Seal and method of making and using same

Abstract

1. A seal comprising: an annular jacket including a body including a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; and a floating circumferential insert, wherein a radial biasing force on the first lip is decoupled from a radial biasing force on the second lip.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to seals, and more particularly to annular seals or seals adapted to be placed under pressure conditions. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0002] Seals are used in environments to separate fluids (liquids, gases, slurries, etc.) from one another. Often, these seals may include springs that repeatedly compress and expand under high pressure conditions or vibration. Often, these springs can fail over time, resulting in the entire seal becoming ineffective during use. There is a continuing demand in industry for improved seals that can withstand high pressure and high vibration conditions while maintaining operational effectiveness and avoiding seal failure over time.

[0003] Aspects of embodiments herein may include a seal assembly including an annular jacket including a body including first and second lips defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first and second lips; and a floating circumferential second circumferential insert, wherein a radial biasing force on the first lip may be decoupled from a radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0004] Aspects of embodiments herein may include a shaft assembly including a shaft, a housing, a seal radially disposed between the shaft and the housing, the seal including an annular jacket including a body including first and second lips that define an annular recess, a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first and second lips, and a floating circumferential second circumferential insert, wherein the radial biasing force on the first lip can be decoupled from the radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0005] Aspects of embodiments herein may include a seal including an annular jacket including a body including a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; a floating circumferential second circumferential insert; and a second circumferential insert disposed within the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] Embodiments are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation in the accompanying drawings.

[0007] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal assembly according to one embodiment.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The following description in combination with the drawings is provided to aid in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion focuses on specific implementations and embodiments of the teachings. This focus is provided to help explain the teachings and should not be construed as a limitation on the scope or applicability of the teachings. However, other embodiments may be used based on the teachings disclosed in this application.

[0010] The terms "comprises," "comprising," "includes," "including," "has," "having," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that includes a list of features is not necessarily limited to only those features, but may include other features not expressly listed or that are inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive or, not an exclusive or. For example, condition A or B can be satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or absent), A is false (or absent) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0011] Additionally, the use of "a" or "an" is 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 invention. This description should be understood as one, at least one, or the singular as including the plural, or vice versa, unless it is clear that this is meant otherwise. For example, where a single item is described herein, two or more items can be used in place of the single item. Similarly, where two or more items are described herein, the two or more items can be replaced with a single item.

[0012] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing operations are conventional and can be found in textbooks and other sources in the art of sealing.

[0013] FIG. 1A includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. Referring initially to FIG. 1A, a seal 100 according to some embodiments described herein may generally include a jacket 102, a spring 108, a floating insert 130, and a second circumferential insert 122. The jacket 102 may include a body 104 having a heel 116, a first lip 112, and a second lip 114 that define an annular recess 106. In some embodiments, the spring 108 may be disposed within the annular recess 106. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second circumferential insert 122 may be disposed within the annular recess 106.

[0014] Under loading conditions, such as those present in high-pressure applications, the spring 108 may deform in at least one of the axial or radial directions of the seal 100 to contact or even press against the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The opposite end of the spring 108 may be simultaneously biased by the floating insert 130 and further bias at least one of the lips 112, 114. Additionally, the second circumferential insert 122 may deform in at least one of the axial or radial directions of the seal 100 to contact or even press against the other lip 112, 114 of the jacket 102. Thus, the lips 112, 114 may provide an outward force against adjacent first and second members, respectively, in the assembly. Meanwhile, the lips 112 and 114, compressed between the first and second members, can bias the spring 108 and second circumferential insert 122 in a direction transverse to the axial height of the seal 100, thus generally generating four biasing directions: two inward axial forces and two opposing outward axial forces. The force imparted by the spring 108 and floating insert 130 to either lip 112, 114 can be different from the force imparted by the second circumferential insert 122 to the other lip 112, 114. Thus, the force on either lip 112, 114 can be decoupled from the force on the other lip 112, 114. In other words, each lip 112, 114 can be biased independently of the other within the assembly. Additionally, due to the gap between the second circumferential insert 122 and other components of the seal 100, the spring 108 is isolated and not compressed or stressed beyond its initial installation state, reducing fatigue failure. Note that the described biasing forces may be applied indirectly to the spring in certain applications.

