Experimental identification of fluid-induced force in labyrinth seals

The seal force is an important factor in turbomachineries. Therefore, the current paper puts forward an expanded seal force identification model. A seal test rig consisting of several sets of seals was prepared. Using the double-plane unbalance force identification theory in rotordynamics, the distributed seal force in the cylinder became equivalent to two selected planes. Considering the complex cylinder vibration with increasing rotating speed and inlet pressure, the cylinder was regarded as a vibration system with 4 degrees of freedom. The 4×4 impedance matrix was tested at the two selected planes using a shaker in two orthogonal directions. The equivalent seal force can be obtained by multiplying the impedance matrix with the measured change in the cylinder vibration. In the seal rig, tests were performed on the influence of inlet pressure, rotating speed, eccentricity ratio, rotor vibration, and clearance. The seal force increases almost linearly with the increasing inlet pressure, eccentricity ratio, and vibration amplitude. Furthermore, the seal force is strongly sensitive to the change in clearance between the cylinder and the rotating rotor. The phase difference between the seal force and the vibration influences the work done. If the phase difference is nearly 90°, then the work is at maximum. Moreover, the seal force applies positive force on the cylinder and negative force on the rotor.