Abstract

The disclosure provides a heat pump cycle that allows for an improved matching of the T(Q) slopes of the heat pump cycle. More particularly, the high temperature heat exchange is separated into two stages. Furthermore, a portion of the working fluid that was cooled in the first stage, is further cooled by expansion before being mixed with a heated working fluid for input to the recuperating heat exchanger.

IPC Classes  ?

• F25B 30/02 - Heat pumps of the compression type
• F25B 9/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, in which the refrigerant is air or other gas of low boiling point
• F25B 39/02 - Evaporators

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide a heat engine system, a turbopump system, and methods for lubricating a turbopump while generating energy. The systems and methods provide proper lubrication and cooling to turbomachinery components by controlling pressures applied to a thrust bearing in the turbopump. The applied pressure on the thrust bearing may be controlled by a turbopump back-pressure regulator valve adjusted to maintain proper pressures within bearing pockets disposed on two opposing surfaces of the thrust bearing. Pocket pressure ratios, such as a turbine-side pocket pressure ratio (P1) and a pump-side pocket pressure ratio (P2), may be monitored and adjusted by a process control system. In order to prevent damage to the thrust bearing, the systems and methods may utilize advanced control theory of sliding mode, the multi-variables of the pocket pressure ratios P1 and P2, and regulating the bearing fluid to maintain a supercritical state.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 25/22 - Lubricating arrangements using working fluid or other gaseous fluid as lubricant
• F01D 15/08 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, pumps
• F01D 25/16 - Arrangement of bearingsSupporting or mounting bearings in casings
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F01K 11/02 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers the engines being turbines
• F04D 29/047 - Bearings hydrostaticBearings hydrodynamic
• F04D 13/04 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being fluid-driven
• F01D 3/04 - Machines or engines with axial-thrust balancing effected by working fluid axial thrust being compensated by thrust-balancing dummy piston or the like
• F04D 29/06 - Lubrication
• F04D 29/041 - Axial thrust balancing
• F01D 17/08 - Arrangement of sensing elements responsive to condition of working fluid, e.g. pressure
• F01D 25/10 - Heating, e.g. warming-up before starting

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for generating electricity via a pumped thermal energy storage (“PTES”) system. A system may include a pump configured to circulate a working fluid within a fluid circuit, wherein the working fluid enters the pump at a first pressure and exits at a second pressure; a first heat exchanger; a second heat exchanger; a turbine positioned between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, configured to expand a first portion of the working fluid to the first pressure; a heat rejection heat exchanger configured to remove thermal energy from a second portion of the working fluid; a high temperature reservoir connected to the first heat exchanger; and a low temperature reservoir connected to the second heat exchanger.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 3/12 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having two or more accumulators
• F01K 3/08 - Use of accumulators, the plant being specially adapted for a specific use
• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01K 19/00 - Regenerating or otherwise treating steam exhaust from steam engine plant
• F28D 17/04 - Distributing arrangements for the heat-exchange media
• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 7/38 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being of extraction or non-condensing typeUse of steam for feed-water heating the engines being of turbine type
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F28D 20/00 - Heat storage plants or apparatus in generalRegenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups or

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for charging a pumped thermal energy storage (“PTES”) system. A system may include a compressor or pump configured to circulate a working fluid within a fluid circuit, wherein the working fluid enters the pump at a first pressure and exits at a second pressure; a first heat exchanger through which the working fluid circulates in use; a second heat exchanger through which the working fluid circulates in use; a third heat exchanger through which the working fluid circulates in use, a turbine positioned between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, configured to expand the working fluid to the first pressure; a high temperature reservoir connected to the first heat exchanger; a low temperature reservoir connected to the second heat exchanger, and a waste heat reservoir connected to the third heat exchanger.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 3/12 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having two or more accumulators
• F01K 3/08 - Use of accumulators, the plant being specially adapted for a specific use
• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01K 19/00 - Regenerating or otherwise treating steam exhaust from steam engine plant
• F28D 17/04 - Distributing arrangements for the heat-exchange media
• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 7/38 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being of extraction or non-condensing typeUse of steam for feed-water heating the engines being of turbine type
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F02C 1/10 - Closed cycles
• F28D 20/00 - Heat storage plants or apparatus in generalRegenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups or

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for controlling the pressure of a working fluid at an inlet of a main pressurization device of a heat engine system. The heat engine system may include a control system and a working fluid circuit including a waste heat exchanger, an expansion device, a recuperator, a main pressurization device, and a heat exchanger assembly. The heat exchanger assembly may include a plurality of gas-cooled heat exchangers configured to transfer thermal energy from the working fluid to a cooling medium, a plurality of fans configured to direct the cooling medium into contact with the gas-cooled heat exchangers, and a plurality of drivers, each driver configured to drive a respective fan. The control system may be communicatively coupled to the heat exchanger assembly and configured to modulate a rotational speed of at least one fan to regulate a pressure of the working fluid at the inlet.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F02C 6/08 - Gas-turbine plants providing heated or pressurised working fluid for other apparatus, e.g. without mechanical power output providing compressed gas the gas being bled from the gas-turbine compressor

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for controlling the pressure of a working fluid at an inlet of a main pressurization device of a heat engine system. The heat engine system may include a control system and a working fluid circuit including a waste heat exchanger, an expansion device, a recuperator, a main pressurization device, and a heat exchanger assembly. The heat exchanger assembly may include a plurality of gas-cooled heat exchangers configured to transfer thermal energy from the working fluid to a cooling medium, a plurality of fans configured to direct the cooling medium into contact with the gas-cooled heat exchangers, and a plurality of drivers, each driver configured to drive a respective fan. The control system may be communicatively coupled to the heat exchanger assembly and configured to modulate a rotational speed of at least one fan to regulate a pressure of the working fluid at the inlet.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for controlling the pressure of a working fluid at an inlet of a main pressurization device of a heat engine system. The heat engine system may include a control system and a working fluid circuit including a waste heat exchanger, an expansion device, a recuperator, a main pressurization device, and a heat exchanger assembly. The heat exchanger assembly may include a plurality of gas-cooled heat exchangers configured to transfer thermal energy from the working fluid to a cooling medium, a plurality of fans configured to direct the cooling medium into contact with the gas-cooled heat exchangers, and a plurality of drivers, each driver configured to drive a respective fan. The control system may be communicatively coupled to the heat exchanger assembly and configured to modulate a rotational speed of at least one fan to regulate a pressure of the working fluid at the inlet.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F02C 6/08 - Gas-turbine plants providing heated or pressurised working fluid for other apparatus, e.g. without mechanical power output providing compressed gas the gas being bled from the gas-turbine compressor
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting

