Patents Issued in April 19, 2018
  • Publication number: 20180106121
    Abstract: A setting tool for use in setting bridge plugs comprising a piston rod using an improved fastener design to the lower piston to prevent warping of the piston rod when setting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Hunting Titan, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Griffin, Rick Smith, Joseph Albert Henke
  • Publication number: 20180106122
    Abstract: A methodology and apparatus for cutting shape(s) or profile(s) through well tubular(s), or for completely circumferentially severing through multiple tubulars, including all tubing, pipe, casing, liners, cement, other material encountered in tubular annuli. This rigless apparatus utilizes a computer-controlled, downhole robotic three-axis rotary mill to effectively generate a shape(s) or profile(s) through, or to completely sever in a 360 degree horizontal plane wells with multiple, nested strings of tubulars whether the tubulars are concentrically aligned or eccentrically aligned. This is useful for well abandonment and decommissioning where complete severance is necessitated and explosives are prohibited, or in situations requiring a precise window or other shape to be cut through a single tubular or plurality of tubulars.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Wesley Mark McAfee, Mark F. Alley
  • Publication number: 20180106123
    Abstract: This disclosure includes apparatuses and methods for coupling one or more auxiliary lines to a subsea well control assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: John Kozicz, Craig McCormick
  • Publication number: 20180106124
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a downhole tubular assembly configured to be mounted as part of a well tubular structure in a borehole of a well having a top. The downhole tubular assembly comprises a well metal tubing configured to be mounted as part of the well tubular structure, the well metal tubing having a longitudinal extension, a tubing length along the longitudinal extension, an inner diameter and an outer diameter defining a wall, an inner face and an outer face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Paul HAZEL
  • Publication number: 20180106125
    Abstract: A seal assembly features radially stacked sealing elements separated by a ring shaped structural member with the structural member configured to fold on itself as the inner and outer sealing elements are axially compressed during the setting process. The structural member remains embedded in the outer sealing element when the assembly is set. Seal rings flank the inner and outer sealing element and feature an outwardly facing bevel to contact a conforming bevel shape on extrusion ring assemblies. During axial compression the extrusion rings are pushed out with the seal rings and then the inner and outer sealing elements are axially compressed as the structural member's ends come together and its middle folds. The structural member creates gaps to allow fluid to escape during setting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Guijun Deng, Ping Duan, Yingqing Xu, Xiao Wang
  • Publication number: 20180106126
    Abstract: A seal sleeve having a seal sleeve wall comprising a swellable polymer material having elastomeric properties so that the seal sleeve has non-swollen state and an expanded state, wherein the seal sleeve wall has a closed circumference that extends around a central longitudinal axis, the seal sleeve wall having a non-swollen thickness that is defined by the distance between an inner surface and an outer surface of the seal sleeve wall in the non-swollen state, the non-swollen thickness being less than the radial width of a circumferential space between an inner and an outer element that has to be closed off by the seal sleeve, wherein at least one of the end surfaces extends in a plane that includes a sharp angle (?) with the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Roger Hibberd
  • Publication number: 20180106127
    Abstract: A technique facilitates temporary locking of a mechanical packer to prevent inadvertent actuation of the mechanical packer. The mechanical packer may be set via manipulation of a setting mandrel which works in cooperation with a releasable locking mechanism. The releasable locking mechanism may be initially locked against the setting mandrel and held in place via a piston, e.g. an annular piston, received in a piston chamber, e.g. an annular chamber surrounding the setting mandrel. The piston may be selectively shifted via pressure applied in the piston chamber so as to release the releasable locking mechanism, thus enabling actuation of the mechanical packer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Quangen Du, Brian John Bethscheider
  • Publication number: 20180106128
    Abstract: A system in some embodiments includes a back pressure valve configured to mount in a mineral extraction system. The back pressure valve comprises a cylindrical body comprising a venting port coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body and a plunger disposed in the venting port, wherein the plunger comprises a stem that extends from the venting port into an adjacent cavity of the cylindrical body. In some embodiments, a method of operating a valve, includes biasing a plunger to an open position, biasing a valve locking mechanism to a locked position in relation to a bore of a mineral extraction system, and biasing a plunger to a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Cameron International Corporation
    Inventors: Dennis P. Nguyen, Kirk P. Guidry, Thomas E. Taylor
  • Publication number: 20180106129
    Abstract: A plug having a valve that permits fluid flow in both directions through the plug, but impedes or resists the flow in one direction with respect to the other direction. The plug includes a body and at least one sealing element positioned on an exterior of the body to create a seal between the body and a portion of a wellbore. The plug includes an internal flow path and a valve positioned along the internal flow path. The valve permits fluid to flow in both directions through the flow path, but inhibits the flow in one direction with respect to the other direction. The plug may include a setting element configured to engage a wellbore. The valve permits the fracturing of a portion of a wellbore without the need to pump a plug, such as a ball, down the wellbore to block fluid flow to increase pressure within the wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Tristan Reed WISE
