Transition Duct Side Seal

Overview

The Transition Duct Side Seal is a critical sealing element installed between the transition duct and adjacent components in a gas turbine. It prevents hot gas leakage from the combustor outlet to the turbine inlet, ensuring efficient flow, proper pressure distribution, and reduced thermal losses.

Materials and Construction

Side seals are typically manufactured from high-temperature alloys such as Inconel or Haynes series materials. These alloys provide excellent oxidation resistance and retain mechanical strength at elevated temperatures. The seal often features flexible or spring-like geometry that allows it to maintain tight contact under thermal expansion and vibration. Surface coatings may also be applied to enhance wear resistance and minimize fretting damage at the interface.

Manufacturing and Quality Control

Precision manufacturing ensures the side seal fits securely along the transition duct wall. Machining and forming processes are combined to achieve accurate dimensions and required spring characteristics. Quality control includes dimensional checks, surface finish inspections, and non-destructive testing to confirm structural integrity. Consistent quality is essential to prevent leaks and extend service intervals.

Applications and Performance

The Transition Duct Side Seal plays a vital role in directing hot gases into the turbine stage without bypass or leakage. By maintaining effective sealing, it supports higher turbine efficiency, reduces fuel consumption, and minimizes thermal damage to adjacent hardware. Its resilience under cyclic thermal and mechanical stresses ensures reliability during long operating cycles.

Maintenance and Repair

During overhaul, the side seal should be inspected for wear, cracks, or permanent deformation. Excessive leakage paths often indicate that the seal has lost its spring tension or surface integrity. Maintenance can include surface reconditioning, replacement of worn seals, or applying protective coatings to extend service life. Regular inspection and timely replacement are essential to maintain turbine performance and protect downstream components.The Transition Duct Side Seal prevents hot gas leakage in turbine transition sections. Made from heat-resistant alloys, it ensures efficient flow, durability under high temperatures, and reliable sealing performance.