Abstract: Apparatus and method for reducing thermal stress in the casings of a steam turbine. A novel inlet sleeve carries high pressure steam from the bell connector of an inlet pipe through the turbine inner casing. The inlet sleeve is connected at a first end to the bell connector and secured at a mid portion to the inner casing so that the second end of the inlet sleeve may terminate adjacent the inner casing wall without contacting the inner casing. This connection means forms a cylindrical chamber having a closed end at the mid portion of the inlet sleeve and an open end adjacent the inner wall of the turbine inner casing. The cylindrical chamber provides a thermal shield which isolates portions of the turbine inner casing adjacent the inlet sleeve from the rapid steam flow between the inlet pipe and the turbine blading.

Abstract: A blade ring for a steam turbine having an outer generally cylindrical casing, an inner generally cylindrical casing disposed within the outer casing and supported by the outer casing and a blade ring to which are affixed a plurality of circular arrays of stationary blades forming stationary blade rows, the blade ring being disposed partially within the inner casing and partially within the outer casing and having a support arm which extends outerwardly to and is supported by the outer casing.

Abstract: A device for positioning a thrust bearing with respect to a stationary element within an axial flow turbine apparatus. The device comprises a first threaded member disposed retractably within the stationary element and engaging the bearing to position the bearing vertically with respect to an axis extending through the turbine casing. A second threaded member is retractably positioned within the stationary element and abuts against the bearing to position the bearing at a point along the axis of the casing. A securing member extends through a portion of the bearing and engages the first threaded member to secure the bearing in the axial and vertical position within the stationary element. Suitable set screws are provided to maintain the positions of both the first and the second threaded members within the stationary element and the engagement of the securing member with the first threaded member.