Seal with insert, and method of manufacturing and using the same

Abstract

The seal includes an annular jacket having a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess, and an insert having at least three prongs disposed within the annular recess contacting the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to seals, and more specifically, to seals adapted to be placed under pressure conditions. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0002] Seals are used in environments to separate fluids (liquids, gases, slurries, etc.) from one another. Often, these seals may include jackets and energizers that are repeatedly compressed and expanded under pressure or vibration. In many cases, the pressure load on the jacket or energizer can be uneven, leading to greater strain on the seal and shortening its effective life. Industrially, there is a continuing demand for improved seals that can withstand high pressure and high vibration conditions while maintaining operational effectiveness over long periods.

[0003] According to a first embodiment, the seal may include an annular jacket comprising a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess, and an insert comprising at least three prongs positioned within the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

[0004] In another embodiment, the seal may include an annular jacket comprising a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess; an energizer disposed within the annular recess adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip; and an insert comprising at least three prongs disposed within the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

[0005] In yet another embodiment, the seal assembly may include a first member, a second member, and a seal radially positioned between the first member and the second member, the seal including an annular jacket having a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess, an energizer positioned in the annular recess adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip, and an insert having at least three prongs positioned in the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] The embodiments are shown as examples and are not intended to be limited to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1A] Figure 1A includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] Figure 1B includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] Figure 2A includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal assembly according to one embodiment. [Figure 2B] Figure 2B includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal assembly according to one embodiment.

[0007] Those skilled in the art should understand that the elements in the figures are illustrated for simplification and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to others to help improve the understanding of embodiments of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The following description, combined with the figures, is provided to aid in understanding the teachings disclosed herein. The following discussion focuses on specific embodiments and forms of the teachings. This focus is provided to aid in the explanation of 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.

[0009] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", "has", "having", or any other variants thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features, but may include other features not explicitly listed or other features inherent to such method, article, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless otherwise stated to the contrary, "or" refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, condition A or condition 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).

[0010] Also, the use of "a" or "an" is used to describe elements and components described herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the scope of the present invention. This description should be understood to mean that one, at least one, or the singular includes the plural and vice versa, unless it is clearly indicated otherwise. For example, where a single article is described herein, two or more articles may be used in place of the single article. Similarly, where two or more articles are described herein, the two or more articles may be replaced with a single article.

[0011] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting. To the extent not described herein, many details regarding specific materials and processing acts are conventional and may be found in textbooks and other sources of information in the technical field of sealing parts.

[0012] Referring initially to Figure 1A, a seal 100 according to some embodiments described herein can generally include a jacket 102, a spring 108, and an insert 122. The jacket 102 can 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 can be disposed within the annular recess 106. Further, in some embodiments, the insert 122 can be disposed within the annular recess 106.

[0013] Under load conditions such as those exhibited in high-pressure applications, the spring 108 may deform in at least one of the axial direction or the radial direction of the seal 100 so as to contact, or even push against, the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. Further, the insert 122 may deform in at least one of the axial direction or the radial direction so as to contact, or even push against, the other of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. Accordingly, the lips 112, 114 can provide an outward force against the respective adjacent first member and second member in the assembly. Meanwhile, the lips 112 and 114 compressed between the first member and the second member can urge the spring 108 and the insert 122 in a direction transverse to the axial height of the seal 100, thus generally generating four biasing force directions, namely two inward axial forces and two opposing outward axial forces. The force exerted by the spring 108 on either of the lips 112, 114 may be different from the force exerted by the insert on the other of the lips 112, 114. Accordingly, the force applied to either of the lips 112, 114 can be decoupled from the force applied to the other of the lips 112, 114. In other words, each of the lips 112, 114 can be urged independently of one another within the assembly. It should be noted that the described biasing forces may be indirectly applied to the spring 108 and the insert 122 in certain applications.