[0015] Seal 100 (including at least one of jacket 102, spring 108, floating insert 130, or second circumferential insert 122) may be formed from any suitable material in the sealing art. In certain embodiments, seal 100 (including at least one of jacket 102, spring 108, floating insert 130, or second circumferential insert 122) may at least partially comprise a polymer. The polymer may be selected from the group including polyketone, polyaramid, polyphenylene sulfide, polyethersulfone, polyphenylene sulfone, polyamideimide, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole, polyacetal, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfone, polyamide (PA), polyphenylene oxide, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyurethane, polyester, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), or any combination thereof. The polymer may be a thermoplastic or thermoset polymer. In one embodiment, the jacket 102 may include, or even consist essentially of, a fluoropolymer.Exemplary fluoropolymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyimide (PI), polyamide-imide (PAI), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), a terpolymer of tetrafluoroethylene, a hexafluoropropylene and vinylidene fluoride (THV), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), or any combination thereof. Other fluoropolymers, polymers, and blends may be included in the composition of jacket 102. In another particular embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) can at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, polyethylene (PE), such as ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE).In another particular embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) may include a thermoplastic elastomeric hydrocarbon block copolymer, a polyether-ester block copolymer, a thermoplastic polyamide elastomer, a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, a thermoplastic polyolefin elastomer, a thermoplastic vulcanizate, an olefin-based copolymer, an olefin-based terpolymer, a polyolefin plastomer, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) may include a styrenic block copolymer such as, for example, styrene-butadiene, styrene-isoprene, a blend or mixture thereof, or the like. Exemplary styrenic thermoplastic elastomers include triblock styrenic block copolymers (SBCs) such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS), styrene-isoprene-styrene (SIS), styrene-ethylene butylene-styrene (SEBS), styrene-ethylene propylene-styrene (SEPS), styrene-ethylene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene (SEEBS), styrene-ethylene-ethylene-propylene-styrene (SEEPS), styrene-isoprene-butadiene-styrene (SIBS), or combinations thereof. Commercially available examples include several grades of Kraton™ and Hybrar™ resins.In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) is made of a rubber material selected from the group consisting of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene (NBR), Carboxylated Nitrile (XNBR), Ethylene Acrylate (AEM, Vamac®), Ethylene Propylene Rubber (EPR, EPDM), Butyl Rubber (IIR), Chloroprene Rubber (CR), Fluorocarbon (FKM, FPM), Fluorosilicone (FVMQ), Hydrogenated Nitrile (HNO3), and the like. The elastomer may include at least one of the following: Polyethylene Nitrile, HNBR, Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM), Polyacrylate (ACM), Polyurethane (AU, EU), Silicone Rubber (Q, MQ, VMQ, PVMQ), Tetrafluoroethylene-Propylene (AFLAS®) (FEPM).

[0016] In one embodiment, seal 100 (including at least one of jacket 102, spring 108, floating insert 130, or second circumferential insert 122) may be treated, impregnated, filled, or coated with a lubricious material. Exemplary lubricious materials include molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, graphite, graphene, expanded graphite, boron nitrate, talc, calcium fluoride, or any combination thereof. Additionally, the lubricious material may include alumina, silica, titanium dioxide, calcium fluoride, boron nitride, mica, wollastonite, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, zirconia, carbon black, pigments, or any combination thereof.

[0017] In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) can at least partially comprise a metal. According to certain embodiments, the metal may include iron, copper, titanium, tin, aluminum, alloys thereof, or may be another type of metal. In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, the spring 108, the floating insert 130, or the second circumferential insert 122) can include a metal (aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, steel, spring steel, stainless steel, etc.), a metal alloy (including the listed metals), an anodized metal (including the listed metals), or any combination thereof.

[0018] The seal 100 may have an inner diameter of 0.254 mm to 25,000 mm. The seal 100 may have an outer diameter of 0.5 mm to 40,000 mm. The seal 100 may have a height of 0.24 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0019] As described above, the seal 100 may include a jacket 102. The jacket 102 may include multiple lips 112, 114 that define the annular recess 106. In certain instances, the lips 112 and 114 may extend from a heel 116 of the body 104. In certain embodiments, the lips 112 and 114 may extend from the heel 116 in generally the same direction relative to one another. In one embodiment, the first lip 112 may be located radially outward from the second lip 114. In one embodiment, the first lip 112 may be located radially inward from the second lip 114. In another particular embodiment, the lips 112 and 114 may extend parallel to one another. In an optional embodiment, either or both of the lips 112 and 114 may include a skived lip (not shown) adapted to provide a scraper interface for sealing against abrasive or viscous materials or environmental components such as dirt, debris, and environmental fluids. In certain embodiments, the heel 116 may include a flange (not shown) that may be secured to hardware (e.g., a valve housing or shaft) to prevent the seal 100 from rotating relative to the hardware in the assembly.