Abstract

Aspects of the invention generally provide a heat engine system and a method for activating a turbopump within the heat engine system during a start-up process. The heat engine system utilizes a working fluid circulated within a working fluid circuit for capturing thermal energy. In one exemplary aspect, a start-up process for a turbopump in the heat engine system is provided such that the turbopump achieves self-sustained operation in a supercritical Rankine cycle. Bypass and check valves of a start pump and the turbopump, a drive turbine throttle valve, and other valves, lines, or pumps within the working fluid circuit are controlled during the turbopump start-up process. A process control system may utilize advanced control techniques of the control sequence to provide a successful start-up process of the turbopump without over pressurizing the working fluid circuit or damaging the turbopump via low bearing pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems
• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01K 11/02 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers the engines being turbines
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide a heat engine system, a turbopump system, and methods for lubricating a turbopump while generating energy. The systems and methods provide proper lubrication and cooling to turbomachinery components by controlling pressures applied to a thrust bearing in the turbopump. The applied pressure on the thrust bearing may be controlled by a turbopump back-pressure regulator valve adjusted to maintain proper pressures within bearing pockets disposed on two opposing surfaces of the thrust bearing. Pocket pressure ratios, such as a turbine-side pocket pressure ratio (P1) and a pump-side pocket pressure ratio (P2), may be monitored and adjusted by a process control system. In order to prevent damage to the thrust bearing, the systems and methods may utilize advanced control theory of sliding mode, the multi-variables of the pocket pressure ratios P1 and P2, and regulating the bearing fluid to maintain a supercritical state.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 25/22 - Lubricating arrangements using working fluid or other gaseous fluid as lubricant
• F01D 15/08 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, pumps
• F01D 25/16 - Arrangement of bearingsSupporting or mounting bearings in casings
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01D 17/08 - Arrangement of sensing elements responsive to condition of working fluid, e.g. pressure
• F01D 25/10 - Heating, e.g. warming-up before starting
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether

Abstract

A method includes controlling a bearing fluid supply system to provide the bearing fluid to a hydrostatic bearing of the turbopump assembly. The bearing fluid includes a supercritical working fluid. The method also includes receiving data corresponding to a pressure of the bearing fluid measured at or near a bearing fluid drain fluidly coupled to the hydrostatic bearing, determining a thermodynamic state of the bearing fluid at or near the bearing fluid drain based at least in part on the received data, and controlling a backpressure regulation valve to throttle the backpressure regulation valve between an opened position and a closed position to regulate a backpressure in a bearing fluid discharge line to maintain the bearing fluid in a supercritical state in the hydrostatic bearing and/or at or near the bearing fluid drain.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 15/08 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, pumps
• F01D 25/22 - Lubricating arrangements using working fluid or other gaseous fluid as lubricant
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F16C 32/06 - Bearings not otherwise provided for with moving member supported by a fluid cushion formed, at least to a large extent, otherwise than by movement of the shaft, e.g. hydrostatic air-cushion bearings
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01D 25/16 - Arrangement of bearingsSupporting or mounting bearings in casings
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F04C 29/12 - Arrangements for admission or discharge of the working fluid, e.g. constructional features of the inlet or outlet

Abstract

A turbopump system includes a pump portion including a housing having a pressure release passageway disposed therein. The pump portion is disposed between a high pressure side and a low pressure side of a working fluid circuit. A drive turbine is coupled to the pump portion and configured to drive the pump portion to enable the pump portion to circulate a working fluid through the working fluid circuit. A pressure release valve is fluidly coupled to the pressure release passageway and configured to be positioned in an opened position to enable pressure to be released through the pressure release passageway and in a closed position to disable pressure from being released through the pressure release passageway.

IPC Classes  ?

• F04D 29/051 - Axial thrust balancing
• F04D 29/041 - Axial thrust balancing
• F04D 13/04 - Units comprising pumps and their driving means the pump being fluid-driven
• F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems
• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01D 3/00 - Machines or engines with axial-thrust balancing effected by working fluid
• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F04D 29/66 - Combating cavitation, whirls, noise, vibration, or the likeBalancing

Abstract

A heat engine system and a method for cooling a fluid stream in thermal communication with the heat engine system are provided. The heat engine system may include a working fluid circuit configured to flow a working fluid therethrough, and a cooling circuit in fluid communication with the working fluid circuit and configured to flow the working fluid therethrough. The cooling circuit may include an evaporator in fluid communication with the working fluid circuit and configured to be in fluid communication with the fluid stream. The evaporator may be further configured to receive a second portion of the working fluid from the working fluid circuit and to transfer thermal energy from the fluid stream to the second portion of the working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 27/02 - Plants modified to use their waste heat, other than that of exhaust, e.g. engine-friction heat
• F01K 25/04 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid being in different phases, e.g. foamed
• F01D 15/08 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, pumps
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators
• H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
• F28B 1/00 - Condensers in which the steam or vapour is separated from the cooling medium by walls, e.g. surface condenser
• F28B 7/00 - Combinations of two or more condensers, e.g. provision of reserve condenser

Abstract

A heat engine system and a method for cooling a fluid stream in thermal communication with the heat engine system are provided. The heat engine system may include a working fluid circuit configured to flow a working fluid therethrough, and a cooling circuit in fluid communication with the working fluid circuit and configured to flow the working fluid therethrough. The cooling circuit may include an evaporator in fluid communication with the working fluid circuit and configured to be in fluid communication with the fluid stream. The evaporator may be further configured to receive a second portion of the working fluid from the working fluid circuit and to transfer thermal energy from the fluid stream to the second portion of the working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

A pressure reduction system may include an alternator with a casing and a rotor positioned, at least in part, within a cavity defined by the casing. The pressure reduction system may also include a mass management system that includes a control tank configured to be maintained at a tank pressure lower than a cavity pressure within the cavity of the alternator, thereby forming a pressure differential. A first transfer conduit may transfer a working fluid from the cavity of the alternator to the control tank via the pressure differential. The mass management system may be positioned at an elevation above the alternator, and include a refrigeration loop configured to cool the working fluid contained within the control tank. A second transfer conduit may fluidly couple the alternator and the mass management system, and may transfer the cooled working fluid from the control tank to the cavity via gravitational force.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F01K 21/00 - Steam engine plants not otherwise provided for
• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators

