Segmented Ring Sealing Insert for Turbomachine Leakage Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Turbomachines face challenges in reducing leakage and achieving efficient sealing in turbine modules due to clearance flows between segmented rings, which affect the overall tightness and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A segmented ring design with circumferentially divided segments and radially open pockets allows for axial retention of a sealing insert, enabling efficient sealing while facilitating radial assembly, thereby reducing leakage and enhancing mounting possibilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a segmented ring is divided into circumferential segments for easier assembly, then ease of operation is improved, but leakage increases due to clearance flows at the joints
Solution Approach 1:
A sealing insert is introduced as an intermediary element at the joints between segments. The sealing insert comprises a sealing element that engages with sealing surfaces on the segments to block clearance flows, while also including a retaining structure that anchors it in the radially open pocket. This intermediary component enables both segmented assembly and effective sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented ring is divided into multiple circumferential segments that can be assembled separately and then joined together. Each segment has a pocket structure that receives a sealing insert at the joint, allowing the ring to be assembled in sections while maintaining sealing integrity at the interfaces between segments.
2Reliability
If a sealing insert is added to seal the joint, then sealing tightness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing insert combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: it includes a sealing element for blocking clearance flows and a retaining structure for axial retention in the radially open pocket. By merging these functions into one element, the solution improves sealing without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing insert is designed to be self-retaining through its retaining structure that engages with the pocket structure of the segments. The sealing element and retaining structure work together automatically once the insert is positioned, eliminating the need for additional retention mechanisms or complex assembly procedures.
3Ease of operation
If segments are assembled radially from inside outward, then ease of operation is improved, but achieving complete sealing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing insert includes a retaining structure with axial retention capability that extends into the radially open pocket. This adds an axial dimension to the sealing approach, allowing the sealing insert to be retained axially while being assembled radially from inside outward, thus achieving complete sealing through radial assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing insert acts as an intermediary that bridges the joint between segments and is retained in the radially open pocket through its retaining structure. This intermediary element ensures that even with radial assembly from inside, the joint is completely sealed by the sealing element engaging with the sealing surfaces on adjacent segments.
Data Source
AI summary
A segmented ring for installation in a turbomachine, circumferentially divided into segments, considered with respect to a ring axis of the segmented ring, wherein the segmented ring is adapted for installation from radially inside; i.e., the segments can be assembled radially outwardly to form the segmented ring. At least two immediately circumferentially adjacent segments meet in a joint at which a sealing insert is provided. A pocket which is open toward the joint is formed in each of the at least two immediately circumferentially adjacent segments; i.e., two circumferentially mutually facing pockets are provided at the joint. The sealing insert is disposed in the two mutually facing pockets and axially retained therein and extends circumferentially across the joint, and a pocket of the two mutually facing pockets is additionally also open in a radial direction such that this segment can be radially slid onto the sealing insert.