  • Publication number: 20180106130
    Abstract: A flow-actuated pressure equalization valve, for use with a downhole tool such as a treatment tool, for use in stimulating a subterranean formation. The equalization valve allows the pressure of treatment fluid above and below an isolation device to be equalized so the treatment tool can be moved. The valve can be closed when fluid flow exceeds a certain threshold and the treatment tool is set in the wellbore. While running in or pulling out of hole, the valve will not close regardless of the rate of fluid flow. The valve can be opened by stopping fluid flow and then bleeding off pressure above the isolation device, or by pulling up on the treatment tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: DRECO ENERGY SERVICES ULC
    Inventors: Graham STYLER, Lewis FACCA
  • Publication number: 20180106131
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a subsea flow line and a two stage heat exchanger. The subsea flow line communicates a process flow that is associated with a subsea well, and the heat exchanger transfers thermal energy between the process flow and an ambient sea. The heat exchanger includes a primary circuit in communication with the flow line to transfer thermal energy with the process flow; and the heat exchanger includes a secondary circuit in thermal communication with the primary circuit to transfer thermal energy with the primary circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Stig Kaare Kanstad, Nils-Egil Kangas
  • Publication number: 20180106132
    Abstract: The present invention is an automatic downhole jetting system for advancing a string and automatically operating a valve mechanism upon contact with a restriction in a wellbore. The system includes a jetting unit that receives a working fluid, and an activation unit slidably engaged with the jetting unit. The jetting unit includes the valve mechanism for controlling fluid flow out through angled jet ports or through the activation unit. The activation unit can move toward the jetting unit upon contact with a restriction in the wellbore. The activation unit activates the valve mechanism, thereby allowing fluid to flow past the activation unit to remove the restriction. Upon removal of the restriction, the fluid flow deactivates the valve mechanism, thereby closing fluid flow past the activation unit and continuing jetting operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: David Griffith
  • Publication number: 20180106133
    Abstract: A method can include receiving well plan information that includes a reservoir target associated with a reservoir of a subterranean environment; based at least in part on characteristics of the subterranean environment, determining well trajectory metrics that comprise a geometrical metric; determining a weighted metric based at least in part on weighting of the well trajectory metrics; and, based at least in part on an assessment of the weighted metric, outputting directional drilling information for a well trajectory to the reservoir target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Paul Bolchover, Mark S. Passolt, Lucian Johnston, Richard William Dearden, Rushen Patel, Qing Liu
  • Publication number: 20180106134
    Abstract: A method can include receiving scheduled tasks associated with subsystems of a wellsite system wherein the scheduled tasks are associated with achievement of desired states of the wellsite system; transmitting task information for at least a portion of the scheduled tasks to computing devices associated with the subsystems; receiving state information via the wellsite system; assessing the state information with respect to one or more of the desired states; based at least in part on the assessing, scheduling a task; and transmitting task information for the task to one or more of the computing devices associated with the subsystems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Richard John Meehan, Benoit Foubert, Jean-Pierre Poyet
  • Publication number: 20180106135
    Abstract: A subsea well production system includes a subsea boost pump coupled with a subsea tree conduit having a valve in the subsea tree conduit. A boost pump outlet conduit connects between a discharge of the boost pump and an outlet flow line. A recirculation line extends from the boost pump outlet conduit to the subsea tree conduit. A chemical injection line having a chemical source valve extends from a chemical injection source and is connected to the subsea tree conduit at a point between the valve in the subsea tree conduit and the intake of the boost pump. During production flow boosting, the boost pump pumps well fluid. During chemical injection, the boost pump pumps chemicals into the subsea tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventor: Lance PORTMAN
  • Publication number: 20180106136
    Abstract: A re-fracturing method using a perforating gun system in a multistring wellbore casing with an inner well casing installed in an outer well casing. The charges in the perforating system includes include a case, a liner positioned within the case, and an explosive filled within the liner. The liner shaped with a subtended angle about an apex of the liner such that a jet formed with the explosive creates an entrance hole in the inner well casing and the outer well casing; the liner having an exterior surface, the exterior surface substantially conical proximate the apex; the subtended angle of the liner ranges from 100° to 120°. The method includes covering the existing openings with the inner casing, perforating with the perforating system and creating constant diameter entrance holes in the outer casing and fracturing through the inner casing and outer casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: GEODynamics, Inc.