Abstract

Aspects of the invention generally provide a heat engine system and a method for activating a turbopump within the heat engine system during a start-up process. The heat engine system utilizes a working fluid circulated within a working fluid circuit for capturing thermal energy. In one exemplary aspect, a start-up process for a turbopump in the heat engine system is provided such that the turbopump achieves self-sustained operation in a supercritical Rankine cycle. Bypass and check valves of a start pump and the turbopump, a drive turbine throttle valve, and other valves, lines, or pumps within the working fluid circuit are controlled during the turbopump start-up process. A process control system may utilize advanced control techniques of the control sequence to provide a successful start-up process of the turbopump without over pressurizing the working fluid circuit or damaging the turbopump via low bearing pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 27/00 - Plants for converting heat or fluid energy into mechanical energy, not otherwise provided for
• F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide a heat engine system, a turbopump system, and methods for lubricating a turbopump while generating energy. The systems and methods provide proper lubrication and cooling to turbomachinery components by controlling pressures applied to a thrust bearing in the turbopump. The applied pressure on the thrust bearing may be controlled by a turbopump back-pressure regulator valve adjusted to maintain proper pressures within bearing pockets disposed on two opposing surfaces of the thrust bearing. Pocket pressure ratios, such as a turbine-side pocket pressure ratio (P1) and a pump-side pocket pressure ratio (P2), may be monitored and adjusted by a process control system. In order to prevent damage to the thrust bearing, the systems and methods may utilize advanced control theory of sliding mode, the multi-variables of the pocket pressure ratios P1 and P2, and regulating the bearing fluid to maintain a supercritical state.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01K 11/02 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers the engines being turbines
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators

Abstract

Aspects of the invention generally provide a heat engine system and a method for activating a turbopump within the heat engine system during a start-up process. The heat engine system utilizes a working fluid circulated within a working fluid circuit for capturing thermal energy. In one exemplary aspect, a start-up process for a turbopump in the heat engine system is provided such that the turbopump achieves self-sustained operation in a supercritical Rankine cycle. Bypass and check valves of a start pump and the turbopump, a drive turbine throttle valve, and other valves, lines, or pumps within the working fluid circuit are controlled during the turbopump start-up process. A process control system may utilize advanced control techniques of the control sequence to provide a successful start-up process of the turbopump without over pressurizing the working fluid circuit or damaging the turbopump via low bearing pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F02K 9/48 - Feeding propellants using pumps driven by a gas turbine fed by propellant combustion gases
• F04D 15/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations, or systems

Abstract

Provided herein is a heat engine system and a method for transforming energy, such as generating mechanical energy and/or electrical energy from thermal energy. The heat engine system may have one of several different configurations of a mass management system (MMS) fluidly coupled to a working fluid circuit. The MMS may be utilized to control the amount of working fluid added to, contained within, or removed from the working fluid circuit. The MMS may contain a mass control tank, an inventory transfer line, and system/tank transfer valves. The MMS may contain a transfer pump fluidly coupled to the inventory transfer line and configured to control the pressure in the inventory transfer line. The MMS may have two or more transfer lines, such as an inventory return line and valve, and an inventory supply line and valve.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 25/06 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using mixtures of different fluids
• F01K 7/06 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being of multiple-inlet-pressure type
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 11/04 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers the boilers or condensers being rotated in use
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether

Abstract

A turbopump system includes a pump portion including a housing having a pressure release passageway disposed therein. The pump portion is disposed between a high pressure side and a low pressure side of a working fluid circuit. A drive turbine is coupled to the pump portion and configured to drive the pump portion to enable the pump portion to circulate a working fluid through the working fluid circuit. A pressure release valve is fluidly coupled to the pressure release passageway and configured to be positioned in an opened position to enable pressure to be released through the pressure release passageway and in a closed position to disable pressure from being released through the pressure release passageway.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F04D 27/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids
• F04D 29/00 - Details, component parts, or accessories

Abstract

A method includes controlling a bearing fluid supply system to provide the bearing fluid to a hydrostatic bearing of the turbopump assembly. The bearing fluid includes a supercritical working fluid. The method also includes receiving data corresponding to a pressure of the bearing fluid measured at or near a bearing fluid drain fluidly coupled to the hydrostatic bearing, determining a thermodynamic state of the bearing fluid at or near the bearing fluid drain based at least in part on the received data, and controlling a backpressure regulation valve to throttle the backpressure regulation valve between an opened position and a closed position to regulate a backpressure in a bearing fluid discharge line to maintain the bearing fluid in a supercritical state in the hydrostatic bearing and/or at or near the bearing fluid drain.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 25/16 - Arrangement of bearingsSupporting or mounting bearings in casings
• F16C 32/06 - Bearings not otherwise provided for with moving member supported by a fluid cushion formed, at least to a large extent, otherwise than by movement of the shaft, e.g. hydrostatic air-cushion bearings
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

Aspects of the invention provided herein include heat engine systems, methods for generating electricity, and methods for starting a turbo pump. In some configurations, the heat engine system contains a start pump and a turbo pump disposed in series along a working fluid circuit and configured to circulate a working fluid within the working fluid circuit. The start pump may have a pump portion coupled to a motor-driven portion and the turbo pump may have a pump portion coupled to a drive turbine. In one configuration, the pump portion of the start pump is fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit downstream of and in series with the pump portion of the turbo pump. In another configuration, the pump portion of the start pump is fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit upstream of and in series with the pump portion of the turbo pump.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F04D 29/58 - CoolingHeatingDiminishing heat transfer
• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure

