Abstract: A gas turbine combustion chamber having a continuous annular slot which delivers an inwardly directed annular air curtain into the interior to improve mixing of fuel and combustion efficiency generally.

Abstract: A "transferred arc" plasma torch is mounted on a lathe tool post for the purpose of heating a workpiece by directing an ionised gas on it. The torch is spaced a fixed amount from the workpiece for operation but is movable to a further temporary position closer to the workpiece to facilitate initial striking of an electrical arc between the workpiece and itself.

Abstract: A device for reducing the effect of "water hammer" type shocks in an hydraulic system. The system has a discontinuity in it created by a vapor-core pump, and the discontinuity, which occurs at less than full pump flow, is used to empty a succession of compartments connected in series through respective orifices.When full pump flow is required a "water hammer" type shock is generated upon disappearance of the discontinuity and this is dissipated in a series of smaller shocks at each of the successive orifices as the series of compartments becomes filled. The maximum shock pressure to which the system is subjected is thus reduced.

Abstract: A Fire seal is formed in three layers, an elastic inner tube which is inflatable, a resilient fire resistant felt surrounding the tube, and a wear resistant rubber impregnated outer layer.

Abstract: A hollow cooled blade or vane for a gas turbine engine has a cooling air entry tube sealed to its hollow interior at spaced apart locations to provide a space which is divided into longitudinal sections by longitudinal partitions. Each section is provided with cooling air through apertures in the tube and at least one has film cooling holes extending to the blade surface.