• The KSFM Journal of Fluid Machinery
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• v.7 no.6 s.27
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• pp.45-54
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• 2004

Governing equations and numerical solution methods are derived for the analysis of a combination-type-staggered-labyrinth seal used in high performance steam turbines. A bulk flow is assumed for each combination-type-staggered-labyrinth cavity. Axial flow through a throttling labyrinth strip is determined by Neumann's leakage equation and circumferential flow is assumed to be completely turbulent in the labyrinth cavity. Moody's wall-friction-factor formula is used for the calculation of wall shear stresses. For the reaction force developed by the seal, linearized zeroth-order and first-order perturbation equations are developed for small motion near the centered position. Integration of the resultant first-order pressure distribution along and around the seal defines the rotordynamic coefficients of the combination-type-staggered-labyrinth seal. Theoretical results of leakage and rotordynamic characteristics for the IP4-stage seal of USC (ultra super critical) steam turbine are shown with the effect of sump pressure, the number of throttling labyrinth strip, and rotor speed.