[0020] In one embodiment, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 may be generally planar extending from the heel 116. In one embodiment, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 may include a radial bulge extending outward from the respective lip 112 or 114 in a direction away from the annular recess 106. The radial bulge may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. Similar to the skived lip described above, the radial bulge may prevent the ingress or egress of material while exhibiting lower frictional resistance. In another embodiment, one of the lips 112 or 114 may include a skived lip, and the other lip 112 or 114 may include a radial bulge.

[0021] As shown, the lips 112 and 114 of the jacket 102 can bend outward after installation of the seal components. After installation of the spring 108, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 can include an arcuate portion in cross section that is biased outward by the radial biasing force provided by the spring 108 or the second circumferential insert 122. After installation of the seal components, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 can be straight or planar in cross section and is biased outward by the radial biasing force provided by the spring 108 or the second circumferential insert 122.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least one of first lip 112 or second lip 114 may include a radially oriented flange 121. In some embodiments, radially oriented flange 121 may be arcuate in cross section. In some embodiments, radially oriented flange 121 may be straight or planar in cross section. Radially oriented flange 121 may include a radial edge on the inside of the flange within annular recess 106.

[0023] In one embodiment, the heel 116 can have a thickness, measured axially of the seal 100, that is approximately the same as the radial thickness of the lips 112 and 114. In another embodiment, the heel 116 can have an expanded thickness. That is, the heel 116 can have a width, measured from the annular recess 106 to the rear surface 118 of the jacket 102, that is at least 20% of the diameter of the spring 108, e.g., at least 30% of the diameter of the spring, at least 40% of the diameter of the spring, at least 50% of the diameter of the spring, at least 60% of the diameter of the spring, at least 70% of the diameter of the spring, at least 80% of the diameter of the spring, at least 90% of the diameter of the spring, or even at least 100% of the diameter of the spring. In another embodiment, the heel 116 can have a width that is 100,000% or less of the diameter of the spring 108.

[0024] In one embodiment, the aft surface 118 of the seal 100 may be generally straight or planar. That is, the aft surface 118 may lie generally along a plane with minimal surface undulations and deviations. In a more specific embodiment, the aft surface 118 of the jacket 102 may be planar. As described in more detail below, a flat or generally flat aft surface 118 may facilitate improved contact between adjacent seals, thereby providing better sealing characteristics.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 1A , the spring 108 can be at least partially disposed within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. The spring 108 can be a circumferential spring oriented circumferentially within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the spring 108 can be disposed along, adjacent to, or directly adjacent to the first lip 112. In one embodiment, the spring 108 can be disposed along, adjacent to, or directly adjacent to the second lip 114. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A , the spring 108 can be a spring located directly adjacent to the first lip 112 within the recess 106 of the jacket 102.

[0026] In one embodiment, the spring 108 may have a diameter that is less than 150% of the depth of the annular recess 106, such as less than 100% of the depth of the annular recess 106, or even less than 75% of the depth of the annular recess 106. In one embodiment, the diameter of the spring 108 may be 10% or more of the depth of the annular recess 106.

[0027] The spring 108 may be arcuate in cross section. In some embodiments, the spring 108 may be linear or planar in cross section. As shown in FIG. 1A , the spring 108 may contact at least one of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the lips 112, 114 in the axial direction. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may contact at least one of the annular flanges of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. As shown in FIG. 1A , the spring 108 may contact at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the lips 112, 114 in the axial direction. The spring 108 may contact an inner axial edge of at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102.

[0028] As contemplated in at least one embodiment described herein, the spring 108 can include a length of material formed into a helical spring having multiple coils. In one embodiment, the spring 108 can include at least two coils, e.g., at least three coils, at least four coils, at least five coils, at least 10 coils, at least 100 coils, at least 200 coils, at least 300 coils, at least 400 coils, at least 500 coils, or even at least 1000 coils. The length of material forming the spring 108 can have a polygonal or elliptical cross-section. For example, in one embodiment, the spring 108 can be formed from a round wire. In another embodiment, the spring 108 can be formed from a ribbon of material wound into multiple coils. The coils of the spring 108 can be adjacent to one another or can partially overlap. In certain cases, the coils can be parallel to one another. In other cases, the coils can be angled relative to one another. That is, the coils can be angularly offset and angled relative to one another.

