A radial alignment improvement device and a pneumatic sealing system
By connecting an elastic element and an anti-rotation rod to the outer circumference of the sealing ring, a sealing air film is formed, which solves the problem of poor centering ability caused by wear during start-stop operation, and realizes long-term stable operation and extended service life of the sealing ring.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CHENGDU YITONG SEAL
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-13
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-30
AI Technical Summary
The sealing ring's alignment capability deteriorates due to wear during start-stop cycles, and existing technologies have failed to effectively solve this problem.
By connecting an elastic element to the outer circumference of the sealing ring, a first gap is formed, and a sealing air film is formed at the gap to prevent the sealing ring from contacting the shaft. The anti-rotation rod and the clamping spring are used to maintain the centering performance of the sealing ring and ensure that the sealing ring does not wear.
It effectively prevents the sealing ring from wearing out due to start-stop operation, ensures the alignment performance of the sealing ring and the stability of the sealing gas film, and extends the service life of the sealing ring.
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Figure CN224433416U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pneumatic sealing technology, specifically to a radial alignment improvement device and a pneumatic sealing system. Background Technology
[0002] Pneumatic seals are sealing devices that use compressed air to seal the gap between a rotating shaft and a housing. Their core principle is to machine an annular groove on the housing so that compressed air can enter and form a pressure barrier, thereby preventing the working medium (such as lubricating oil) from leaking.
[0003] Pneumatic seals are non-contact seals. For example, carbon ring seals are floating ring seals, which are gas-throttling non-contact seals. However, carbon rings and similar sealing rings have the following drawbacks during use:
[0004] A sealing ring is fitted onto an annular bushing, which in turn fits onto the shaft. In the non-working state, the sealing ring contacts the upper semi-circular arc of the annular bushing due to gravity, while a crescent-shaped gap forms below the bushing. When the annular bushing rotates under the drive of the shaft, an air film forms at the crescent-shaped gap. The pressure of this air film causes the carbon ring to float, making the sealing ring and shaft tend to become concentric.
[0005] However, when not in operation, the sealing ring will contact the upper semi-circular arc of the annular sleeve due to gravity. Each start-up and shutdown will cause friction between the sealing ring and the annular sleeve, further causing wear and widening the gap between the sealing ring and the annular sleeve. After prolonged operation, the crescent-shaped gap below the annular sleeve will increase, the radial pressure of the fluid will decrease accordingly, and the sealing ring's ability to automatically move towards the shaft center will continue to weaken. Utility Model Content
[0006] The technical problem to be solved by this utility model is that the centering ability of the sealing ring deteriorates due to wear during start-stop operation. The purpose is to provide a radial centering improvement device and a pneumatic sealing system to solve the above-mentioned problem.
[0007] This utility model is achieved through the following technical solution:
[0008] In a first aspect, this utility model provides a radial alignment improvement device, including a base module and a sealing ring;
[0009] Both the basic module and the sealing ring are fitted onto the shaft member;
[0010] The outer circumference of the sealing ring is connected to the base module through an elastic element to center the sealing ring and leave a first gap between the inner circumference of the sealing ring and the outer circumference of the shaft member.
[0011] Accordingly, when sealing gas is introduced into the basic module, the sealing gas flows to the first gap and forms a sealing gas film.
[0012] In one possible design, the elastic element is a centering spring, with at least 10 centering springs evenly distributed on the outer circumference of the sealing ring.
[0013] In one possible design, the base module is provided with an anti-rotation rod and a clamping spring; the anti-rotation rod extends toward the sealing ring and is inserted into the sealing ring, and accordingly, the anti-rotation rod is used to prevent the sealing ring from rotating with the shaft; the clamping spring presses against the sealing ring so that the sealing ring and the base module are pressed against each other.
[0014] In one possible design, there are at least three anti-rotation rods, which are evenly distributed around the circumference of the sealing ring; and at least six clamping springs, which are evenly distributed around the circumference of the same side of the sealing ring.
