Radiation shield for a gas fuel cycle

Abstract

A radiation shield is provided for blocking radiation at a gas turbine piping joint. The radiation shield is configured to surround the gas turbine piping joint. The radiation shield includes at least two shield sections in contact with each other at a pair of flange ends. The at least two shield sections together define an opening. Each of the at least two shield sections includes an inner shell, an outer shell, and insulation disposed between the inner shell and the outer shell. One of the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe joint support extending into the opening.

Description

AREA

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to radiation shields for a gas fuel cycle. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to radiation shields for a gas fuel cycle of a gas turbine engine. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Turbomachinery is used in a variety of industries and applications for power transmission purposes. For example, a gas turbine engine generally includes a compressor section, a combustion section, a turbine section, and an exhaust section. The compressor section progressively increases the pressure of a working fluid entering the gas turbine engine and delivers this compressed working fluid to the combustion section. The compressed working fluid and a fuel (e.g., natural gas) mix within the combustion section and burn in a combustion chamber to produce high-pressure, high-temperature combustion gases. The combustion gases flow from the combustion section into the turbine section, where they expand to produce work. For example, expansion of the combustion gases in the turbine section can rotate a rotor shaft, e.g.connected to a generator to produce electricity. The spent combustion gases then leave the gas turbine as exhaust gases via the exhaust section.

[0003] A gas turbine fuel system supplies gaseous fuel to the combustion section, where it is burned to generate electricity. Gas fuel systems generally include manifolds and piping for gas delivery, gas control valves, gas stop ratio valves, and electrical components housed within a gas fuel module enclosure. As such, the gas fuel module enclosure typically includes a venting system to vent any gas leaks within the enclosure. In addition, a separate leak detection system is used to detect any potential fuel leaks from components within the enclosure.

[0004] The gaseous fuel is conveyed through gas fuel delivery components within the casing, such as piping, manifolds, connecting flanges, and / or valves, for delivery to the combustion section of the gas turbine engine. The gas fuel delivery components are typically at a very high temperature (due to the high temperature of the gaseous fuel flowing through them), which can lead to harmful radiative heat transfer between the gas fuel delivery components and other components within the casing (such as electrical devices, electrical wiring, and / or the ventilation system).

[0005] Due to the risk of explosion, conventional insulation (such as thermal insulation jackets) must not be used on gas fuel delivery components. For example, if a gas fuel leak occurs in one or more of the gas fuel delivery components, the gas fuel may become trapped within the insulation, potentially creating an explosion hazard. Furthermore, trapped gaseous fuel may not be detected by a gas fuel leak detection system within the enclosure.

[0006] Therefore, an improved system for preventing radiant heat transfer from the gas fuel delivery components within the enclosure is desired. In particular, an improved system for preventing radiant heat transfer from the gas fuel delivery components without creating a risk of explosion within the enclosure is desirable and would be desirable in the art. SHORT DESCRIPTION

[0007] Aspects and advantages of the radiation shield and gas fuel delivery system according to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, or may be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practicing the technology.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a radiation shield is provided for blocking radiation at a gas turbine piping joint. The radiation shield includes at least two shield sections that contact each other at a pair of flange ends. The at least two shield sections together define an opening such that the radiation shield is configured to surround a gas turbine piping joint. Each of the at least two shield sections includes an inner shell, an outer shell, and insulation disposed between the inner shell and the outer shell. Either the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe joint bracket that extends into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the gas turbine piping joint.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a gas fuel supply system for a gas turbine engine is provided. The gas fuel supply system includes a gas fuel supply and an accessory system fluidly coupled to a plurality of combustion canisters in a combustion section of the gas turbine engine. The gas fuel supply system further includes a housing and a gas fuel circuit disposed at least partially within the housing. The gas fuel circuit is fluidly coupled to the gas fuel supply and fluidly coupled to the accessory system. The gas fuel circuit includes a piping junction within the housing. A radiation shield surrounds the piping junction. The radiation shield includes at least two shield sections that contact each other at a pair of flange ends.The at least two shield sections together define an opening. Each of the at least two shield sections includes an inner shell, an outer shell, and insulation disposed between the inner shell and the outer shell. Either the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe connection bracket extending into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the pipe connection point.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present radiation shield and gas fuel delivery system will be better understood by reference to the following description and the appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] A complete and practical disclosure of the present radiation shield and gas fuel delivery system, including the best mode of making and using the present systems and methods, directed to those skilled in the art, is set forth in the patent specification, which refers to the accompanying figures, wherein: Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a turbomachine (e.g., a gas turbine engine) according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a gas fuel delivery system for a gas turbine engine according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 3 illustrates a back-to-front perspective view of a portion of a gas fuel cycle and a radiation shield according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 4 is an enlarged view of the section of the gas fuel circuit and the radiation shield as shown in Fig. 3, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 5 a perspective view of the radiation shield of Fig. 2 to 4 according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 6 an enlarged side view of the radiation shield of Fig. 2 to 5 according to embodiments of the present disclosure; Fig. 7 an enlarged perspective view of the radiation shield of Fig. 2 to 6, in which the radiation shield appears partially exploded, according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and Fig. 8 is an exploded view of a shield section of the radiation shield of Fig. 2 to 7 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present radiation shield and gas fuel delivery system, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided to illustrate the technology, not to limit the technology. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made to the present technology without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed technology. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to yield yet another embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present disclosure cover such changes and modifications insofar as they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0013] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described herein as "exemplary" should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. In addition, unless expressly identified otherwise, all embodiments described herein are to be considered exemplary.

