Abstract: A “hydraulic rotating machinery” (“HRM”) system provides optimal energy efficiency over a very wide conditions of service (“COS”) range by configuring a plurality of variable speed HRMs in a “cluster.” The HRMs are interconnected by one or more valves that can be actuated by a controller to configure and vary a flow path through which a process fluid flows from an inlet to an outlet. By actively selecting which of the HRMs are included in the flow path, the interconnections therebetween, and the operating speeds thereof, the controller ensures that the HRM cluster continues to operate at optimal efficiency as the COS fluctuates over a very wide range. The HRMs can be identical to each other, or can vary in design. The HRM system can be implemented for storage and retrieval of green energy. The controller can also monitor the health of the cluster and/or of the associated process.

Abstract: A multi-stage hydraulic rotating machine (MSHRM) maintains near-optimal efficiency over widely varying conditions of service (COS) when controlling a fluid having a gas volume fraction (GVF) greater than 50% and large changes in volumetric flow rate (VFR) between stages. The MSHRM includes separately controlled stages having at least two different designs with different VFR ranges. Stage impellor differences can include impellor diameter, blade pitch, blade width, blade number, inlet diameter, and outlet diameter. Diffusers can differ in similar ways between stages. VFR ranges can be progressively higher or lower in successive stages. The stages can share a common VFR range within which incompressible liquids can be controlled. The MSHRM can function as a pump or turbine, and can be applicable to energy storage and recovery in “green” energy systems.

Abstract: A coaxial pump or turbine module includes an integral, modular motor or generator comprising a magnet structure containing radial or axial permanent magnets and/or induction coils detachably fixed to a rotor, and a stator housing detachably fixed to the module housing. Working fluid is directed axially through a flow path symmetrically distributed within an annulus formed between the module housing and the stator housing. The stator housing can be cooled by the working fluid, or by a cooling fluid flowing between passages of the flow path. The flow path can extend over substantially a full length and rear surface of the stator housing. A plurality of the modules can be combined into a multi-stage apparatus, with rotor speeds independently controlled by corresponding variable frequency drives. Embodiments include guide vanes and/or diffusers. The rotor can be fixed to a rotating shaft, or rotate about a fixed shaft.

Abstract: A compact, energy efficient air cooling system for a rotating shaft bearing module includes a Coanda surface having a periphery that smoothly curves from a radial center to axial alignment with a side of the module. A fan blade mounted on the shaft directs an airflow radially parallel and adjacent to the Coanda surface, causing the airflow to be bent by the Coanda effect from radial to axial, and to be directed along the side of the housing. Embodiments that can be applied to existing housings include a Coanda panel adjacent to the housing end face. A double suction fan blade can draw both external air and air from between the panel and the housing. In other embodiments the housing end face itself is a Coanda surface. A fan cover can have an inwardly curved periphery that forms a reduced gap or nozzle with the Coanda surface.

Abstract: A coaxial pump or turbine module includes an integral, modular motor or generator comprising a magnet structure containing radial or axial permanent magnets and/or induction coils detachably fixed to a rotor, and a stator housing detachably fixed to the module housing. Working fluid is directed axially through a flow path symmetrically distributed within an annulus formed between the module housing and the stator housing. The stator housing can be cooled by the working fluid, or by a cooling fluid flowing between passages of the flow path. The flow path can extend over substantially a full length and rear surface of the stator housing. A plurality of the modules can be combined into a multi-stage apparatus, with rotor speeds independently controlled by corresponding variable frequency drives. Embodiments include guide vanes and/or diffusers. The rotor can be fixed to a rotating shaft, or rotate about a fixed shaft.

Abstract: A compact, energy efficient air cooling system for a rotating shaft bearing module includes a Coanda surface having a periphery that smoothly curves from a radial center to axial alignment with a side of the module. A fan blade mounted on the shaft directs an airflow radially parallel and adjacent to the Coanda surface, causing the airflow to be bent by the Coanda effect from radial to axial, and to be directed along the side of the housing. Embodiments that can be applied to existing housings include a Coanda panel adjacent to the housing end face. A double suction fan blade can draw both external air and air from between the panel and the housing. In other embodiments the housing end face itself is a Coanda surface. A fan cover can have an inwardly curved periphery that forms a reduced gap or nozzle with the Coanda surface.