Segmented Seal Ring Structure for Turbine Vibration and Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engine seals face challenges due to vibration and dynamically changing distances between rotating and static components, leading to air leakage, which degrades fuel efficiency and reduces thrust.
Innovation Solution
A seal ring system comprising multiple thin, annular segments with retention pins and slots that allow radial movement, providing flexibility and effective sealing by overlapping segments to cover gaps and maintain contact despite expansion and contraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a seal ring is used to prevent air leakage between rotating and static components, then sealing performance is improved, but the seal ring is subject to vibration and dynamically changing distances that reduce sealing efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The seal ring is divided into multiple segments that can move independently relative to each other. Each segment is retained on the seal ring by retention fasteners but can shift radially and tangentially to accommodate vibration and dynamic distance changes, maintaining sealing contact with the mating surface despite operational disturbances.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal ring transitions from a static, rigid structure to a dynamic, adaptable structure. The segments are designed to move radially inward/outward and tangentially relative to the seal ring center, allowing the seal to dynamically adjust its position and maintain contact with the mating surface under varying operational conditions including vibration and thermal expansion.
2Strength
If the seal ring is made rigid to maintain structural integrity, then strength is improved, but the seal cannot adapt to dynamically changing distances and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid seal ring is segmented into multiple independent sections that can move relative to each other while maintaining overall structural integrity. The retention fasteners provide structural connection while allowing controlled movement, enabling the seal to adapt to dynamic conditions without compromising strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal segments are designed with sufficient flexibility to deform and move radially and tangentially, similar to flexible shell behavior. This flexibility allows the segments to conform to mating surfaces and maintain sealing contact despite vibration and thermal expansion, while the retention fasteners maintain structural coherence.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the seal ring is made flexible to adapt to dynamic conditions, then adaptability is improved, but structural integrity and retention may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible seal is divided into segments that can move independently, with retention fasteners providing structural connection. This segmentation allows each segment to flex and adapt to dynamic conditions while the retention fasteners maintain overall structural integrity and prevent segment loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal segments are designed with specific geometric parameters (thickness, width, curvature) that optimize the balance between flexibility and strength. The retention fasteners are positioned and dimensioned to provide sufficient retention force while allowing necessary segment movement, achieving the optimal parameter balance for both adaptability and structural integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A seal ring system is provided. The seal ring system comprises a segment defining a slot, a pedal along the slot, and an opening offset from the slot. A retention fastener may be disposed in the opening. A seal ring system is also provided comprising a first segment defining a first opening, a second segment defining a second opening, and a retention fastener extending through the first and second openings. The retention fastener configured to allow relative radial movement of the first segment and the second segment. A seal is further provided comprising a seal ring having a central axis, a petal extending radially inward with respect to the central axis of the seal ring, and a sealing disk axially proximate the seal ring. The sealing disk may have a seal shoe configured as a primary seal. The petal may extend toward the seal shoe.