5 7 between the arcuate segment 22 ends each end of the segments 22 has a radial slot 42 configured to accept a half of the u201c l u201d seal the u201c l u201d seals 38 have an axial portion 44 substantially parallel to a central axis of the seal assembly 16 and a radial portion 46 substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the seal assembly 16 when installed the u201c l u201d seals 38 are disposed such that the axial portion 44 is adjacent to a radially outermost surface 48 of the segments 22 and the radial portion 46 is disposed within the slot formed between two adjacent ends of the segments 22 although the figures show the axial portion 44 shorter than the radial portion 46 it is to be understood that these lengths can vary depending on segment 22 geometry and application specific considerations additionally although the figures and following discussion describe the u201c l u201d seals 38 as having an u201c l u201d shape with one portion substantially parallel to the central axis of the seal assembly and another portion substantially perpendicular to the central axis of the seal assembly it is should be appreciated that other shapes with portions complimentary to the profile of the surrounding segment are envisioned further it is to be understood that although the u201c l u201d seals 38 are illustrated and described as being freely disposed within the radial slot 42 between the segments 22 it is to be understood that each of the u201c l u201d seals 38 may alternatively be attached to an adjacent segment at one end of the u201c l u201d seal and free.