[0014] The seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may be formed from any suitable material in sealing technology. In certain embodiments, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may contain at least partially a polymer. The polymer may be selected from the group including polyketones, polyaramids, polyphenylene sulfides, polyethersulfones, polyphenylene sulfones, polyamide-imides, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylenes, fluoropolymers, polybenzimidazoles, polyacetals, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimides (PI), polyetherimides, polyetheretherketones (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polysulfones, polyamides (PA), polyphenylene oxides, polyphenylene sulfides (PPS), polyurethanes, polyesters, liquid crystal polymers (LCP), or any combination thereof. The polymer may be a thermoplastic polymer or a thermosetting polymer. In one embodiment, the jacket portion 102 may contain or essentially consist of a fluoropolymer. Exemplary fluoropolymers include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyamide-imide (PAI), fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoroalkoxy (PFA), tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene, and vinylidene fluoride (THV) copolymers, polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylenetetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) copolymer, ethylenechlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE) copolymer, or any combination thereof. Other fluoropolymers, polymers, and blends may be included in the composition of jacket portion 102.In another specific embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may contain at least partially, or even essentially, polyethylene (PE), such as ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE). In another specific embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, or energizer 108) may contain thermoplastic elastomer hydrocarbon block copolymers, polyether-ester block copolymers, thermoplastic polyamide elastomers, thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers, thermoplastic polyolefin elastomers, thermoplastic vulcanized products, olefin copolymers, olefin terpolymers, polyolefin plastomers, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may contain styrene-based block copolymers such as styrene-butadiene, styrene-isoprene, blends or mixtures thereof, or mixtures thereof.Examples of styrene-based thermoplastic elastomers include triblock styrene 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, spring 108, or insert 122) is made 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 (HNBR), perfluoroelastomer (FFKM), polyacrylate (ACM), polyurethane (AU, EU), and silicone rubber (Silicone). The material may include an elastomer containing at least one of the following: Rubber (Q, MQ, VMQ, PVMQ), or Tetrafluoroethylene-Propylene (AFLAS®) (FEPM).

[0015] In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may include a ceramic comprising at least one of glass, silica, clay mica, kaolin, alumina, silica, titanium dioxide, calcium fluoride, boron nitride, mica, wollastonite, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, zirconia, carbon black, pigment, or any combination thereof.

[0016] In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may be treated, impregnated, filled, or coated with a lubricating material. Exemplary lubricating materials include molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide, graphite, graphene, expanded graphite, boron nitride, talc, calcium fluoride, or any combination thereof. Furthermore, lubricating materials 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, spring 108, or insert 122) may include at least partially metal. According to a particular embodiment, the metal may include iron, copper, titanium, tin, aluminum, alloys thereof, or other types of metal. In one embodiment, the seal 100 (including at least one of the jacket 102, spring 108, or insert 122) may include metal (such as aluminum, zinc, copper, magnesium, tin, platinum, titanium, tungsten, iron, bronze, steel, spring steel, stainless steel, etc.), metal alloys (including the listed metals), anodized metals (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 a plurality of lips 112, 114 defining an annular recess 106. In certain cases, the lips 112 and 114 may extend from the 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 each other. In one embodiment, the first lip 112 may be located radially outward of the second lip 114. In another particular embodiment, the lips 112 and 114 may extend parallel to each other. 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 abrasive or viscous material, or environmental components such as dirt, debris, and environmental fluids. In certain embodiments, the heel 116 may include a flange (not shown) that can be fixed 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 substantially planar and extending from the heel 116. In one embodiment, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 may include a radial bulge 115 extending outward from each lip 112 or 114 in a direction away from the annular recess 106. The radial bulge 115 may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. Similar to the skived lip described above, the radial bulge 115 may prevent material from entering or exiting 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 115. In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 1A, both the lip 112 or 114 may include a radial bulge 115.

[0021] As shown in the figure, the lips 112 and 114 of the jacket 102 can be bent outward after the spring 108 is installed. After the spring 108 is installed, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 may be arc-shaped in cross-section, biased outward by the radial biasing force provided by the spring 108 or insert 122, as shown in Figure 1A. After the spring 108 is installed, at least one of the lips 112 and 114 may be straight or flat in cross-section, biased outward by the radial biasing force provided by the spring 108 or insert 122.

