Sealed stack assembly

Abstract

Systems and methods include providing an annular seal stack for a component. The seal stack is disposed within an annulus formed between a probe and a housing of the component and is configured to provide a radial seal between the probe and the housing. The seal stack includes a first support retainer, a first lip seal, a first seal support system including at least one support ring disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal, a second support retainer configured to support the first lip seal, a second lip seal, a second seal support system including at least one support ring disposed between the second support retainer and the second lip seal, and a third support retainer configured to support the second lip seal.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Seals are used in many industrial applications to prevent leakage between components of an assembly. In some applications, the seals can be subjected to extreme operating conditions, such as extreme pressure or temperature. These extreme operating conditions often require the use of a seal stack assembly to compensate for articulation, deformation, displacement, and / or relative movement between the components of the assembly. However, pressures exceeding a certain threshold can result in damage and eventual failure of one or more seal components in the seal stack assembly. Accordingly, there is an ongoing industrial need for improved sealing technology for such applications. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0002] So that the manner in which the features and advantages of the embodiments can be understood in detail, a brief description of the embodiments can be had by reference to the drawings. The drawings are diagrammatic and for purposes of illustration only. It is noted that all the drawings are diagrammatic and like reference characters designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

[0003] Figure 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly having a ring seal stack assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0004] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly having a ring seal stack assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 3A is a partial cross-sectional view showing stress distribution on a lip seal of a conventional ring seal stack.

[0006] Figure 3B is a partial cross-sectional view showing stress distribution on a lip seal of a ring seal stack having at least one support ring in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0007] The use of the same reference symbols in different drawings indicates similar or identical items. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Figure 1A partial cross-sectional view of an assembly 100 having a ring seal stack assembly 150 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the assembly 100 can be a coupling assembly, a solenoid assembly, or a valve assembly. In more particular embodiments, the assembly 100 can be a subsea coupling assembly, a subsea solenoid assembly, or a subsea valve assembly. The assembly 100 can generally include a housing 102 and a probe 104 that oscillates, reciprocates, rotates, vibrates, or a combination thereof relative to the housing 102. The assembly 100 can also include an annulus or cavity 106 formed between the housing 102 and the probe 104. In some embodiments, the housing 102 can include a shoulder 108 and the probe 104 can include a shoulder 110, thereby defining the annulus or cavity 106.

[0009] The ring seal stack assembly 150 can generally be disposed within the annulus or cavity 106 of the assembly 100 and annularly about the probe 104. The seal stack assembly 150 can be disposed radially between the housing 102 and the probe 104. The seal stack assembly 150 can be disposed axially between the shoulder 108 of the housing 102 and the shoulder 110 of the probe 104. The seal stack assembly 150 can generally be configured to contact and provide a radial seal between the housing 102 and the probe 104 of the assembly 100. The seal stack assembly 150 can also be configured to center the probe 104 within the housing 102 and dynamically wipe the probe 104 during operation of the assembly 100 to keep the probe free of contaminants and / or other debris that can affect the integrity of the radial seal formed between the housing 102 and the probe 104.

[0010] The seal stack assembly 150 can generally include a plurality of support retainers 152, 154, 156 and a plurality of lip seals 158, 160. Additionally, the seal stack assembly 150 can include a plurality of seal support systems 162, 164. More particularly, the seal stack assembly 150 can include a first support retainer 152, a first lip seal 158, and a first seal support system 162 including at least one support ring 163 disposed between the first support retainer 152 and the first lip seal 158. The seal stack assembly 150 can also include a center or second support retainer 154, a second lip seal 160, and a second seal support system 164 including at least one support ring 165 disposed between the second support retainer 154 and the second lip seal 160. The seal stack assembly 150 can also include a third support retainer 156.

[0011] The first support retainer 152 can generally include a substantially flat outer portion 166 that can be in contact with the shoulder 110 of the probe 104. The first support retainer 152 can also include a curved surface or cavity 168. The cavity 168 can generally include a curved profile and be configured to at least partially receive the support ring 163 of the first seal support system 162. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 can be complementary to the outer radius of the support ring 163. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 can be smaller than the outer radius of the support ring 163, such that the support ring 163 can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 168 when compressed.

