Leakage performance of a novel turbomachinery shaft seal

Advanced sealing systems are needed to control parasitic leakage flows to achieve high turbine engine efficiency and low emissions. Typical extreme turbomachinery engine operating conditions when combined rotor excursions do not lend simple sealing solutions. This work presents an in-depth analysis of a novel robust yet simple sealing system that is capable of maintaining long life under high speed and high temperature operating conditions. The proposed seal design is actually a gas bearing that is carefully tailored, analyzed, and designed to function as a differential pressure seal. The design involves a simple rigid/semi-flexible seal ring that is attached to a stationary support plate via flexible metal cloth structure. The seal body is capable of moving under the effect of hydrodynamic lift force. Therefore, above a certain clearance limit, which ensures that asperity contact is avoided, the seal follows shaft excursions to avoid damaging hard rubs.