[0015] In one possible design, the sealing ring has opposing outer and inner surfaces, with a recessed hole on the outer surface adapted to the anti-rotation rod, and the inner surface abutting against the clamping spring.
[0016] In one possible design, a carbon ring is selected as the sealing ring.
[0017] In one possible design, the basic module includes a base and a pressure plate, both of which are fitted onto the shaft members;
[0018] The base is equipped with a sealing channel for the flow of sealing gas;
[0019] Two pressure plates are provided and are respectively connected to the two ends of the base. Correspondingly, there is an installation groove between the base and the pressure plate to fit the sealing ring.
[0020] Correspondingly, a second gap is left between the inner circumference of the base and the shaft member, and the second gap connects the first gap and the sealing channel.
[0021] In one possible design, the anti-rotation rod is mounted on the pressure plate, and the clamping spring is mounted on the base.
[0022] In one possible design, the pressure plate has an outwardly protruding ring extending toward the base; the outer periphery of the outwardly protruding ring forms a groove adapted to the base, and correspondingly, the base has a locking block adapted to the groove; the inner periphery of the outwardly protruding ring forms an installation groove adapted to the sealing ring.
[0023] Secondly, this utility model provides a pneumatic sealing system, including a shaft member and the radial alignment improvement device, wherein the radial alignment improvement device is sleeved on the shaft member.
[0024] Compared with the prior art, this utility model has the following advantages and beneficial effects:
[0025] The inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring does not contact the shaft. At this time, the first gap is annular. The start-up and shutdown of the equipment will not wear the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring, effectively ensuring the centering performance of the sealing ring, as well as the stability of the sealing gas film and the throttling and pressure reduction effect, thus ensuring the performance of the sealing ring operation.
[0026] By preventing the sealing ring from contacting the shaft components, wear caused by contact is eliminated, ensuring the stability of the initial clearance thickness, and thus improving the long-term operating performance of the sealing ring. This effectively reduces wear on the sealing ring during equipment start-up and shutdown, providing a guarantee for the long-term operation of the sealing structure and extending its service life. Attached Figure Description
[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the present invention and form part of this application, do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings:
[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a pneumatic sealing system.
[0029] The attached diagram shows the markings and corresponding component names:
[0030] 1. Basic module; 101. Base; 102. Pressure plate; 103. Sealing channel; 104. Second gap; 2. Sealing ring; 201. First gap; 3. Elastic element; 4. Anti-rotation rod; 5. Clamping spring; 6. Shaft component. Detailed Implementation
[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this utility model clearer, the present utility model will be further described in detail below with reference to the embodiments and accompanying drawings. The illustrative embodiments and descriptions of this utility model are only used to explain this utility model and are not intended to limit this utility model.
[0032] Example:
[0033] Due to wear caused by start-stop cycles, existing technologies use O-rings or compression springs to maintain the thickness of the first gap 201, but this improvement method does not reduce the wear of the sealing ring 2 during start-stop cycles. Therefore, frequent component replacement is necessary during prolonged use, causing inconvenience.
[0034] To address this, the first aspect of this embodiment provides a radial alignment improvement device. This device modifies the design to prevent the sealing ring 2 from contacting the shaft member 6, eliminating wear caused by contact and thus ensuring the alignment performance of the sealing ring 2. This effectively reduces wear on the sealing ring 2 during equipment start-up and shutdown, ensuring long-term operation of the sealing structure and extending its service life. Therefore, it replaces the existing solution of maintaining the alignment performance of the sealing ring 2 through additional components after wear.
[0035] Specifically: such as Figure 1 As shown, a radial alignment improvement device includes a base module 1 and a sealing ring 2;
[0036] Both the basic module 1 and the sealing ring 2 are sleeved on the shaft member 6;
[0037] The outer periphery of the sealing ring 2 is connected to the base module 1 through the elastic element 3 so that the sealing ring 2 is aligned and a first gap 201 is left between the inner periphery of the sealing ring 2 and the outer periphery of the shaft member 6.
