Compressor Seal Package Fluid Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressor systems face challenges in effectively separating compressor fluid and lubricant fluids, leading to issues such as moisture and debris conveyance, and leakage, which can cause operational problems and reduce efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A compressor system incorporating a combination of non-contact seals and radial shaft seals, including a labyrinth seal and lip seals made of PTFE, to prevent fluid and lubricant leakage while allowing venting of pressurized air and lubricant to specific regions, maintaining separation between compressor and bearing fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single seal type is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of fluid separation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal package is divided into multiple functional segments: a non-contact seal (labyrinth seal) for the first portion of the shaft and contact seals (radial shaft seals) for the second portion. This segmentation allows each seal type to perform its specialized function, with the non-contact seal handling high-speed rotation without friction and the contact seals providing robust sealing where reliability is critical, thereby improving overall fluid separation reliability without requiring a single overly complex seal design
Solution Approach 2:
Different seal types are applied to different portions of the shaft based on local requirements. The non-contact seal is positioned where high rotational speed and low friction are priorities, while contact seals are positioned where reliable fluid separation is the primary concern. This local differentiation of seal quality and type optimizes performance for each specific location's demands
2Reliability
If contact seals are used, then the sealing effectiveness is improved, but the friction and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shaft is divided into two portions with different seal types: the first portion uses a non-contact labyrinth seal that eliminates friction and wear by maintaining a small clearance without physical contact, while the second portion uses contact seals only where absolutely necessary for sealing. This segmentation reduces overall friction and energy loss compared to using contact seals along the entire shaft length
Solution Approach 2:
The non-contact labyrinth seal acts as an intermediary element between the compressor fluid and the contact seals. It provides the first line of defense against fluid leakage, reducing the burden on downstream contact seals and allowing them to operate in a more favorable environment with reduced pressure differential, thereby reducing their friction and wear
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 system effectively discourages fluid and lubricant leakage, providing early detection of potential issues and maintaining the integrity of the seal package, thereby enhancing the operational reliability and efficiency of the compressor.
Implementation Method 1
the non-contact seal producing a pressure drop in the fluid when the fluid flows through an annular space formed between the non-contact seal and the shaft
Implementation Method 2
a first radial lip seal... having a protruding lip extension that contacts the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A compression system is disclosed having a compressor and a seal package including a non-contact seal and one or more radial shaft seals. In one form the non-contact seal is placed in proximity to a high pressure portion of the compressor. The offset of the non-contact seal from a shaft used to drive the compressor allows some amount of pressure reduced leakage air to pass. A radial shaft seal is coupled to the shaft axial aft of the non-contact seal on the other side of the compressor and oriented to discourage further passage of the leakage air past the radial shaft seal. A vent conveys leakage air to return to the compressor. A backup radial shaft seal can be used axially aft of the first radial shaft seal. A further radial shaft seal is disposed adjacent to the backup seal and oriented in the other direction to seal lubricant for a bearing.