Abstract: Optimized shielding configurations for longitudinally extended tiered insulators for electric power equipment is described. An insulator comprises a central core with a plurality of annular shields and radial partitions defining convoluted paths between the environment and the surface of the central core. An optimizing relationship of core diameter, tier separation, free path length and total path length between the outer surface and the inner core is disclosed for constructing insulators with maximum lifetime in contaminated environments. Selected generalized insulator configurations are disclosed which embody the invention. Also embodied in the invention is the addition of molecular sieve, insulating grease, or adhesives on the outer edges or lips to sorb out contaminants before they can reach the inner insulating surfaces.

Abstract: Improved transmission line voltage breakdown strength is achieved by applying magnetic fields in transmission lines. In colinear transmission lines, particularly coaxial cables, one means of magnetic field introduction is accomplished by applying an axial magnetic field about the transmission line, which together with the self-induced power current magnetic field creates a net helical magnetic field whose pitch is dependent upon the relative magnitudes of the azimuthal component of the self-induced magnetic field and the axial component of the applied magnetic field. The applied magnetic field may be achieved by a permanent field or by directing either an alternating current or direct current through a helical winding defining a solenoid coaxial with the transmission cable. Alternatively, the applied field may be achieved by surrounding the grounded sheath with oriented ferrite or other magnetic material in a suitable support medium such as a pliable plastic bond form to produce a multipole magnetic field.

Abstract: Underground electrical equipment such as a transformer or cable is prevented from thermal runaway by back-filling the trench in which it is laid with a soil which includes water entrapped in highly water-absorbent hydrophilic polymeric gel particles soaked with water. The water-soaked particles preferably are coated with a water-impermeable film. The water may also be entrapped in liquid form in small balloon-like containers. Also, a water impermeable sheath may be formed around the back-fill soil to minimize evaporation from the particles.

Abstract: A flux pump having a closed superconducting circuit including wire of relatively high critical field and a gate defining a current-carrying path through a coil, the latter being moveable relative to a magnetic field source to cause normal conduction of current in a plurality of gate modules of a relatively low critical field in the circuit at spaced locations along the same. Thus, a flux pumping action occurs in the coil as the modules are subjected to the field of the source. The modules are separated from each other by strips of insulation material and the wire, connected to opposite ends of the gates, passes through adjacent insulation strips in a manner such that the current flow in the circuit is always in the same direction. The speed of the flux pumping action can be increased by having several groups of modules arranged in parallel with each other and excited simultaneously with a number of modules in each group being in series with each other.

Abstract: A system having one or more tubular conductors disposed within shield means containing a dielectric surrounding the conductors is used to transmit electrical power. Liquid coolant is directed along a supply line from a source and into the conductors. Each conductor has a plurality of tubular insulators at spaced locations along its length to remove coolant vapor from within the conductor to maintain single phase flow while at the same time operating under two-phase cooling. Another line receives the vapor and returns it to the source of liquification. Several embodiments of the system are disclosed.

Abstract: A heat pump for cooling or heating a conditioned space includes an underground heat pipe laid into a hole in the ground back-filled with soil. The heat transfer of the soil is improved by dispersing highly water-absorbent hydrophilic polymeric gel particles soaked with water around the heat pipe. The water-soaked particles preferably are coated with a water-impermeable film. The water may also be entrapped in liquid form in small bags. Also, a water impermeable sheath may be formed around the back-fill soil to minimize evaporation from the particles.