[0014] In the detailed description, numerical and letter designations are used to refer to features in the drawings. The same or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to the same or similar parts of the invention. As used herein, the terms "first," "second," and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to denote the location or importance of individual components.

[0015] The term "fluid" can refer to a gas or a liquid. The term "fluid communication" means that a fluid is capable of establishing the connection between the aforementioned areas.

[0016] As used herein, the terms "upstream" (or "front") and "downstream" (or "rear") refer to the relative direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid path. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which the fluid is flowing, and "downstream" refers to the direction in which the fluid is flowing. However, as used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" can also refer to electrical flow. The term "radial" refers to the relative direction that is substantially perpendicular to an axial centerline of a particular component, the term "axial" refers to the relative direction that is substantially parallel and / or coaxial with an axial centerline of a particular component, and the term "circumferential" refers to the relative direction that extends around the axial centerline of a particular component.

[0017] Approximate terms such as "about," "approximately," "generally," and "substantially" are not limited to the precisely specified value. In at least some cases, the approximate language may correspond to the accuracy of an instrument used to measure value or the accuracy of the processes or machinery used to construct or manufacture the components and / or systems. In at least some cases, the approximate language may correspond to the accuracy of an instrument used to measure value or the accuracy of the processes or machinery used to construct or manufacture the components and / or systems. For example, the approximate language may refer to being within a range of 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, 15, or 20 percent, either for individual values, for one or more ranges of values, and / or for endpoints that define one or more ranges of values.When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include values ​​within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, "generally vertical" or "substantially vertical" includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction, such as clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0018] The terms "coupled," "attached," "attached to," and the like refer to both direct coupling, attachment, or attachment, as well as indirect coupling, attachment, or attachment through one or more intervening components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. When a component is described as "directly coupled," "directly attached," or "directly attached" or the like to another component, no intervening layers or components are present.

[0019] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, subject, or device that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to those features, but may also include other features not expressly listed or inherent in the process, method, subject, or device.

[0020] The term “conduit” as used herein may refer to a fluid-carrying conduit, such as a pipe, manifold, hose, tube, or other suitable fluid-carrying conduit.

[0021] Here and throughout the specification and claims, in embodiments where range constraints are combined and interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein, unless the context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of endpoints, and the endpoints of overlapping ranges are independently combinable.

[0022] Now referring to the drawings, Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of one embodiment of a turbomachine, which in the illustrated embodiment is a gas turbine engine 10. Although an industrial or land-based gas turbine is shown and described herein, the present disclosure is not limited to an industrial and / or land-based gas turbine unless otherwise specified in the claims. For example, the assemblies and systems described herein may be used in any type of turbomachine, including, but not limited to, a steam turbine, an aircraft gas turbine, or a marine gas turbine.

[0023] As shown, the gas turbine engine 10 generally includes an inlet section 12, a compressor section 14 downstream of the inlet section 12, a plurality of combustors (not shown) within a combustion section 16 downstream of the compressor section 14, a turbine section 18 downstream of the combustion section 16, and an exhaust section 20 downstream of the turbine section 18. Additionally, the gas turbine engine 10 may include one or more shafts 22 coupled between the compressor section 14 and the turbine section 18.

[0024] The compressor section 14 may generally include a plurality of rotor disks 24 (one of which is shown) and a plurality of rotor blades 26 extending radially outward from and connected to a respective rotor disk 24. Each rotor disk 24 may, in turn, be coupled to or form an upstream portion of the shaft 22 extending through the compressor section 14.

[0025] The turbine section 18 may generally include a plurality of rotor disks 28 (one of which is shown) and a plurality of rotor blades 30 extending radially outward from and connected to a respective rotor disk 28. Each rotor disk 28 may, in turn, be coupled to or form a downstream portion of the shaft 22 extending through the turbine section 18. The turbine section 18 further includes an outer casing 31 circumferentially surrounding the downstream portion of the shaft 22 and the rotor blades 30, thereby at least partially defining a hot gas path 32 through the turbine section 18.

[0026] In exemplary embodiments, the gas turbine 10 may further include a gas fuel supply system 100 fluidly coupled to the combustion section 16. The gas fuel supply system 100 may supply gaseous fuel (such as natural gas, hydrogen, or other gaseous fuel) to the combustion section 16.

