Brush Ring Seal Carrier With Anti-Friction Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ring seals in steam turbines, such as carbon ring seals, are brittle and prone to fracture under high differential pressure loads, requiring multiple seals and limiting the operational range due to friction and radial motion constraints.
Innovation Solution
A brush seal system comprising a split brush seal carrier and brush seal with a ring-shaped spring, anti-friction coating, and metal construction, allowing for radial motion and durability under high pressure and temperature differentials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a brush seal is used to reduce leakage between rotating and stationary components, then leakage is reduced, but the brush seal generates significant drag on the rotating component
Solution Approach 1:
The brush seal is divided into multiple independent brush segments arranged in a circular pattern. Each segment can independently deflect and contact the rotating component, allowing the seal to maintain effectiveness while reducing overall drag through distributed contact points rather than continuous contact
Solution Approach 2:
The brush segments are designed to be flexible and dynamically responsive, allowing them to deflect toward the rotating component when needed for sealing and retract when not in contact. This dynamic behavior reduces drag by minimizing continuous contact while maintaining sealing capability
2Reliability
If a brush seal is used to seal between rotating and stationary components, then sealing is achieved, but the brush seal requires frequent maintenance and replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The brush segments are designed as replaceable individual units rather than a fixed assembly. When wear occurs, specific brush segments can be replaced without replacing the entire seal system, extending service life and reducing maintenance costs while maintaining sealing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The brush segments are made from wear-resistant materials and designed with sufficient initial length to accommodate wear over time. This beforehand cushioning against wear allows the seal to maintain effectiveness throughout its service life without requiring intermediate adjustments
3Reliability
If traditional brush seals are used, then sealing is provided, but the bristles are held in a fixed position and cannot adapt to varying operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The brush segments are designed with flexible mounting that allows them to deflect and adapt their position dynamically. This enables the seal to adjust to varying operating conditions such as changes in rotational speed, load, or misalignment while maintaining effective sealing
Solution Approach 2:
Different brush segments can be positioned at different locations around the seal circumference, allowing local adaptation to specific sealing requirements at different points. Each segment can be optimized for its specific location while working together as a complete seal system
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 brush seal system achieves low leakage and durability, accommodating radial motion and high differential pressures, reducing the need for multiple seals and extending the seal's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of resilient bristles extending from a carrier toward the rotating component. The bristles are deflectable toward the rotating component by fluid pressure
Implementation Method 2
The brush segments and/or carrier may be rotated relative to the rotating component to reduce brush segment fluid drag
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A
Figure 3B
AI summary
A brush ring seal device for installation within a packing case of a turbine includes: a brush seal carrier having a substantially ring-shaped body portion having a front face, a rear face, an inner circumferential groove, and an outer circumferential groove; a brush seal mounted within the inner circumferential groove of the brush seal carrier; and a ring-shaped spring mounted within the outer circumferential groove of the brush seal carrier. The rear face of the brush seal carrier is coated with an anti-friction coating, thereby allowing movement of the brush ring seal device within the packing case.