Tribopair evaluation of brush seal applications

~~~. Cranston, rihode Gland The tribonair evaluation effort consists of four ~~~~ ~ ~~ .=.. ~ ~ ~ ~ . ~ . . ~ ~ ~~~~~~ ~~ ~ Brush seal technology is currently being viewed separate areas of investigation, conducted at high as having high potential for improving jet engine temperature, where the results from each investigation efficiency by reducing the secondary flow leakage are considered in selecting brush seal materials for relative to labyrinth seals. The selection of advanced applications. The areas of investigation appropriate materials for brush seal bristles and include oxidation testing of bristle alloys using coatings should be done in light of the tribological thermal analvsis technioues. wear tests (fatime). of behavsr at elevated tempera6re and speed. Seven candidate coatings and seven bristle alloys have been evaluated for friction and wear behavior at high temperature and high sliding speed conditions for the purpose of identifying materials which can extend brush seal performance. Four tribopairs are discussed in detail and a material combination is identified which can lower frictional heating during high radial excursion conditions by up to 50%, and extend the life of the brush seal through improved resistance to oxidation and wear, as compared to the standards today.