Patent ID: 8146922
Filing Date: 2012-04-03
Classification: F04D,F16J

Abstract:
1. A seal assembly for a compressor, the compressor including a casing having first and second chambers and a rotatable shaft extending through the casing between the two chambers, the seal assembly comprising: a main body disposed circumferentially about the shaft and arranged between the two chambers, the body having a central axis and an inner circumferential surface extending about the axis and spaced radially-outward from the shaft so as to form a seal chamber; at least one annular sealing member connected with the main body so as to extend radially from the inner circumferential surface toward the shaft, the at least one sealing member being configured to prevent fluid flow between the first and second chambers through the seal chamber; a first separator arranged axially adjacent a first axial side of the main body and coupled to the shaft, the first separator defining at least one first separation passage having an inner surface and fluidly connecting the first chamber with the seal chamber, the at least one first separation passage extending at least partially radial with respect to the central axis such that the first separator is configured to direct liquids, solids, or both from the first chamber contacting the inner surface away from the seal chamber; and a second separator arranged axially adjacent a second axial side of the main body and coupled to the shaft, the second separator defining at least one separation passage having an inner surface and fluidly connecting the second chamber with the seal chamber, the at least one separation passage of the second separator extending at least partially radial with respect to the central axis such that the second separator is configured to direct liquids, solids, or both from the second chamber contacting the inner surface away from the seal chamber.