[0012] The first lip seal 158 can generally include an outer seal leg 170 configured to form a radial seal with the housing 102, an arcuate portion 171, and an inner seal leg 172 configured to form a radial seal with the probe 104. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the arcuate portion 171 of the first lip seal 158 can be complementary to the inner radius of the support ring 163. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the arcuate portion 171 of the first lip seal 158 can be greater than the inner radius of the support ring 163, such that the support ring 163 can conform to the curvature of the first lip seal 158 when compressed. The first lip seal 158 can generally include a substantially J-shaped cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the first lip seal 158 can include a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially D-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially C-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially parabolic cross-sectional profile, a substantially elliptical cross-sectional profile, or any other shaped cross-sectional profile. The first lip seal 158 can generally be formed of an elastic metallic material. More specifically, the first lip seal 158 can be formed of a nickel-chromium based alloy such as Inconel®, a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy such as Conichrome®, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the first lip seal 158 can include a coating or plating such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0013] The first seal support system 162 can generally include at least one support ring 163 disposed between the first support retainer 152 and the first lip seal 158. The support ring 163 can generally include an arcuate metal ring disposed between a radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152 and an outer radius of the arcuate portion 171 of the first lip seal 158. In some embodiments, the support ring 163 can be configured to support the first lip seal 158 by flexing as the first lip seal 158 moves. Thus, in some embodiments, the support ring 163 can conform to a curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152 and / or a curvature of the outer radius of the arcuate portion 171 of the first lip seal 158 when compressed. To facilitate such support, adjacent curved surfaces can have different radii. More specifically, in some embodiments, a decreasing radial geometry can extend from the first lip seal 158 to the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152.

[0014] Thus, in some embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 163 can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 163 can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152. Further, it should be appreciated that the outer radius of the support ring 163 can be between any of these minimum and maximum values: such as at least 1% to no more than 50% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152, or at least 5% to no more than 10% greater. In alternative embodiments, however, the outer radius of the support ring 163 can be substantially similar to the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152.

[0015] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 163 can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 158. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 163 can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 158. Further, it should be appreciated that the inner radius of the support ring 163 can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50%, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 158. In alternative embodiments, however, the inner radius of the support ring 163 can be substantially similar to the outer radius of the first lip seal 158.

[0016] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first lip seal 158 can be less than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 168 of the first support retainer 152, which can allow the first lip seal 158 to expand when pressurized without restricting the first lip seal 158 from sealing against the probe 104.

[0017] The support ring 163 can generally be formed from a resilient metallic material. More particularly, the support ring 163 can be formed from a nickel-chromium based alloy, such as Inconel®, a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy, such as Conichrome®, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the support ring 163 can include a coating or plating, such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0018] The second support retainer 154 can generally include an elongated finger portion 174 configured to support the first lip seal 158. In some embodiments, the elongated finger portion 174 of the second support retainer 154 can be in contact with the inner radius of the arcuate portion 171 of the first lip seal 158. The second support retainer 154 can also include a curved surface or cavity 176. The cavity 176 can generally include a curved profile and be configured to at least partially receive the support ring 165 of the second seal support system 164. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 can be complementary to the outer radius of the support ring 165. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 can be less than the outer radius of the support ring 165, such that the support ring 165 can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 176 when compressed.

