High Temperature Dynamic Seal Using Metallic Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dynamic seals for rotating equipment are limited to relatively low maximum service temperatures due to the use of conventional elastomeric/polymer materials, restricting their application in high-temperature environments.
Innovation Solution
The development of high-temperature dynamic seals using metallic materials with various cross-sectional shapes, such as O-seals, C-seals, and E-seals, which are positioned between stationary and rotating components to create sealing engagements, and include a seal spring to bias the seal ring into a sealing position, supported by a seal ring carrier, to maintain sealing effectiveness at elevated temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conventional elastomeric/polymer materials are used in dynamic seals, then the seals provide adequate sealing engagement with minimal pressure and expense, but the maximum service temperature is limited to relatively low temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from elastomeric/polymer to metallic material, which fundamentally alters the temperature parameter range the seal can withstand. Metallic materials maintain their structural integrity and sealing properties at high temperatures where elastomeric materials would degrade, thus resolving the contradiction between temperature limit and sealing reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic seal employs a composite structure combining metallic seal rings with elastomeric/O-ring seals. The metallic components provide high-temperature structural support and sealing engagement, while the elastomeric elements provide additional sealing capability at lower temperatures and accommodate minor misalignments, achieving reliable sealing across a wide temperature range.
2Temperature
If metallic materials are used in high temperature seals, then the seals can operate at elevated temperatures, but the device complexity increases due to additional components like seal springs and seal ring carriers
Solution Approach 1:
The seal system is divided into distinct functional segments: metallic seal rings for high-temperature structural sealing, elastomeric O-rings for additional sealing and compliance, seal springs for maintaining contact pressure, and seal ring carriers for positioning and support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to achieve reliable high-temperature sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal spring acts as an intermediary element between the metallic seal ring and the sealing surface, providing continuous contact pressure to maintain sealing effectiveness. The seal ring carrier serves as an intermediary structure that positions and supports the seal assembly, distributing mechanical loads and facilitating installation and removal without compromising the sealing function.
Data Source
AI summary
A high temperature dynamic seal and methods of assembly and use. The dynamic seal is provided as a rotating seal, which includes a stationary ring and rotating ring assembly, with a seal ring that is positioned between the stationary ring member and the rotating ring assembly. One or more high temperature seals create a seal between the stationary ring member and a device in which the dynamic seal is used. Similarly one or more high temperature seals create a seal between the rotating ring assembly and a rotating shaft of the device. One or more of the high temperature seals are formed from a metallic material with various cross-sectional shapes.