    Inventors: Wenbo Yang, Philip M. Snider, David Ambler, David Cuthill, John T. Hardesty, David S. Wesson
  • Publication number: 20180106137
    Abstract: Included are well systems and methods for use in subterranean formations. An example well system comprises a water front sensor operable to sense a water front, wherein the water front sensor comprises a water front sensor signal transmitter and a water front sensor signal receiver. The example well system further comprises an electronic inflow control device, wherein the electronic inflow control device comprises a flow regulator in fluidic communication with an inlet of the electronic inflow control device and adjustable to provide a flow resistance to a fluid flowing through the electronic inflow control device, and a controller configured to actuate the flow regulator to change the flow resistance through the electronic inflow control device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Thomas Jules FROSELL, Michael Linley FRIPP
  • Publication number: 20180106138
    Abstract: A system comprises an injection well in communication with an underground reservoir that is at a first temperature and that contains a native fluid, a production well in communication with the reservoir, and a supply system providing a non-water based working fluid to the injection well at a second temperature lower than the first temperature. Exposure of the working fluid to the first temperatures heats the working fluid to a third temperature that is higher than the second temperature. At least a portion of the working fluid at the third temperature enters the production well and is produced from the reservoir as a production fluid. An energy recovery apparatus in fluid communication with the production well converts energy contained in the production fluid to electricity, heat, or a combinations thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Jimmy Bryan Randolph
  • Publication number: 20180106139
    Abstract: A fracturing fluid is injected under a high pressure into a well drilled in a formation to create a hydraulic fracture. Then a suspension of the hydraulic fracturing fluid mixed with proppant particles is injected into the well and the created hydraulic fracture, the suspension having a consistency coefficient greater than 0.1 Pa sn at any flow index n and a yield stress higher than 5 Pa. Then, an overflush fluid having a consistency coefficient lower than 0.01 Pa·sn is injected into the well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Andrei Alexandrovich Osiptsov, Dean Michael Willberg, Natalia Anatolievna Lebedeva, Jean Desroches, Sergei Andreevich Boronin
  • Publication number: 20180106140
    Abstract: A system includes a tubular member (60) including a radially outer surface (60c) and a sensor assembly (128). The sensor assembly includes a strain sensor coupled to the radially outer surface. In addition, the sensor assembly includes a first coating having (134) a first hardness and a first tensile strength. The first coating encases the strain sensor (131,130) and at least part (64) of the outer surface. Further, the sensor assembly includes a second coating (136) having a second hardness that is greater than the first hardness and a second tensile strength that is greater than the first tensile strength. The second coating encases the first coating and at least another part (68) of the radially outer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Francis Barrilleaux, David Foti, John D. Henderson, Jerry Henkener, Jerome Leonard, Kyle Robinson, Mark Waldron
  • Publication number: 20180106141
    Abstract: A method includes deploying an electromagnetic (EM) defect detection tool in a downhole environment having a plurality of tubular strings with different diameters. The method also includes receiving raw measurements collected by the EM defect detection tool. The method also includes deconvolving the raw measurements with another input to obtain deconvolved raw measurements. The method also includes using the deconvolved raw measurements to determine a defect in at least one of the plurality of tubular strings. The method also includes performing, by a device, an operation in response to the determined defect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Ahmed E. FOUDA, Reza KHALAJ AMINEH, Luis Emilio SAN MARTIN, Burkay DONDERICI
  • Publication number: 20180106142
    Abstract: A method that includes deploying an acoustic caliper tool in a borehole, the tool having several axially-spaced acoustic transceivers; obtaining acoustic signal reflection measurements for the transceivers; estimating a distance-to-boundary value for the transceivers based on reflection measurements; calculating a tool inclination angle based on the distance-to-boundary values; and deriving a correction value based on the angle. A system that includes an acoustic caliper tool having several axially-spaced acoustic transceivers to obtain reflection measurements; at least one processor; and at least one memory in communication with the processor, the memory storing instructions that cause the processor to: receive the acoustic signal reflection measurements; estimate a distance-to-boundary value for the transceivers based on the reflection measurements; calculate a tool inclination angle based on the distance-to-boundary values; and derive a correction value based on the angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Quang Huy Nguyen, Wei Hsuan Huang, Vinodh Kumar Palani
