Abstract
Labyrinth seals are a state-of-the-art sealing technology to prevent and control leakage flows at rotor–stator interfaces in turbomachinery. Higher pressure ratios and the economical use of cooling air require small clearances, which lead to potential rubbing events. The use of honeycomb liners allows for minimal leakage by tolerating rub events to a certain extent. A previous study within an EU project investigated the complex contact conditions of honeycomb liners, with the idealized contact of a seal fin and a single parallel metal foil representing the honeycomb double foil section. In the present work, the results for the slanted foil position are shown and compared to the previous results. The variation of rub velocity, incursion speed, incursion rate, and seal geometry in a test rig allows for the identification of the influence on contact forces, temperatures, and wear. For the slanted position, significantly lower friction temperatures are observed, leading to a higher ratio of abrasive wear. Overall, the rub test results demonstrate strong interactions between the contact forces, friction temperatures, and wear.
Highlights
In steam and gas turbines, labyrinth seals are state of the art as an interface between stationary and rotating parts [1]
The incursion rate had a significant influence on the contact forces, and an increase in friction speed resulted in lower rub forces
A large number of rub tests were performed on a simplified system using individual metal foils to improve understanding of the effects and interactions of rub and wear phenomena in labyrinth seal fins rubbing into a honeycomb liner
Summary
In steam and gas turbines, labyrinth seals are state of the art as an interface between stationary and rotating parts [1]. They tolerate high relative speeds, high pressures, and high temperatures with comparatively simple construction and low production costs. The most relevant design parameter is the clearance [2,3]. Engine efficiency can be increased and fuel consumption reduced, the risk of rubbing increases. Abradable liner materials are used which provide a fast and controlled wear to protect the rotor. Wear of the rotor is critical for the reliability of the sealing system and can have a negative effect on the leakage
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