Abstract: A monolithic solid oxide fuel cell of the type characterized by a plurality of fuel and oxidant passageways extending through the core of the fuel cell. The fuel cell is constructed only of anode, cathode, electrolyte and interconnect materials and is formed with integral manifolding for parallel flow through the core. The cell is constructed using alternatively stacked electrolyte walls and interconnect walls which are themselves multilayer tapes formed by roll milling individual tapes of a desired material, and then roll milling the multilayer tape from the tapes of a single material. A manufacturing process is also disclosed.

Abstract: A turbocooler includes a multistage turbine wheel for simultaneous and independent interaction with multiple gas streams to reduce the temperature levels of the gas streams. The turbine wheel includes at least two turbine stages designed to discharge the respective gas streams at different temperature levels, wherein the warmer gas stream is interposed between the colder gas stream and a turbocooler load. The warmer gas stream thus provides a thermal barrier isolating the colder gas stream from turbocooler heat sources thereby permitting increased temperature reduction of the colder gas stream for use, for example, in cryocooler applications. The multistage turbine wheel further facilitates bearing lift-off, for example, in a foil bearing machine.

Abstract: An improved free piston power unit includes a pair of power pistons at opposite ends of a common power cylinder, wherein the power pistons are linked for reciprocation in unison in opposite directions. The power pistons carry a respective pair of compressor pistons disposed within compressor cylinders to generate a supply of compressed air or the like upon power piston reciprocation. The power pistons further cooperate with a respective pair of gas-containing bounce cylinders which provide pneumatic reaction forces to return the power pistons through a compresion stroke at the conclusion of a combustion expansion stroke. The bounce cylinders each have a relieved end face to provide an increased minimum bounce cylinder volume thereby limiting the maximum pressure and temperature to which the bounce cylinders are subjected, without requiring increase in the overall envelope size for the power unit.

Abstract: A turbocharger having a variable nozzle vane assembly to be used in association with an engine. A nozzle ring having a plurality of rotatable vanes mounted thereto defining an annular passageway within the turbine housing through which exhaust gas passes upstream of a turbine. Included is a means for rotating the plurality of vanes and a means for preventing binding of the components during thermal cycling.

Abstract: A fluid bearing having a pair of members in relatively rotatable relationship with each other, and a compliant foil bearing disposed between the pair of relatively rotatable members. The compliant foil bearing has a plurality of overlapping integral compliant foil/stiffener elements with one end mounted to one of the rotatable members.

Abstract: A combustor system for use with a turbocharged combustion engine comprises a combustor connected for continuous passage of engine exhaust gases. The combustor includes a relatively low pressure fuel injection system for atomizing fuel for combustion in a substantially vitiated atmosphere, and a fuel control system for supplying fuel to the combustor in response to engine operating conditions.

Abstract: Water containing refractories which inhibit or eliminate the tendency of explosive spalling are provided by mixing solid organic fibers into the refractory mix. The refractory mix may be used in castables, plastics, ramming or gunning mixes or mortars.

Abstract: A flexible thermally insulative refractory composition resistant to molten material attack or penetration containing, in various combination, components of inorganic fiber, phenolic resin, latex, anionic and cationic polymers.