[0027] During operation, a working fluid, such as air, flows through the inlet section 12 and into the compressor section 14, where the air is progressively compressed, providing compressed air to the combustion chambers of the combustion section 16. The compressed air is mixed with fuel (e.g., gaseous fuel from the gas fuel delivery system 100) and combusted within each combustion chamber to produce combustion gases 34. The combustion gases 34 flow through the hot gas path 32 from the combustion section 16 into the turbine section 18, where energy (kinetic and / or thermal) from the combustion gases 34 is transferred to the rotor blades 30, causing the shaft 22 to rotate. The mechanical rotational energy can then be used to power the compressor section 14 and / or generate electricity.The combustion gases 34 exiting the turbine section 18 can then be expelled from the gas turbine 10 via the exhaust section 20 as exhaust gas.

[0028] With reference now to Fig. Figure 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a gas fuel delivery system 100 for the gas turbine engine 10 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the gas fuel delivery system 100 may be fluidly coupled to the combustion section 16 of the gas turbine engine 10. For example, the combustion section 16 may include a plurality of combustion canisters 17, and the gas fuel delivery system 100 may be fluidly coupled to each combustion canister 17 of the plurality of combustion canisters 17, as discussed below.

[0029] The gas fuel supply system 100 may include a gas fuel supply 102, an accessory system 104, a housing 106, and a gas fuel circuit 108 disposed at least partially within the housing 106. The gas fuel supply 102 may be a tank, container, reservoir, pipeline, or other source of gaseous fuel (such as natural gas, hydrogen, or other gaseous fuel). The gas fuel supply 102 may be fluidly coupled to the gas fuel circuit 108 via an inlet conduit 110, and the gas fuel circuit 108 may be fluidly coupled to the accessory system 104 via an outlet conduit 111.

[0030] In exemplary embodiments, the gas fuel circuit 108 may include, in serial flow order, the inlet line 110, a manifold 118, a branch line 120, a pump line 124, and the outlet line 111. The inlet line 110 may extend between and fluidly couple the gas fuel supply 102 and the manifold 118. The manifold 118 may extend between and fluidly couple the inlet line 110 and the branch line 120. The branch line 120 may extend between and fluidly couple the manifold 118 and the pump line 124. The pump conduit 124 may be a T-shaped channel having a first end fluidly coupled to a pump 125, a second end opposite the first end and fluidly coupled to the outlet conduit 111, and a third end axially offset from the first and second ends and fluidly coupled to the branch conduit 120.

[0031] In many embodiments, a piping joint 122 may be disposed between the branch line 120 and the pump line 124. For example, the pump line 124 may include a first flange 130, and the branch line 120 may include a second flange 132, which may be coupled together to form the piping joint 122. In particular, the first flange 130 of the pump line 124 may be coupled to the second flange 132 of the branch line 120, thereby forming the piping joint 122 that fluidly couples the pump line 124 to the branch line 120.

[0032] The housing 106 may include walls 107 that collectively surround a majority of the gas fuel circuit 108. The housing 106 may be disposed on a floor 101 (such as the earth or a concrete slab). In exemplary embodiments, the housing 106 may define an interior space 105 (e.g., the interior space may be defined by the walls 107 and / or the floor 101 collectively). The various components of the gas fuel circuit 108 may be disposed within the interior space 105 of the housing 106.

[0033] As in Fig. 2, the enclosure 106 may be equipped with a ventilation system 150 and a gas detection system 154 (e.g., a gas leak detection system), each in operative communication with a controller 300. The gas detection system 154 may include one or more sensors 156 configured to measure data indicative of the presence of gaseous fuel within the interior 105 of the enclosure 106. For example, the controller 300 may determine, based at least in part on the data indicative of the presence of gaseous fuel within the interior 105, that a fuel leak has occurred in the gaseous fuel circuit 108 within the enclosure 106. In response, the controller 300 may activate the ventilation system 150.For example, the ventilation system 150 may include one or more pumps 152 that are fluidly coupled to the interior space 105 and fluidly coupled to the atmosphere. Activating the pump 152 removes any leaked gaseous fuel from the interior space 105 (i.e., the interior space 105 is evacuated).

[0034] Furthermore, in many embodiments, electrical devices 158 and electrical wires 160 may be disposed within the housing 106 (i.e., within the interior space 105). The electrical devices 158 may include pumps, valves, sensors, or other electrical devices. The electrical wires 160 (or other electrical couplings) may include power cables, data cables, or other electrical wires 160. The gaseous fuel flowing through the gas fuel circuit 108 within the housing may be at a high temperature (such as between about 300°F and about 600°F, or between about 150°C and about 315°C). Therefore, the electrical devices 158 and the electrical wires 160 (as well as other devices within the housing 106) may be susceptible to damage from radiant heat transfer from the various components of the gas fuel circuit 108.

