Abstract: A device for the intermediate storage of thermal energy and to a system comprising a plurality of such devices is provided. The device has a solids store and a pipe system, which is formed of individual pipes and runs through the solids store and through which an energy carrier medium flows. In order to be able to quickly and uniformly charge the solids store with thermal energy or discharge thermal energy therefrom, heat conducting elements are provided, each forming heat transmission regions with the individual pipes and each extending into the regions of the solids store that are free of individual pipes. The heat conducting elements also have a higher heat conductivity than the solids store.

Abstract: A device is provided for the temporary storage of thermal energy with a solid storage medium and a pipe system made of individual pipes. The pipe system extends through the solid storage medium and an energy transfer medium flows through the pipe system. The solid storage medium and the pipe system being mechanically decoupled from one another.

Abstract: In order to provide a heat pipe for transporting heat from an evaporation area to a condensation area, comprising a housing with housing walls, a capillary structure arranged in the housing and thermally coupled to the respective, corresponding housing wall in the evaporation area as well as in the condensation area, a vapor channel arranged in the housing and leading from the evaporation area to the condensation area as well as a heat transport medium, as well to make available a process for the production of such a heat pipe it is suggested that the capillary structure be an open-pored capillary layer produced by way of thermal plasma spraying of powder particles.

Abstract: In a hot water distribution system, a priming device installed just ahead of a tap stores a small amount of water and continuously maintains it to the temperature of the hot water source. When the tap is opened, the water from the priming device is first drawn while the cooled down water which was stationary in the pipe coming from the heating tank refills the priming device. When the pipe is cleared of cold water the priming device is bypassed, and its stored cold water is slowly admixed in the flow of hot water to the tap.

Abstract: The heat exchanger, gas to fluid, consists of a cylindrical wall separating fluid from gas and a helical strip forming secondary exchange surfaces which carry additional heat exchange members forming tertiary heat exchange surfaces to increase the active surface and the heat transfer coefficient in the gas compartment.

Abstract: The invention relates to reciprocating pumps for liquids and gases, especially fluid-solid dispersions containing abrasives. The cylinder is made from material which is harder than the abrasive particles of the fluid. This cylinder rotates around the piston, independent of the number of strokes per minute, so that a lubricating film is formed. This rotation prevents both contact between the piston and the cylinder and freezing of the piston within the cylinder.

Abstract: A domestic hot water system in which the remote end forms a loop connected to the hot water tank and in which a pump circulates hot water at a rate sufficient to prevent cooling of the water in the piping below a predetermined temperature, so that hot water can flow immediately out of all outlets.