Axially Adjustable Inserted Ring for Turbine Seal Refurbishment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for refurbishing seals in rotating machinery, such as steam and gas turbines, require downtime for component removal and replacement, leading to increased costs and outages, especially in power generation.
Innovation Solution
The use of an inserted ring with adjustable axial width that can be selectively positioned and secured within grooves in the packing segment of the turbine assembly, allowing for incremental adjustments and reduced downtime during refurbishment.
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
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 repair process into a dynamic maintenance operation that minimizes downtime.
2Ease of repair
If the entire packing ring is replaced, then the seal face is restored, but the cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The packing ring is segmented into multiple interchangeable sections. Only the worn segments need replacement rather than the entire ring, significantly reducing material costs and refurbishment time while maintaining seal face integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Worn packing ring segments are removed and replaced with new segments, while the remaining segments are recovered and reused. This selective replacement approach reduces waste and lowers the overall cost of refurbishment compared to replacing the entire packing ring.
3Ease of repair
If component removal is performed for maintenance, then the seal face can be accessed, but the operational continuity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The packing ring is divided into separable segments that can be accessed and replaced without removing the entire component assembly. This maintains operational continuity by allowing maintenance operations during normal service cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The packing ring segments are pre-positioned and prepared for rapid replacement. This preliminary preparation enables quick maintenance operations that minimize disruption to operational continuity while providing adequate access to the seal face.
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.