Analysis of Variable Fluid Properties, Turbulent Annular Seals

Abstract

A computational analysis for calculation of the dynamic force response in turbulent flow annular pressure seals of arbitrary nonuniform clearance is presented. Cryogenic liquids are considered as barotropic. The fluid motion is described by a bulk flow model and Moody’s friction factor is introduced to accomodate surface roughness effects. The numerical solution scheme is computationally efficient and accurate for seal operation at arbitrary eccentricity ratios. Numerical predictions show good agreement with available experimental results. The effects of eccentricity and liquid properties on the performance of the Space Shuttle Main Engine High Pressure Fuel Turbopump interstage seal at full power level are discussed as a reference case.