Abstract: A gas turbine by-pass system is used between a gas turbine generator outlet nozzle and the inlet of a heat recovery steam generator (HRSG). The system allows operators to divert gasses from the HRSG in combined cycle mode to a silencer assembly to operate in simple cycle mode. The system thereby allows maintenance to be performed to the HRSG by crew of human workers without danger of an encounter with hot lethal gasses. The system includes a monorail and a series of hoists which operators use to position a blank off plate and an expansion joint as necessary with respect to the HRSG and diverter box. Consequently, the system provides for safe operation of a gas turbine in both combined cycle mode and simple cycle mode.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing particulate matter from gases includes an outer tube having an apertured bottom member, a plurality of stationary vanes for guiding gases into a vortical path through the outer tube, and an inner tube. The inner tube has a smaller diameter than the outer tube and fits partially inside the outer tube. Since the inner tube is arranged coaxially with respect to the outer tube, an annular passageway is defined between them. The passageway end of the outer tube is flared out forming a bell-mouth-shaped lip. A plurality of separate airfoil-shaped vanes, disposed across the passageway have their leading edges above the passageway. The bell-mouth-shaped lip and airfoil-shaped vanes, with their thicker leading edges extending above the passageway, both contribute to a more laminar flow through the passageway, thereby minimizing the pressure drop through the passageway.

Abstract: In a damper having an opening therethrough, an aperture defining blade member is movable between a first position, in which the aperture is aligned with the opening to permit the flow of fluid through the damper, and a second position, in which the blade member substantially blocks the flow of fluid through the damper opening. A sealing member is located around the periphery of the opening adjacent the blade member to substantially abut the blade member in both the first and second blade positions. A pressurized fluid such as air is supplied to the sealing member to promote flow of fluid between the sealing member and the blade member into the opening, and thereby substantially to prevent the leakage of fluid out of the opening between the blade member and the sealing member.