Axially Adjustable Inserted Ring for In-Place Turbine Seal Refurbishment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for refurbishing seals in rotating machinery, such as steam and gas turbines, require downtime for component removal and replacement, incurring costs and inefficiencies, especially in power generation.
Innovation Solution
An inserted ring system that allows for axial adjustment and secure fitting within grooves of the packing segment, enabling selective positioning and incremental sizing to maintain efficient operation without full component removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the packing ring is removed from operation for refurbishment, then the seal face can be repaired, but the machinery downtime increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The packing ring is divided into multiple segments that can be independently removed and refurbished. This allows selective replacement of only the worn segments rather than the entire packing ring, enabling maintenance during operational cycles without complete machinery shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The packing ring segments are designed to be dynamically replaceable during operation. The segments can be removed and repositioned while the machinery is running, transforming the static sealed structure into a dynamic maintenance system that operates during refurbishment.
2Ease of repair
If the packing ring is removed from operation, then the seal face can be analyzed and repaired, but the operational efficiency and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the packing ring into replaceable sections, the system enables localized maintenance that does not require complete停机. Worn segments can be quickly swapped during operational cycles, maintaining overall productivity while allowing necessary repairs.
Solution Approach 2:
The packing ring design allows continuous operation during maintenance by enabling segment replacement without stopping the machinery. The useful action of sealing continues uninterrupted as segments are exchanged during operational cycles.
3Ease of repair
If the entire packing ring is replaced, then the seal face can be restored, but the cost and time required for refurbishment increase
Solution Approach 1:
The packing ring is divided into multiple segments that can be independently removed and refurbished. This allows selective replacement of only the worn segments rather than the entire packing ring, enabling maintenance during operational cycles without complete machinery shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of replacing the entire packing ring, only the worn segments are replaced. This partial action approach reduces the time and cost of refurbishment while achieving the necessary seal face restoration.
Data Source
AI summary
A turbine assembly including a turbine stationary component, which includes an inner ring and a packing segment positioned relative to the inner ring such that a steam joint is defined therebetween. The packing segment defines a groove open to the steam joint, a first seal face within the groove and opposite from the portion open to the steam joint, and a second seal face within the groove and adjacent to the first seal face. An inserted ring includes a body having a first face, a second face adjacent to the first face, and a third face opposite from the first face. The first face is positioned in close proximity to the first seal face of the packing segment, the second face is positioned in close proximity to the second seal face of the packing segment, and the third face is positioned in close proximity to the inner ring.