Abstract: A fuel cell system comprises a compressor and a fuel processor downstream of the compressor. A fuel cell stack is in communication with the fuel processor and compressor. A combustor is downstream of the fuel cell stack. First and second turbines are downstream of the fuel processor and in parallel flow communication with one another. A distribution valve is in communication with the first and second turbines. The first and second turbines are mechanically engaged to the compressor. A bypass valve is intermediate the compressor and the second turbine, with the bypass valve enabling a compressed gas from the compressor to bypass the fuel processor.

Abstract: A turbopump which operates at cryogenic temperatures to pump cryogenic liquid fuels to high pressure which includes a rotating group including a shaft mounted turbine to directly drive a multistage pump with the rotating group being supported on process fluid foil journal bearings and a hydrostatic and hydrodynamic hybrid thrust bearing.

Abstract: A turbopump which operates at cryogenic temperatures to pump cryogenic liquid fuels to high pressure, and which includes a rotating group supported on process fluid foil journal bearings and a hydrostatic and hydrodynamic foil thrust bearing. A back-face surface of a pump rotor reacts thrust forces to the foil thrust bearing and receives counter acting hydrostatic fluid forces dynamically moderated to achieve an equilibrium axial position and force balance.

Abstract: An environmental control system for ground vehicles and low flying aircraft that supplies purified and conditioned ambient air to the vehicle's crew compartment is provided. The system integrates catalytic and particulate filters, that remove nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare agents from ambient air, with a source of compressed ambient air, and an air cycle refrigeration unit.

Abstract: An inertial filter includes a pitot or probe extending into the main stream of a turbomachinery scroll, an open end portion of the probe being directed downstream. The probe also includes a cowling to orient or inertially swirl the airflow about the probe.

Abstract: An advanced Environmental Control System (ECS) for use in conjunction with a turbine engine to provide conditioned, pressurized air to an enclosed space such as an aircraft cabin, as well as cooling capacity for the aircraft avionics. The ECS features a dual turbine air cycle machine to minimize the amount of bleed air or power required from the turbine engine.

Abstract: A turbocooler includes a multistage turbine wheel for simultaneous and independent interaction with multiple gas streams to reduce the temperature levels of the gas streams. The turbine wheel includes at least two turbine stages designed to discharge the respective gas streams at different temperature levels, wherein the warmer gas stream is interposed between the colder gas stream and a turbocooler load. The warmer gas stream thus provides a thermal barrier isolating the colder gas stream from turbocooler heat sources thereby permitting increased temperature reduction of the colder gas stream for use, for example, in cryocooler applications. The multistage turbine wheel further facilitates bearing lift-off, for example, in a foil bearing machine.

Abstract: A foil bearing turbomachine including means to minimize the thrust forces at start up.

Abstract: A turbine is disclosed which is adapted to receive and utilize fluid from multiple sources simultaneously. The fluid from each source is utilized optimumly by providing a section of the turbine adapted for the characteristics of each fluid source.