[0035] The accessory system 104 is fluidly coupled to each combustion vessel 17 of the plurality of combustion vessels 17. For example, the accessory system 104 may include a connecting conduit 112 and a distribution ring 114. The connecting conduit 112 may extend between a connecting flange 116 and the distribution ring 114. The connecting conduit 112 may be fluidly coupled to the outlet conduit 111 of the gas fuel circuit 108 outside the casing 106. That is, the outlet conduit 111 may extend through a wall 107 of the casing and be fluidly coupled to the connecting conduit 112 of the accessory system 104. The distribution ring 114 may extend about an axial centerline of the gas turbine 10 and be fluidly coupled to each of the combustion vessels 17.

[0036] In exemplary embodiments, a radiation shield 200 may be disposed within the housing 106 (e.g., within the interior space 105). The radiation shield 200 may surround the piping junction 122 to prevent damage to other components within the housing 106 (such as the electrical devices 158, the electrical wires 160, or others) due to radiant heat transfer from the piping junction 122.

[0037] With reference to Fig. 3 and Fig. In Figure 4, each figure illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the gas fuel circuit 108 within the housing 106 and the radiation shield 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, the radiation shield 200 may surround the piping junction 122. The pump conduit 124 may include a first flange 130, and the branch conduit 120 may include a second flange 132, which may be coupled together to form the piping junction 122. For example, as shown, the first flange 130 and the second flange 132 may be removably coupled via a plurality of fasteners 134, e.g., threaded fasteners (such as threaded nuts and bolts). Alternatively, the first flange 130 and the second flange 132 may be fixedly coupled (via a weld or brazed joint).

[0038] The radiation shield 200 may include at least two shield sections, e.g., a first or inner shield section 210 and a second or outer shield section 212, which contact each other at a pair of flange joints 214. In exemplary embodiments, the at least two shield sections (e.g., the first shield section 210 and the second shield section 212) may collectively define an opening 226. The piping joint 122 may be disposed within the opening 226. In exemplary embodiments, the radiation shield 200 may include a first flange end 215 and a second flange end 217, as shown. In such embodiments, the first shield section 210 and the second shield section 212 may contact each other at the first flange end 215 and the second flange end 217 when the inner and outer shield sections 210, 212 are assembled at the piping joint 122.This advantageously allows the radiation shield 200 to be quickly disassembled for repair and / or inspection of the pipe joint 122.

[0039] The inner shield section 210 and the outer shield section 212 can be separately mounted to the pipeline connection point 122 via a pipe connection bracket 204. For example, the pipe connection bracket 204 can extend into the opening 226 and couple to the first flange 130 and / or the second flange 132 of the pipeline connection point 122. One of an inner shell 228 or an outer shell 230 of each shield section 210, 212 can enclose the pipe connection bracket 204. At least one of the plurality of fasteners 134 can extend through the pipe connection bracket 204 of the inner shield section 210 to couple the inner shield section 210 to the pipeline connection point 122. For example, at least one of the plurality of fasteners 134 may extend through the pipe connection bracket 204 of the inner shield section 210 and through the pipe connection point 122 (e.g.,through the first flange 130 and the second flange 132) to couple the inner shield portion 210 to the piping joint 122. Similarly, at least one of the plurality of fasteners 134 may extend through the piping joint bracket 204 of the outer shield portion 212 to couple the outer shield portion 212 to the piping joint 122. For example, at least one of the plurality of fasteners 134 may extend through the piping joint bracket 204 of the outer shield portion 212 and through the piping joint 122 (e.g., through the first flange 130 and the second flange 132) to couple the outer shield portion 212 to the piping joint 122.

[0040] With reference to Fig. 5 to 8 illustrate various views of a radiation shield 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In particular, Fig. 5 a perspective view of the radiation shield 200. Fig. Figure 6 illustrates an enlarged side view of the radiation shield 200. Fig. 7 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the radiation shield 200 in which the radiation shield 200 appears partially exploded. Fig. 8 illustrates an exploded view of a shield portion 205 (such as the inner shield portion 210 or the outer shield portion 212) of the radiation shield 200 according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] The radiation shield 200 may define the opening 226 (which may have a circular cross-section, e.g., a circular opening) and an axial centerline 201. For example, the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may jointly define the opening 226. In operation, the piping connection point 122 may be disposed within the opening 226 (as shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4). The axial centerline 201 may extend through a center point of the opening 226. The radiation shield 200 may define a cylindrical coordinate system with an axial direction A extending along the axial centerline 201, a radial direction R orthogonal (or perpendicular) to the axial centerline 201, and a circumferential direction C extending around the axial centerline 201.