Abstract

Heat engine systems having selectively configurable working fluid circuits are provided. One heat engine system includes a pump that circulates a working fluid through a working fluid circuit and an expander that receives the working fluid from a high pressure side of the working fluid circuit and converts a pressure drop in the working fluid to mechanical energy. A plurality of waste heat exchangers are each selectively positioned in or isolated from the high pressure side. A plurality of recuperators are each selectively positioned in or isolated from the high pressure side and the low pressure side. A plurality of valves are actuated to enable selective control over which of the plurality of waste heat exchangers is positioned in the high pressure side, which of the plurality of recuperators is positioned in the high pressure side, and which of the plurality of recuperators is positioned in the low pressure side.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 17/00 - Regulating or controlling by varying flow
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01N 5/02 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus combined or associated with devices profiting by exhaust energy the devices using heat
• F02G 5/02 - Profiting from waste heat of exhaust gases

Abstract

Heat engine systems having selectively configurable working fluid circuits are provided. One heat engine system includes a pump that circulates a working fluid through a working fluid circuit and an expander that receives the working fluid from a high pressure side of the working fluid circuit and converts a pressure drop in the working fluid to mechanical energy. A plurality of waste heat exchangers are each selectively positioned in or isolated from the high pressure side. A plurality of recuperators are each selectively positioned in or isolated from the high pressure side and the low pressure side. A plurality of valves are actuated to enable selective control over which of the plurality of waste heat exchangers is positioned in the high pressure side, which of the plurality of recuperators is positioned in the high pressure side, and which of the plurality of recuperators is positioned in the low pressure side.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure
• F01D 17/00 - Regulating or controlling by varying flow
• F02G 5/02 - Profiting from waste heat of exhaust gases
• F01N 5/02 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus combined or associated with devices profiting by exhaust energy the devices using heat

Abstract

Systems and methods for controlling a heat engine system are provided. One method includes initiating flow of a working fluid through a working fluid circuit having a high pressure side and a low pressure side by controlling a pump to pressurize and circulate the working fluid through the working fluid circuit and determining a configuration of the working fluid circuit by determining which of a plurality of waste heat exchangers and which of a plurality of recuperators to position in the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit. The method also includes determining, based on the determined configuration of the working fluid circuit, for each of a plurality of valves, whether to position each respective valve in an opened position, a closed position, or a partially opened position and actuating each of the plurality of valves to the determined opened position, closed position, or partially opened position.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01D 17/00 - Regulating or controlling by varying flow
• F02G 5/02 - Profiting from waste heat of exhaust gases
• F01N 5/02 - Exhaust or silencing apparatus combined or associated with devices profiting by exhaust energy the devices using heat
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention generally provide a heat engine system, a mass management system (MMS), and a method for regulating pressure in the heat engine system while generating electricity. In one embodiment, the MMS contains a tank fluidly coupled to a pump, a turbine, a heat exchanger, an offload terminal, and a working fluid contained in the tank at a storage pressure. The working fluid may be at a system pressure proximal an outlet of the heat exchanger, at a low-side pressure proximal a pump inlet, and at a high-side pressure proximal a pump outlet. The MMS contains a controller communicably coupled to a valve between the tank and the heat exchanger outlet, a valve between the tank and the pump inlet, a valve between the tank and the pump outlet, and a valve between the tank and the offload terminal.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 11/00 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers
• G05D 7/06 - Control of flow characterised by the use of electric means

Abstract

A method for converting thermal energy into mechanical energy in a thermodynamic cycle includes placing a thermal energy source in thermal communication with a heat exchanger arranged in a working fluid circuit containing a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) and having a high pressure side and a low pressure side. The method also includes regulating an amount of working fluid within the working fluid circuit via a mass management system having a working fluid vessel, pumping the working fluid through the working fluid circuit, and expanding the working fluid to generate mechanical energy. The method further includes directing the working fluid away from the expander through the working fluid circuit, controlling a flow of the working fluid in a supercritical state from the high pressure side to the working fluid vessel, and controlling a flow of the working fluid from the working fluid vessel to the low pressure side.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters

Abstract

A heat engine system and a method for generating electrical energy from the heat engine system are provided. The method includes circulating via a turbo pump a working fluid within a working fluid circuit of the heat engine system. The method also includes transferring thermal energy from a heat source stream to the working fluid by at least a primary heat exchanger, feeding the working fluid into a power turbine and converting the thermal energy from the working fluid to mechanical energy, and converting the mechanical energy into electrical energy by a generator coupled to the power turbine. At least one valve operatively coupled to a control system is modulated in order to synchronize the generator with an electrical grid. A generator breaker is closed such that the generator and electrical grid are electrically coupled and the electrical energy is supplied to the electrical grid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled

Abstract

Provided herein is a heat engine system and a method for generating electricity. The heat engine system contains a turbo pump throttle valve fluidly coupled to a working fluid circuit and disposed upstream of a turbine inlet on a drive turbine of a turbo pump, a primary governing loop controller configured to maintain a desirable value of the inlet pressure by modulating the turbo pump throttle valve, and a secondary governing loop controller configured to detect an undesirable value of the inlet pressure and to increase the inlet pressure by modulating the turbo pump throttle valve. A start pump bypass valve may be fluidly coupled to a bypass line and disposed downstream of a pump outlet on a start pump and/or a turbo pump bypass valve may be fluidly coupled to the bypass line and disposed downstream of the turbo pump.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Provided herein are a heat engine system and a method for managing a working fluid in the heat engine system during an emergency shutdown. The heat engine system utilizes a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) contained within a working fluid circuit to absorb and transport heat. An inventory system is coupled to the working fluid circuit and configured to receive and store at least a portion of the working fluid in the working fluid circuit during an emergency shutdown process. An attemperation line is coupled to the working fluid circuit upstream one or more heat exchangers and configured to direct a portion of the working fluid flow around at least one or more heat exchangers, thereby managing the temperature of the working fluid in the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 27/00 - Plants for converting heat or fluid energy into mechanical energy, not otherwise provided for
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use

Abstract

Provided herein are heat engine systems and methods for cooling a power turbine while maintaining the dry gas seals (DGSs) free of contamination during shutdown procedures. One method includes activating a shutdown procedure by closing multiple valves coupled to the turbine to stop the working fluid passing therethrough and opening one or more turbine vent valves to provide seal gas to vent. The seal gas may flow from a seal gas conditioning system, through a DGS cavity, across a labyrinth seal, through a labyrinth seal cavity, the turbine, and the turbine vent line, and into a leak recapture storage vessel and/or the ambient atmosphere. One method further includes maintaining a storage tank pressure less than a reference pressure of the labyrinth seal cavity and maintaining a conditioning system pressure and a DGS cavity pressure greater than the reference pressure.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 15/00 - Adaptations of steam engine plants for special use
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators

