Synonyms
Definition
A labyrinth seal is a non-contacting close clearance machine component whose major purpose is to restrict leakage of the working fluid or gas in a machine. Such seals can be found in centrifugal and axial flow gas compressors, steam turbines, hot gas expanders, and aircraft jet engines. The seal can be the end seal or an inter-stage seal in a gas compressor. For axial compressors, steam turbines, and jet engines the seal may be an inner-stage seal or a seal on the tips of the blades. The seal is usually designed to allow light contact without concern of large forces on the rotor. The material – typically aluminum, bronze, or brass – is soft enough to easily deform for light contact. As the name implies, the design of the seal provides a tortuous path for the leaking gas, thus reducing leakage.
Scientific Fundamentals
The basic principle of a labyrinth seal is to provide a reduced flow area in the normal gas leakage flow path. A typical...
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References
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© 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York
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Kirk, R.G. (2013). Labyrinth Seal. In: Wang, Q.J., Chung, YW. (eds) Encyclopedia of Tribology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-92897-5_130
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-92897-5_130
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