[0022] In one embodiment, at least one of the first lip 112 or the second lip 114 may include radially oriented flanges 121, 123. In some embodiments, the radially oriented flanges 121, 123 may be arc-shaped in cross-section. In some embodiments, the radially oriented flanges 121, 123 may be straight or planar in cross-section. The radially oriented flanges 121, 123 may include radial edges on the inside of the flanges 121, 123 within the annular recess 106.

[0023] In one embodiment, the heel 116 may have a thickness approximately the same as the radial thickness of the lips 112 and 114 when measured axially along the seal 100. In another embodiment, the heel 116 may have an extended thickness. That is, the heel 116 may have a length that, when measured from the annular recess 106 to the rear surface 118 of the jacket 102, is at least 20% of the diameter of the spring 108, for example, at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or even more than 100% of the diameter of the spring. In another embodiment, the heel 116 may have a length of 1000% or less of the diameter of the spring.

[0024] In one embodiment, the rear surface 118 of the seal 100 may be generally linear or planar. That is, the rear surface 118 may be located generally along a plane having minimal surface undulation and deviation. In a more specific embodiment, the rear surface 118 of the jacket 102 may be planar. As will be described in more detail below, a flat or generally flat rear surface 118 can facilitate improved contact between adjacent seals, thereby providing better sealing characteristics.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1A, the spring 108 can be at least partially positioned within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. The spring 108 may be an axially oriented spring within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may be positioned adjacent to or directly adjacent to the first lip 112. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may be positioned adjacent to or directly adjacent to the second lip 114.

[0026] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 1A, the spring 108 may be a spring oriented axially within the recess 106 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may have a diameter less than 150% of the depth of the annular recess 106, for example 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 arc-shaped in cross-section. In some embodiments, the spring 108 may be straight or flat in cross-section. As shown in Figure 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 121, 123 of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. The spring 108 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 spring 108 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.

[0028] As assumed in at least one embodiment described herein, the spring 108 may include a length of material formed into a helical spring having a plurality of coils. In one embodiment, the spring 108 may include at least two coils, for example, at least three coils, at least four coils, at least five coils, at least ten 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 the material forming the spring 108 may have a polygonal or elliptical cross-section. For example, in one embodiment, the spring 108 may be formed from a circular wire. In another embodiment, the spring 108 may be formed from a ribbon of material wound into a plurality of coils. The coils of the spring 108 may be adjacent to each other or partially overlap. In certain cases, the coils may be parallel to each other. In other cases, the coils may be inclined relative to each other; that is, the coils may be angularly offset and angled relative to each other.

[0029] In its relaxed state, the spring 108 may have a substantially 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 substantially polygonal cross-sectional profile. In a more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may have a substantially T-shaped cross-sectional profile. In yet another embodiment, the spring 108 may have an elliptical cross-section. For example, in an embodiment not shown, the spring 108 may have an egg-shaped 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 a straight portion and an arched portion. The wires forming the coil of the spring 108 may have a rectangular, square, circular, elliptical, or keystone cross-section. The wires forming the coil of the spring 108 may rotate at a pitch of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm. The wire forming the coil of spring 108 may have a wire diameter of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm. The wire forming the coil of spring 108 may have a spring diameter of 0.05 mm to 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 uniform shape and material properties around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In another more specific embodiment, the spring 108 may have various shapes or material choices around the circumference of the seal 100. In yet 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 a plurality of springs 108 that are at least partially spaced apart from each other. In such an embodiment, there may be circumferential space between adjacent springs 108.

[0031] The spring 108 may include any of the materials listed above. The spring 108 may include, at least in part, steel, or more essentially, a metal such as steel, or more essentially be made of it. The metal may be coated or surface-treated to prevent corrosion or other undesirable effects from environmental exposure. In another embodiment, the spring 108 may include, at least in part, or more essentially be made of, for example, Eligloy, Inconel, Hastelloy, or a combination thereof.

