Patent ID: 7726660
Filing Date: 2010-06-01
Classification: F01D,F16J

Abstract:
1. A non-contacting seal, comprising: an outer support member; at least one segment including: a cover supported by the outer support member and the inner pad on an upstream, high pressure side of the seal, the cover being constructed and arranged to avert leakage through the space disposed between inner pad and the outer support member; wherein the at least one finger spring is constructed and arranged such the at least one finger spring is radially compliant to allow radial displacement of the at least one segment by an opening force generated by the lift-off geometry of the wear resistant ceramic structure; and wherein the cover is supported at approximately a mid-section of the axial width of the seal so that upstream system pressure acts on both the cover and on a top surface of the inner pad so as to balance the opening force acting under the inner pad during use.