Dynamic Axial Seal Assembly for Pressure-Transient Fluid Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dynamic seals in fluid processing systems, such as subsea pumps and compressors, face reduced effectiveness and longevity due to large transient pressures and the use of certain fluids, particularly during carbon capture and sequestration processes, where elastomeric seals may crack or be damaged.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating one or more metallic seals in conjunction with elastomeric and thermoplastic seals to form a dynamic axial seal, which reduces the impact of pressure transients on elastomeric seals, using metallic seals like continuous rings, split rings, or spiral rings that are biased against stationary components or sealing armatures, and employing surface textures and coatings for enhanced sealing and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If elastomeric seals are used in dynamic sealing applications, then sealing flexibility and adaptability are improved, but seal longevity and resistance to pressure transients deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite sealing system that combines metallic seal rings with elastomeric sealing elements. The metallic rings provide structural support and resistance to pressure transients, while the elastomeric elements maintain sealing flexibility and adaptability to surface irregularities. This composite approach resolves the contradiction by integrating materials with complementary properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical parameters of the sealing system by introducing metallic components with different mechanical properties (higher strength, lower elasticity) than traditional elastomeric seals. This parameter change enables the system to withstand pressure transients while maintaining sealing effectiveness through the combined properties of the composite structure.
2Device complexity
If traditional dynamic seals are used in high pressure transient environments, then device simplicity is maintained, but seal effectiveness and longevity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into distinct functional components: metallic seal rings for structural integrity and pressure resistance, elastomeric elements for sealing contact, and biasing mechanisms for maintaining force. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its function, improving overall reliability while keeping the design manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic seal rings act as intermediaries between the high-pressure environment and the elastomeric sealing elements. They absorb and distribute pressure transients, protecting the elastomeric components from direct exposure to extreme pressure variations, thereby extending seal life and maintaining effectiveness.
3Reliability
If metallic seals are added to protect elastomeric seals from pressure transients, then seal longevity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protective function of metallic seals with the sealing function of elastomeric elements into a unified assembly. The metallic rings are integrated with the elastomeric components through biasing mechanisms and mounting structures, creating a combined seal unit that achieves both longevity and sealing effectiveness without requiring separate complex systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The metallic seal rings serve multiple functions: they provide structural support, resist pressure transients, maintain spacing between sealing components, and transmit mechanical forces. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving improved seal longevity.
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid processing machine that operates on a process fluid may include a frame that structurally supports at least a portion of the fluid processing machine and a shaft that operatively rotates about an axis and relative to the frame. The shaft may include a projection in a radial direction relative to the axis that is operationally contacted by a sealing armature that has an axial degree of freedom relative to the axis. Additionally, the fluid processing machine may include a dynamic rotational seal between the projection and the sealing armature and a dynamic axial seal between the sealing armature and the frame. The dynamic axial seal may include one or more metallic seals that seal between the sealing armature and the frame circumferentially about the axis.