Abstract: A turbomachine seal system includes first and second seal members spaced axially about the shaft to define therebetween a first annular chamber. One of the seal members limits the flow of oil from a first portion of the turbomachine towards a second portion thereof. The second seal member limits the flow of process gas from the second portion of the turbomachine towards the first portion thereof. Pressure reducing means is connected to the chamber for reducing the pressure therein below the pressure in the first and second portions of the turbomachine for preventing oil from flowing from the first portion from migrating into the second portion.

Abstract: A trip mechanism for use with a rotatable shaft comprising a Belleville spring encircling the shaft, a pair of collars secured to the shaft for mounting the spring thereon and engaging the spring to transmit rotary motion from the shaft to the Belleville spring, and a plurality of weights connected to the spring. The spring includes a reinforcing band portion annularly extending therearound, and the Belleville spring and weights are so proportioned that the spring will snap overcenter when the rotational speed of the shaft exceeds a preset value and will snap back overcenter toward an unstressed position when the rotational speed of the shaft is reduced.

Abstract: A bearing and lubrication system for a rotatable shaft comprising a journal bearing assembly for supporting the shaft, a thrust bearing assembly for limiting axial movement of the shaft, and a ring surrounding the shaft and having a portion of the inner surface thereof drivingly engaged by the shaft wherein rotation of the shaft causes rotation of the rings. A supply of lubricant is disposed beneath the ring in the path of travel thereof as the ring rotates under the influence of the shaft, wherein rotation of the ring causes lubricant to cling thereto and be elevated thereby. A first portion of the elevated lubricant is introduced to the journal bearing assembly to lubricate surfaces thereof, and a second portion of the elevated lubricant is radially thrown outward by the ring.

Abstract: A bearing and lubrication system for a rotatable shaft comprising a journal bearing assembly for supporting the shaft, a thrust bearing assembly for limiting axial movement of the shaft, and a ring surrounding the shaft and having a portion of the inner surface thereof drivingly engaged by the shaft wherein rotation of the shaft causes rotation of the rings. A supply of lubricant is disposed beneath the ring in the path of travel thereof as the ring rotates under the influence of the shaft, wherein rotation of the ring causes lubricant to cling thereto and be elevated thereby. A first portion of the elevated lubricant is introduced to the journal bearing assembly to lubricate surfaces thereof, and a second portion of the elevated lubricant is radially thrown outward by the ring.