[0019] The second lip seal 160 can generally include an outer seal leg 178 configured to form a radial seal with the housing 102, an arcuate portion 179, and an inner seal leg 180 configured to form a radial seal with the probe 104. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the arcuate portion 179 of the second lip seal 160 can be complementary to the inner radius of the support ring 165. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the arcuate portion 179 of the second lip seal 160 can be greater than the inner radius of the support ring 165, such that the support ring 165 can conform to the curvature of the second lip seal 160 when compressed. The second lip seal 160 can generally include a substantially J-shaped cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the second lip seal 160 can include a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially D-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially C-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially parabolic cross-sectional profile, a substantially elliptical cross-sectional profile, or any other shaped cross-sectional profile. The second lip seal 160 can generally be formed of an elastic metallic material. More specifically, the second lip seal 160 can be formed of a nickel-chromium based alloy such as Inconel®, a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy such as Elgiloy®, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the second lip seal 160 can include a coating or plating such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0020] The second seal support system 164 can generally include at least one support ring 165 disposed between the second support retainer 154 and the second lip seal 160. The support ring 165 can generally include an arcuate metallic ring disposed between the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support retainer 154 and the outer radius of the arcuate portion 179 of the second lip seal 160. In some embodiments, the support ring 165 can be configured to support the second lip seal 160 by flexing as the second lip seal 160 moves. Thus, in some embodiments, the support ring 165 can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support retainer 154 and / or the curvature of the outer radius of the arcuate portion 179 of the second lip seal 160 when compressed. To facilitate such support, adjacent curved surfaces can have different radii. More specifically, a decreasing radial geometry can extend from the second lip seal 160 to the cavity 176 of the second support retainer 154.

[0021] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 165 can be greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 165 can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 165 can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154. Further, it should be appreciated that the outer radius of the support ring 165 can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154, or at least 5% to no more than 10% greater. However, in alternative embodiments, the outer radius of the support ring 165 can be substantially similar to the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154.

[0022] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 165 can be less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 160. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 163 can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 160. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 165 can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 160. Further, it should be appreciated that the inner radius of the support ring 165 can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 160, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less. However, in alternative embodiments, the inner radius of the support ring 165 can be substantially similar to the outer radius of the second lip seal 160.

[0023] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the second lip seal 160 can be less than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 176 of the second support holder 154, which can allow the second lip seal 160 to expand when pressurized without restricting the second lip seal 160 from sealing on the probe 104.

[0024] The third support retainer 156 can generally include an elongated finger portion 182 configured to support the second lip seal 160. In some embodiments, the elongated finger portion 182 of the third support retainer 156 can be in contact with an inner radius of the arcuate portion 179 of the second lip seal 160. The third support retainer 156 can also include a substantially flat outer portion 184 that can be in contact with the shoulder 108 of the housing 102. As such, it should be appreciated that the seal stack assembly 150 can be disposed radially between the housing 102 and the probe 104, and axially between the shoulder 108 of the housing 102 and the shoulder 110 of the probe 104.

[0025] Figure 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly 100 having a seal stack assembly 250 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The seal stack assembly 250 can generally include a plurality of support retainers 252, 254, 256 and a plurality of lip seals 258, 260. Additionally, the seal stack assembly 250 can include a plurality of seal support systems 262, 264. More specifically, the seal stack assembly 250 can include a first support retainer 252, a first lip seal 258, and a first seal support system 262 including a plurality of support rings 263a, 263b, 263c disposed between the first support retainer 252 and the first lip seal 258. The seal stack assembly 250 can also include a central or second support retainer 254, a second lip seal 260, and a second seal support system 264 including a plurality of support rings 265a, 265b, 265c disposed between the second support retainer 254 and the second lip seal 260. The seal stack assembly 250 can also include a third support retainer 256.

[0026] The first support retainer 252 can generally include a substantially flat outer portion 266 that can be in contact with the shoulder 110 of the probe 104. The first support retainer 252 can also include a curved surface or cavity 268. The cavity 268 can generally include a curved profile and be configured to at least partially receive one or more of the plurality of support rings 263a, 263b, 263c.

[0027] The first lip seal 258 can generally include an outer seal leg 270 configured to form a radial seal with the housing 102, an arcuate portion 271, and an inner seal leg 272 configured to form a radial seal with the probe 104. The first lip seal 258 can generally include a substantially J-shaped cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the first lip seal 258 can include a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially D-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially C-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially parabolic cross-sectional profile, a substantially elliptical cross-sectional profile, or any other shaped cross-sectional profile. The first lip seal 258 can generally be formed from an elastic metallic material. More specifically, the first lip seal 258 can be formed from a nickel-chromium based alloy such as Inconel®, a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy such as Conichrome®, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the first lip seal 258 can include a coating or plating such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0028] The first seal support system 262 can generally include a plurality of support rings 263a, 263b, 263c disposed between the first support retainer 252 and the first lip seal 258. The support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can generally include arcuate metal rings disposed between the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support retainer 252 and the outer radius of the arcuate portion 271 of the first lip seal 258. In some embodiments, the support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can be configured to support the first lip seal 258 by flexing as the first lip seal 258 moves. Thus, in some embodiments, the support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support retainer 252, the curvature of adjacent support rings 263, and / or the curvature of the outer radius of the arcuate portion 271 of the first lip seal 258 when compressed. To facilitate such support, adjacent curved surfaces can have different radii. More specifically, a decreasing radial geometry can extend from the first lip seal 258 to the cavity 268 of the first support retainer 252.