Abstract

Provided herein is a heat engine system and a method for transforming energy, such as generating mechanical energy and/or electrical energy from thermal energy. The heat engine system may have one of several different configurations of a mass management system (MMS) fluidly coupled to a working fluid circuit. The MMS may be utilized to control the amount of working fluid added to, contained within, or removed from the working fluid circuit. The MMS may contain a mass control tank, an inventory transfer line, and system/tank transfer valves. The MMS may contain a transfer pump fluidly coupled to the inventory transfer line and configured to control the pressure in the inventory transfer line. The MMS may have two or more transfer lines, such as an inventory return line and valve, and an inventory supply line and valve.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/00 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for
• F01K 25/06 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using mixtures of different fluids
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use
• F01K 17/04 - Use of steam or condensate extracted or exhausted from steam engine plant for specific purposes other than heating
• F01D 15/10 - Adaptations for driving, or combinations with, electric generators

Abstract

A heat engine system and a method are provided for generating energy by transforming thermal energy into mechanical and/or electrical energy, and for controlling a thrust load applied to a turbopump of the heat engine system. The generation of energy may be optimized by controlling a thrust or net thrust load applied to a turbopump of the heat engine system. The heat engine system may include one or more valves, such as a turbopump throttle valve and/or a bearing drain valve, which may be modulated to control the thrust load applied to the turbopump during one or more modes of operating the heat engine system.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use
• F01K 23/02 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled
• F04D 27/00 - Control, e.g. regulation, of pumps, pumping installations or pumping systems specially adapted for elastic fluids
• F04D 29/00 - Details, component parts, or accessories

Abstract

Provided herein are a heat engine system and a method for generating energy, such as transforming thermal energy into mechanical energy and/or electrical energy. The heat engine system may have a single charging pump for efficiently implementing at least two independent tasks. The charging pump may be utilized to remove working fluid (e.g., CO2) from and/or to add working fluid into a working fluid circuit during inventory control of the working fluid. The charging pump may be utilized to transfer or otherwise deliver the working fluid as a cooling agent to bearings contained within a bearing housing of a system component during a startup process. The heat engine system may also have a mass control tank utilized with the charging pump and configured to receive, store, and distribute the working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F28D 20/00 - Heat storage plants or apparatus in generalRegenerative heat-exchange apparatus not covered by groups or
• F28D 17/00 - Regenerative heat-exchange apparatus in which a stationary intermediate heat-transfer medium or body is contacted successively by each heat-exchange medium, e.g. using granular particles

Abstract

Provided herein are heat engine systems and methods for transforming energy, such as generating mechanical energy and/or electrical energy from thermal energy. The heat engine systems may have one of several different configurations of a working fluid circuit. One configuration of the heat engine system contains at least four heat exchangers and at least three recuperators sequentially disposed on a high pressure side of the working fluid circuit between a system pump and an expander. Another configuration of the heat engine system contains a low-temperature heat exchanger and a recuperator disposed upstream of a split flowpath and downstream of a recombined flowpath in the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 15/00 - Adaptations of steam engine plants for special use
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use
• F01K 25/00 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 25/14 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours using industrial or other waste gases

Abstract

Provided herein are heat engine systems and methods for transforming energy, such as generating mechanical energy and/or electrical energy from thermal energy. The heat engine systems may have one of several different configurations of a working fluid circuit. One configuration of the heat engine system contains at least four heat exchangers and at least three recuperators sequentially disposed on a high pressure side of the working fluid circuit between a system pump and an expander. Another configuration of the heat engine system contains a low-temperature heat exchanger and a recuperator disposed upstream of a split flowpath and downstream of a recombined flowpath in the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/00 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for
• F01K 25/14 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours using industrial or other waste gases
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 15/00 - Adaptations of steam engine plants for special use
• F01K 23/18 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids characterised by adaptation for specific use

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention generally provide a heat engine system, a method for generating electricity, and an algorithm for controlling the heat engine system which are configured to efficiently transform thermal energy of a waste heat stream into electricity. In one embodiment, the heat engine system utilizes a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within a working fluid circuit for absorbing the thermal energy that is transformed to mechanical energy by a turbine and electrical energy by a generator. The heat engine system further contains a control system operatively connected to the working fluid circuit and enabled to monitor and control parameters of the heat engine system by manipulating a power turbine throttle valve to adjust the flow of the working fluid. A control algorithm containing multiple system controllers may be utilized by the control system to adjust the power turbine throttle valve while maximizing efficiency of the heat engine system.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

Provided herein are heat engine systems and methods for starting such systems and generating electricity while avoiding damage to one or more system components. A provided heat engine system maintains a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within the low pressure side of a working fluid circuit in a liquid-type state, such as a supercritical state, during a startup procedure. Additionally, a bypass system is provided for routing the working fluid around one or more heat exchangers during startup to avoid overheating of system components.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention generally provide a heat engine system, a method for generating electricity, and an algorithm for controlling the heat engine system which are configured to efficiently transform thermal energy of a waste heat stream into electricity. In one embodiment, the heat engine system utilizes a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within a working fluid circuit for absorbing the thermal energy that is transformed to mechanical energy by a turbine and electrical energy by a generator. The heat engine system further contains a control system operatively connected to the working fluid circuit and enabled to monitor and control parameters of the heat engine system by manipulating a power turbine throttle valve to adjust the flow of the working fluid. A control algorithm containing multiple system controllers may be utilized by the control system to adjust the power turbine throttle valve while maximizing efficiency of the heat engine system.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

2). The system further contains a power turbine configured to convert thermal energy to mechanical energy, a motor-generator configured to convert the mechanical energy into electricity, and a pump configured to circulate the working fluid within the working fluid circuit. The system further contains a heat exchanger configured to transfer thermal energy from a heat source stream to the working fluid, a recuperator configured to transfer thermal energy from the low pressure side to the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit, and a condenser (e.g., air- or fluid-cooled) configured to remove thermal energy from the working fluid within the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• H02K 7/18 - Structural association of electric generators with mechanical driving motors, e.g.with turbines
• F01D 1/00 - Non-positive-displacement machines or engines, e.g. steam turbines
• F01K 9/00 - Steam engine plants characterised by condensers arranged or modified to co-operate with the engines
• F01K 11/00 - Steam engine plants characterised by the engines being structurally combined with boilers or condensers
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F02C 1/04 - Gas-turbine plants characterised by the use of hot gases or unheated pressurised gases, as the working fluid the working fluid being heated indirectly