[0042] As described in more detail below, the inner shield portion 210 and the outer shield portion 212 may each include an inner shell 228, an outer shell 230 (at least partially radially spaced from the inner shell 228), and an insulation 232 disposed between the inner shell 228 and the outer shell 230. The inner shell 228 of the inner shield portion 210 and the inner shell 228 of the outer shield portion 212 may together define the opening 226. As shown in Fig. 6 (e.g., by the dashed line representing the outermost surface 123 of the pipe joint 122), the outermost diameter 127 of the pipe joint 122 may be smaller than the innermost diameter 227 of the radiation shield 200 (which is collectively defined by the inner shell 228 of the inner and outer shield sections 210, 212).

[0043] In other words, the innermost diameter 227 may be between about 10% and about 50% larger than the outermost diameter 127 of the tubing joint 122, or such as between about 20% and about 40%, or such as between about 25% and about 35%. Furthermore, a distance 234 may be defined between the inner shell 228 and the outermost surface 123 of the tubing joint 122. The distance 234 may be between about 0.25 inches and about 3 inches (i.e., between about 0.6 cm and about 7.6 cm), or such as between about 0.5 inches and about 2 inches (i.e., between about 1.3 cm and about 5.1 cm), or such as between about 0.75 inches and about 1.5 inches (i.e., between about 1.9 cm and about 3.8 cm), or such as about 1 inch (i.e., about 2.54 cm). The distance 234 may advantageously provide ventilation (e.g., airflow) between the piping connection point 122 and the radiation shield 200.Therefore, in the event of a gas fuel leak from the pipe joint 122, sufficient airflow may be present to allow the fuel to vent or release the pipe joint 122 (e.g., via the vent system 150) without risk of explosion within the enclosure 106.

[0044] The first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may be in contact with each other at the first flange end 215 and the second flange end 217 when mounted at the pipe joint 122. This advantageously allows the radiation shield 200 to be quickly disassembled for repair and / or inspection of the pipe joint 122.

[0045] In exemplary embodiments, as in Fig. 8, the inner shell 228 of the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may include a first inner connecting flange 236 at the first flange end 215, a second inner connecting flange 238 at the second flange end 217, and an inner arcuate portion 240 extending between the first inner connecting flange 236 and the second inner connecting flange 238. Similarly, the outer shell 230 of the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may include a first outer connecting flange 242 at the first flange end 215, a second outer connecting flange 244 at the second flange end 217, and an outer arcuate portion 246 extending between the first outer connecting flange 242 and the second outer connecting flange 244.

[0046] The first inner and first outer connecting flanges 236, 242 of the first shield section 210 and the second shield section 212 can be stacked together to form the first flange end 215 of the radiation shield 200 (as shown in Fig. 5). For example, the first inner and first outer connecting flanges 236, 242 of the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may each be formed as flat (or planar) plates that are generally parallel to one another, such that the first inner and first outer connecting flanges 236, 242 may be stacked within one another and in flush contact with one another. In particular, the first inner connecting flange 236 of the first shield portion 210, the first outer connecting flange 242 of the first shield portion 210, the first outer connecting flange 242 of the second shield portion 212, and the first inner connecting flange 236 of the second shield portion 212 may be stacked within one another to collectively form the first flange end 215 (also referred to as a first stacked flange end or first flange connection).

[0047] Likewise, the second inner and second outer connecting flanges 238, 244 of the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 can be stacked together to form the second flange end 217 of the radiation shield 200.

[0048] For example, the second inner and second outer connecting flanges 238, 244 of the first shield portion 210 and the second shield portion 212 may each be formed as flat (or planar) plates that are generally parallel to each other, such that the second inner and second outer connecting flanges 238, 244 may be stacked inside each other and in flush contact with each other. Specifically, the second inner connecting flange 238 of the first shield portion 210, the second outer connecting flange 244 of the first shield portion 210, the second outer connecting flange 244 of the second shield portion 212, and the second inner connecting flange 238 of the second shield portion 212 may be stacked inside each other to collectively form the second flange end 217 (also referred to as the second stacked flange end or the second flange connection).

[0049] As in Fig. 8, which illustrates an exploded view of a shield portion 205 (such as the first shield portion 210 and / or the second shield portion 212), the insulation 232 may have a semicircular cross-sectional shape and may extend between a first terminal end 250 and a second terminal end 252. In other words, the insulation 232 may have the shape of a hollow half-cylinder and may be disposed between (e.g., radially between) the inner arcuate portion 240 and the outer arcuate portion 246. The inner arcuate portion 240 and the outer arcuate portion 246 may have a semicircular cross-sectional shape.

[0050] In exemplary embodiments, the first inner connecting flange 236 and the second inner connecting flange 238 extend radially outward over the insulation 232. That is, the first inner connecting flange 236 may extend radially outward from the inner arcuate portion 240 and over the first terminal end 250 of the insulation 232 such that the first inner connecting flange 236 contacts the first terminal end 250 of the insulation 232. Similarly, the second inner connecting flange 238 may extend radially outward from the inner arcuate portion 240 and over the second terminal end 252 of the insulation 232 such that the second inner connecting flange 238 contacts the second terminal end 252 of the insulation 232. This advantageously allows the insulation 232 to remain positioned between the inner arcuate portion 240 and the outer arcuate portion 246.

