A Parametric Experimental Investigation and Performance Comparison of Four Finger Seal Embodiments

Abstract

For the finger seal, the compliance, combined with the non-contacting characteristic (not available in a brush seal), allow both axial and radial adjustment of the seal to the rotor excursions, without losing physical integrity, or diminution of seal worthiness. Four finger seal configurations are being investigated. Three models feature a padless high pressure laminate and a padded low pressure laminate, and a fourth one incorporates a novel third and interlocking padded layer. This additional layer’s role is to further reduce leakage and increase lifting capability. The finger seal lifting properties and its structure compliance are evaluated through the performance of a set of parametric studies where the seal upstream pressure is held at 10 psi, and the rotor angular velocity is increased to 15 krpm.