Abstract: Convective cooling of turbine hot parts using a closed loop system is disclosed. Preferably, the present invention is applied to cooling the hot parts of combustion turbine power plants, and the cooling provided permits an increase in the inlet temperature and the concomitant benefits of increased efficiency and output. In preferred embodiments, methods and apparatus are disclosed wherein air is removed from the combustion turbine compressor and delivered to passages internal to one or more of a combustor and turbine hot parts. The air cools the combustor and turbine hot parts via convection and heat is transferred through the surfaces of the combustor and turbine hot parts.

Abstract: An integrally intercooled axial compressor where the axial compressor passes cooling water through one or more stator assemblies and/or an internal air-to-water heat exchanger located in the gas flow path of the compressor to reduce the temperature of the gas as it is compressor in different stages of the axial compressed.

Abstract: A semi-closed steam turbine power system and method of operation which employs a combustor which injects and combusts hydrogen fuel and oxygen oxidant in a stoichiometric ratio so that the primary by-product of the combustion process is H.sub.2 O. The system also includes a recuperator, fuel preheater, fuel heater, and condenser which enable a substantial portion of the steam in the system to be recycled.