[0029] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 263a can be greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 263a can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 263a can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252. Further, it will be appreciated that the outer radius of the first support ring 263a can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252, or at least 5% to no more than 10% greater. In alternative embodiments, however, the outer radius of the first support ring 263a can be substantially similar to the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252.

[0030] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 263a can be less than the outer radius of the second support ring 263b. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 263a can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 263b. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 263a can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 263b. Further, it will be appreciated that the inner radius of the first support ring 263a can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 263b, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less.

[0031] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 263b can be less than the outer radius of the third support ring 263c. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 263b can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 263c. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 263b can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 263c. Further, it should be appreciated that the inner radius of the second support ring 263b can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 263c, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less.

[0032] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 263c can be less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 258. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 263c can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 258. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 263c can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 258. Further, it should be appreciated that the inner radius of the third support ring 263c can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the first lip seal 258, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less. In alternative embodiments, however, the inner radius of the third support ring 263c can be substantially similar to the outer radius of the first lip seal 258.

[0033] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first lip seal 258 can be less than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 268 of the first support holder 252, which can allow the first lip seal 258 to expand when pressurized without restricting the first lip seal 258 from sealing on the probe 104.

[0034] The support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can generally be formed from a resilient metallic material. More specifically, the support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can be formed from a nickel-chromium based alloy, such as Inconel®, nickel-based alloys, nickel, such as of cobalt-chromium-nickel alloys, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the support rings 263a, 263b, 263c can include a coating or plating, such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear-resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof. In particular embodiments, however, the second support ring 263b can be formed of a polymeric material, such as PEEK.

[0035] The second support retainer 254 can generally include an elongated finger portion 274 configured to support the first lip seal 258. In some embodiments, the elongated finger portion 274 of the second support retainer 254 can be in contact with the inner radius of the arcuate portion 271 of the first lip seal 258. The second support retainer 254 can also include a curved surface or cavity 276. The cavity 276 can generally include a curved profile and be configured to at least partially receive the curved profile and be configured to at least partially receive one or more of the plurality of support rings 265a, 265b, 265c. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 can be complementary to the outer radius of the second support ring 265. In some embodiments, the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 can be smaller than the outer radius of the second support ring 265, such that the second support ring 265 can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 276 when compressed.

[0036] The second lip seal 260 can generally include an outer sealing leg 278 configured to form a radial seal with the housing 102, an arcuate portion 279, and an inner sealing leg 280 configured to form a radial seal with the probe 104. The second lip seal 260 can generally include a substantially J-shaped cross-sectional profile. In other embodiments, the second lip seal 260 can include a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially D-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially C-shaped cross-sectional profile, a substantially parabolic cross-sectional profile, a substantially elliptical cross-sectional profile, or any other shaped cross-sectional profile. The second lip seal 260 can generally be formed of an elastic metallic material. More particularly, the second lip seal 260 can be formed of a nickel-chromium based alloy, a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. of cobalt-chromium-nickel alloys, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the second lip seal 260 can include a coating or plating, such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear-resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0037] ​The second seal support system 264 can generally include a plurality of support rings 265a, 265b, 265c disposed between the second support retainer 254 and the second lip seal 260. The support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can generally include arcuate metal rings disposed between the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254 and the outer radius of the arcuate portion 279 of the second lip seal 260. In some embodiments, the support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can be configured to support the second lip seal 260 by flexing as the second lip seal 260 moves. Thus, in some embodiments, the support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can conform to the curvature of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254, the curvature of adjacent support rings 265, and / or the curvature of the outer radius of the arcuate portion 279 of the second lip seal 260 when compressed. To facilitate such support, adjacent curved surfaces can have different radii. More specifically, a decreasing radial geometry can extend from the second lip seal 260 to the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254.

