Patents Represented by Law Firm Gifford, Chandler, Van Ophem, Sheridan & Sprinkle
  • Patent number: 4080783
    Abstract: A bearing lubrication system for a turbine engine is provided which utilizes a fuel-air mist to both lubricate and cool the bearing assembly. An annular fuel-air distributor is positioned adjacent the bearing assembly and includes an inlet and several outlet ports directed towards the bearing assembly. A fuel port and a source of pressurized air are coupled to the inlet of the fuel-air distributor so that the pressurized air mixes the fuel into the air and projects a fuel-air mist through the distributor and onto the bearing assembly. A fuel metering device maintains the fuel-air ratio outside of its flammability range to prevent fires within the bearing cavity. Exhaust passageways from the bearing cavity are disposed adjacent the bearing outer race to provide additional cooling of the bearing assembly during the exhaustion of the fuel-air mist from the bearing cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1976
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1978
    Assignee: Teledyne Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Glenn Hamburg, Gytis Jasas