Abstract: A diagonal type MHD generator channel frame element, having a polygonal configuration which is preferably rectangular, is formed from two different pairs of pre-formed hollow bars, one of the pairs serving as the electrode members, while the other pair serves as the electrode-interconnecting diagonal members. The electrode members have cross-sectional profiles corresponding to that of a parallelogram while the diagonal members have rectangular cross-sectional profiles. Pre-formed coolant passages are defined within the members in an entirely enclosed manner, and the cross-sectional profiles of the passages correspond to those of the members within which the passages are defined.

Abstract: An insulated casing assembly for use in injecting steam into wells, comprising a plurality of interconnected casings, each casing having outer and inner tubular sections, an annular spacing between the two sections containing multilayered thermal insulation enveloped in a low conductivity gas, and tubular bellows connecting and allowing relative movement between the corresponding ends of the two inner sections. A leak-proof connection between adjacent casings includes a diffuser sleeve fitted tightly over the ends of adjacent inner tubular sections, a filler ring fitted on the diffuser sleeve and disposed between adjacent outer tubular sections, and a threaded coupling screwed onto threaded ends of outer tubular sections of adjacent casings.

Abstract: A heliostat enclosure that is particularly well suited for enclosing and protecting a heliostat either flat or parabolic, preferably comprising a light-weight, generally hemispherically shaped, enclosure bubble that is formed of readily assemblable and disassemblable segments, including some transparent segments, and supported by a foundation in the form of a soil filled, plastic ring bag that is mounted in the ground at the heliostat site. The enclosure bubble is inflatable by pressurized air and supportable in operation, such as during windy or inclement weather. A multi-legged, tubular, step frame is mounted within the enclosure bubble and is configured to support the enclosure bubble in nearly fully inflated condition when the bubble is not supported by pressurized air. The frame is electrical conducting and grounded, thereby also serving as a lightning protection means for the heliostat.

Abstract: An apparatus for handling lock gas which enters a charging lockhopper from a fixed bed coal gasifier vessel includes a separator having a fluid inlet, a gas outlet and a drain. After a charging operation, a pump floods the lockhopper with water under pressure to force the lock gas through the fluid inlet to the separator without loss of gas pressure. When rising water is sensed in the separator, the pump is deactivated and drain valves are opened to drain water from the separator and lockhopper back into a storage tank. The lock gas leaves the separator under pressure and may be applied to gas cleanup equipment.

Abstract: A solar tracking point concentrator for a solar energy system comprises a light weight reflector in the shape of a paraboloid dish having a rim angle of approximately 109.degree., whereby the center of gravity of the reflector mass is coincident with the focal point of the paraboloid. The reflector is supported on a light weight pipe pedestal assembly and controllably driven by a light weight control-drive means so as to be angularly adjustable in both elevation and azimuth to track the sun and efficiently continuously reflect the sun's rays to a heat receiver disposed at the focal point of the paraboloid preferably in a fixed position. The reflector is mounted for controlled movement to effect such angular adjustments about horizontal and vertical axes which intersect at the focal point of the reflector paraboloid. The 109.degree. paraboloid rim angle provides a paraboloid reflector that inherently has its center of gravity essentially coincident with its focal point.