Hydrogen Compressor Seal Case Study - Utilizing HALO (Non-Contacting, Compliant) Inter-Stage, Impeller Eye, Buffer and Fail-Safe Seals

Case StudyAn end user of a hydrogen compressor in an oil refinery application has identified existing labyrinth seals as a source of compressor inefficiency and a potential cause of rotor- dynamic instability. The objective of this effort was to investigate the applicability of a compliant/non-contacting seal developed for aerospace applications in the 5-stage hydrogen centrifugal compressor. This effort identified the potential seal performance of the compliant seals in the hydrogen compressor application 4 primary locations (shaft seal, impeller eye seal, thrust balance seal and barrier/buffer gas seal)