[0051] The first outer connecting flange 242 and the second outer connecting flange 244 may each extend radially inward from the outer arcuate portion 246. For example, the first outer connecting flange 242 may extend radially inward from the outer arcuate portion 246 and over the first inner connecting flange 236 such that the first outer connecting flange 242 contacts the first inner connecting flange 236. Similarly, the second outer connecting flange 244 may extend radially inward from the outer arcuate portion 246 and over the second inner connecting flange 238 such that the second outer connecting flange 244 contacts the second inner connecting flange 238.

[0052] In exemplary embodiments, a pipe connection bracket 204 may extend (generally radially inward) from each of the first outer connection flange 242 and the second outer connection flange 244 into the opening 226. In particular, a first pipe connection bracket 270 may extend from the first outer connection flange 242, and a second pipe connection bracket 272 may extend from the second outer connection flange 244.

[0053] As in Fig. 7 and Fig.8, each pipe joint bracket 204 may include a sidewall 274 and a pair of mounting walls 276 that are spaced apart from each other and extend from the sidewall 274. The sidewall 274 may extend generally perpendicularly from the first outer connecting flange 242 (or the second outer connecting flange 244). The pair of mounting walls 276 may be axially spaced apart from each other and may extend generally perpendicularly from the sidewall 274. For example, the pair of mounting walls 276 may include a first mounting wall 278 and a second mounting wall 280. The first mounting wall 278 and the second mounting wall 280 may be axially spaced apart from each other, may be generally parallel to each other, and may each extend generally perpendicularly from the sidewall 274.

[0054] Each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls 276 (e.g., the first mounting wall 278 and the second mounting wall 280) may extend generally perpendicularly from the sidewall 274 to a connecting end. The connecting end may include a straight portion 284 and a contoured portion 286. The contoured portion 286 may define an arc (or a portion of a circle) that may correspond to one of the tubes or other fluid passages in the gas fuel delivery system 100, such that the mounting walls 276 do not interfere with the tubes when the radiation shield 200 is mounted at a piping joint 122.

[0055] In exemplary embodiments, each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls 276 (e.g., the first mounting wall 278 and the second mounting wall 280) defines an aperture 290. The aperture 290 may be sized to correspond to the diameter of the fastener 134 so that the fastener 134 can extend through the aperture 290 of the first mounting wall 278, the tubing connection point 122, and the aperture 290 of the second mounting wall 280 to couple the shield portion 205 to the tubing connection point 122. In many embodiments, the aperture 290 may be circular. In various embodiments, the aperture 290 of the first mounting wall 278 may be aligned with the aperture 290 of the second mounting wall 280 such that a common axial line may extend through the center of both apertures 290 in the pair of mounting walls 276.

[0056] In many embodiments, as shown, the first inner connecting flange 236 and the second inner connecting flange 238 may each include a pair of tabs 254 disposed on opposite sides of the insulation 232 and in contact with the insulation 232. For example, a first pair of tabs 254 may extend generally perpendicularly from the first inner connecting flange 236, and a second pair of tabs 254 may extend generally perpendicularly from the second inner connecting flange 238. Each pair of tabs 254 may include a first tab 256 and a second tab 258 spaced apart (e.g., axially spaced apart) from the first tab 256. The first tab 256 and the second tab 258 may be generally parallel to each other and disposed on opposite sides of the insulation 232.

[0057] In various embodiments, the shield portion 205 of the radiation shield 200 may include one or more support brackets 260 coupled to the outer arcuate portion 246 and the inner arcuate portion 240. The support bracket 260 may include an axial portion 262 and radial portions 264. The axial portion 262 may extend along the outer arcuate portion 246, and the radial portions 264 may extend generally radially from the axial portion 262 on opposite sides of the insulation 232. The support bracket 260 may be coupled to the shield portion 205 via fasteners 266 (e.g., threaded fasteners such as nuts and bolts). For example, the fasteners 266 may extend through the axial portion 262 of the support bracket 260, the outer arcuate portion 246, the insulation 232, and the inner arcuate portion 240.The support bracket 260 may be positioned at the same distance between the first flange end 215 and the second flange end 217. That is, the brackets may be positioned at a 90-degree angle to the first flange end 215 and / or the second flange end 217 with respect to the axial centerline 201. This positioning advantageously provides increased structural integrity to the radiation shield 200 and prevents the insulation 232 from shifting or falling out between the inner shell 228 and the outer shell 230.

[0058] In various embodiments, insulation 232 may be a wool-type pipe insulation. In particular, insulation 232 may be a mandrel-wound mineral wool pipe insulation with a thermosetting resin binder, which may advantageously insulate in environments up to about 1200°F (about 650°C). Alternatively or additionally, insulation 232 may be a fiberglass-type insulation. In such embodiments, the insulation may include "E" type glass fibers needled together in a mat.

