Variable clearance packing ring with guide for preventing circumferential displacement

摘要

A rotary machine has a stationary component (14U, 14L) with circumferential grooves (42) and a rotatable component, as well as annular sealing segments (32U, 32L) movable toward and away from the rotating component. To prevent circumferential displacement of the lower side annular segments (32L) by gravity forces and enable the lowermost segment in the lower housing to be moved radially inwardly, the side segments of the lower housing are supported (58) adjacent the casing midline in a manner preventing downward movement and enabling horizontal movement. Consequently, the gap between the lower ends of the side segments and the lower segment in the open position of the segments remains, enabling the lower segment to move radially inwardly upon closing the seals.