This project aims to integrate smart materials such as Ionic Polymer Metal Composites (IPMCs) in Labyrinth Seals (LS) design creating the concept of smart LS aiming to achieve minimum Greenhouse Gases (CH4 and CO2) emissions in pneumatic machines.
Current LS designs include mostly (or only) passive parts and intuitive geometries; therefore, this project aims to create the concept of smart LS with active materials and innovative geometrical features.
Goals:
- To integrate smart materials such as IPMCs in the LS design;
- To consider the influence of parameters in the smart LS concept such as high shaft speed (order of 20,000 rpm and shaft radius 40 to 60 mm), different types of IPMC actuation and possible configurations of smart LS;
- To consider turbulent flow in the LS design.
- To create a schematic methodology for smart LS design.
- To manufacture and test prototypes comparing smart LS designs with traditional LS designs;
- To perform wear studies of smart LS designs.
TEAM
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