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide heat engine systems and methods for recovering energy, such as by generating electricity from thermal energy. In one configuration, a heat engine system contains a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) within a working fluid circuit, two heat exchangers configured to be thermally coupled to a heat source (e.g., waste heat), two expanders, two recuperators, two pumps, a condenser, and a plurality of valves configured to switch the system between single/dual-cycle modes. In another aspect, a method for recovering energy may include monitoring a temperature of the heat source, operating the heat engine system in the dual-cycle mode when the temperature is equal to or greater than a threshold value, and subsequently, operating the heat engine system in the single-cycle mode when the temperature is less than the threshold value.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide heat engine systems and methods for generating electricity. In one configuration, a heat engine system contains a working fluid circuit having high and low pressure sides and containing a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2). The system further contains a power turbine configured to convert thermal energy to mechanical energy, a motor-generator configured to convert the mechanical energy into electricity, and a pump configured to circulate the working fluid within the working fluid circuit. The system further contains a heat exchanger configured to transfer thermal energy from a heat source stream to the working fluid, a recuperator configured to transfer thermal energy from the low pressure side to the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit, and a condenser (e.g., air- or fluid-cooled) configured to remove thermal energy from the working fluid within the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Aspects of the invention disclosed herein generally provide heat engine systems and methods for recovering energy, such as by generating electricity from thermal energy. Generally, the heat engine system has a working fluid circuit containing a working fluid (e.g., sc-CO2) for absorbing thermal energy from the heat source stream via a heat exchanger. In one aspect, the method includes controlling a power turbine by modulating a turbo pump throttle valve and a power turbine bypass valve to adjust the flowrate of the working fluid entering the power turbine while monitoring and controlling process operation parameters of the heat engine system to synchronize the frequency of the power generator to the frequency of the electrical grid during a synchronization process.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Aspects of the invention provided herein include heat engine systems, methods for generating electricity, and methods for starting a turbo pump. In some configurations, the heat engine system contains a start pump and a turbo pump disposed in series along a working fluid circuit and configured to circulate a working fluid within the working fluid circuit. The start pump may have a pump portion coupled to a motor-driven portion and the turbo pump may have a pump portion coupled to a drive turbine. In one configuration, the pump portion of the start pump is fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit downstream of and in series with the pump portion of the turbo pump. In another configuration, the pump portion of the start pump is fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit upstream of and in series with the pump portion of the turbo pump.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F02G 5/00 - Profiting from waste heat of combustion engines, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to hybrid power systems for vehicles. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to hybrid power systems for various types of transportation vehicles where the hybrid power systems is partially, or even totally, based on the use of at least one hydraulic system to provide supplemental, or even the primary, motion power for a hybrid vehicle. In another embodiment, the hybrid power systems of the present invention are capable of providing both motion power as well as cabin comfort heating and/or cooling. In still another embodiment, a hybrid vehicle according to the present invention comprises a power generating system and passenger cabin comfort system, wherein the power generating system comprises a thermodynamic working fluid (FA) in a first thermodynamic cycle (C1), a pump (P1), a motor (M1), a high pressure accumulator, a low pressure reservoir, and at least one heat exchanger, wherein the thermodynamic working fluid (FA) is concurrently operable to create either vehicle motion through the motor (M1) or electricity through a generator and is operable to create passenger cabin cooling or heating through the expansion or contraction of the thermodynamic working fluid (FA).

IPC Classes  ?

• B60K 6/00 - Arrangement or mounting of plural diverse prime-movers for mutual or common propulsion, e.g. hybrid propulsion systems comprising electric motors and internal combustion engines
• B60K 25/10 - Auxiliary drives directly from oscillating movements due to vehicle running motion, e.g. suspension movement

Abstract

A thermodynamic cycle is disclosed and has a working fluid circuit that converts thermal energy into mechanical energy on hot days. A pump circulates a working fluid to a heat exchanger that heats the working fluid. The heated working fluid is then expanded in a power turbine. The expanded working fluid is then cooled and condensed using one or more compressors interposing at least two intercooling components. The intercooling components cool and condense the working fluid with a cooling medium derived at ambient temperature, where the ambient temperature is above the critical temperature of the working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 9/02 - Arrangements or modifications of condensate or air pumps

Abstract

Embodiments provide various thermodynamic power-generating cycles and systems employing a mass management system to regulate the pressure and amount of working fluid circulating throughout the working fluid circuits. The mass management system may have a mass control tank fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit at one or more strategically-located tie-in points. A heat exchanger coil may be used in conjunction with the mass control tank to regulate the temperature of the fluid within the mass control tank, and thereby determine whether working fluid is either extracted from or injected into the working fluid circuit. Regulating the pressure and amount of working fluid in the working fluid circuit selectively increases or decreases the suction pressure of the pump, which increases system efficiency.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 27/00 - Plants for converting heat or fluid energy into mechanical energy, not otherwise provided for

Abstract

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a heat pump system having a pump configured to transfer a solution from a first reservoir and into a second reservoir. The solution contains a refrigerant (e.g., CO2) and an absorbent, whereas the absorbent at least partially absorbs the refrigerant in the first reservoir and at least partially desorbs the refrigerant in the second reservoir to generate a gaseous refrigerant component. The system further contains a supercritical precooler fluidly coupled to the second reservoir and configured to extract thermal energy from the refrigerant component in a supercritical state, an expansion valve in fluid communication with the supercritical precooler and configured to reduce pressure and temperature of the refrigerant component. The system also contains a fluid turbine fluidly coupled to the second reservoir and configured to receive the solution and extract at least a portion of residual thermal energy therefrom.

IPC Classes  ?