  • Publication number: 20180106143
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and program for predicting shearing by fluid pressure, the system and program capable of predicting shearing information such as the minimum pressure Pcm required for hydraulic shearing, the sufficient pressure Pco for hydraulic shearing, and the optimal shearing direction using input information including the vertical stress ?v, the maximum horizontal stress and the minimum horizontal stress of a rock to which fluid is to be injected, a joint friction angle ?, a reservoir rock density ?r, an injected fluid density, and a coefficient of the sufficient pressure for hydraulic shearing ?.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Ki-Bok MIN, Sehyeok PARK, Linmao XIE
  • Publication number: 20180106144
    Abstract: Different zones are fractured with proppant containing tracer dye of different colors that is encapsulated in the proppant. The presence of an undesired material such as water removes the coating to allow the uniquely colored tracer dye to be released during production. Surface personnel note the color of the dye and associate a specific zone that is producing the undesired material. Steps are taken to close off the offending zone as production continues from the other zones in the borehole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Meduna Investments, LLC
    Inventor: Albert E. Hyde, JR.
  • Publication number: 20180106145
    Abstract: A stabilizer apparatus for applying an electrical signal to a drill string antenna, comprising: an elongate member; and a fin extending radially from the elongate member, said fin having an angled leading face and an electrode face that opposes the elongate member, the electrode face including an electrode to apply electrical signals to a conductive member of the drill string antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Daniel Patrick Carter, Brian Allen Mohon
  • Publication number: 20180106146
    Abstract: In one aspect, an apparatus for use in a drilling assembly is disclosed that in one embodiment includes a flow control device that further includes: a fluid flow path having an inlet and an outlet; an electromagnetic circuit that includes a closing member made from a soft magnetic or magnetic material as a part of the electromagnetic circuit, wherein the closing member moves from a first open position to a second closed position to close the fluid flow path to produce a pressure pulse in a fluid flowing through the fluid flow path when the electromagnetic circuit is formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: BAKER HUGHES, A GE COMPANY, LLC
    Inventors: Eckard Scholz, Thomas Kruspe
  • Publication number: 20180106147
    Abstract: An innovative apparatus and computer implemented methods to obtain values for a set of scalars corresponding to each force and displacement, which may be obtained from acoustical signals captured by sensors of a drill bit while drilling, in a material of known mechanical properties, such as a cement from casing the well, such that the application and use of the scalars in relation to measurements of the mechanics while drilling, such as the acceleration of the bit and motion of the bit captured by sensors such as accelerometers, allow for absolute values of mechanical rock properties to be obtained in rock formations, being drilled through, with otherwise unknown mechanical properties prior to drilling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Fracture ID, Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Lakings, Jeffrey A. Godwin, Jesse B. Havens, Joshua D. Ulla
  • Publication number: 20180106148
    Abstract: A downhole tool designed to be disposed in a borehole of a subterranean formation is provided. The downhole tool includes a probe used to interface with the subterranean formation in order to sample fluid from or to inject fluid into the subterranean formation. The downhole tool also includes a sample flowline fluidly coupled to the probe and used to direct fluid through the downhole tool. The downhole tool further includes at least two volume chambers. These volume chambers each include a first side fluidly coupled to the sample flowline, a second side fluidly coupled to the guard flowline, and a piston separating the first side from the second side. The downhole tool is able to control a flow of fluid from a high pressure environment to a low pressure environment via the at least two volume chambers, the sample flowline, and the guard flowline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Adriaan Gisolf, Nathan Landsiedel, Cosan Ayan, Kenneth Moelhoff
  • Publication number: 20180106149