[0038] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 265a can be greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 265a can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254. In some embodiments, the outer radius of the first support ring 265a can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254. Further, it will be appreciated that the outer radius of the first support ring 265a can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254, or at least 5% to no more than 10% greater. In alternative embodiments, however, the outer radius of the first support ring 265a can be substantially similar to the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254.

[0039] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 265a can be less than the outer radius of the second support ring 265b. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 265a can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 265b. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the first support ring 265a can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 265b. Further, it will be appreciated that the inner radius of the first support ring 265a can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the second support ring 265b, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less.

[0040] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 265b can be less than the outer radius of the third support ring 265c. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 265b can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 265c. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the second support ring 265b can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 265c. Further, it will be appreciated that the inner radius of the second support ring 265b can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the third support ring 265c, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less.

[0041] In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 265c can be less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 260. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 265c can be at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 260. In some embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 265c can be no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 260. Further, it will be appreciated that the inner radius of the third support ring 265c can be between any of these minimum and maximum values, such as at least 1% to no more than 50% less than the outer radius of the second lip seal 260, or at least 5% to no more than 10% less. However, in alternative embodiments, the inner radius of the third support ring 265c can be substantially similar to the outer radius of the second lip seal 260.

[0042] In some embodiments, the outer radius of the second lip seal 260 can be smaller than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity 276 of the second support retainer 254, which can allow the second lip seal 260 to expand when pressurized without restricting the second lip seal 260 from sealing on the probe 104.

[0043] The support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can generally be formed from a resilient metallic material. More specifically, the support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can be formed from a nickel-chromium based alloy, such as , a nickel based alloy, nickel, a cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy, such as , titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze. In some embodiments, the support rings 265a, 265b, 265c can include a coating or plating, such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof. However, in particular embodiments, the second support ring 265b can be formed from a polymeric material, such as PEEK.

[0044] While three support rings 263a, 263b, 263c are shown for the first seal support system 262 and three support rings 265a, 265b, 265c are shown for the second seal support system 264, it should be understood that each seal support system 262, 264 can include two, three, four, or even five support rings 263, 265, respectively. Further, it should be understood that in accordance with the embodiments disclosed herein, successive support rings 263, 265 can have a decreasing radial geometry extending from the lip seal 258, 260 to the support retainer 252, 254, respectively. Further, in some embodiments, the seal stack assembly 150, 250 can include additional support retainers, lip seals, and / or support rings depending on the configuration of the assembly without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0045] The third support retainer 256 can generally include an elongated finger portion 282 configured to support the second lip seal 260. In some embodiments, the elongated finger portion 282 of the third support retainer 256 can be in contact with the inner radius of the arcuate portion 279 of the second lip seal 260. The third support retainer 256 can also include a substantially flat outer portion 284 that can be in contact with the shoulder 108 of the housing 102. As such, it should be understood that the seal stack assembly 250 can be disposed radially between the housing 102 and the probe 104 and axially between the shoulder 108 of the housing 102 and the shoulder 110 of the probe 104.

[0046] Embodiments of the seal stack assembly 150, 250 can include any size suitable for a particular application. In some embodiments, the inner diameter of the seal stack assembly 150, 250 can be at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, at least 8 mm, at least 9 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 75 mm, at least 100 mm, at least 150 mm, at least 200 mm, at least 250 mm, at least 300 mm, or even larger. In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the seal stack assembly 150, 250 can be at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 6 mm, at least 7 mm, at least 8 mm, at least 9 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 11 mm, at least 12 mm, at least 13 mm, at least 14 mm, at least 15 mm, at least 25 mm, at least 50 mm, at least 75 mm, at least 100 mm, at least 150 mm, at least 200 mm, at least 250 mm, at least 300 mm, at least 500 mm, or even larger.