[0032] In yet another embodiment, the spring 108 may contain cobalt, chromium, nickel, iron, molybdenum, manganese, beryllium copper, or a combination thereof. In a particular embodiment, the spring 108 may contain at least 10% by weight of cobalt, for example, at least 20% by weight of cobalt, at least 25% by weight of cobalt, at least 30% by weight of cobalt, at least 35% by weight of cobalt, or even at least 40% by weight of cobalt. The spring 108 may have a yield strength of less than 1200 MPa, for example, less than 1100 MPa, less than 1000 MPa, or even less than 900 MPa. In a particular case, the spring 108 may be heat-treated or surface-treated to improve its properties.

[0033] The spring 108 may provide a biasing force to the jacket 102. Specifically, the spring 108 may contact at least one of the first lip 112 or the second lip 114 and provide an outward radial biasing force thereto. In certain embodiments, the biasing force of the spring 108 against the lips 112, 114 may be at least 0.001 N / mm, for example at least 0.01 N / mm. In other embodiments, the biasing force may be less than 1000 N / mm, such as less than 500 N / mm, less than 400 N / mm, less than 300 N / mm, less than 200 N / mm, less than 100 N / mm, less than 50 N / mm, less than 25 N / mm, or even less than 10 N / mm. 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 further detail below.

[0034] Under axial load conditions as exhibited 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 the relaxed state U and a minimum loaded inner dimension D as measured in the operating state L , which are different from each other. In certain embodiments, D U / D L may be at least 1.01, such as at least 1.05, at least 1.1, at least 1.15, at least 1.2, or even at least 1.25. In another specific embodiment, D U / D L may be 10.0 or less, for example 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 or less. Since D U / D L defines the ratio of spring deflection, D U / D L may be adjusted by the adjustment, shape, or material selection of the insert 122, or even by the shape, design, or material selection of the spring 108.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1A, the jacket 102 may include an insert 122 disposed within the annular recess 106. The insert 122 may be positioned adjacent to or directly adjacent to at least one of the radial lips 112, 114 of the annular recess 106. In one embodiment, the insert 122 may be positioned adjacent to or directly adjacent to the first lip 112. In one embodiment, the insert 122 may be positioned along the second lip 114. Specifically, the insert 122 may form the surface of the annular recess 106.

[0036] The insert 122 may contain any of the materials listed above. In certain cases, the insert 122 may contain at least partially a fluoropolymer such as UHMWPE or PTFE, or a material such as PEEK, or may consist of them essentially. The insert 122 may contain at least partially a metal such as steel, or may consist of it essentially.

[0037] In one embodiment, the insert 122 may extend around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the insert 122 may have uniform shape and material properties around the entire circumference of the seal 100. In another more specific embodiment, the insert 122 may have various shapes or material choices around the circumference of the seal 100. In yet another embodiment, the insert 122 may extend around only a portion of the circumference of the seal 100. In a more specific embodiment, the insert 122 may include a plurality of inserts 122 that are at least partially spaced apart from each other. In such embodiments, there may be circumferential space between adjacent inserts 122.

[0038] In one embodiment, the insert 122 may have a generally polygonal cross-section. For example, the insert 122 may have any cross-section including a roughly triangular, roughly quadrilateral, roughly pentagonal, or roughly straight sidewall segments. In another embodiment, the insert 122 may have a generally elliptical cross-section. In yet another embodiment, the insert 122 may have a partially polygonal and partially elliptical cross-sectional profile. That is, the insert 122 may have a cross-section having an arched portion and a straight portion. The insert 122 may be arched when viewed in cross-section. In some embodiments, the insert 122 may be straight or planar when viewed in cross-section. In some embodiments, the insert 122 may include at least three prongs 112a, 112b, 112c. A prong may be defined as a projection extending from the central locus. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1A, the insert 122 may include at least three prongs 112a, 112b, 112c forming a "Y-shape". In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1B, the insert 122 may include at least four prongs 112a, 112b, 112c, and 112d that form an "X shape". In one embodiment, the insert 122 may include more than three prongs. For example, at least one of the prongs 112a, 112b, and 112c may have any cross-section including a roughly triangular, roughly quadrilateral, roughly pentagonal, or roughly straight sidewall segments. In another embodiment, at least one of the prongs 112a, 112b, and 112c may have a roughly elliptical cross-section. In yet another embodiment, at least one of the prongs 112a, 112b, and 112c may have a partially polygonal and partially elliptical cross-sectional profile. That is, at least one of the prongs 112a, 112b, and 112c may have a cross-section with an arched portion and a straight portion. In certain cases, the cross-sectional profile of the insert 122 may be uniform across the circumference of the insert 122. In another specific case, the cross-sectional profile of insert 122 does not have to be constant along the circumference of insert 122.For example, the 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, and the first and second cross-sectional profiles may be different from each other. This may be advantageous in applications where specific or non-uniform pressure is expected.