[0029] In a relaxed state, the spring 108 may have a generally circular cross-section. That is, the spring 108 may be a helical spring, as described above. In other embodiments, the spring 108 may define a generally polygonal cross-sectional profile. In a more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may have a generally T-shaped cross-sectional profile. In another embodiment, the spring 108 may have an elliptical cross-section. For example, in an embodiment not shown, the spring 108 may have an oval or circular cross-sectional profile. In yet another embodiment, the cross-section of the spring 108 may be partially elliptical and partially polygonal. That is, the cross-section of the spring 108 may have straight and arcuate portions. The wire forming the coils of the spring 108 may have a rectangular, square, circular, elliptical, or keystone cross-section. The wire forming the coils of the spring 108 may be turned at a pitch of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm. The wire forming the coils of the spring 108 may have a wire diameter between 0.025 mm and 25.4 mm. The wire forming the coils of the spring 108 may have a spring diameter between 0.05 mm and 40,000 mm.

[0030] In one embodiment, the spring 108 may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may have a uniform shape and material properties around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In another more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may have a varying shape or material selection around the circumference of the seal 100. In another embodiment, the spring 108 may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may include multiple springs 108 that are at least partially spaced apart from one another. In such an embodiment, there may be a circumferential space between adjacent springs 108.

[0031] The spring 108 can at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a metal such as steel, or even more specifically, spring steel. The metal can be coated or surface treated to prevent corrosion or other undesirable effects from environmental exposure. In another embodiment, the spring 108 can at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, for example, Eligloy, Inconel, Hastelloy, or combinations thereof.

[0032] In yet another embodiment, the spring 108 can include cobalt, chromium, nickel, iron, molybdenum, manganese, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the spring 108 can include at least 10% cobalt by weight, e.g., at least 20% cobalt by weight, at least 25% cobalt by weight, at least 30% cobalt by weight, at least 35% cobalt by weight, or even at least 40% cobalt by weight. The spring 108 can have a yield strength of less than 1200 MPa, e.g., less than 1100 MPa, less than 1000 MPa, or even less than 900 MPa. In certain cases, the spring 108 can be heat treated or surface treated to improve its properties.

[0033] The spring 108 may provide a biasing force against the jacket 102. Specifically, the spring 108 may contact and provide an outward radial biasing force against at least one of the first lip 112 or the second lip 114. In certain embodiments, the biasing force of the spring 108 against the lips 112, 114 is at least 0.001 N / mm 2 , e.g., at least 0.01 N / mm 2 In another embodiment, the biasing force may be 1000 N / mm 2 Less than, for example, 500N / mm 2 Less than 400N / mm 2 Less than 300N / mm 2 Less than 200N / mm 2 Less than 100N / mm 2 Less than 50N / mm 2 Less than 25N / mm 2Less than, or even 10 N / mm 2 In some embodiments, the radial biasing force on the first lip 112 may be different from the radial biasing force on the second lip 114, as described in more detail below.

[0034] Under axial load conditions, such as those encountered in high pressure applications, the spring 108 may deform from an unloaded position to a loaded position. In one embodiment, the spring 108 has an unloaded inner diameter D as measured in a relaxed state. U and the minimum load inner dimension D measured under operating conditions L and which are different from each other. In certain embodiments, D U / D L may be at least 1.01, e.g., at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, or even at least 1.25. U / D L can be 10.0 or less, e.g., 5.0 or less, 4.0 or less, 3.0 or less, 2.0 or less, 1.75 or less, 1.5 or less, or even at least 1.3. U / D L defines the ratio of spring deflections, so D U / D L can be adjusted by adjusting the shape, shape, or material selection of the annular recess 106, or even the shape, design, or material selection of the spring 108.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1A , the seal 100 may further include a floating insert 130. In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the floating insert 130 may have a uniform shape and material properties around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In another more specific embodiment, the floating insert 130 may have a varying shape or material selection around the circumference of the seal 100. In another embodiment, the floating insert 130 may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the floating insert 130 may include multiple floating inserts 130 at least partially spaced apart from one another. In such an embodiment, there may be a circumferential space between adjacent floating inserts 130.

[0036] In certain cases, the floating insert 130 may at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a material such as a fluoropolymer, such as UHMWPE or PTFE, or PEEK. The floating insert 130 may also at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a metal, such as steel.

[0037] In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 can have a generally polygonal cross-section. For example, the floating insert 130 can have a generally triangular cross-section, a generally square cross-section, a generally pentagonal cross-section, or any cross-section including generally straight sidewall segments. In another embodiment, the floating insert 130 can have a generally elliptical cross-section. In yet another embodiment, the floating insert 130 can have a cross-sectional profile that is partially polygonal and partially elliptical. That is, the floating insert 130 can have a cross-section having arcuate and straight portions. In certain cases, the cross-sectional profile of the floating insert 130 can be uniform around the circumference of the floating insert 130. In other particular cases, the cross-sectional profile of the floating insert 130 may not be constant around the circumference of the floating insert 130. For example, the floating insert 130 can have a first cross-sectional profile at a first circumferential location and a second cross-sectional profile at a second circumferential location, where the first and second cross-sectional profiles are different from each other. This can be advantageous in applications where specific or uneven pressures are expected.