[0047] Further, in some embodiments, the support ring 163, 165, 263, 265 can include a thickness that is less than a thickness of one or more of the lip seals 158, 160, 258, 260. In some embodiments, the thickness of the support ring 163, 165, 263, 265 can be at least 0.10 mm, at least 0.125 mm, at least 0.15 mm, at least 0.20 mm, at least 0.25 mm, at least 0.50 mm, at least 0.75 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 5 mm, or even larger.

[0048] Figure 3A and Figure 3B are partial cross-sectional views showing a stress profile on a lip seal of a conventional annular seal stack and a stress profile on a lip seal of an annular seal stack 150, 250 having at least one support ring 163, 263, 165, 265 according to embodiments of the present disclosure, respectively. As shown in FIGS. 1 1 A and 1 1 B, the stress on the arcuate portion of the lip seal in a conventional annular seal stack without a support ring exceeds about 140,000 pounds per square inch (about 965 MPa). Stress of this magnitude can result in failure of the lip seal. As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the stress on the arcuate portion of the lip seal in an annular seal stack having a support ring according to embodiments of the present disclosure is less than about 100,000 pounds per square inch (about 690 MPa). Stress of this magnitude is unlikely to result in failure of the lip seal. Figure 3A Figure 3B ​As shown, the stress on the arcuate portion of the lip seal in the annular seal stack 150, 250 having at least one support ring 163, 263, 165, 265 is much lower, no more than about 76,000 pounds per square inch (about 524 MPa). Thus, the use of at least one support ring 163, 263, 165, 265 in the annular seal stack 150, 250 can prevent wear, reduce stress (which can extend the life cycle), and / or completely prevent failure of the lip seal in the annular metal seal stack 150, 250.

[0049] Embodiments of the assembly 100 and / or the seal stack assembly 150, 250 can include one or more of the following embodiments:

[0050] Embodiment 1. A seal stack assembly comprising: a first support retainer; a first lip seal; and a first seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal.

[0051] Embodiment 2. An assembly comprising: a probe; a housing annularly disposed about the probe; and a seal stack assembly disposed within an annulus formed between the probe and the housing and configured to provide a radial seal between the probe and the housing, the seal stack assembly comprising: a first support retainer; a first lip seal; and a first seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal.

[0052] Embodiment 3. The seal stack assembly of embodiment 1 or the assembly of embodiment 2, further comprising: a second support retainer configured to support the first lip seal; a second lip seal; a second seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the second support retainer and the second lip seal; and a third support retainer configured to support the second lip seal.

[0053] Embodiment 4. A seal stack assembly comprising: a first support retainer; a first lip seal; a first seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal; a second support retainer configured to support the first lip seal; a second lip seal; a second seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the second support retainer and the second lip seal; and a third support retainer configured to support the second lip seal.

[0054] Embodiment 5. An assembly comprising: a probe; a housing disposed annularly around the probe; and a seal stack assembly disposed within an annulus formed between the probe and the housing and configured to provide a radial seal between the probe and the housing, the seal stack assembly comprising: a first support retainer; a first lip seal; a first seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal; a second support retainer configured to support the first lip seal; a second lip seal; a second seal support system comprising at least one support ring disposed between the second support retainer and the second lip seal; and a third support retainer configured to support the second lip seal.

[0055] Embodiment 6. The seal stack assembly or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first support retainer comprises a cavity having a curved profile configured to receive the at least one support ring of the first support system.

[0056] Embodiment 7. The seal stack assembly or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first lip seal comprises an inner seal leg and an outer seal leg.

[0057] Embodiment 8. The seal stack assembly or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first seal support system comprises a first support ring.

[0058] Embodiment 9. The seal stack assembly or assembly of Embodiment 8, wherein an outer radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is greater than a radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the first support retainer.

[0059] Embodiment 10. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of Embodiment 9, wherein the outer radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the first support retainer.

[0060] Embodiment 11. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of Embodiment 10, wherein the outer radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the first support retainer.

[0061] Embodiment 12. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any one of Embodiments 8-11, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is less than an outer radius of an arcuate portion of the first lip seal.

[0062] Embodiment 13. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of Embodiment 12, wherein the inner radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the arcuate portion of the first lip seal.

