Angled Annular Pump Seal for Throatbush Axial Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sealing mechanisms in centrifugal pumps, such as bellows-like seals and resilient arm seals, limit the axial adjustment of the throatbush relative to pump casing elements, compromising the seal integrity and pump performance due to wear from fluid infiltration.
Innovation Solution
An annular band seal with a resilient annular flange positioned at a non-perpendicular angle, featuring a pivotable region and a collar portion, allows for greater axial adjustment of the throatbush while maintaining a reliable seal by facilitating movement and distributing stress effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sealing mechanisms (bellows-like seal or resilient arm seal) are used, then a reliable seal is maintained, but the axial adjustment distance of the throatbush is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The seal incorporates a resilient annular flange that can dynamically change its configuration during axial adjustment. The flange transitions from a clamped state (providing sealing) to an expanded state (allowing movement), enabling both reliable sealing and extended axial adjustment distance
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient annular flange is positioned within the annular band structure, with the flange nested between the first and second surfaces of the annular band. This nested arrangement allows the flange to provide sealing while accommodating axial movement within the confined space
2Productivity
If the throatbush is adjusted axially to reduce the gap with the impeller, then pump performance is improved, but the seal may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The seal design allows the resilient flange to change its physical state (from compressed to expanded) as the throatbush is adjusted axially. This parameter change enables the seal to accommodate the reduced gap between throatbush and impeller while maintaining sealing integrity throughout the adjustment range
3Reliability
If the resilient arm seal is used to provide sealing, then the seal works reliably, but the axial movement is restricted by the seal configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient annular flange is designed to be dynamically responsive to axial movement. As the throatbush moves axially, the flange naturally transitions between compressed and expanded states, providing continuous sealing without restricting the range of motion
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient annular flange acts as a flexible sealing element that can deform and adapt to axial displacement. This flexibility allows the seal to maintain contact and sealing effectiveness while accommodating the full range of axial adjustment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The annular band seal enables increased axial adjustment of the throatbush, enhancing pump performance by maintaining a consistent seal and reducing wear, thus improving the operational efficiency and longevity of the centrifugal pump.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient annular flange positioned proximate the second circumferential end of the annular band and extending at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to the first surface
Data Source
AI summary
A seal, for use with pump casing elements that are adjustable relative to each other, includes an annular band and a resilient annular flange oriented at a non-perpendicular angle to a first surface of the annular band such that the seal, in use, is able to provide greater adjustment between the adjustable pump elements while maintaining a reliable seal between the pump elements.