[0039] The height H of the insert 122 in the axial direction relative to the seal 100 I The insert 122 may have an aspect ratio defined by the ratio of the width of the insert 122 in the radial direction to the seal 122, i.e., width / height. In one embodiment, the width / height of the insert 122 may be 1.0 or less, for example, 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 insert 122 may be 0.001 or more, for example, 0.01 or more, or even 0.1 or more.

[0040] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 1A, the intersection of the first prong 112a and the second prong 112b of the insert can form an angle α. In one embodiment, the intersection of the first prong 112a and the second prong 112 of the insert may form an angle α, where α may be 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, or for example 90° or less.

[0041] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 1A, the intersection of the first prong 112a and the third prong 112c of the insert can form an angle δ. In one embodiment, the intersection of the first prong 112a and the third prong 112c of the insert may form an angle δ, and δ may be 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, or for example 90° or less.

[0042] In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 1A, the intersection of the second prong 112b and the third prong 112c of the insert can form an angle θ. In one embodiment, the intersection of the second prong 112b and the third prong 112c of the insert may form an angle θ, and θ may be 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, for example 90° or less, for example 75° or less, for example 60° or less, for example 45° or less, or for example 30° or less.

[0043] In one embodiment, the first prong 122a of the insert 122 may be fixed within the internal cavity 107 of the annular recess 106. In another embodiment, the first prong 122a may be fixed via compression fitting. In yet another embodiment, the first prong 122a may be fixed via a low tolerance clearance between the first prong 122a and the internal cavity 107.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1A, the insert 122 may contact at least one of the lips 112, 114 of the jacket 102. In one embodiment, the insert 122 may contact substantially the entire length of at least one of the lips 112, 114 in the axial direction. In one embodiment, the second prong 122b is the length L of the first lip 112 FL At least 30% of the length of the first lip 112, for example, L FL It contacts the first lip 112 over at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, or at least 60% of the length of the second lip 114. In one embodiment, the third prong 122c is in contact with the first lip 114 over the length L SL At least 30% of the length of the second lip 114, for example, L SL It is in contact with the second lip 114 at least 35%, at least 40%, at least 45%, at least 50%, or at least 60%.

[0045] According to certain embodiments, when in a relaxed state, the insert 122 may be spaced apart from the spring 108 and / or jacket 102. As a result, in one embodiment, the annular recess 106 may include a gap 145 between the insert 122 and the spring 108. The volume of the gap 145 may be at least 5% of the volume of the annular recess 106, for example, at least 10%, for example, at least 15%, for example, at least 20%, or for example, at least 25%. In another embodiment, the volume of the gap 145 may be less than 50% of the volume of the annular recess 106, for example, 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%.

[0046] In one embodiment, the second prong 122b may contact the first lip 112 to provide a biasing force to the first lip 112. Specifically, the second prong 122b of the insert 122 can contact the first lip 112 and provide an outward radial biasing force thereto. In a particular embodiment, the biasing force of the second prong 122b of the insert 122 on the first lip 112 is at least 0.001 N / mm 2 For example, at least 0.01 N / mm 2 This is possible. In another embodiment, the biasing force is 1000 N / mm 2 Less than, for example, 500 N / mm 2 Less than 400 N / mm 2 Less than 300 N / mm 2 Less than 200 N / mm 2 Less than 100 N / mm 2 Less than 50 N / mm 2 Less than 25 N / mm 2 Less than 10 N / mm² 2 It may be less than.

