Development of a test-rig for advanced rotor–stator seals used in jet engines: Part I

Advanced rotor–stator seals are becoming more and more common in the latest generation of jet engines. In order to develop new radial seals and fully understand existing ones, testing needs to be done under full-scale conditions. It is necessary to be able to evaluate a new seal concept at “scale one”, under representative operating temperatures, pressure and rotational speed. This article – published in two instalments – presents details of an advanced new test-rig that is able to achieve this goal. It describes many facets of its design, construction, commissioning and use, and the challenges associated with its development. The first instalment, which appears here, looks at key characteristics of the test-rig, provides an overview of its mechanical design and airflow loop, and lists associated references. The second instalment will be published in the January 2022 issue of Sealing Technology.