Analysis and Test of the Screw Seal in Laminar and Turbulent Operation

Abstract

An analytical and experimental study of the screw seal in both laminar and turbulent operation is presented. The various scattered analyses of laminar screw seal operation are evaluated in comparison with one another and with a simplified flow model. The basic equations are extended to cover turbulent flow. Experiments are described in which the screw seal was tested in both laminar and turbulent flow regimes. Finally, the breakdown of sealing capability under certain conditions is examined and reasons postulated for its behavior.