[0047] In one embodiment, the third prong 122c may contact the second lip 114 to provide a biasing force to the second lip 114. Specifically, the third prong 122c of the insert 122 can contact the second lip 114 and provide an outward radial biasing force thereto. In a particular embodiment, the biasing force of the third prong 122c of the insert 122 on the second lip 114 is at least 0.001 N / mm². 2 For example, at least 0.01 N / mm 2 This is possible. In another embodiment, the biasing force is 1000 N / mm 2 Less than, for example, 500 N / mm 2 Less than 400 N / mm 2 Less than 300 N / mm 2 Less than 200 N / mm 2 Less than 100 N / mm 2 Less than 50 N / mm 2 Less than 25 N / mm 2 Less than 10 N / mm² 2 It may be less than. In one embodiment, the biasing force of the second prong 122b on the first lip 112 may be the same as the biasing force of the third prong 122c on the second lip 114. In one embodiment, the biasing force of the second prong 122b on the first lip 112 may be different from the biasing force of the third prong 122c on the second lip 114.

[0048] In yet another embodiment, the insert 122 may be positioned within the annular recess 106 of the jacket 102, spaced apart from the spring 108. For example, the height of the insert 122 may be less than 100% of the inner diameter of the spring 108, e.g., less than 99%, less than 98%, less than 97%, less than 96%, less than 95%, or even less than 90%. In yet another embodiment, the height of the insert 122 may be 10% or more of the inner diameter, e.g., 25% or more, or even 50% or more.

[0049] Figure 2A includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal in a seal assembly according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 2A, the seal 200 may be a radial seal, radially positioned between a first member 202 and a second member 204 in the seal assembly 2000 along a central axis 3000. The first member 202 may be a shaft. The second member 204 may be a housing. At least one of the first member 202 or the second member 204 may act on the seal 200, or on at least one of the other of the first member 202 or the second member 204. The actuation may be rotational, radial, or axial movement. The components of the seal 200 in Figure 2A may be the same as those described above in Figures 1A to 1B. In one embodiment, at least one of the first lip 212 or the second lip 214 may be static in the seal assembly, while the other of the first lip 212 or the second lip 214 may be dynamic in the seal assembly. This could cause undesirable pressure on the seal 200. Furthermore, the first member 202 may be made of a material having a different coefficient of thermal expansion than the second member 204, or vice versa. This could also cause undesirable pressure on the seal 200.

[0050] Figure 2B includes a cross-sectional perspective view of a seal in a seal assembly according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 2B, the seal 200 may be a surface seal, axially positioned between a first member 202 and a second member 204 in the seal assembly 2000 along a central axis 3000. The first member 202 may be a shaft. The second member 204 may be a housing. At least one of the first member 202 or the second member 204 may act on the seal 200, or on at least one of the other of the first member 202 or the second member 204. The actuation may be rotational, radial, or axial movement. The components of the seal 200 in Figure 2B may be the same as those described above in Figures 1A and 1B. In one embodiment, at least one of the first lip 212 or the second lip 214 may be static in the seal assembly, while the other of the first lip 212 or the second lip 214 may be dynamic in the seal assembly. This could cause undesirable pressure on the seal 200. Furthermore, the first member 202 may be made of a material having a different coefficient of thermal expansion than the second member 204, or vice versa. This could also cause undesirable pressure on the seal 200.

[0051] The seals described according to the embodiments herein may form assemblies that can be used in bidirectional pressure applications. The seals described according to the embodiments herein may be oriented to prevent fluid leakage in the forward axial direction, or the seals may be oriented to prevent fluid leakage in the rear axial direction along the central axis. The seals described according to the embodiments herein may be oriented to prevent fluid leakage in the inward radial direction, or the seals may be oriented to prevent fluid leakage in the outward radial direction perpendicular to the central axis. In this regard, the seals described according to the embodiments herein may be selected to have specific properties that enable effective sealing in their particular orientation. The seals described according to the embodiments herein may be arranged as radial, axial, or surface seals. Specific suitable applications include cryogenic valves, pistons, subsea bidirectional couplings, and other moving components that require sealing between them.

