Abstract: Apparatus and methods for storing energy in liquid air and releasing the energy through a thermal power cycle, that incorporates liquid carbon dioxide capture and separation from the exhaust stream.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for storing energy in liquid air and releasing the energy through a thermal power cycle, that incorporates liquid carbon dioxide capture and separation from the exhaust stream.

Abstract: A method of managing transient thermal stresses in a wall of a fluid-carrying or fluid-containing structure, the structure having a temperature ramp rate limit associated with its structure walls. The structure is provided with flow passages in the structure walls, and the temperature of the structure walls is monitored. If a rate of change of temperature of the structure walls becomes too high, fluid is circulated through the flow passages to heat or cool the structure wall during hot or cold transient thermal events, respectively.

Abstract: A high-speed downhole motor-driven artificial-lift gas compressor assembly comprising an aerodynamic, gas-bearing supported, multi-stage centrifugal compressor is deployed downhole to work with other components such as electric submersible pumps and separators disposed in a multizone reservoir. Water may be injected into an injection water zone and hydrocarbons allowed to escape from a hydrocarbon producing zone to the surface. Compressed gas may be introduced into an annulus between a casing and tubing and directed into an injection gas zone. In addition, gas being produced in the hydrocarbon producing zone may flow back through the annulus between the casing and tubing or through one or more water separators and/or gas separators into the high-speed downhole motor-driven artificial-lift gas compressor assembly and, once compressed, exit the high-speed downhole motor-driven artificial-lift gas compressor assembly and routed back to the injection gas zone.

Abstract: A compressor plate valve having a valve seat, a valve guard and a valve plate. The valve plate is moveable between the valve guard and valve seat to control fluid passage through passages in the seat, the guard, and the plate. A valve stem passes through the center of the valve guard and is attached to the center of the valve plate. The valve stem provides guidance for the plate valve to ensure parallel motion. In addition to sealing surfaces that oppose passages, the seat and plate have landing surfaces that provide a braking effect when the valve closes through squeeze film action.

Abstract: A compressor plate valve having a valve seat, a valve guard and a valve plate. The valve plate is moveable between the valve guard and valve seat to control fluid passage through passages in the seat, the guard, and the plate. A valve stem passes through the center of the valve guard and is attached to the center of the valve plate. The valve stem provides guidance for the plate valve to ensure parallel motion. In addition to sealing surfaces that oppose passages, the seat and plate have landing surfaces that provide a braking effect when the valve closes through squeeze film action.