Compressor Sealing Channel Pressure Balancing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing compressors face challenges in achieving effective sealing between compressor stages, leading to leakage issues due to the design of the sealing channel and connecting channel configurations.
Innovation Solution
The compressor design includes a connecting channel that directs fluid from a higher-pressure section to a lower-pressure section of the sealing channel, with the option to form this channel in the housing, rotor, or sealing element, allowing for improved sealing and reduced leakage by increasing pressure in the first section of the sealing channel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sealing channel is formed between compressor stages, then sealing between stages is achieved, but leakage occurs due to pressure differential
Solution Approach 1:
A connecting channel is introduced as an intermediary element that communicates the high-pressure compressor chamber with the first section of the sealing channel. This mediator channel allows high-pressure fluid to enter the sealing channel upstream, creating a pressure balance that prevents leakage across the sealing interface between compressor stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure distribution within the sealing channel is changed by introducing high-pressure fluid through the connecting channel. This parameter change (increasing pressure in the first section of the sealing channel) counteracts the pressure differential that causes leakage, transforming the sealing mechanism from passive to active pressure-balanced sealing.
2Reliability
If a connecting channel is added to improve sealing, then leakage is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting channel is merged with the existing sealing channel structure, forming an integrated sealing system. The connecting channel and sealing channel work together as a unified component, where the connecting channel serves as an inlet passage that feeds into the sealing channel, thereby reducing overall structural complexity while maintaining improved sealing performance.
3Reliability
If sealing elements are used to seal the sealing channel, then sealing is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is designed to perform multiple functions: it seals the sealing channel, provides a mounting surface for the connecting channel, and maintains the pressure differential across the sealing interface. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying manufacturing while maintaining sealing effectiveness.
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 configuration enhances the sealing efficiency between compressor stages, reducing leakage and enabling the implementation of both low-pressure and high-pressure stages using dual compressor wheels, while allowing for easier production and more uniform pressure distribution.
Implementation Method 1
a connecting channel being led from an area with a higher pressure to a first section of the sealing channel
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention relates to a compressor, comprising a housing and a rotor, wherein the rotor has a compressor wheel at least on one side, wherein a compressor chamber is formed between the compressor wheel and the housing, wherein the rotor is rotatably supported, wherein an annular sealing channel is formed between the rotor and the housing, wherein the sealing channel is led from the compressor chamber to a region having a lower pressure, wherein a connecting channel is led from a region having a higher pressure to a first segment of the sealing channel.