Dimensional Stability and Structural Integrity of Labyrinth Seals

Experience has shown that the noncontacting dynamic seals of high-speed engines require special mechanical design considerations for long life and good performance. Dimensional stability and structural integrity are compromised if certain mechanical criteria are not incorporated into the design. This paper emphasizes mechanical design considerations, failure experiences, “fixes,” and an analytic approach to the mechanical design of labyrinth seals with particular reference to applications to aircraft gas turbines.