Turbine Sealing Ring Segmentation for Stress Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing sealing rings in turbomachines face issues with mechanical strength due to high axial clamping, complex mounting, clearance between the ring and rotor, and thermal expansion, leading to leaks and reduced ventilation efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a dual sealing ring assembly with reduced dimensions, where the thermal expansions of one sealing ring pull less on the radial flange of the other, reducing axial clamping and mechanical stresses, and incorporating features like radial flanges, lugs, and notches to prevent rotation and leaks, while maintaining easy integration with existing turbomachines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single sealing ring is used with high axial clamping to ensure sealing between distinct cavities, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but mechanical strength is damaged and mounting becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The single sealing ring is divided into two distinct sealing rings (first sealing ring and second sealing ring) that can be mounted independently on the first rotor and second rotor respectively. This segmentation allows each ring to be subjected to lower axial clamping forces, preserving their mechanical strength while maintaining effective sealing between the distinct cavities of the turbine flowpath.
2Reliability
If high axial clamping is applied to the sealing ring to prevent clearance with the rotor, then sealing is improved, but mechanical stresses increase and life span decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the sealing system into two separate rings mounted on different rotors, the axial clamping force is distributed and reduced for each individual ring. This reduction in clamping intensity lowers mechanical stresses and extends the operational life span of the sealing rings while maintaining effective sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of axial clamping intensity by using two separate sealing rings instead of one heavily clamped ring. Each sealing ring experiences reduced axial clamping forces, which alters the stress state and extends the life span of the sealing components.
3Reliability
If a single sealing ring is used to seal between rotors, then sealing is improved, but thermal expansions deteriorate the connection between the ring and rotors
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into two independent sealing rings mounted on separate rotors. This segmentation isolates the thermal expansion effects, allowing each sealing ring to expand independently with its respective rotor, thereby maintaining connection stability and sealing effectiveness despite thermal cycles.
4Strength
If the sealing ring dimensions are reduced to improve mechanical strength, then strength is improved, but sealing effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into two separate rings with reduced dimensions compared to a single comprehensive sealing ring. Each ring's reduced size allows for lower mechanical stresses and improved strength, while the combined sealing action of both rings maintains the overall sealing effectiveness between the distinct cavities.
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 design enhances the mechanical strength and lifespan of the sealing rings, reduces leaks in the ventilation circuit, and simplifies the mounting process, improving the overall performance and reliability of the turbomachine.
Implementation Method 1
the thermal expansions of the second sealing ring pull less on the first radial flange of the first sealing ring
Data Source
AI summary
The present application relates to an assembly for a turbine engine (1), comprising a first rotor (2) which is rotatable about a longitudinal axis (X-X) of the turbine engine (1), the first rotor (2) comprising a first arm (26); a second rotor (3) which is rotatable about the longitudinal axis (X-X) and comprises a second arm (36); a first sealing ring (4) which is centred on the longitudinal axis (X-X), is arranged radially outside the first arm (26) and comprises a first radial flange (40) fixedly mounted between the first arm (26) and the second arm (36); and a second sealing ring (5) which is separate from the first sealing ring (4), is centred on the longitudinal axis (X-X) and is arranged radially outside the second arm (36), the second sealing ring (5) comprising a first part (51) which is designed to come into contact with the second rotor (3), and a second part (52) which is separate from the first part (51) and is designed to come into contact with the first sealing ring (4).