[0059] The radiation shield 200 disclosed herein advantageously prevents or blocks thermal radiation from the piping joint 122 from damaging other components within the housing 106. In particular, the radiation shield 200 advantageously prevents thermal damage to the electrical components within the housing 106 while simultaneously providing sufficient clearance between the radiation shield 200 and the piping joint 122 for adequate ventilation, thereby reducing the risk of gaseous fuel entrapment between the piping joint 122 and the radiation shield 200.By mounting the radiation shield 200 directly at the pipe joint 122, the space required for the radiation shield 200 is reduced, enabling installation in tight spaces; external structural support for the radiation shield 200 is eliminated, reducing manufacturing costs; and the time required to install the radiation shield 200 is reduced.

[0060] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial changes from the language of the claims.

[0061] Further aspects of the invention are provided by the subject matter of the following paragraphs: A radiation shield for blocking radiation at a gas turbine piping joint, the radiation shield comprising: at least two shield sections contacting each other at a pair of flange ends, the at least two shield sections together defining an opening such that the radiation shield is configured to surround a gas turbine piping joint, and each shield section of the at least two shield sections comprising: an inner shell; an outer shell; and insulation disposed between the inner shell and the outer shell, wherein one of the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe connection bracket extending into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the gas turbine piping connection.

[0062] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the insulation is disposed entirely within the radiation shield between the inner shell and the outer shell; and wherein the radiation shield is dimensioned to provide a clearance between the respective inner shells of the at least two shield sections and the gas turbine piping joint.

[0063] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pipe connection support includes a side wall and a pair of mounting walls spaced apart from each other and extending from the side wall; and wherein each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls defines an aperture.

[0064] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pair of flange ends comprises a first flange end and a second flange end; and wherein the second flange end is opposite the first flange end.

[0065] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the outer shell further comprises a first outer connecting flange at the first flange end, a second outer connecting flange at the second flange end, and an outer arcuate portion extending between the first outer connecting flange and the second outer connecting flange.

[0066] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pipe connection bracket is a first pipe connection bracket, the first pipe connection bracket extends from the first outer connection flange, and wherein a second pipe connection bracket extends from the second outer connection flange.

[0067] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the radiation shield includes one or more support brackets coupled to the outer arcuate portion.

[0068] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the inner shell further comprises a first inner connecting flange at the first flange end, a second inner connecting flange at the second flange end, and an inner arcuate portion extending between the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange.

[0069] The radiation shield according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange each comprise a pair of tabs disposed on opposite sides of the insulation and in contact with the insulation.

[0070] A gas fuel supply system for a gas turbine engine, the gas fuel supply system comprising: a gas fuel supply; an accessory system fluidly coupled to a plurality of combustion canisters in a combustion section of the gas turbine engine; a housing; a gas fuel circuit disposed at least partially within the housing, the gas fuel circuit fluidly coupled to the gas fuel supply and fluidly coupled to the accessory system, the gas fuel circuit including a piping connection point within the housing;and a radiation shield surrounding the pipe joint, the radiation shield comprising at least two shield sections in contact with each other at a pair of flange ends, the at least two shield sections together defining an opening, and each of the at least two shield sections comprising: an inner shell; an outer shell; and insulation disposed between the inner shell and the outer shell, one of the inner shell or the outer shell including a pipe joint bracket extending into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the pipe joint.

[0071] The gas fuel supply system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the gas fuel circuit further comprises a manifold, a branch line extending from the manifold to the piping connection point, a pump line extending from the piping connection point, and an outlet line extending from the pump line to the accessory system.

[0072] The gas fuel supply system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein electrical devices, electrical wires, a ventilation system and a gas detection system are arranged within the housing.

[0073] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the insulation is disposed entirely within the radiation shield between the inner shell and the outer shell; and wherein the radiation shield is dimensioned to provide a clearance between the respective inner shells of the at least two shield sections and the piping connection point.

[0074] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pipe connection support includes a side wall and a pair of mounting walls spaced apart from each other and extending from the side wall; and wherein each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls defines an aperture.

[0075] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pair of flange ends comprises a first flange end and a second flange end; and wherein the second flange end is opposite the first flange end.

[0076] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the outer shell further comprises a first outer connecting flange at the first flange end, a second outer connecting flange at the second flange end, and an outer arcuate portion extending between the first outer connecting flange and the second outer connecting flange.

[0077] The gas fuel supply system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the pipe connection bracket is a first pipe connection bracket, the first pipe connection bracket extends from the first outer connection flange, and wherein a second pipe connection bracket extends from the second outer connection flange.

[0078] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the radiation shield includes one or more support brackets coupled to the outer arcuate portion.

[0079] The gas fuel delivery system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the inner shell further comprises a first inner connecting flange at the first flange end, a second inner connecting flange at the second flange end, and an inner arcuate portion extending between the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange.

