzle portion of the tube which creates a flow path for the poison and water to spray upward on the operator.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,768,306 to Hilbun, 'Method and system for killing fire ants,' discloses a method and device for killing fire ants in a mound comprising a shroud which will fit over the mound and conform to the contour of the ground. The shroud is provided with a relief valve, a tube or hose for admitting an exhaust gas into the shroud and a handle for lifting the device. Exhaust gases directed into the mound and into cavities made by the fire ants will exterminate the ants.
In the Hilbun invention exhaust gas, generated from a combustion engine, is injected into a shroud that covers an ant bed. The shroud directs the exhaust gases into the ant mound. Potential drawbacks include the engine generates noise and vibration which alerts ants, the shroud warns ants and exhaust gases will not penetrate deeply into the mound because they are lighter than air and will tend to rise. The pressure generated and the seal created by the shroud is not sufficient to force the gas deep into the mound. Ants will be able to escape.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,637,161 to Turner, 'Apparatus for underground insect and animal extermination,' discloses a tubular ground probe that is provided for downward penetration into an underground habitat of insects or animals and the upper end of the probe is provided with inlet means for steam under pressure. A downwardly opening shield is provided on the lower portion of the probe and is slidable there along and the shield includes a side vent for venting steams erupting from the ground within the confines of the shield downwardly and outwardly from peripheral portion of the shield.
In the Turner invention a probe is used to inject steam underground. The probe is surrounded with a shield that has a fixed plate and guide on top with a central hole through which the probe passes. The shield has an exhaust tube extending from the side of the shield downward. A U-shaped tube is connected to a guide around the probe and above the shield and contains a second steam supply port. The ends of the U-shape tube are connected to one another via a cross member functioning as a manifold. The cross member has additional probes pointed downward. The upper portion of the U-shape tube has a handle and is used to independently push the manifold probes downward. Potential drawbacks include that it only applies to an injection mechanism, not to steam generation. The guide on top of the plate limits articulation of the shield in order to adjust to different ground profiles. The guide limits the tool to only a vertical insertion of the probe. A secondary manifold probe section requires an additional hose and equipment. The secondary manifold probes require a large steam generator in order to achieve sufficient pressure differential for dual or multiple injections. Secondary manifold probes the destroy mound prematurely facilitating early or premature breakout of steam. Once steam begins to escape, it will become the predominant path of steam travel thereby progressively limiting the dispersion of the steam out and away from the point of injection rather than into the mound. Secondary manifold probes require an operator to get close to the main probe in order to use the handle to force the probes downward. An operator's face is therefore close to the main probe and exposed. Secondary manifold probes are limited in their depth of penetration because the cross-member limits their lengths and also their depth of penetration. The invention is heavy and cumbersome for a residential operator to use.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,870,852 to Stanley, 'Non-toxic fire ant extermination means,' discloses a non-toxic fire ant extermination system providing probe injection of scalding water below ground level within a fire ant mound. The system includes a propane fueled water heater and water circulating pump capable of heating water in the range of 200 to 210 degrees Fahrenheit and of delivering the same at a flow rate of least three gallons per minute which is effective to eradicate the insects within the core region of a fire ant mound. The injection probe features a cylindrical capture shield which is radially disposed about the probe and adapted for sliding attachment therewith being spring-biased in a downward direction against the surface of the ground during operation thereof to retain the intense heat generated by the process to capture fire ants emerging from the mound, and to protect the operator from the backflow of scalding water as the treatment proceeds. The injection probe is inserted below ground level and a continuous flow of scalding water is introduced into the mound as the probe is inserted further and slowly withdrawn until the hot water has penetrated throughout the core region of the mound complex. The fire ant extermination system is adaptable for use with any natural source of fresh water by use of a suitable filter system. In the alternative the system is adaptable to any municipal water supply having adequate water pressure in the range of 40 to 60 pounds per square inch.
The Stanley invention uses a cylindrical shield and injection probe to inject hot water below surface. The shield has a 90-degree corner for injection on corners of structures and a 180 side for injection near walls. Water is supplied via an electrical pump to a pre-heater, then a super-heater, both of which are fueled by propane. Potential drawbacks include that the hot water only limits lateral and upward dispersion. Gravity acts to pull the water down. The water has a higher viscosity than steam and does not flow as easily throughout the ant mound structure. The hot water used in the Stanley invention is at a lower temperature (200-210°) as opposed to 275-350° with steam. No allowance for steam is disclosed in the Stanley invention, and no chamber or water void area where steam would be generated is disclosed. The invention requires expensive equipment such as a pre-heater, super-heater, circulating pump and a power supply for a pump. The large amount of equipment requires mounting on a pallet which must then be transported by motorized vehicle. A motorized vehicle generates vibrations and noise which alarms ants and allows the queen to escape. The cylindrical shield adds weight and bulk to system making it difficult and cumbersome for residential user to lift and move, especially when trying to use the 90° or 180° sides of the shield. In order to use 90° or 180° sides of shield, it must be moved when it is hot risking operator to burns. Shield design limits the probe to near vertical injection only.