[0038] The floating insert 130 may have an aspect ratio as defined by the ratio of the width of the floating insert 130 in a radial direction relative to the seal 100 to the height of the floating insert 130 in an axial direction relative to the seal 100, i.e., width / height. In one embodiment, the width / height of the floating insert 130 may be 1.0 or less, e.g., 0.9 or less, 0.8 or less, 0.7 or less, 0.6 or less, 0.5 or less, 0.4 or less, 0.3 or less, 0.25 or less, 0.2 or less, or even 0.15 or less. In another embodiment, the width / height of the floating insert 130 may be 0.001 or more, e.g., 0.01 or more, or even 0.1 or more.

[0039] The floating insert 130 may be arcuate in cross section. In some embodiments, the floating insert 130 may be linear or planar in cross section. As shown in FIG. 1A , the floating insert 130 may contact at least one of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the lips 112, 114 in the axial direction. In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 may contact at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. As shown in FIG. 1A , the floating insert 130 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The floating insert 130 may include a second circumferential insert flange 125 that contacts at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The floating insert 130 may contact the inner axial edge of at least one of the annular flanges 121 , 123 of the lips 112 , 114 of the jacket 102 .

[0040] According to certain embodiments, when in a relaxed state, the floating insert 130 may float within the jacket 102. That is, the floating insert 130 may be spaced apart from the inner second circumferential insert 122 and / or the jacket 102. As a result, in one embodiment, the annular recess 106 may include a void 145 between the floating insert 130 and the second circumferential insert 122. The volume of the void 145 may be at least 5%, e.g., at least 10%, e.g., at least 15%, e.g., at least 20%, or e.g., at least 25%, of the volume of the annular recess 106. In another embodiment, the volume of the void 145 may be less than 50%, e.g., less than 45%, less than 40%, less than 30%, less than 25%, less than 20%, less than 15%, less than 10%, or even less than 5% of the volume of the annular recess 106.

[0041] In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 may be positioned to contact the spring 108 within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the floating insert 130 may be positioned to contact only the spring 108 within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. The floating insert 130 may include a seat 131 that may be designed to contact and provide support for the spring 108.

[0042] By way of example, the height of the floating insert 130 may be less than 100% of the diameter of the inner surface (disposed adjacent the floating insert seat 131) of the spring 108, e.g., less than 99% of the diameter, less than 98% of the diameter, less than 97% of the diameter, less than 96% of the diameter, less than 95% of the diameter, or even less than 90% of the diameter. In another embodiment, the height of the floating insert 130 may be 10% or more of the diameter of the inner surface, e.g., 25% or more of the diameter, or even 50% or more of the diameter.

[0043] The floating insert 130 may provide a biasing force against the spring 108. Specifically, the floating insert 130 may contact and provide an outward radial biasing force against the spring 108. In certain embodiments, the biasing force of the floating insert 130 against the spring 108 is at least 0.001 N / mm 2 , e.g., at least 0.01 N / mm 2 In another embodiment, the biasing force may be 1000 N / mm 2 Less than, for example, 500N / mm 2 Less than 400N / mm 2 Less than 300N / mm 2 Less than 200N / mm 2 Less than 100N / mm 2 Less than 50N / mm 2 Less than 25N / mm 2 Less than, or even 10 N / mm 2 It may be less than.

[0044] 1A , the seal 100 may include a second circumferential insert 122 disposed within the annular recess 106. The second circumferential insert 122 may be disposed along, adjacent to, or immediately adjacent to at least one of the radial lips 112, 114 of the annular recess 106. In one embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 may be disposed along, adjacent to, or immediately adjacent to the first lip 112. In one embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 may be disposed along the second lip 114. Specifically, the second circumferential insert 122 may form a surface of the annular recess 106.

[0045] In certain cases, the second circumferential insert 122 may at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a material such as a fluoropolymer, such as UHMWPE or PTFE, or PEEK. The second circumferential insert 122 may at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a metal, such as steel.