[0080] The gas fuel supply system according to one or more of these paragraphs, wherein the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange each comprise a pair of tabs disposed on opposite sides of the insulation and in contact with the insulation.

Claims

[1] A radiation shield for blocking radiation at a gas turbine piping joint, the radiation shield comprising: at least two shield sections in contact with each other at a pair of flange ends, the at least two shield sections together defining an opening such that the radiation shield is configured to surround a gas turbine piping joint, and each shield section of the at least two shield sections comprising: an inner shell; an outer shell; and Insulation placed between the inner shell and the outer shell, wherein one of the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe connection bracket extending into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the gas turbine pipe connection point. [2] The radiation shield of claim 1, wherein the insulation is disposed entirely within the radiation shield between the inner shell and the outer shell; and wherein the radiation shield is sized to provide a clearance between the respective inner shells of the at least two shield sections and the gas turbine piping joint. [3] The radiation shield of claim 1, wherein the pipe connection bracket includes a side wall and a pair of mounting walls spaced apart from each other and extending from the side wall; and wherein each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls defines an aperture. [4] The radiation shield of claim 1, wherein the pair of flange ends comprises a first flange end and a second flange end; and wherein the second flange end is opposite the first flange end. [5] The radiation shield of claim 4, wherein the outer shell further comprises a first outer connecting flange at the first flange end, a second outer connecting flange at the second flange end, and an outer arcuate portion extending between the first outer connecting flange and the second outer connecting flange. [6] The radiation shield according to claim 5, wherein the pipe joint bracket is a first pipe joint bracket, the first pipe joint bracket extends from the first outer connecting flange, and wherein a second pipe joint bracket extends from the second outer connecting flange. [7] The radiation shield of claim 5, wherein the radiation shield includes one or more support brackets coupled to the outer arcuate portion. [8] The radiation shield of claim 1, wherein the inner shell further comprises: a first inner connecting flange at the first flange end, a second inner connecting flange at the second flange end, and an inner arcuate portion extending between the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange. [9] The radiation shield of claim 8, wherein the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange each comprise a pair of tabs disposed on opposite sides of the insulation and in contact with the insulation. [10] A gas fuel supply system for a gas turbine engine, the gas fuel supply system comprising: a gas fuel supply; an accessory system fluidly coupled to a plurality of combustion canisters in a combustion section of the gas turbine engine; a housing; a gas fuel circuit disposed at least partially within the housing, the gas fuel circuit being fluidly coupled to the gas fuel supply and fluidly coupled to the accessory system, the gas fuel circuit comprising a pipe connection point within the housing; and a radiation shield surrounding the pipe joint, the radiation shield comprising at least two shield sections in contact with each other at a pair of flange ends, the at least two shield sections together defining an opening, and each of the at least two shield sections comprising: an inner shell; an outer shell; and Insulation placed between the inner shell and the outer shell, wherein one of the inner shell or the outer shell includes a pipe connection bracket extending into the opening to couple the radiation shield to the pipe connection point. [11] The gas fuel supply system of claim 10, wherein the gas fuel circuit further comprises a manifold, a branch line extending from the manifold to the piping connection point, a pump line extending from the piping connection point, and an outlet line extending from the pump line to the accessory system. [12] A gas fuel supply system according to claim 10, wherein electrical devices, electrical wires, a ventilation system and a gas detection system are arranged within the housing. [13] A gas fuel supply system according to claim 10, wherein the insulation is disposed entirely within the radiation shield between the inner shell and the outer shell; and wherein the radiation shield is sized to provide a clearance between the respective inner shells of the at least two shield sections and the piping joint. [14] The gas fuel supply system of claim 10, wherein the pipe joint support includes a side wall and a pair of mounting walls spaced apart from each other and extending from the side wall; and wherein each mounting wall of the pair of mounting walls defines an aperture. [15] The gas fuel supply system of claim 10, wherein the pair of flange ends comprises a first flange end and a second flange end; and wherein the second flange end is opposite the first flange end. [16] The gas fuel delivery system of claim 15, wherein the outer shell further comprises a first outer connecting flange at the first flange end, a second outer connecting flange at the second flange end, and an outer arcuate portion extending between the first outer connecting flange and the second outer connecting flange. [17] The gas fuel supply system of claim 16, wherein the pipe joint bracket is a first pipe joint bracket, the first pipe joint bracket extends from the first outer joint flange, and a second pipe joint bracket extends from the second outer joint flange. [18] The gas fuel delivery system of claim 16, wherein the radiation shield includes one or more support brackets coupled to the outer arcuate portion. [19] The gas fuel delivery system of claim 10, wherein the inner shell further comprises: a first inner connecting flange at the first flange end, a second inner connecting flange at the second flange end, and an inner arcuate portion extending between the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange. [20] The gas fuel supply system of claim 19, wherein the first inner connecting flange and the second inner connecting flange each comprise a pair of tabs disposed on opposite sides of the insulation and in contact with the insulation.

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