Disclosed is an improved sealing element for a regenerative heat
exchanging apparatus, such as a Ljungstrom.TM.-type or a
Rothemuhle.TM.-type Preheater. The sealing element is mounted to a radial
wall to provide a secure seal between the radial wall and an outer
housing of the heat exchanging apparatus and prevent leakage between the
hot gas conduit and cool air conduit. In one embodiment, the sealing
element includes a reinforced mounting strip that is used to mount the
sealing element to the radial wall. The sealing element also includes a
sealing strip that maintains a sealing contact between the radial wall
and outer housing and a support member that inhibits over-flexing of the
sealing element. A set of bellows is positioned on the sealing element to
provide the sealing element with flexibility and resiliency so that the
sealing element maintains contact with the sealing surface even when the
heat exchanging apparatus experiences warping and/or distortion from
thermal stress.