[0046] In one embodiment, the second circumferential inserts 122 may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the second circumferential inserts 122 may have uniform shapes and material properties around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In another more specific embodiment, the second circumferential inserts 122 may have varying shapes or material selections around the circumference of the seal 100. In another embodiment, the second circumferential inserts 122 may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the second circumferential inserts 122 may include second circumferential inserts 122 that are at least partially spaced apart from one another. In such an embodiment, there may be a circumferential space between adjacent second circumferential inserts 122.

[0047] In one embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 can have a generally polygonal cross-section. For example, the second circumferential insert 122 can have a generally triangular cross-section, a generally square cross-section, a generally pentagonal cross-section, or any cross-section including generally straight sidewall segments. In another embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 can have a generally elliptical cross-section. In yet another embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 can have a cross-sectional profile that is partially polygonal and partially elliptical. That is, the second circumferential insert 122 can have a cross-section having arcuate portions and straight portions. In certain cases, the cross-sectional profile of the second circumferential insert 122 can be uniform around the circumference of the second circumferential insert 122. In other particular cases, the cross-sectional profile of the second circumferential insert 122 may not be constant around the circumference of the second circumferential insert 122. For example, the second circumferential insert 122 may have a first cross-sectional profile at a first circumferential location and a second cross-sectional profile at a second circumferential location, the first and second cross-sectional profiles being different from one another, which may be advantageous in applications where particular or uneven pressures are expected.

[0048] The second circumferential insert 122 has a height H of the second circumferential insert 122 in the axial direction relative to the seal 100. I The second circumferential insert 122 may have an aspect ratio as defined by the ratio of the width of the second circumferential insert 122 in the radial direction relative to the seal 122, i.e., width / height. In one embodiment, the width / height of the second circumferential insert 122 may be 1.0 or less, e.g., 0.9 or less, 0.8 or less, 0.7 or less, 0.6 or less, 0.5 or less, 0.4 or less, 0.3 or less, 0.25 or less, 0.2 or less, or even 0.15 or less. In another embodiment, the width / height of the second circumferential insert 122 may be 0.001 or more, e.g., 0.01 or more, or even 0.1 or more.

[0049] The second circumferential insert 122 may be arcuate in cross section. In some embodiments, the second circumferential insert 122 may be linear or planar in cross section. As shown in FIG. 1A , the second circumferential insert 122 may contact at least one of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the lips 112, 114 in the axial direction. In one embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 may contact at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. As shown in FIG. 1A , the second circumferential insert 122 may contact substantially the entirety of at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The second circumferential insert 122 may include a radially oriented second circumferential insert flange 125 that contacts at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The second circumferential insert 122 may contact an inner axial edge of at least one of the annular flanges 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The second circumferential insert flange 125 may have a height that may be at least 5%, such as at least 7%, such as at least 10%, such as at least 15%, or such as at least 20% of the height of the second circumferential insert.

[0050] The second circumferential insert 122 may provide a biasing force against the jacket 102. Specifically, the second circumferential insert 122 may contact and provide an outward radial biasing force against at least one of the first lip 112 or the second lip 114. In certain embodiments, the biasing force of the second circumferential insert 112 against the lips 112, 114 is at least 0.001 N / mm 2 , e.g., at least 0.01 N / mm 2 In another embodiment, the biasing force may be 1000 N / mm 2 Less than, for example, 500N / mm 2 Less than 400N / mm2 Less than 300N / mm 2 Less than 200N / mm 2 Less than 100N / mm 2 Less than 50N / mm 2 Less than 25N / mm 2 Less than, or even 10 N / mm 2 It may be less than.

[0051] In yet another embodiment, the second circumferential insert 122 can be positioned within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102, spaced apart from the spring 108 and / or the floating insert 130. By way of example, the height of the second circumferential insert 122 can be less than 100% of the diameter of the inner surface (located opposite the seat 131) of the floating insert 130, e.g., less than 99% of the diameter, less than 98% of the diameter, less than 97% of the diameter, less than 96% of the diameter, less than 95% of the diameter, or even less than 90% of the diameter. In another embodiment, the height of the second circumferential insert 122 can be 10% or more of the diameter of the inner surface, e.g., 25% or more of the diameter, or even 50% or more of the diameter.