[0038] Accordingly, when sealing gas is introduced into the basic module 1, the sealing gas flows to the first gap 201 and forms a sealing gas film.
[0039] The basic module 1 serves three main functions: firstly, it connects the shaft member 6; secondly, it mounts the sealing ring 2; and thirdly, it allows the introduction of sealing gas. The sealing ring 2 is connected to an elastic element 3 on its outer periphery, with the elastic elements 3 evenly distributed on the outer circumference of the sealing ring 2. The elastic force of the elastic elements 3 ensures the centering of the sealing ring 2, preventing the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 from contacting the shaft member 6, thus avoiding wear between them. It also forms a first gap 201. When sealing gas is introduced into the basic module 1, the sealing gas forms a sealing gas film at the first gap 201, achieving a sealing effect.
[0040] It is worth noting that when the sealing gas forms a sealing gas film at the first gap 201, the sealing gas film generates eddies in the groove on the inner side of the sealing ring 2, which further generates a throttling and pressure reduction effect, preventing airflow on both sides of the sealing ring 2, thereby achieving an effective sealing effect.
[0041] Considering the alignment effect of the sealing ring 2, when the alignment of the sealing ring 2 is poor, i.e., as in the prior art, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 contacts the shaft member 6, and the first gap 201 is crescent-shaped. When the equipment starts, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 contacts the shaft member 6. Although the sealing ring 2 will rotate and align under the drive of the shaft member 6, and the first gap 201 changes from crescent-shaped to annular, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 will experience some wear. After long-term use, the wear will intensify, and the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 will be worn into local depressions. This will not only affect the automatic alignment performance of the sealing ring 2, but also affect the stability of the sealing gas film and the throttling and pressure reduction effect, resulting in a deterioration in the sealing effect.
[0042] Conversely, when the sealing ring 2 is well aligned, i.e., as described by the radial alignment improvement device, the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2 does not contact the shaft member 6. At this time, the first gap 201 is annular, and the start-up and shutdown of the equipment will not wear the inner circumferential surface of the sealing ring 2, effectively ensuring the stability of the thickness of the first gap 201, as well as the stability of the sealing gas film and the throttling and pressure reduction effect, thus ensuring the long-term performance and service life of the sealing ring 2.
[0043] In one possible implementation, the elastic element 3 is selected as a centering spring, and at least 10 centering springs are provided, with multiple centering springs evenly distributed on the outer circumference of the sealing ring 2.
[0044] Based on the above design, the number of centering springs should be as large as possible to increase the number of centering points on the outer circumference of the sealing ring 2, making the force on the sealing ring 2 more uniform and improving the centering effect of the sealing ring 2. It is easy to understand that any suitable existing model of centering spring can be selected.
[0045] In one possible implementation, the base module 1 is provided with an anti-rotation rod 4 and a clamping spring 5; the anti-rotation rod 4 extends toward the sealing ring 2 and is inserted into the sealing ring 2, and accordingly, the anti-rotation rod 4 is used to prevent the sealing ring 2 from rotating with the shaft member 6; the clamping spring 5 presses against the sealing ring 2 so that the sealing ring 2 and the base module 1 are pressed against each other.
[0046] Based on the above design, the anti-rotation rod 4 prevents the sealing ring 2 from rotating and also prevents the elastic element 3 from moving. This avoids the elastic element 3 from dislodging from its designed position and compromising the alignment performance due to rotation, thus ensuring the alignment effect of the sealing ring 2. Furthermore, when the sealing ring 2 remains relatively stationary, the elastic element 3 can effectively connect to the sealing ring 2 through abutment or simple connection, without needing to consider the impact of rotation on the connection between the sealing ring 2 and the elastic element 3. This helps simplify the structure and reduce usage costs.
