Abstract: A solid stream nozzle providing an extend throw-distance achieved by reducing boundary layer effects within the nozzle bore and/or by accelerating peripheral regions of the ejected stream in order to help maintain cohesion of a free liquid stream without appreciable dispersion. The method includes generating a high-pressure fluid source, supplying the nozzle with high pressure; reducing boundary layer effect within the nozzle bore, and optionally, accelerating and/or inwardly re-directing the peripheral boundary of the ejected stream with a secondary higher pressure, higher speed fluid source. The apparatus includes a high pressure fluid source, a nozzle bore, a bleed ring within the nozzle bore to strip off a boundary layer, and optionally, a secondary higher pressure fluid source at the nozzle tip to accelerate and/or inwardly re-direct the ejected fluid stream.

Abstract: A multistage axial-flow pumping or marine propulsion device having fixed or variable pitch stators between rotors. Stator vanes are designed to lower internal fluid speed without sacrificing total pressure as working fluid travels toward the discharge nozzle. A variable pitch stator controls the amount of energy, i.e., torque, imparted to the working fluid at successive rotor sections. A variable inlet guide vane provides throttling of mass flow rate independently of rotor speed. An exit guide vane provides flow straightening and pressure maintenance at the discharge nozzle. A variable area throat at the discharge nozzle controls the exit velocity of the water jet according to boat speed and/or desired propulsive efficiency. Advantageously, the device enables a shipmaster to set performance characteristics of a vessel at any desired speed, loading, horsepower setting, or operating characteristic of the power plant.

Abstract: A flexible screen mounted to pneumatically seal the sides of an opposing belt conveyor system in a porous pack curing oven. Fixed to the upper belt structure and drapingly sealed to the lower belt structure, the screen impedes curing gases directed through the foraminous belts and porous pack therebetween from exiting through the edges of the pack. The draping screen provides a seal over a range of belt-to-belt spacing.