    Abstract: A cutting bit for a bit assembly secured to a cutter head includes a cutting end, a shank extending along a bit axis, and a shoulder positioned between the cutting end and the shank. The shoulder includes an outer edge defining a perimeter, a shoulder end surface defining a shoulder plane, a first inclined surface and a second inclined surface. The first inclined surface is positioned between the outer edge and the shoulder end surface. The first inclined surface extends along the perimeter and is oriented at a first acute angle relative to the shoulder plane. The second inclined surface is positioned between the shoulder end surface and the first inclined surface. The second inclined surface is oriented at a second acute angle relative to the shoulder plane, and the second acute angle is smaller than the first acute angle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: John R. Frederick, Rudie Boshoff
  • Publication number: 20180106150
    Abstract: A linear reciprocating engine may include a cylinder having a first combustion chamber at one end and a second combustion chamber at an opposing end, first and second cylinder heads located at an end of the first and second combustion chambers, respectively, and a double-faced piston slidably mounted within the cylinder. The engine may further include a first piston rod portion extending from a first face of the double-faced piston through the first combustion chamber, and a second piston rod portion extending from a second face of the piston through the second combustion chamber. Passageways in the piston rod portions may be configured to communicate gases between the combustion chamber and a location outside the cylinder and configured to prevent gases from being exchanged between the cylinder and a location outside the cylinder via a path that crosses both face of the piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Aquarius Engines (A.M.) Ltd.
    Inventor: Shaul Haim YAAKOBY
  • Publication number: 20180106151
    Abstract: A rotary-vane internal combustion engine of the cat and mouse or scissor type with coordinated rotation of two co-axial shafts with position sensors creating chambers of variable volume for intake, compression, power and exhaust strokes. A reversible electric generator motor on at least one of the shafts with an electronic control system for current, an energy storage unit and electrical load. The total work done and angular speed is calculated or empirically determined while an alternating accelerating or decelerating torque is applied for a continuous, uniform rotation cycle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Anatoli GALIN, Oleksandr GALIN, Natalia GALIN, Volodymyr GALIN
  • Publication number: 20180106152
    Abstract: A hydraulic device can include two or more rings, a rotor having a plurality of vanes, and an adjuster. The two or more rings can be rotatably mounted within the hydraulic device and arranged adjacent one another configured for relative rotation with respect to one another. The rotor can be disposed for rotation about an axis within the two or more rings and can have a plurality of circumferentially spaced slots, each slot having at least one of the plurality of vanes located therein. The plurality of vanes can be configured to be movable between a retracted position and an extended position where the plurality of vanes work a hydraulic fluid introduced adjacent to the rotor. The adjuster can be configured to translate linearly to rotatably position the two or more rings relative to one another to increase or decrease a displacement of the hydraulic fluid between the rotor and the two or more rings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Norman Ian Mathers, Robert Price
  • Publication number: 20180106153
    Abstract: A blade damper for a gas turbine blade includes a blade damper body with a first damping surface and a second damping surface. The first damping surface is on a first side of the damper body and the second damping surface is on a second side of the damper body opposite the first damping surface for providing full functionality in both flipped and unflipped orientations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Tracy A. Propheter-Hinckley
  • Publication number: 20180106154
    Abstract: A method of forming an article includes forming a plurality of channels and ridges in a silicon-containing layer on a surface of a substrate of the article using a mask placed on the surface of the substrate or the silicon-containing layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Donald Joseph BALDWIN, Joshua Lee MARGOLIES, Jacob John Kittleson
  • Publication number: 20180106155
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine having a transition duct made of a plurality of segments. Each of the segments is connected to an adjacent segment. The plurality of segments may be made of ceramic material or super alloys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Anthony L. Schiavo
  • Publication number: 20180106156
    Abstract: A vane includes a pair of airfoils that have a plurality of film cooling holes that extend through an exterior surface of the airfoils. Each plurality of film cooling holes break through the exterior surface at geometric coordinates in accordance with Cartesian coordinate values of X, Y and Z as set forth in Table 1. Each geometric coordinates is measured from a reference point on a leading edge rail of a platform of the vane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Nicholas M. LoRicco, Mark A. Boeke, Jeffrey J. DeGray, Richard M. Salzillo, Dominic J. Mongillo
