ABSTRACT
The rotor and recuperator section of a microturbine takes up less space than a beer keg and weighs only 165 pounds. Wrapped in a silvery space blanket, it can make electricity from a variety of fuels: natural gas, propane, landfill gas, digester gas, sour gas, kerosene, diesel oil, even gasoline. Running at 96,000 rpm, it is quieter than your vacuum cleaner when you stand beside it. It uses just one moving part, a spinning shaft that serves simultaneously as compressor, turbine, and electric generator rotor. Air bearings support the shaft, eliminating the need for a lubrication system and the attending pumps, reservoirs, and seals. Hence, the unit has capabilities of operating for months on end without maintenance.