[0047] For the anti-rotation rod 4, any suitable existing parts such as bolts, screws, and pins can be selected, which has a wide range of choices, is easy to obtain materials locally, is more convenient to use, and is more economical.
[0048] The retaining spring 5 applies elastic force to the sealing ring 2, ensuring a tight fit between the sealing ring 2 and the base module 1, reducing gaps and ensuring a proper seal against the gas. It is easy to understand that any suitable existing model of retaining spring 5 can be selected.
[0049] Optionally, at least three anti-rotation rods 4 are provided, with multiple anti-rotation rods 4 evenly distributed around the circumference of the sealing ring 2; at least six clamping springs 5 are provided, with multiple clamping springs 5 evenly distributed around the same side of the sealing ring 2. Alternatively, depending on the actual use, those skilled in the art can appropriately increase or decrease the number of anti-rotation rods 4 and clamping springs 5.
[0050] In one possible implementation, the sealing ring 2 has opposing outer and inner surfaces. The outer surface has a recessed hole adapted to the anti-rotation rod 4, and the inner surface abuts against the clamping spring 5. Based on this, the sealing ring 2 is used for separation to avoid mutual interference between the anti-rotation rod 4 and the clamping spring 5, allowing them to function better.
[0051] In one possible implementation, the sealing ring 2 is a carbon ring. Based on this, carbon ring seals are widely used in rotating machinery such as steam turbines, fans, generators, compressors, and turbomachinery, most of which are applied in the chemical machinery industry. Carbon ring seals primarily seal flammable and toxic gases, which are abundant in the chemical industry. These gases include gaseous forms such as hydrogen and hydrogen sulfide, as well as liquid forms such as benzene and its derivatives. Therefore, carbon ring seals are indispensable in the production and manufacturing processes of the chemical industry.
[0052] It is worth noting that the sealing ring 2 can also be made of any other suitable material to be applicable to different fields, thus expanding the scope of use of the radial alignment improvement device.
[0053] In one possible implementation, the basic module 1 includes a base 101 and a pressure plate 102 both sleeved on the shaft member 6;
[0054] The base 101 is provided with a sealing channel 103 for the flow of sealing gas;
[0055] Two pressure plates 102 are provided and are respectively connected to the two ends of the base 101. Correspondingly, an installation groove adapted to the sealing ring 2 is left between the base 101 and the pressure plate 102.
[0056] Correspondingly, a second gap 104 is left between the inner circumference of the base 101 and the shaft member 6, and the second gap 104 connects the first gap 201 and the sealing channel 103.
[0057] Based on the above design, a sealing channel 103 is provided on the base 101 to input and output sealing gas to the radial alignment improvement device, thereby stabilizing the sealing gas film at the first gap 201. The pressure plate 102 cooperates with the base 101 to install the sealing ring 2 and also provides space for the installation of the elastic element 3, making the base module 1, sealing ring 2, and elastic element 3 an organic whole. It is easy to understand that the base 101 can be constructed in any suitable shape.
[0058] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the anti-rotation rod 4 is mounted on the pressure plate 102, and the clamping spring 5 is mounted on the base 101. Based on this, the second gap 104 avoids wear between the base 101 and the shaft member 6, and also allows the first gap 201 to connect with the sealing channel 103. Simultaneously, in conjunction with the clamping spring 5, the sealing ring 2 is pressed against the pressure plate 102, and the second gap 104 is only connected to the outside through the first gap 201. Therefore, after the sealing gas is introduced, the sealing gas forms a sealing gas film at the first gap 201, which prevents gas flow on both sides of the sealing ring 2, achieving a sealing effect.
[0059] Optionally, such as Figure 1As shown, the pressure plate 102 has an outwardly protruding ring extending towards the base 101; the outer periphery of the outwardly protruding ring forms a groove adapted to the base 101, and correspondingly, the base 101 has a locking block adapted to the groove; the inner periphery of the outwardly protruding ring forms a mounting groove adapted to the sealing ring 2. Based on this, the base 101 and the sealing ring 2 are connected by the pressure plate 102.
