Patent ID: 9017018
Filing Date: 2015-04-28
Classification: F01D,F16J

Abstract:
1. An annular seal positionable in a gap and comprising: a plurality of leaves positioned about a center axis wherein each leaf extends to a distal end that is elastically deflectable relative to said center axis to accommodate changes in a size of the gap; a ring encircling said center axis and at least partially interconnecting said plurality of leaves together for concurrent installation and removal; and a plurality of tabs projecting from said ring along said center axis, wherein each of said tabs is directly connected to at least one of said plurality of leaves such that elastic deformation of one of said plurality of leaves induces bending in said corresponding tab before inducing bending in said ring; and wherein each of said plurality of tabs extends a length between a base end adjacent to said ring and a distal end spaced from said base end and wherein said length of at least one of said plurality of tabs includes a first distance along the center axis and a second distance at least partially radial relative to the center axis; and wherein at least one of said plurality of leaves is fixed to said at least one of said plurality of tabs along at least part of said first distance and at least part of said second distance.