Advanced Seal Development

Under this cooperative agreement, the work conducted was in support of the Directors Discretionary Fund and the Smart Efficient Components (SEC) Program. The goal of this continuing program is to develop an innovative Acoustic-Based Seal that shows the potential of operating with zero-leakage and zero-wear by exploiting recent developments in acoustics. By oscillating specially shaped resonating cavities at frequencies equivalent to the resonant frequency of the fluid contained by the cavity, the research group has demonstrated that high- amplitude standing pressure waves can be produced. While others are applying this technology to compressors, NASA proposes to develop a revolutionary new class of seals that will impact the turbine engine and power generation industries. The intent of this activity is to continue the formation of a strong relationship between the research initiatives at the Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) and the NASA Glenn Research Center (NASA GRC).