Multi-ply Seal Ring Segmented Design for Turbine Gap Sealing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal rings for rotational equipment, such as gas turbine engines, face challenges in effectively sealing gaps between components due to limitations in material properties and configuration, leading to potential fluid leakage and wear issues.
Innovation Solution
A multi-ply seal ring design comprising an inner seal ring with discrete segments and an outer seal ring, where the inner seal ring is made from metal with a single crystal microstructure and the outer seal ring is made from a different material, providing enhanced sealing capabilities through nested engagement and undulating geometry, with mechanical securing features to prevent rotation and ensure tight fitment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a single-material seal ring is used, then manufacturing is simpler, but high-temperature resistance and wear resistance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring employs a composite structure with an inner ring made of high-temperature resistant material (such as ceramic or heat-resistant alloy) and an outer ring made of wear-resistant material (such as hardened steel or composite material). This multi-material construction allows each component to optimize its properties for specific functional requirements, achieving both high-temperature resistance and wear resistance simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal ring is divided into multiple discrete segments or rings, each made from different materials optimized for specific functions. The inner ring handles high-temperature exposure while the outer ring provides wear protection. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each segment's material properties without compromising the overall seal performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a unitary seal ring is used, then manufacturing is easier, but adaptability to different gap conditions is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring is constructed from multiple separable rings or segments that can be independently manufactured and then assembled. This segmentation enables customization of each segment's dimensions, material properties, and geometric features to adapt to various gap conditions, while still allowing relatively straightforward manufacturing of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal ring employs a nested configuration where inner rings are positioned within outer rings, allowing multiple sealing surfaces to occupy the same radial space. This nested structure provides adaptability to different gap widths and sealing requirements while maintaining a compact overall form factor and facilitating modular manufacturing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If discrete ring segments are used, then adaptability to gap variations is improved, but mechanical securing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The discrete ring segments are nested within each other in a concentric arrangement, where inner rings fit within outer rings. This nested configuration provides mechanical stability through mutual support while allowing the segments to accommodate gap variations. The nesting itself provides a degree of mechanical securing without requiring complex external fastening systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple ring segments are combined into a unified sealing assembly where the segments work together to provide both adaptability and mechanical stability. The combination of segments creates a coordinated system where the collective structure provides mechanical securing while individual segments maintain the ability to adapt to gap variations.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-ply seal ring includes an inner seal ring and an outer seal ring. The inner seal ring includes a plurality of discrete inner ring segments disposed circumferentially about an axis in an annular array. The inner ring segments are arranged end-to-end within the annular array. The inner seal ring is engaged with and nested within the outer seal ring. In addition or alternatively, the outer seal ring may include a plurality of discrete outer ring segments disposed circumferentially about the axis in an annular array.