[0063] Embodiment 14. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of Embodiment 12, wherein the inner radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the arcuate portion of the first lip seal.

[0064] Embodiment 15. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second support retainer comprises an elongated finger portion configured to support the first lip seal and a cavity having a curved profile configured to receive the at least one support ring of the second support system.

[0065] Embodiment 16. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any one of Embodiments 3-15, wherein the second lip seal comprises an inner seal leg and an outer seal leg.

[0066] Embodiment 17. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the second seal support system comprises a first support ring.

[0067] Embodiment 18. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 17, wherein an outer radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is greater than a radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the second support retainer.

[0068] Embodiment 19. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 18, wherein the outer radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the second support retainer.

[0069] Embodiment 20. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 19, wherein the outer radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% greater than the radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the second support retainer.

[0070] Embodiment 21. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 17-20, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is less than an outer radius of an arcuate portion of the second lip seal.

[0071] Embodiment 22. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 12, wherein the inner radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is at least 1%, at least 2%, at least 3%, at least 4%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, or at least 20% less than the outer radius of the arcuate portion of the second lip seal.

[0072] Embodiment 23. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 12, wherein the inner radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is no more than 50%, no more than 40%, no more than 35%, no more than 30%, no more than 25%, no more than 20%, no more than 15%, or no more than 10% less than the outer radius of the arcuate portion of the second lip seal.

[0073] Embodiment 24. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 3-23, wherein the third support retainer comprises an elongated finger portion configured to support the second lip seal.

[0074] Embodiment 25. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 8-24, wherein the first seal support system comprises a second support ring disposed between the first support ring of the first seal support system and the first lip seal.

[0075] Embodiment 26. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 25, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is less than an outer radius of the second support ring of the first seal support system.

[0076] Embodiment 27. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 25-26, wherein the first seal support system comprises a third support ring disposed between the second support ring of the first seal support system and the first lip seal.

[0077] Embodiment 28. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 27, wherein an inner radius of the second support ring of the first seal support system is less than an outer radius of the third support ring of the first seal support system.

[0078] Embodiment 29. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 28, wherein an inner radius of the third support ring of the first seal support system is less than an outer radius of the first lip seal.

[0079] Embodiment 30. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 17-29, wherein the second seal support system comprises a second support ring disposed between the first support ring of the second seal support system and the second lip seal.

[0080] Embodiment 31. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 30, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is less than an outer radius of the second support ring of the second seal support system.

[0081] Embodiment 32. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of embodiments 30-31, wherein the second seal support system comprises a third support ring disposed between the second support ring of the second seal support system and the second lip seal.

[0082] Embodiment 33. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of embodiment 32, wherein an inner radius of the second support ring of the second seal support system is less than an outer radius of the third support ring of the second seal support system.

[0083] Implementation Scheme 34. The sealing stack assembly or assembly according to Implementation Scheme 33, wherein the inner radius of the third support ring of the second sealing support system is smaller than the outer radius of the second lip seal.

[0084] Implementation Scheme 35. A sealed stack assembly or assembly according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first lip seal and the second lip seal are substantially similar.

[0085] Implementation Scheme 36. A sealing stack assembly or component according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the outer radius of the first lip seal includes a radius smaller than the inner radius of the first support retainer.

[0086] Implementation Scheme 37. A sealing stack assembly or assembly according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the outer radius of the second lip seal includes a radius smaller than the inner radius of the second support retainer.

[0087] Implementation Scheme 38. A sealed stack assembly or component according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first lip seal and the second lip seal are made of, for example, It is formed from nickel-chromium based alloys, nickel-based alloys, nickel, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze.

[0088] Implementation Scheme 39. The sealed stack assembly or assembly according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the support ring is made of, for example, Nickel-chromium based alloys, nickel-based alloys, nickel, such as It is formed from cobalt-chromium-nickel alloys, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron, or bronze.

[0089] Implementation Scheme 40. The sealed stack assembly or assembly according to Implementation Scheme 39, wherein the support ring includes a coating or plating, such as a gold plating, a silver plating, a nickel plating, an aluminum chromium nitride (AlCrN) plating, a titanium aluminum nitride (TiAlN) plating, any other wear-resistant metal plating, or any combination thereof.