[0052] FIG. 1B includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. The components in FIG. 1B may be the same as those described above in FIG. 1A. Referring to FIG. 1B, the second circumferential insert 122 may include a second spring 108′ and a second floating insert 130′. The second spring 108′ may be similar to the first spring 108 in shape, size, material, or physical properties, as described above. The second spring 108′ may be different from the first spring 108 in shape, size, material, or physical properties, as described above. That is, the springs 108, 108′ may be different from each other. However, the first spring 108 or the second spring 108′ may include any of the features described above with respect to the spring 108. For example, the first or second spring 108, 108' can at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, e.g., Elgiloy, Inconel, Hastelloy, steel, or a combination thereof. The second floating insert 130' can be similar to the first floating insert 130 in shape, size, material, or physical properties, as described above. The second floating insert 130' can be different from the first floating insert 130 in shape, size, material, or physical properties, as described above. That is, the floating inserts 130, 130' can be different from each other. However, the floating inserts 130, 130' can include any of the features described above with respect to the spring 108. For example, the floating inserts 130, 130' can at least partially comprise, or even consist essentially of, a polymer, such as, e.g., PEEK.

[0053] FIG. 2 includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal within a seal assembly, according to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, seal 200 can be positioned radially between first member 202 and second member 204 within seal assembly 2000 along a central axis 3000. First member 202 can be a shaft. Second member 204 can be a housing. At least one of first member 202 or second member 204 can actuate relative to at least one of seal 200 or the other of first member 202 or second member 204. Actuation can be rotational, radial, or axial movement. The components of seal 200 in FIG. 2 can be the same as those described above in FIGS. 1A-1B.

[0054] The seal 100 may form an assembly that may be utilized in bidirectional pressure applications. The seal 100 may be oriented and protected against fluid leakage in a forward axial direction, or the seal 100 may be oriented and protected against fluid leakage in an aft axial direction along the central axis 3000. The seal 100 may be oriented and protected against fluid leakage in an inward radial direction, or the seal 100 may be oriented and protected against fluid leakage in an outward radial direction perpendicular to the central axis 3000. In this regard, the seal 100 may be selected to have specific properties that enable effective sealing in those particular orientations. Particular suitable applications include cryogenic valves, pistons, and other moving components requiring sealing therebetween.

[0055] Seals described in accordance with embodiments herein may enable spring components to have longer life spans due to properly positioned forces that reduce repeated compression and stress on individual components due to vibration or actuation of the seal or other components within the assembly. Additionally, seals described in accordance with embodiments herein may limit the effect of offset or misalignment of adjacent components relative to the seal within the seal assembly, resulting in improved life spans for the components and the seal itself.

[0056] Many different aspects and embodiments are possible. Some of these aspects and embodiments are described below. After reading this specification, those skilled in the art will understand that these aspects and embodiments are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention. An embodiment may be along any one or more of the items listed below.

[0057] Embodiment 1: A seal comprising: an annular jacket having a body with a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; and a floating circumferential insert, wherein a radial biasing force on the first lip is separated from a radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0058] Embodiment 2: A seal assembly comprising: a first member; a second member; a seal disposed radially between the first member and the second member, the seal comprising: an annular jacket having a body with a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; and a floating circumferential insert, the radial biasing force on the first lip being decoupled from the radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0059] Embodiment 3: A seal comprising: an annular jacket having a body with a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; a floating circumferential insert; and a second circumferential insert disposed within the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip.

[0060] Embodiment 4: A seal or seal assembly according to embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the annular jacket further comprises a second circumferential insert disposed within the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip.

[0061] Embodiment 5: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the circumferential spring provides a radial biasing force of 0.1 to 1000 N / mm against the first lip or the second lip.

[0062] Embodiment 6: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the second circumferential insert provides a radial biasing force of 0.1 to 1000 N / mm against the first lip or the second lip.

[0063] Embodiment 7: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the radial biasing force on the first lip is different from the radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0064] Embodiment 8: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the first lip is located radially outward of the second lip.

[0065] Embodiment 9: A seal or seal assembly according to embodiment 8, wherein the second circumferential insert is positioned directly adjacent to the second lip.

[0066] Embodiment 10: A seal or seal assembly according to embodiment 8, wherein the second circumferential insert is positioned directly adjacent to the first lip.

[0067] Embodiment 11: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a metal.

[0068] Embodiment 12: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the circumferential spring comprises a metal.

[0069] Embodiment 13: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a polymer.

[0070] Embodiment 14: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the circumferential spring comprises a polymer.

[0071] Embodiment 15: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the jacket comprises a metal.

[0072] Embodiment 16: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 15, wherein the jacket comprises a polymer.

[0073] Embodiment 17: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the floating circumferential insert comprises a metal.

[0074] Embodiment 18: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 17, wherein the floating circumferential insert comprises a polymer.

[0075] Embodiment 19: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 18, wherein at least one of the first lip or the second lip comprises a radially oriented flange.

[0076] Embodiment 20: A seal or seal assembly according to embodiment 19, wherein the second circumferential insert contacts the radial edge of the radially oriented flange of the first lip or the second lip.