• F25B 37/00 - AbsorbersAdsorbers
• F25B 11/02 - Compression machines, plants or systems, using turbines, e.g. gas turbines as expanders
• F25B 30/00 - Heat pumps

Abstract

A refrigeration cycle is operated in conjunction with various thermodynamic cycle working fluid circuits to cool a target fluid that may be used in a separate system or duty. In one embodiment, the refrigeration cycle includes an ejector that extracts a motive fluid from the working fluid cycles in order to entrain a suction fluid that is also extracted from the working fluid circuits. Expanding the suction fluid reduces the pressure and temperature of the suction fluid for cooling the target fluid in an evaporator, which evaporates the suction fluid before being entrained into the ejector by the motive fluid. A mixed fluid is discharged from the ejector and injected into the working fluid circuits upstream from a condenser that cools the mixed fluid and the working fluid circulating throughout the working fluid circuits.

IPC Classes  ?

• F25B 1/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems with non-reversible cycle
• F25B 41/00 - Fluid-circulation arrangements

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention generally provide a heat engine system, a mass management system (MMS), and a method for regulating pressure in the heat engine system while generating electricity. In one embodiment, the MMS contains a tank fluidly coupled to a pump, a turbine, a heat exchanger, an offload terminal, and a working fluid contained in the tank at a storage pressure. The working fluid may be at a system pressure proximal an outlet of the heat exchanger, at a low-side pressure proximal a pump inlet, and at a high-side pressure proximal a pump outlet. The MMS contains a controller communicably coupled to a valve between the tank and the heat exchanger outlet, a valve between the tank and the pump inlet, a valve between the tank and the pump outlet, and a valve between the tank and the offload terminal.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to heat pumps that utilize at least one solar receiver operating with the same working fluids. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a hybrid solar heat pump comprised of at least one microchannel heat exchanger with integral solar absorber, at least one compression device as the heat pump for concurrent compression to a higher pressure and mass flow regulator of the working fluid, and at least one working fluid accumulator with the entire system operating with the same working fluid.

IPC Classes  ?

• F25B 13/00 - Compression machines, plants or systems, with reversible cycle
• F25B 27/00 - Machines, plants or systems, using particular sources of energy
• F24D 11/02 - Central heating systems using heat accumulated in storage masses using heat pumps

Abstract

Systems and methods for recovering energy from waste heat are provided. The system includes a waste heat exchanger coupled to a source of waste heat to heat a first flow of a working fluid. The system also includes a first expansion device that receives the first flow from the waste heat exchanger and expands it to rotate a shaft. The system further includes a first recuperator coupled to the first expansion device and to receive the first flow therefrom and to transfer heat from the first flow to a second flow of the working fluid. The system also includes a second expansion device that receives the second flow from the first recuperator, and a second recuperator fluidly coupled to the second expansion device to receive the second flow therefrom and transfer heat from the second flow to a combined flow of the first and second flows.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 7/34 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being of extraction or non-condensing typeUse of steam for feed-water heating
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters

Abstract

Various thermodynamic power-generating cycles are disclosed. A turbopump arranged in the cycles is started and ramped-up using a starter pump arranged in parallel with the main pump of the turbopump. Once the turbopump is able to self-sustain, a series of valves may be manipulated to deactivate the starter pump and direct additional working fluid to a power turbine for generating electrical power.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01L 13/02 - Modifications of valve-gear to facilitate reversing, braking, starting, changing compression ratio, or other specific operations for reversing
• B01D 19/00 - Degasification of liquids
• F01B 31/00 - Component parts, details or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, other groups
• F01K 19/00 - Regenerating or otherwise treating steam exhaust from steam engine plant
• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 7/32 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines using steam of critical or over-critical pressure

Abstract

Waste heat energy conversion cycles, systems and devices use multiple waste heat exchangers arranged in series in a waste heat stream, and multiple thermodynamic cycles run in parallel with the waste heat exchangers in order to maximize thermal energy extraction from the waste heat stream by a working fluid. The parallel cycles operate in different temperature ranges with a lower temperature work output used to drive a working fluid pump. A working fluid mass management system is integrated into or connected to the cycles.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02C 1/04 - Gas-turbine plants characterised by the use of hot gases or unheated pressurised gases, as the working fluid the working fluid being heated indirectly
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours
• F01K 3/22 - Controlling, e.g. starting, stopping
• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 23/04 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled condensation heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F22B 35/08 - Control systems for steam boilers for steam boilers of forced-flow type of forced-circulation type

Abstract

A system for converting thermal energy to work. The system includes a working fluid circuit, and a precooler configured to receive the working fluid. The system also includes a compression stages and intercoolers. At least one of the precooler and the intercoolers is configured to receive a heat transfer medium from a high temperature ambient environment. The system also includes heat exchangers coupled to a source of heat and being configured to receive the working fluid. The system also includes turbines coupled to one or more of the heat exchangers and configured to receive heated working fluid therefrom. The system further includes recuperators fluidly coupled to the turbines, the precooler, the compressor, and at least one of the heat exchangers. The recuperators transfer heat from the working fluid downstream from the turbines, to the working fluid upstream from at least one of the heat exchangers.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/04 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled condensation heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to a system that enables one to both: (i) address various thermal management issues (e.g., inlet air cooling) in gas turbines, gas turbine engines, industrial process equipment and/or internal combustion engines; and (ii) yield a supercritical fluid-based heat engine. In one embodiment, the present invention utilizes at least one working fluid selected from ammonia, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or other suitable working fluid medium. In another embodiment, the present invention utilizes carbon dioxide or ammonia as a working fluid to achieve a system that enables one to address inlet cooling issues in a gas turbine, internal combustion engine or other industrial application while also yielding a supercritical fluid based heat engine as a second cycle using the waste heat from the gas turbine and/or internal combustion engine to create a combined power cycle.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 23/10 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with exhaust fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to a system that enables one to address various thermal management issues in advanced gas turbine engines. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method to extract heat from an air stream, utilize a significant fraction for on-board power generation, and reject a small quantity of heat to the fuel stream safely at, for example, a lower temperature. In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method to extract heat from an air stream, utilize a significant fraction for on-board power generation, and reject a small quantity of heat to the fuel stream safely at, for example, a lower temperature with no potential air/fuel contact is disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02C 7/08 - Heating air supply before combustion, e.g. by exhaust gases
• F02C 7/06 - Arrangement of bearingsLubricating
• F02K 3/115 - Heating the by-pass flow by means of indirect heat exchange
• F02C 7/12 - Cooling of plants
• F02C 7/16 - Cooling of plants characterised by cooling medium
• F02C 1/06 - Gas-turbine plants characterised by the use of hot gases or unheated pressurised gases, as the working fluid the working fluid being heated indirectly characterised by the type or source of heat, e.g. using nuclear or solar energy using reheated exhaust gas
• F02C 3/34 - Gas-turbine plants characterised by the use of combustion products as the working fluid with recycling of part of the working fluid, i.e. semi-closed cycles with combustion products in the closed part of the cycle
• F02C 6/18 - Plural gas-turbine plantsCombinations of gas-turbine plants with other apparatusAdaptations of gas-turbine plants for special use using the waste heat of gas-turbine plants outside the plants themselves, e.g. gas-turbine power heat plants
• F02C 7/14 - Cooling of plants of fluids in the plant
• F02C 7/224 - Heating fuel before feeding to the burner

