Development And Field Application Of A Single Rotor Design Dry Gas Seal.

LecturePg. 107-116Improving centrifugal compressor seal performance and reliability can be accomplished through development of new technology and/or by improvement of existing technology. An improved dry gas lubricating seal of single rotor design has been designed for high pressure gas compressors. A more durable seal of simpler design has been created through implementation of ductile materials and reduction of components. Currently, the tandem dry gas seal configuration is the accepted standard for high pressure natural gas pipeline compressor applications. These applications still suffer problems with process and lube oil contamination, brittle fracture of carbide materials, and explosive decompression of 0-rings. Real costs associated with these problems are considerable. Development and potential benefits of the single rotor design seal, along with field application, in a high pressure natural gas centrifugal compressor is discussed