Turbocompressor and system for a supercritical-fluid cycle
US9039349B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 27, 2010 |
| Grant date | May 26, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04D29/063
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A turbocompressor for use with a process fluid and including an axial expansion turbine for expanding the process fluid and a centrifugal compressor for compressing the process fluid. The turbine and compressor share a common shaft, all of which can be housed by a common housing that encloses sealed spaces. The axial expansion turbine has a rotor located between two main bearings, and the centrifugal compressor includes an impeller mounted to one end of the shaft. In one embodiment, the main bearings are lubricated by a portion of the process fluid so that the only fluid in the sealed spaces is the process fluid. The turbocompressor can be used in a power-cycle system that includes a heat source and, optionally, an electrical generator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.