Segmented Backup Ring Structure to Block Seal Extrusion Paths
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal elements in the resource recovery industry face challenges in maintaining their position without extrusion, as current backup systems are not sufficiently effective in preventing radial growth pathways.
Innovation Solution
The use of a backup element configuration comprising two rings with segmented parting lines and an interconnection mechanism, where the rings have frustoconical surfaces and a releasable connection, facilitates radial growth without creating extrusion pathways by providing increased contact area and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional backup ring is used to prevent seal element extrusion, then the seal element position is maintained, but the backup ring may create extrusion pathways that allow radial growth
Solution Approach 1:
The backup ring is divided into multiple segments along the parting line, allowing each segment to independently conform to the seal element and eliminate continuous extrusion pathways. The segmented structure maintains positional support while preventing radial growth through discontinuous contact surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup ring transitions from a simple annular shape to a three-dimensional structure with frustoconical surfaces and axial segments. This dimensional change creates overlapping contact areas between segments that block extrusion pathways while maintaining radial support for the seal element.
2Strength
If the backup ring is made as a single continuous piece, then structural strength is maintained, but manufacturing complexity and inability to conform to seal element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The backup ring is segmented into multiple sections that can be manufactured independently and then assembled. This segmentation enables each piece to be produced with standard manufacturing processes while the final assembled structure provides the necessary strength and conformability through the interlocking segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented backup ring segments are designed to nest together along the parting line, with each segment fitting into the adjacent segments. This nesting arrangement maintains structural integrity while allowing for easier manufacturing and assembly of individual components.
3Ease of manufacture
If the backup ring has a simple annular shape, then manufacturing is easy, but it creates extrusion pathways that allow seal element radial growth
Solution Approach 1:
The backup ring is divided into segments that create discontinuous contact surfaces, eliminating continuous extrusion pathways. This segmentation adds minimal manufacturing complexity while effectively blocking radial growth paths for the seal element.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup ring features localized frustoconical surfaces and axial segments at specific positions rather than a uniform simple shape. This local quality approach provides extrusion resistance where needed while maintaining manufacturing simplicity in other areas.
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 effectively reduces the risk of extrusion by ensuring the rings remain annularly complete and supported, enhancing their resistance to radial expansion and maintaining contact with the cone, thereby preventing unwanted growth pathways.
Implementation Method 1
depositing a layer of material on a substrate; fusing the layer of material; depositing subsequent layers of material and fusing each layer of material to the next
Data Source
AI summary
An element backup including a first ring defining an axis; a first parting line through the first ring, the first parting line having a first plurality of generally axially extending segments and a first generally non-axially extending segment extending between the first plurality of axially extending segments; a second ring defining an axis; a second parting line through the second ring, the second parting line having a second plurality of generally axially extending segments and a second generally non-axially extending segment extending between the second plurality of axially extending segments; and an interconnection releasably securing the first and second rings to one another.