Abstract: A multiple path fluid circuit comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid pump having an inlet in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The fluid pump may have an outlet in fluid communication with an inlet of a fluid cooling circuit. The fluid cooling circuit may then have an outlet in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The outlet of the fluid pump may also be in fluid communication with an inlet of a lubrication circuit, which may be in fluid communication with a delivery system capable of supplying a fluid to a moving component or to a component in contact with the moving component. A gas turbine engine comprising a multiple path fluid circuit is also disclosed as well as a method of utilizing a multiple path fluid circuit.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system of shaft sealing for a turbine engine. Carbon-ring seals placed on pressurized bearing compartments are adapted to operate on ceramic runners which are cooled by lubricating fluid. The runners are closed at one end so that fluid does not enter an interface between the runner and the seal. The seal is held in place in a cylindrical seal housing with an inwardly projecting seal retention wall. An internally cooled seal housing is provided having an enclosed annular cooling groove is formed in the wall. Fluid is circulated through the groove to provide cooling of the seal housing and the carbon-ring seal. The circulated fluid is provided from the same source as fluid that is circulated to lubricate bearings on the engine. However, a separately controlled fluid delivery system is employed so that a rate of flow of fluid to the seal housing can be specifically controlled.

Abstract: A multiple path fluid circuit comprising a fluid reservoir and a fluid pump having an inlet in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The fluid pump may have an outlet in fluid communication with an inlet of a fluid cooling circuit. The fluid cooling circuit may then have an outlet in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The outlet of the fluid pump may also be in fluid communication with an inlet of a lubrication circuit, which may be in fluid communication with a delivery system capable of supplying a fluid to a moving component or to a component in contact with the moving component. A gas turbine engine comprising a multiple path fluid circuit is also disclosed as well as a method of utilizing a multiple path fluid circuit.