What is the function of the labyrinth/honeycomb air seal?

The labyrinth/honeycomb air seal plays a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and safety of gas turbine systems by preventing the leakage of air and hot combustion gases. This seal design uses a series of grooves and passages that create a tortuous path for the gases. This structure effectively minimizes the amount of hot gas that can escape from the turbine system, ensuring that the majority of the combustion gases are used to produce thrust or power, thus maximizing the engine's performance.

By preventing these leaks, the labyrinth/honeycomb air seal also contributes to optimizing the pressure within the turbine, which is vital for achieving the desired operational characteristics. Additionally, maintaining the appropriate temperature and pressure levels within the turbine housing helps protect turbine components from thermal stress and potential damage caused by excessive heat and pressure variations.