Test Results for Turbulent Annular Seals, Using Smooth Rotors and Helically Grooved Stators

Abstract

Test results, consisting of leakage data, friction factors, and rotordynamic force coefficients, are presented for seven annular seals using smooth rotors and helically-grooved stators. All seals have the same nominal clearances and groove depths. The helix angles vary from zero (circumferential grooving) to 70 deg. The number of grooves and the leakage rates increase steadily with increasing helix angles. Helically-grooved stators leak more than smooth seals for helix angles greater than 30 deg. The effective direct stiffness of the seals first decreases and then increases with increasing helix angles. Contrary to theoretical predictions (Kim and Childs 1987), the effective net damping was relatively insensitive to changes in the helix angles.