Axially Split Pump Seal Pre-Load Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Axially split pumps face challenges in maintaining a reliable seal at connection points between sealing elements, particularly during high-pressure operations and long-term use, leading to potential leaks and environmental contamination.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an elastic pre-loading element in the connection region between sealing grooves ensures a secure and consistent seal by applying pre-load to the sealing elements, even as they degrade over time, using a spring or similar mechanism to maintain contact and prevent leaks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If string-like sealing elements are used without pre-loading, then the screw connections bear reduced load and material usage is minimized, but the seal reliability degrades over time due to settlement and degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating a pre-loading mechanism that exerts a pre-load force on the string-like sealing elements before the pump operates. This pre-loading ensures that the sealing elements are already under sufficient compression to maintain contact with the sealing surfaces, compensating for future settlement and degradation without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of sealing force by introducing a pre-loading mechanism that actively maintains optimal compression pressure on the sealing elements. This parameter change ensures that the sealing force remains within the optimal range throughout the pump's operational life, preventing both insufficient sealing and excessive stress on the sealing elements.
2Reliability
If higher pre-load is applied to flat seals, then sealing performance improves, but the screw connections and flanges require higher strength and more material
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using string-like sealing elements that concentrate the sealing function in specific localized regions rather than requiring uniform high pre-load across entire flange surfaces. This allows the sealing force to be applied precisely where needed, maintaining effective sealing without requiring the entire screw connection system to be designed for high strength.
3Reliability
If sealing grooves extend over the complete axial length, then sealing coverage is maximized, but manufacturing complexity and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the sealing system into discrete string-like sealing elements that can be individually positioned and installed in the sealing grooves. This segmentation allows the sealing function to be achieved through multiple small, manageable components rather than requiring a single continuous complex sealing structure, simplifying both manufacturing and installation while maintaining comprehensive sealing coverage.
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
This solution provides a reliable seal across all operating states, including high pressures and during extended pump operation, reducing leakage and environmental risks while allowing for simpler manufacturing and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic pre-loading element is provided in the connection region which exerts a pre-load onto one of the two sealing elements
Data Source
AI summary
An axially split pump for conveying a fluid includes an axially split housing with a bottom part and a cover. The bottom part has a first sealing surface and the cover has a second sealing surface. The bottom part and the cover are fastened to one another so that the two sealing surfaces are in direct contact with one another. At least one first sealing groove for the reception of a first sealing element is disposed in the sealing surfaces. A second sealing groove is disposed for the reception of a second sealing element. The first sealing groove and the second sealing groove are connected to one another through a connection region and an elastic pre-loading element is disposed in the connection region, which exerts a pre-load onto one of the two sealing elements.