[0052] The seals described according to the embodiments herein may allow the components of the seal to have a longer lifespan due to appropriately placed forces that reduce repeated compression and stress on individual components (e.g., springs, insert jackets) caused by rapid high-pressure vibration or operation of the seal or other components in the assembly at low temperatures. Furthermore, the inserts according to the embodiments herein can better distribute the pressure load across the entire jacket, protecting the void and jacket heel. As a result, the lifespan of the components and the seal itself can be improved, along with improved leak and seal load performance over the lifespan of the seal.

[0053] 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. Embodiments may follow one or more of the items listed below.

[0054] Embodiment 1: A seal comprising an annular jacket having a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess, and an insert having at least three prongs disposed within the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

[0055] Embodiment 2: A seal comprising: an annular jacket having a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess; an energizer disposed within an annular protrusion adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip; and an insert having at least three prongs disposed within the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

[0056] Embodiment 3: A seal assembly comprising a first member, a second member, and a seal radially disposed between the first member and the second member, wherein the seal includes an annular jacket having a heel, a first lip, and a second lip defining an annular recess; an energizer disposed within an annular protrusion adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip; and an insert having at least three prongs disposed within the annular recess in contact with the heel, the first lip, and the second lip.

[0057] Embodiment 4: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of Embodiments 2 to 3, wherein the energizer is a circumferential coil spring.

[0058] Embodiment 5: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert comprises a first prong, a second prong, and a third prong.

[0059] Embodiment 6: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert is a Y-shaped insert.

[0060] Embodiment 7: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert is an X-shaped insert.

[0061] Embodiment 8: The first lip has a length L FL It has a second prong of length L FL The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein at least 30% of it is in contact with the first lip.

[0062] Embodiment 9: The second lip has a length L SL It has a third prong of length L SL The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein at least 30% of it is in contact with the second lip.

[0063] Embodiment 10: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the annular recess includes an internal cavity for housing the prongs of an insert.

[0064] Embodiment 11: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 10, wherein the prongs of the insert are fixed within the internal cavity.

[0065] Embodiment 12: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the prongs of the insert contact the first lip to provide a biasing force to the first lip.

[0066] Embodiment 13: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 12, wherein the prongs of the insert contact the second lip and provide a biasing force to the second lip.

[0067] Embodiment 14: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 13, wherein the radial biasing force on the first lip is different from the radial biasing force on the second lip.

[0068] Embodiment 15: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert provides a radial biasing force of 0.001 to 1000 N / mm to the first lip.

[0069] Embodiment 16: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert provides a radial biasing force of 0.001 to 1000 N / mm to the second lip.

[0070] Embodiment 17: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the embodiments described above, wherein the first lip is located outside the second lip.

[0071] Embodiment 18: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert includes metal.

[0072] Embodiment 19: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer includes metal.

[0073] Embodiment 20: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert comprises ceramic.

[0074] Embodiment 21: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer includes a ceramic.

[0075] Embodiment 22: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the insert comprises a polymer.

[0076] Embodiment 23: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer comprises a polymer.

[0077] Embodiment 24: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the jacket includes metal.

[0078] Embodiment 25: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the jacket comprises a polymer.

[0079] Embodiment 26: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the jacket comprises ceramic.

[0080] Embodiment 27: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein at least one of the first lip or the second lip comprises a bulge.

[0081] Embodiment 28: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein at least one of the first lip or the second lip comprises a straight portion.

[0082] Embodiment 29: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein the intersection of the first prong and the second prong forms an angle α, and α is 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, or for example 90° or less.

[0083] Embodiment 30: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein the intersection of the first prong and the third prong forms an angle δ, and δ is 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, or for example 90° or less.

[0084] Embodiment 31: The seal or seal assembly according to Embodiment 5, wherein the intersection of the second prong and the third prong forms an angle θ, and the angle θ is 180° or less, for example 160° or less, for example 145° or less, for example 120° or less, for example 90° or less, for example 75° or less, for example 60° or less, for example 45° or less, or for example 30° or less.

[0085] Embodiment 32: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer rotates in a pitch of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm.

[0086] Embodiment 33: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer has a wire diameter of 0.025 mm to 25.4 mm.

[0087] Embodiment 34: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer has a spring diameter of 0.05 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0088] Embodiment 35: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer has rectangular, square, or keystone cross-section wires.

