Labyrinth seals have long been employed in centrifugal compressors to reduce gas leakage by forming a ‘tortuous path’ of teeth against the rotor. For these seals to work effectively, the gap between the teeth and rotor must be kept to a minimum. A historic reliance on metallic materials such as stainless steel, aluminium, and bronze has caused problems here due to their susceptibility to damage caused by mechanical, thermal, and chemical stressors. With this damage comes wider clearances, allowing for increased leakage. For end users, the consequence of relying on poor materials is the constant battle between inefficient operations or regular replacement of the seal – both of which come at a substantial price over time.
In this webinar, key experts from Mitsubishi Chemical Advanced Materials will discuss the energy market’s challenges with inefficient labyrinth seals and why advanced polymeric materials could be the key to both significant efficiency gains and longer service life thanks to their improved wear resistance and corrosion and chemical resistance.
Register now to learn the latest best practice for engineering labyrinth teeth and discover why a transition to advanced polymeric materials for labyrinth seals is instrumental for optimising centrifugal compressor design.
Learning objectives of this webinar:
- Performance Advantages of Advanced Polymer Labyrinth Seals: Engineers will learn how polymer seals outperform traditional metal options in terms of wear resistance, chemical resistance, and efficiency. The session will highlight how self-lubricating properties extend service life, reduce maintenance, and improve compressor reliability.
- Operational and Economic Benefits: Improve Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and how polymer seals can lower maintenance costs, reduce downtime, and enhance energy efficiency. Engineers will understand how reduced friction and weight optimization improve rotor dynamics, leading to better compressor performance.
- Real-World Validation Through Testing and Case Studies: Engineers will see data-driven evidence from comparative performance testing on friction, wear, and corrosion resistance. Case studies will provide practical insights into how polymer labyrinth seals have successfully improved compressor performance in oil & gas and power generation applications.