  • Publication number: 20180106157
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a sealing system for an engine having an axial centerline, comprising: a stationary carbon segment, and a seal plate that rotates when the engine is operated, where the seal plate includes an end face that is opposed to an interface between the carbon segment and the seal plate, and where the end face includes at least one groove that conveys a liquid cooling fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Ronnie K. Kovacik, Kevin Duffy, Brady Walker, Antonio F. Artiles
  • Publication number: 20180106158
    Abstract: A stator vane rail is provided. The stator vane rail may comprise a forward rail, an aft rail located axially opposite the forward rail, a first axial surface extending between the forward rail and the aft rail, a first feather seal slot disposed in the first axial surface, wherein a terminus of the first feather seal slot is radially spaced from a radial surface of the aft rail, a second axial surface extending between the forward rail and the aft rail, and a second feather seal slot disposed in the second axial surface, wherein the second feather seal slot extends from the radial surface of the aft rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Boeke, Jeffrey J. DeGray, Richard M. Salzillo, JR.
  • Publication number: 20180106159
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to a sliding seal between two components. The sliding seal includes a seal ring including a radially extending base and an axially-extending leg disposed in a seal cavity between first and second components. A retaining ring having a first leg and a second leg defining a cavity therebetween is disposed with a portion of the base and a portion of the first component contained therein, thereby providing loading forces to help the seal ring seal against both the first and second components. One or more rope seals are carried by the seal ring in an embodiment. Other combinations of seal rings, retaining rings, and rope seals are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Timothy M. Davis, Paul M. Lutjen
  • Publication number: 20180106160
    Abstract: A turbine shroud assembly of a gas turbine engine includes a blade track having an I-beam construction including ceramic materials and defining a flow surface to guide exhaust products through a turbine section of the gas turbine engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: David J. Thomas, Jeffrey A. Walston
  • Publication number: 20180106161
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine has an engine case and a circumferential array of rotor blades, rotatable about a centerline. A stator vane assembly is located within the engine case and axially spaced from the array of rotor blades. The stator vane assembly is formed by a plurality of stator vane segments, disposed circumferentially one adjacent to another. Each stator vane segment has an outer endwall, a plurality of vanes extending radially from the outer endwall towards the centerline and a shroud segment extending axially from the outer endwall. The shroud segment is configured to extend to and surround the array of rotor blades. The shroud segment has an abradable portion. The vane assembly is secured relative to the engine case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Remy SYNNOTT, Franco DI PAOLA, Guy LEFEBVRE
  • Publication number: 20180106162
    Abstract: Provided are discs and bores of a gas turbine engine having one or more graphene layers and methods of preparing the same. The one or more graphene layers are disposed adjacent to the disc rim and/or bore to improve heat transfer and reduce oxidation of the discs. Methods of preparing the graphene layers and systems for using the same are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Antonio Guijarro Valencia
  • Publication number: 20180106163
    Abstract: A combustion liner assembly includes a combustion liner having an upstream end portion and a downstream end portion and a resonator disposed proximate to the upstream end portion of the combustion liner. The resonator includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced inlet apertures disposed along a radially outer surface of the resonator, an air chamber defined within the resonator and a plurality of outlet apertures disposed along a radially inner surface of the resonator. The plurality of inlet apertures provide for fluid flow into the air chamber and the plurality of outlet apertures provide for fluid flow out of the air chamber and into a radial flow passage defined within the combustor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Seth Reynolds Hoffman, Lucas John Stoia, Sven Georg Bethke, Richard Martin DiCintio, Jeffrey Scott LeBegue, Jayaprakash Natarajan
  • Publication number: 20180106164
