Numerical modelling of a segmented annular seal with enhanced lift effects

Abstract A segmented annular seal is composed of several identical carbon segments assembled around the rotor by a circumferential (garter) spring. Each segment has one or more pads delimited deep grooves to generate radial lift force when speed rotation not zero. One solutions for enhancing this provide inclined on rotor. This solution analyzed here numerically assuming thin air film between and pad segment. The modeled Reynolds equation solved in rotating coordinate system. therefore considered fixed an opposite rotation. Due axial separating segments, model unsteady even approach enables estimation displacement, leakage rate power dissipated as well influence nose friction dynamic behavior second simplified neglects pads. domain consists single pattern with periodicity boundary conditions direction. allows rapid steady-state calculation that explains opening kind seal.