State Evolution of Dry Gas Seal during Repeated Start–Stop Operation Using Acoustic Emission Method

Abstract

Seal failure is a common phenomenon that occurs when using a dry gas seal. Many seal failures occur during the start-up process of the seal. In this study, the state evolution of a dry gas seal during repeated start–stop operations was investigated using an acoustic emission (AE) method and a modified empirical mode decomposition using masking signals (MS-EMD). It was evident that the liftoff speed and root mean square (RMS) of the full-speed period changed in stages. According to the change in these parameters, the state evolution of the dry gas seal during the experiment occurred in four stages: the running-in stage, normal working stage, transition stage, and abnormal stage. During the normal working stage, the RMS curve of the late liftoff period oscillated, but its wave trough was flattened due to misalignment of the seal face. After entering the transition stage, the period flattened at the wave trough disappeared and was replaced by a period of slow decline, which is attributed to the existence of abrasive particles between the seal faces. The unsteady accumulation of abrasive particles caused the liftoff speed to fluctuate significantly. By monitoring the liftoff speed of the seal and the RMS of the full-speed period, seal operators may assess the state of the seal and take intervention measures. This has great engineering value for the safe operation and life management of the seal.