[0060] Secondly, this utility model provides a pneumatic sealing system, including a shaft member 6 and the aforementioned radial alignment improvement device, the radial alignment improvement device being sleeved on the shaft member 6. It is readily understood that, based on the radial alignment improvement device, the pneumatic sealing system can also include any other suitable functional modules, resulting in richer functionality to meet different working requirements and improved practicality. Furthermore, it is readily understood that the functional modules can be selected from any suitable existing equipment, offering a wide range of choices.
[0061] The specific embodiments described above further illustrate the purpose, technical solution, and beneficial effects of this utility model. It should be understood that the above description is only a specific embodiment of this utility model and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this utility model. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of this utility model should be included within the scope of protection of this utility model.
Claims
1. A radial alignment improvement device, characterized in that, Includes a basic module (1) and a sealing ring (2); The basic module (1) and the sealing ring (2) are both sleeved on the shaft member (6); The outer periphery of the sealing ring (2) is connected to the base module (1) through the elastic element (3) so that the sealing ring (2) is aligned and a first gap (201) is left between the inner periphery of the sealing ring (2) and the outer periphery of the shaft member (6). Accordingly, when the basic module (1) is introduced with sealing gas, the sealing gas flows to the first gap (201) and forms a sealing gas film.
2. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The elastic element (3) is selected as a centering spring. There are at least 10 centering springs, and multiple centering springs are evenly distributed on the outer circumference of the sealing ring (2).
3. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base module (1) is provided with an anti-rotation rod (4) and a clamping spring (5); the anti-rotation rod (4) extends toward the sealing ring (2) and is inserted into the sealing ring (2). Accordingly, the anti-rotation rod (4) is used to prevent the sealing ring (2) from rotating with the shaft member (6); the clamping spring (5) presses against the sealing ring (2) so that the sealing ring (2) and the base module (1) are pressed against each other.
4. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least three anti-rotation rods (4) are provided, and multiple anti-rotation rods (4) are evenly distributed on the circumferential direction of the sealing ring (2); at least six clamping springs (5) are provided, and multiple clamping springs (5) are evenly distributed on the circumferential direction of the same side of the sealing ring (2).
5. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The sealing ring (2) has an outer side and an inner side, with an inner recessed hole on the outer side adapted to the anti-rotation rod (4), and the inner side abutting against the clamping spring (5).
6. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The sealing ring (2) is a carbon ring.
7. The radial alignment improvement device according to any one of claims 3-6, characterized in that, The basic module (1) includes a base (101) and a pressure plate (102) both sleeved on the shaft member (6); The base (101) is provided with a sealing channel (103) for the flow of sealing gas. Two pressure plates (102) are provided and are respectively connected to the two ends of the base (101). Correspondingly, there is an installation groove between the base (101) and the pressure plate (102) that is adapted to the sealing ring (2). Accordingly, a second gap (104) is left between the inner circumference of the base (101) and the shaft member (6), and the second gap (104) connects the first gap (201) and the sealing channel (103).
8. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 7, characterized in that, The anti-rotation rod (4) is set on the pressure plate (102), and the clamping spring (5) is set on the base (101).
9. The radial alignment improvement device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The pressure plate (102) is provided with an outward protruding ring extending toward the base (101); the outer periphery of the outward protruding ring forms a groove adapted to the base (101), and correspondingly, the base (101) is provided with a locking block adapted to the groove; the inner periphery of the outward protruding ring forms an installation groove adapted to the sealing ring (2).
10. A pneumatic sealing system, characterized in that, It includes a shaft member (6) and a radial alignment improvement device according to any one of claims 1-9, the radial alignment improvement device being sleeved on the shaft member (6).