Abstract: A barrier seal system comprises a rotatable shaft disposed within an outer housing. The rotatable shaft axially extends from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region within the outer housing. At least a portion of the rotatable shaft, typically the portion disposed adjacent to the low-pressure region, comprises an oleophobic surface. The system further comprises a barrier seal that radially extends from the outer housing to the rotatable shaft and defines a gap between the barrier seal and the rotatable shaft. A barrier gas injector is provided for injecting a barrier gas into the gap to flow from the high-pressure region to the low-pressure region.

Abstract: A rotary machine includes a machine rotor, a bearing coupled to the machine rotor, a machine stator, and a sealing device disposed between the machine rotor and the machine stator. The sealing device includes a dry gas seal and first and second seals disposed between the dry gas seal and the bearing. One or both of the first and second seals includes a brush seal or more specifically a brush seal including a plurality of non-metallic fibers.

Abstract: A brush seal for use in a rotary machine includes a rotary component disposed inside a stationary component. A brush sealing system is disposed between the stationary component and the rotary component. The brush sealing system includes a seal housing that contains a matrix of potting compound, coupled to the stationary component. A plurality of bristles is provided, each bristle having a first end embedded in the potting compound and a second end protruding from the seal housing towards the rotary component. The potting compound is formed from a ceramic suitable for use at high temperatures that is capable of bonding to non-metallic bristles.