[0089] Embodiment 36: The seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the energizer has a wire with a circular cross-section.

[0090] Embodiment 37: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the seal has an inner diameter of 0.254 mm to 25000 mm.

[0091] Embodiment 38: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the seal has an outer diameter of 0.5 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0092] Embodiment 39: A seal or seal assembly according to any one of the above embodiments, wherein the seal has a height of 0.24 mm to 40,000 mm.

[0093] Please note that not all of the above features are required, some of the features may be omitted, and one or more additional features may be provided in addition to those listed. Furthermore, the order in which the features are listed does not necessarily correspond to the order in which they are implemented.

[0094] Certain features are described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity and may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any partial combination.

[0095] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above in relation to specific embodiments. However, benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may result in or enhance any benefit, advantage, or solution should not be construed as essential, necessary, or essential features of any or all of the claims.

[0096] The description and illustrative drawings of the embodiments described herein are intended to provide a general understanding of the structures of various embodiments. The description and illustrative drawings are not intended to serve as a comprehensive and exhaustive description of all elements and features of apparatuses and systems using the structures or methods described herein. Different embodiments may be combined into a single embodiment, and conversely, for the sake of brevity, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may be provided separately or in any partial combination. Furthermore, references to values ​​within a range include all of each 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 used and derived from this disclosure so that structural substitutions, logical substitutions, or any modifications can be made without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure should be considered illustrative, not restrictive.

Claims

1. It is a sticker, An annular jacket comprising an annular recess, a heel, a first lip, and a second lip, wherein the heel includes a flat portion of the annular jacket, An insert comprising at least three prongs positioned within the annular recess that contact the heel, the first lip, and the second lip, Equipped with, A seal in which the annular recess includes an internal cavity that accommodates the first prong of the insert, the first prong of the insert being fixed in the internal cavity and in contact with the flat portion of the heel.

2. It is a sticker, An annular jacket comprising an annular recess, a heel, a first lip, and a second lip, wherein the heel includes a flat portion of the annular jacket, An energizer disposed within the annular recess adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip, An insert comprising at least three prongs positioned within the annular recess that contact the heel, the first lip, and the second lip, Equipped with, A seal in which the annular recess includes an internal cavity that accommodates the first prong of the insert, the first prong of the insert being fixed in the internal cavity and in contact with the flat portion of the heel.

3. A seal assembly, The first member and The second component, A seal is radially positioned between the first member and the second member, The seal is equipped with, An annular jacket comprising an annular recess, a heel, a first lip, and a second lip, wherein the heel includes a flat portion of the annular jacket, An energizer disposed within the annular recess adjacent to at least one of the first lip and the second lip, An insert comprising at least three prongs positioned within the annular recess that contact the heel, the first lip, and the second lip, Includes, A seal assembly in which the annular recess includes an internal cavity that accommodates the first prong of the insert, the first prong of the insert being fixed in the internal cavity and in contact with the flat portion of the heel.

4. The seal or seal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the insert comprises the first prong, the second prong, and the third prong.

5. The seal or seal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the insert is a Y-shaped insert.

6. The first lip has a length L ＦＬ The second prong has the length L ＦＬ The seal or seal assembly according to claim 4, wherein at least 30% of it is in contact with the first lip.

7. The second lip has a length L ＳＬ The third prong has the length L ＳＬ The seal or seal assembly according to claim 4, wherein at least 30% of it is in contact with the second lip.

8. The seal or seal assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the prongs of the insert contact the first lip and provide a biasing force to the first lip.

9. The seal or seal assembly according to claim 8, wherein the prongs of the insert contact the second lip and provide a biasing force to the second lip.

10. The seal or seal assembly according to claim 4, wherein the intersection of the first prong and the second prong forms an angle α, and α is 180° or less.

11. The seal or seal assembly according to claim 4, wherein the intersection of the first prong and the third prong forms an angle δ, and δ is 180° or less.

12. The seal or seal assembly according to claim 4, wherein the intersection of the second prong and the third prong forms an angle θ, and θ is 180° or less.

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