Method and apparatus for rotating machine main fit seal

A seal assembly for sealing a leakage path, said seal assembly comprising:

• a groove defined in a channel;
• a divider positioned in said channel such that a gap defined between said divider and said channel defines a leakage path;
• and
• a sealing member extending at least partially within said groove and positioned to substantially prevent a flow through said leakage path.

A rotary machine comprising:

• a rotor rotatable about a longitudinal axis, said rotor comprising an outer annular surface;
• an annular outer casing comprising an inner surface, said outer casing spaced radially outwardly from said rotor, said casing inner surface comprising a first extension extending radially inwardly towards said rotor, said first extension extending substantially circumferentially about said casing inner surface;
• a cylindrical inner casing comprising an outer surface, said outer surface comprising a second extension extending radially towards said outer casing, said second extension extending substantially circumferentially about said outer surface, said second extension comprising a channel formed in an outer extension surface for receiving said first extension when said outer casing and said inner casing are assembled;
• a groove formed in said channel sized to receive a sealing member;
• and
• a sealing member positioned at least partially within said groove for sealing a leakage path.