Comparison of results of experimental research with numerical calculations of a model one-sided seal

Abstract

Paper presents the results of experimental and numerical research of a model segment of a labyrinth seal for a different wear level. The analysis covers the extent of leakage and distribution of static pressure in the seal chambers and the planes upstream and downstream of the segment. The measurement data have been compared with the results of numerical calculations obtained using commercial software. Based on the flow conditions occurring in the area subjected to calculations, the size of the mesh defined by parameter y+has been analyzed and the selection of the turbulence model has been described. The numerical calculations were based on the measurable thermodynamic parameters in the seal segments of steam turbines. The work contains a comparison of the mass flow and distribution of static pressure in the seal chambers obtained during the measurement and calculated numerically in a model segment of the seal of different level of wear.

Experimental Research and CFD Calculations Based Investigations Into Gas Flow in a Short Segment of a Heavily Worn Straight Through Labyrinth Seal

“…The static pressure distribution obtained for the examined straight through labyrinth seal significantly differs from those observed for segments with smaller gap heights -HG = 0.2 -1 mm [5,6]. The presented measurement data and the CFX simulations (Figs.…”

“…According to the data published in [6,7,16,19], the theoretical pressure distribution in the seal with small slot height decreases evenly and the gas velocity in the slots increases gradually.…”

“…The influence of the shaft speed on the leakage of the double-sided seal segment has been shown in [9]. The results of the experimental research and CFD calculations performed on a segment composed of 20 discs have been compared in [6]. The leakage and the static pressure distribution in the segment were analysed based on the experiment and calculations performed using the CFX software.…”

Analysis of the impact of the labyrinth seal geometric parameters on the leakage

“…Labyrinth seals are applied in nuclear reactors to control the flow of a cooling medium [5]. Experimental tests and CFD calculations for straight through seals are described in reference papers [6][7][8]. Research work comprises the analysis of thermo-dynamic and flow phenomena occurring in seals of that type.…”

A model of gas flow with friction in a slotted seal

“…The thermodynamic parameters of gas flowing through any type of seal change along its length [3][4][5], which also includes the discussed slotted seal. Pressure, temperature, density and gas velocity are changed in the first place.…”