Abstract: A low pressure multi-stage axial flow steam turbine comprises an outer housing and an inner housing structure constituting a carrier for the rows of guide blading of the various stages. A steam inflow housing located within the inner housing structure forms the boundary of a crescent-shaped intake duct which surrounds and admits steam to the first stage guide blading which flows through the duct in the same direction as that in which the turbine rotor rotates, and the cross sectional area of the intake duct decreases progressively in the direction of steam flow therethrough such that the tangential components of the steam velocity conform to a predetermined function. The curvature of the intake duct at the inner periphery thereof increases progressively in the direction of steam flow therethrough such that the radial components of the steam velocity conform to a second predetermined function.

Abstract: A vacuum pump of the liquid vortex type including a closed tank and a helical rotor for operation below the level of liquid therein is provided with a readily demountable rotor unit mounted exteriorly of the tank and having its enclosing shroud opening into the tank. Servicing, including that for removal of scale is greatly facilitated. In addition the pump is provided with a system of ultrasonic vibration elements whereby the accumulation of scale is inhibited or greatly reduced.

Abstract: The segmented casing has a plurality of successive stage casing rings, a transfer plate intermediate each adjacent pair of casing rings, a suction end casing section, and a discharge end casing section. A shaft extends axially through the casing, and is supported and sealed at its ends by demountable bearing and seal means. Each casing ring encloses a complete stage containing an impeller which is spring biased into engagement with a locating collar secured to the shaft, and a pair of replaceable liners which are arranged at the opposite sides of each impeller. Each casing ring, impeller, set of liners, locating collar, and spring means, together comprises a module which functions as one stage of the pump. A pump is comprised of two or more modules which are connected internally by a shaft and externally by draw bolts, and which are contained by the suction and discharge end casing sections. Suction and discharge connections are demountably secured to the casing in any one of several rotative positions.

Abstract: This invention relates to an improvement in an apparatus suited for removing liquid e.g., flammable from a bulk container comprising pumping equipment in the container, a fluid transmitting casing extending from an upper portion in the container to a lower portion and communicating with the pumping equipment, an inlet communicating with the pumping equipment, a fluid outlet at the upper part of the container communicating with the casing, a foot valve for sealing the inlet from the container when in a closed position and permitting fluid flow from the container through the inlet to said casing when in the open position, said foot valve including means responsive to lifting movement of the pumping equipment for closing said valve and a sealing gland at the top of the casing accommodating movement of the pumping equipment for permitting opening and closing of the foot valve without venting the casing.

Abstract: An outer cylinder arrangement for a low pressure turbine apparatus. The outer cylinder arrangement surrounds a rotor member having an annular array of blades thereon. A manway opening in the outer cylinder permits access into a diffuser channel disposed within the outer cylinder. The diffuser channel is defined by a bearing cone member integral with the outer cylinder and a flow guide member disposed in spaced relationship from the bearing cone within the outer cylinder. The bearing cone has a removable segment thereon which, when removed, permits axial movement of one turbine blade from the annular array of blades into a volume defined by a removal pocket integral with the bearing cone. The flow guide has a removable segment thereon adjacent to the removable bearing cone segment.

Abstract: A housing for an impeller is disclosed, which is mounted on an impeller shaft and is capable of moving material, the housing comprising an enclosure within which the impeller, mounted on an impeller shaft, may be placed; a plurality of shaft openings in the enclosure through which the impeller shaft may extend; material entrance means in the enclosure through which the material may be placed in the enclosure; material exit means through which the material may leave the enclosure; and access means in the enclosure allowing access for maintenance purposes.