Unitized Bi-Directional Seal Assembly for Extreme Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal assemblies face challenges in withstanding extreme temperatures and pressures, requiring robust and efficient sealing solutions that can maintain integrity and simplify installation in high-temperature and high-pressure environments.
Innovation Solution
A unitized bi-directional seal assembly is designed with a pair of annular seals connected by a locking ring and end rings, featuring interference fits, chamfers, and spring elements to enhance radial and axial strength, and can be made from materials like glass-filled PEEK and carbon-filled PTFE, ensuring durability under extreme conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional seal assemblies are used in high-temperature and high-pressure environments, then sealing capability is maintained, but structural integrity deteriorates due to thermal expansion and pressure effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate seal assemblies into a single unitized bi-directional seal assembly by connecting opposing seals with a locking ring. This merging provides mutual support between seals, enhancing structural integrity while maintaining sealing capability under extreme temperatures and pressures.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal assembly is segmented into distinct functional components including opposing seals, a locking ring with locking members, and end rings. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while working together to resist thermal expansion and pressure effects.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate seal components are used, then sealing flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple seal components into a unitized assembly where opposing seals are connected by a locking ring and end rings. This reduces the number of separate components to be installed while maintaining the flexibility to seal in different directions and configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The unitized seal assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides bi-directional sealing, resists thermal expansion through the locking mechanism, and withstands high pressure through the interconnected structure. The locking ring serves both as a connector and as a strength member.
3Reliability
If robust sealing mechanisms are designed for extreme conditions, then reliability is improved, but ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The seal assembly is pre-assembled as a unitized structure with the locking ring and end rings already connected to the opposing seals. This preliminary assembly ensures proper alignment and connection before installation, making the installation process simpler while maintaining the robust design needed for extreme conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
By combining all seal components into a single unitized assembly, the patent reduces the number of installation steps. The entire assembly can be installed as one unit rather than assembling multiple separate components in-situ, significantly improving ease of installation while maintaining reliability.
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
The solution provides a robust and simplified sealing mechanism that effectively withstands temperatures up to 371°C and pressures of 25,000 psi, maintaining structural integrity and ease of installation, while allowing for material variations based on application requirements.
Implementation Method 1
An annular spring can be provided within the channel and biased against the radially inwardly protruding portion to prevent collapse of the channel
Implementation Method 2
The locking ring enables the two opposing seal systems to be connected into a unitized assembly thereby reinforcing the radial and axial strength
Data Source
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AI summary
A seal assembly (10) is provided including a pair of end rings (16) axially spaced from one another. A pair of annular seals (12) are each engaged with a respective one of the pair of end rings. A locking ring (14) is engaged with each of the pair of annular seals to connect the opposing end rings and annular seals in a unitized bi-directional seal assembly.