Abstract: A particle reduction apparatus comprises a radiation absorption zone for receiving a gaseous flow carrying particulate matter. A transparent shield surrounds at least a portion of the radiation absorption zone. A radiation source for generating radiation and for directing the radiation into the radiation absorption zone to promote reduction of the particulate matter is provided, and an insulation layer at least partially surrounds the radiation source.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system for generating energy, comprising a first heat exchanger in communication with a first heat source; wherein the first heat exchanger contacts a transfer fluid that comprises a working fluid and an associating composition; and a first energy conversion device comprising a moving surface, wherein the first heat exchanger is in communication with the moveable surface of the first energy conversion device; and wherein a dissociation of the transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger generates a vapor of the working fluid that contacts the moving surface of the first energy conversion device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system for generating energy, comprising a first heat exchanger in communication with a first heat source; wherein the first heat exchanger contacts a transfer fluid that comprises a working fluid and an associating composition; and a first energy conversion device comprising a moving surface, wherein the first heat exchanger is in communication with the moveable surface of the first energy conversion device; and wherein a dissociation of the transfer fluid in the first heat exchanger generates a vapor of the working fluid that contacts the moving surface of the first energy conversion device.

Abstract: A particle reduction apparatus comprises a radiation absorption zone for receiving a gaseous flow carrying particulate matter. A transparent shield surrounds at least a portion of the radiation absorption zone. A radiation source for generating radiation and for directing the radiation into the radiation absorption zone to promote reduction of the particulate matter is provided, and an insulation layer at least partially surrounds the radiation source.

Abstract: An integral thrust/journal bearing assembly, e.g., useable in a turbocharger is provided. The assembly includes a journal bearing configured to operate at a first mechanical load. The assembly further includes a thrust bearing including a thrust bearing face. The thrust bearing may be configured to operate at a second mechanical load different than the first mechanical load. A fluid circuit that includes parallel branches is provided within the integral bearing assembly for delivering parallel flows of lubricating fluid to the thrust bearing face and the journal bearing.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a pilger mill having a crankshaft driving rolls with a reciprocating motion to reduce a tube over a mandrel. A linear sensor coupled to the mandrel supplies a mandrel position signal. A rotary sensor coupled to the crankshaft supplies a crankshaft angle signal. A processor for combining the mandrel position signal and the crankshaft angle signal provides a mandrel motion signal characteristic of the tube reduction.

Abstract: A cutting tool is monitored on-line by measuring the heat generation rate at the cutting edge and relating this to the condition of the cutting edge. A flow of fluid coolant contacts the back surface of the cutting tool and the coolant temperature rise is measured during the machining process. The temperature difference and its rate of rise or fall is a direct indication of the heat generation rate and is related to tool conditions such as excessive and rapid wear and breakage. In the case of inserts, coolant channels are formed in the reusable seat, and tool holder channels provide for flow of coolant to the seat.

Abstract: An electric drip coffeemaker has a generally upright C-shaped housing with a lower horizontal leg having a heated carafe support, an upper horizontal leg having a water spreader, and a vertical leg enclosing an accessible water reservoir. An electrically heated hot water generator in the lower leg below the carafe support has an inlet connected to the reservoir through a one-way inlet valve and an outlet connected to the spreader by tubes through an interposed separate definitive steam condenser located in the vertical leg entirely below the reservoir. The condenser includes a plenum chamber larger in cross section than the connecting tubes and has a single inlet for water from the hot water generator at its bottom and a single outlet to the spreader at its top. A check valve in the chamber outlet permits only unidirectional water outflow from the condenser to create a "scrubbing" effect cleansing the passages of mineral deposits and preventing clogging.

Abstract: A rotating nozzle generator is described for producing electricity from the direct expansion of a liquid to a two-phase mixture of liquid and vapor. The device includes liquid inlet means, a rotor, at least one fluid flow groove along the length of the rotor, which groove changes in size in communication with the liquid inlet means, generator windings on the outer or inner surface of the rotor and fluid outlet means in communication with the fluid flow groove.

Abstract: A rotating nozzle expander is described for the direct expansion of a liquid to a two-phase mixture of liquid and vapor thereby producing mechanical work. The device includes liquid inlet means, at least one fluid flow passage which changes in size in communication with the liquid inlet means, the passage mounted rotatably, the fluid outlet means in communication with the fluid flow passage.