Abstract

Various thermodynamic power-generating cycles employ a mass management system to regulate the pressure and amount of working fluid circulating throughout the working fluid circuits. The mass management systems may have a mass control tank fluidly coupled to the working fluid circuit at one or more strategically-located tie-in points. A heat exchanger coil may be used in conjunction with the mass control tank to regulate the temperature of the fluid within the mass control tank, and thereby determine whether working fluid is either extracted from or injected into the working fluid circuit. Regulating the pressure and amount of working fluid in the working fluid circuit helps selectively increase or decrease the suction pressure of the pump, which can increase system efficiency.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase

Abstract

Cascade thermodynamic energy conversion cycles use multiple power turbines in a working fluid circuit for conversion of waste heat energy, with each turbine inlet temperature optimized to operate in a temperature spectrum to use a greater amount of thermal energy from each cycle. Various accompanying recuperator arrangements are also disclosed, and working fluid mass management systems integrated with the cascade cycles.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 27/02 - Plants modified to use their waste heat, other than that of exhaust, e.g. engine-friction heat
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 23/16 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engines being mechanically coupled all the engines being turbines
• F01K 23/08 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with working fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle

Abstract

Cascade thermodynamic energy conversion cycles use multiple power turbines in a working fluid circuit for conversion of waste heat energy, with each turbine inlet temperature optimized to operate in a temperature spectrum to use a greater amount of thermal energy from each cycle. Various accompanying recuperator arrangements are also disclosed, and working fluid mass management systems integrated with the cascade cycles.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 23/08 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engine cycles being thermally coupled combustion heat from one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle with working fluid of one cycle heating the fluid in another cycle
• F01K 23/16 - Plants characterised by more than one engine delivering power external to the plant, the engines being driven by different fluids the engines being mechanically coupled all the engines being turbines
• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase
• F01K 27/02 - Plants modified to use their waste heat, other than that of exhaust, e.g. engine-friction heat

Abstract

Embodiments provide a power generation device that utilizes a working fluid containing carbon dioxide within a working fluid circuit having high and low pressure sides. Components of the device may include a heat exchanger configured to be in thermal communication with a heat source whereby thermal energy is transferred from the heat source to the working fluid, an expander located between the high and low pressure sides of the working fluid circuit and operative to convert a pressure drop in the working fluid to mechanical energy, a recuperator operative to transfer thermal energy between the high and low pressure sides, a cooler operative to control temperature of the working fluid in the low pressure side, a pump operative to circulate the working fluid through the working fluid circuit, and a mass management system configured to control an amount of working fluid mass in the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 13/00 - General layout or general methods of operation, of complete steam engine plants
• F01K 13/02 - Controlling, e.g. stopping or starting
• F01B 29/10 - Engines
• F02G 1/04 - Hot gas positive-displacement engine plants of closed-cycle type
• F01K 25/10 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours the vapours being cold, e.g. ammonia, carbon dioxide, ether
• F01K 3/18 - Plants characterised by the use of steam or heat accumulators, or intermediate steam heaters, therein having heaters
• F01K 7/16 - Steam engine plants characterised by the use of specific types of enginePlants or engines characterised by their use of special steam systems, cycles or processesControl means specially adapted for such systems, cycles or processesUse of withdrawn or exhaust steam for feed-water heating the engines being only of turbine type

Abstract

2) and having a high pressure side and a low pressure side. The method also includes regulating an amount of working fluid within the working fluid circuit via a mass management system having a working fluid vessel, pumping the working fluid through the working fluid circuit, and expanding the working fluid to generate mechanical energy. The method further includes directing the working fluid away from the expander through the working fluid circuit, controlling a flow of the working fluid in a supercritical state from the high pressure side to the working fluid vessel, and controlling a flow of the working fluid from the working fluid vessel to the low pressure side.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/08 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for using special vapours

Abstract

The present invention generally relates to a system that enables one to address various thermal management issues in advanced gas turbine engines. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a method to extract heat from an air stream, utilize a significant fraction for on-board power generation, and reject a small quantity of heat to the fuel stream safely at, for example, a lower temperature. In another embodiment, the present invention relates to a method to extract heat from an air stream, utilize a significant fraction for on-board power generation, and reject a small quantity of heat to the fuel stream safely at, for example, a lower temperature with no potential air/fuel contact is disclosed.

IPC Classes  ?

• F02K 3/115 - Heating the by-pass flow by means of indirect heat exchange

Abstract

A waste heat recovery system, method and device executes a thermodynamic cycle using a working fluid in a working fluid circuit which has a high pressure side and a low pressure side. Components of the system in the working fluid circuit include a waste heat exchanger in thermal communication with a waste heat source also connected to the working fluid circuit, whereby thermal energy is transferred from the waste heat source to the working fluid in the working fluid circuit, an expander located between the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit, the expander operative to convert a pressure/enthalpy drop in the working fluid to mechanical energy, a recuperator in the working fluid circuit operative to transfer thermal energy between the high pressure side and the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit, a cooler in thermal communication with the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit operative to control temperature of the working fluid in the low side of the working fluid circuit, a pump in the working fluid circuit and connected to the low pressure side and to the high pressure side of the working fluid circuit and operative to move the working fluid through the working fluid circuit, and a mass management system connected to the working fluid circuit, the mass management system, method and device having a working fluid vessel connected to the low pressure side of the working fluid circuit and configured to passively control an amount of working fluid mass in the working fluid circuit.

IPC Classes  ?

• F01K 25/02 - Plants or engines characterised by use of special working fluids, not otherwise provided forPlants operating in closed cycles and not otherwise provided for the fluid remaining in the liquid phase