[0090] Implementation Scheme 41. The sealed stack assembly or assembly according to any one of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the first support ring and the third support ring are made of, for example, Nickel-chromium based alloys, nickel-based alloys, nickel, such as It is formed of cobalt-chromium-nickel alloy, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel, spring steel, steel, aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, lead, iron or bronze, and wherein the second support ring is formed of a polymeric material such as PEEK.

[0091] Embodiment 42. The sealed stack assembly or assembly of any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the support ring comprises a thickness that is less than a thickness of one or more of the lip seals.

[0092] This written description uses examples to disclose embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

[0093] Note that not all of the activities described above in the general description are required, that a portion of a specific activity can not be required, and that one or more further activities can be performed in addition to those described. Still further, the order in which activities are listed are not necessarily the order in which activities are performed.

[0094] In the foregoing specification, concepts have been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, one of ordinary skill in the art appreciates that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present application as set forth in the claims below. Accordingly, the specification and figures are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present application.

[0095] As used herein, the terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but can include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive-or and not to an exclusive-or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0096] Also, use of "a" or "an" are employed to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the application. This description should be read to include one, at least one, an, or singular as well as the plural unless it is clear from the context that it is meant otherwise.

[0097] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

[0098] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, for clarity, purposes of illustration, certain features are shown in isolation on the drawings. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments can be combined with any of the other disclosed embodiments unless specifically noted otherwise. In addition, references to ranges of values are intended to include every value within the range.

Claims

1. A sealed stack assembly, comprising: a first support retainer having an inner diameter and an outer diameter, the inner diameter having a first axial length and the outer diameter having a second axial length, wherein the first axial length is shorter than the second axial length; a first lip seal; and a first seal support system disposed between the first support retainer and the first lip seal, wherein the first seal support system includes a first support ring and a second support ring, wherein the first support ring is disposed between the first support retainer and the second support ring, wherein the second support ring is disposed between the first support ring and the first lip seal, and a second support retainer supporting the first lip seal, wherein the second support retainer includes an elongated finger portion supporting the first lip seal, wherein an outer diameter of the first seal support system is contained within a range of the second axial length of the first support retainer.

2. The sealed stack assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a second lip seal; a second seal support system including at least one support ring disposed between the second support retainer and the second lip seal; and a third support retainer configured to support the second lip seal.

3. The sealed stack assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first support retainer includes a cavity having a curved profile configured to receive at least one support ring of the first seal support system.

4. The sealed stack assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first lip seal includes an inner seal leg and an outer seal leg.

5. The sealed stack assembly of claim 1, wherein an outer radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is greater than a radius of the curved profile of the cavity of the first support retainer.

6. The sealed stack assembly of claim 1, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the first seal support system is less than an outer radius of an arcuate portion of the first lip seal.

7. The sealed stack assembly of claim 2, wherein the second support retainer includes a cavity having a curved profile configured to receive the at least one support ring of the second seal support system.

8. The sealed stack assembly of claim 2, wherein the second lip seal includes an inner seal leg and an outer seal leg.

9. The sealed stack assembly of claim 2, wherein the second seal support system includes a first support ring.

10. The sealed stack assembly of claim 9, wherein an inner radius of the first support ring of the second seal support system is less than an outer radius of an arcuate portion of the second lip seal.

11. The sealed stack assembly of claim 2, wherein the third support retainer includes an elongated finger portion configured to support the second lip seal. ​ 12. The seal stack assembly of claim 1, wherein the first seal support system includes a third support ring disposed between the second support ring of the first seal support system and the first lip seal.

13. An assembly comprising: a probe; a housing annularly disposed about the probe; and a seal stack assembly disposed within an annulus formed between the probe and the housing and configured to provide a seal between the probe and the housing, the seal stack assembly being in accordance with claim 1.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the first support retainer includes a cavity having a curved profile configured to receive at least one support ring of the first seal support system.

15. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the first lip seal includes an inner seal leg and an outer seal leg. ​

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