[0077] Embodiment 21: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 20, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a radially oriented flange.

[0078] Embodiment 22: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 21, wherein the annular recess comprises a gap between the floating circumferential insert and the second circumferential insert.

[0079] Embodiment 23: A seal or seal assembly described in any one of embodiments 1 to 22, wherein the spring rotates at a pitch of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm.

[0080] Embodiment 24: A seal or seal assembly described in any one of embodiments 1 to 23, wherein the spring has a wire diameter of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm.

[0081] Embodiment 25: A seal or seal assembly described in any one of embodiments 1 to 24, wherein the spring has a spring diameter of 0.05 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0082] Embodiment 26: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 25, wherein the spring has a rectangular, square, or keystone cross-section wire.

[0083] Embodiment 27: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 26, wherein the spring has a circular cross-section wire.

[0084] Embodiment 28: A seal or seal assembly described in any one of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the seal has an inner diameter of 0.254 mm to 25,000 mm.

[0085] Embodiment 29: A seal or seal assembly described in any one of embodiments 1 to 28, wherein the seal has an outer diameter of 0.5 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0086] Embodiment 30: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 29, wherein the seal has a height of 0.24 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0087] Embodiment 31: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 30, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a second circumferential spring.

[0088] Embodiment 32: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 31, wherein the floating circumferential insert contacts the circumferential spring.

[0089] Embodiment 33: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of embodiments 1 to 32, wherein the floating circumferential insert comprises a seat that contacts the circumferential spring.

[0090] Embodiment 34: A seal or seal assembly as described in embodiment 22, wherein the void has a volume that is 50% or less of the volume of the annular recess.

[0091] Embodiment 35: A seal or seal assembly as described in embodiment 22, wherein the void has a volume that is 5% or more of the volume of the annular recess.

[0092] It should be noted that not all of the above features are required, that some of the particular features may not be required, and that one or more features may be provided in addition to the features described. Still further, the order in which the features are listed is not necessarily the order in which they are introduced.

[0093] Certain features that are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any subcombination.

[0094] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with respect to particular embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may bring about or make more pronounced any benefit, advantage, or solution should not be construed as critical, necessary, or essential features of any or all of the claims.

[0095] The specification and illustrations of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structure of various embodiments. The specification and illustrations are not intended to serve as an exhaustive and comprehensive description of all elements and features of apparatus and systems that use the structures or methods described herein. Separate embodiments may be provided in combination in a single embodiment, and conversely, various features that are described for brevity in the context of a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any subcombination. Furthermore, references to values ​​described in ranges include every individual value within that range. Many other embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art only after reading this specification. Other embodiments may be utilized and derived from the present disclosure, such that structural substitutions, logical substitutions, or any changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A seal, an annular jacket comprising a body having a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; a floating circumferential insert, wherein a radial biasing force on the first lip is separated from a radial biasing force on the second lip, the annular jacket further comprising a second circumferential insert disposed within the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip, the annular recess including a gap between the floating circumferential insert and the second circumferential insert.

2. 1. A seal assembly comprising: A first member; A second member; and a seal radially disposed between the first member and the second member, the seal comprising: an annular jacket comprising a body having a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; a floating circumferential insert, wherein a radial biasing force on the first lip is separated from a radial biasing force on the second lip, and the annular jacket further comprises a second circumferential insert disposed in the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip, the annular recess including a gap between the floating circumferential insert and the second circumferential insert.

3. A seal, an annular jacket comprising a body having a first lip and a second lip defining an annular recess; a circumferential spring disposed within the annular recess adjacent one of the first lip and the second lip; a floating circumferential insert; a second circumferential insert disposed in the annular recess adjacent the other of the first lip and the second lip, the annular recess including a gap between the floating circumferential insert and the second circumferential insert.

4. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the circumferential spring provides a radial biasing force against the first lip or the second lip of between 0.1 and 1000 N / mm.

5. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second circumferential insert provides a radial biasing force against the first lip or the second lip of between 0.1 and 1000 N / mm.

6. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the radial biasing force on the first lip is different from the radial biasing force on the second lip.

7. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first lip is located radially outward of the second lip.

8. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the first lip or the second lip comprises a radially oriented flange.

9. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a radially oriented flange.

10. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the second circumferential insert comprises a second circumferential spring.

11. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the floating circumferential insert contacts the circumferential spring.

12. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the floating circumferential insert comprises a seat that contacts the circumferential spring.

13. A seal or seal assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the void has a volume of 5% to 50% of the volume of the annular recess.

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