    Abstract: A gas turbine comprises a strut assembly including an inner ring; an inclined member including a first end connected to the inner ring, a second end positioned opposite the first end, and a flange extending radially inward from the second end; an oil sump mounted to the second end or the flange; a thrust bearing fixed to the oil sump; and a thrust collar extending radially from a rotor, wherein the inclined member has an aperture portion formed therein, the aperture portion is positioned in an upper portion of a region between the thrust bearing and a journal bearing, and the aperture portion has a width and a circumferential length greater than at least the journal bearing. The gas turbine has the feature that the journal bearing is easily withdrawn and the total weight of the gas turbine is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Yeong Chun Kim, Jeong Min Kim
  • Publication number: 20180106165
    Abstract: Provided is a thermal energy storage plant including a charging circuit where a first working fluid is circulated, the charging circuit includes a first fluid transporting machine for generating a flow of the first working fluid in charging circuit, a heating device electrically powered for transferring heat to the first working fluid, a heat accumulator for storing the thermal energy of the first working fluid, the heat accumulator including a hot end for receiving the first working fluid at a first temperature and a cold end for letting the first working fluid exit the heat accumulator at a second temperature lower than the first temperature, the heat accumulator includes a plurality of heat storage units connected in series between the hot end and the cold end, which may be separated by valves.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2015
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Till Andreas Barmeier
  • Publication number: 20180106166
    Abstract: The present application provides a combined cycle system. The combined cycle system may include a heat recovery steam generator, a feedwater source positioned upstream of the heat recovery steam generator, a desuperheater positioned downstream of the heat recovery steam generator, a first extraction from the heat recovery steam generator to the desuperheater, and a second extraction from upstream of the heat recovery steam generator to the desuperheater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventors: Luca Sala, Anand Nagasayanam
  • Publication number: 20180106167
    Abstract: A camshaft phaser, including: an axis of rotation; a stator including a radially outermost surface with a plurality of teeth; a locking plate including a first side facing in a first axial direction, a bore in the first side, and a through-bore; a check valve plate axially located between the locking plate and the stator and including a through-bore and a displaceable valve flap aligned, in the first axial direction, with the through-bore for the locking plate; and a bushing disposed in the bore in the first side and in the through-bore for the check valve plate. The bushing extends past the locking plate in the first axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventors: Alexandre Camilo, Renato De Oliveira Ghiraldi, Peter Cantin
  • Publication number: 20180106168
    Abstract: A composite structure includes: a cover plate having a countersunk hole and a plate side fitting hole; a bearing plate having a screw hole and a screw side fitting hole located opposite from the plate side fitting hole through the screw hole; and a plate screw component including a screw part engaged with the screw hole, and a plate side fitting part and a screw side fitting part respectively fitted with the plate side fitting hole and the screw side fitting hole to be in alignment with each other. A difference ??a in diameter between the plate side fitting hole and the plate side fitting part, a difference ??b in diameter between the screw side fitting hole and the screw side fitting part, and an effective difference ??c in diameter between the screw hole and the screw part satisfy a dimensional relation of ??a<??c and ??b<??c.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Inventor: Yuuki MATSUNAGA
  • Publication number: 20180106169
    Abstract: A camshaft module includes: a head cover in which a camshaft is seated; a cylinder head with an upper portion coupled to a lower portion of the head cover, and in which a plurality of cam followers, operated according to a rotation of the camshaft, are formed on the upper portion; and a gasket sealing between the head cover and the cylinder head. The gasket has a plurality of cam holes formed therein. The cam followers penetrate through the cam holes. The gasket has supporting parts formed to protrude so as to prevent a falling of the cam followers around the cam holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY
    Inventor: Mee Sun Oh
  • Publication number: 20180106170
    Abstract: An internal combustion engine having at least one crankcase for defining a guide housing in which at least one crankshaft is guided in rotation about an axis of rotation and lubricated by a lubricating fluid, the at least one crankcase being of the “dry-sump” type. Such an internal combustion engine has at least two pumps forming a pump train of pumps on a common axis, the pump train being fitted in a cylindrical bore of the at least one crankcase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2017
    Publication date: April 19, 2018
    Applicant: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS
    Inventors: Pierre-Julien HUBERT, Pierre GAVANIER, Christian MERCIER