Abstract: A turbine blade has a cooling air flow path specifically directed toward cooling the platform portion of the blade root. Two cooling air passages are formed in the blade root platform just below its upper surface. Each passage extends radially outward from an inlet that receives a flow of cooling air and then extend axially along almost the entire length of the platform. Each passage also has an outlet formed in the downstream face of the platform that allows the cooling air to exit the platform and enter the hot gas flow path. The passages are formed in portions of the platform that overhang the shank portion of root.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for locking side entry blades, in a rotor, such as used in compressors, turbines and fans. The apparatus utilizes arcuate locking devices retained in a circumferential groove in the periphery of the rotor. Each locking device features a key which engages a keyway in the side of the blade root shank. Use of the locking devices does not require that the blades having abutting platforms.

Abstract: A fuel nozzle assembly having a fuel nozzle tip at one end of a fuel delivery tube and a supporting flange at the other end. An air delivery tube, also secured to the support flange, encloses the fuel delivery tube to define an annular air passage therebetween. An integral fuel nozzle/end cap engages the fuel and air tubes and provides passages for fuel flowing from the fuel delivery tube and air flowing from the air delivery tube. Biasing means exerts an axial force on the air delivery tube to tighten the engagement of the tubes into an air-tight fit.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vane segment alignment and support in a combustion turbine. The vane segment alignment device is comprised of a rotatable, eccentric bushing and pin which is inserted into a slot of the vane segment. The eccentric bushing is further comprised of a cover plate which is peened to a splined torque plate thus holding the eccentric bushing in place against the vane segment but allowing for fine adjustments of the alignment of the vane segments. The vane segment support and alignment device provides for efficient and economical adjustment of the vane segments especially in electric generating plants where combustion turbines undergo high peak load operation. Additionally, the vane segment support and alignment device transfers torques and moments generated by aerodynamic flow from the vane segments to an inner cylinder thereby reducing the amount of misalignment due to aerodynamic drag.

Abstract: The invention comprises a retrofit turbine blade cooling apparatus for replacing non-cooled turbine blades in presently existing combustion turbines. The cooling apparatus comprises a turbine blade structured for fluid cooling and a sealing apparatus structured to cooperate with a root portion of the turbine blade and a subadjacent portion of a turbine disc to force cooling fluid into the turbine blade. Use of the cooling apparatus requires no modification or disassembly of the rotor assembly.