Abstract: A rim-rotor assembly has an annular structure including a composite rim and a hub. Blades project from the hub, tips of the blades contacting the annular structure, the blades configured to be loaded in compression against the annular structure. A thermal barrier is in the annular structure, the thermal barrier defining at least part of a radially inward surface of the annular structure. The tips of the blades contact the thermal barrier, the thermal barrier being a thermal barrier coating.

Abstract: A super-turbocharger utilizing a high speed, fixed ratio traction drive that is coupled to a continuously variable transmission to allow for high speed operation is provided. A high speed traction drive is utilized to provide speed reduction from the high speed turbine shaft. A second traction drive provides infinitely variable speed ratios through a continuously variable transmission. Gas recirculation in a super-turbocharger is also disclosed.

Abstract: A foldable ladder of the type having laterally spaced-apart, substantially vertically oriented front side rails joined by a plurality of steps. A rear support, preferably in the form of laterally spaced-apart, vertically oriented legs, are movable away from the side rails to open the ladder and movable toward the side rails to close the ladder. The side rails and rear legs include hinges intermediate vertical ends thereof for permitting vertical collapsing of the ladder by the folding of the side rails and rear legs about their respective hinges. A storage container, which also doubles as an article support when the ladder is used, also forms a part of the instant invention.

Abstract: A high speed centrifugal compressor is closely directly coupled to the power turbine of a two-shaft gas turbine having a gas generator section separate from its power turbine. Through the direct close coupling and centerline mounting of the gas turbine exhaust casing for free and uniform heat expansion, alignment between stationary and rotating parts of the power turbine and compressor is maintained free from mechanical problems. The compressor stage assembly elements are conveniently interfitted together in the vertically split compressor casing by means of compression bolts minimizing fastening means. Bearings and oil seals are fed by an integrated lubrication and sealing oil system utilizing a compact oil distribution manifold assembly incorporating a quick filter change structure. The turbine fuel distribution system includes means permitting ready replacement and maintenance of individual fuel nozzles without disassembly of the entire fuel nozzle system.

Abstract: A fuel distribution system for a gas turbine-compressor includes means permitting ready replacement and maintenance of individual fuel nozzles without disassembly of the entire fuel nozzle system. The gas turbine-compressor finds particularly useful application in areas where high power, compact, relatively maintenance-free units are required, as, for example, on offshore platforms in the natural gas industry.

Abstract: A high speed centrifugal compressor is closely directly coupled to the power turbine of a two-shaft gas turbine having a gas generator section separate from its power turbine. Through the direct close coupling and center-line mounting of the gas turbine exhaust casing for free and uniform heat expansion, alignment between stationary and rotating parts of the power turbine and compressor is maintained free from mechanical problems. Bearings and oil seals are fed by an integrated lubrication and a sealing oil system utilizing a compact oil distribution manifold assembly incorporating a quick filter change structure. The gas turbine-compressor finds particularly useful application in areas where high power, compact, relatively maintenance-free units are required, as, for example, on offshore platforms in the natural gas industry.

Abstract: A high speed centrifugal compressor is closely directly coupled to the power turbine of a two-shaft gas turbine having a gas generator section separate from its power turbine. The compressor stage assembly elements are conveniently interfitted together in the vertically split compressor casing by means of compression bolts minimizing fastening means. The gas turbine-compressor finds particularly useful application in areas where high power, compact, relatively maintenance-free units are required, as, for example, on offshore platforms in the natural gas industry.