The Wavy Mechanical Face Seal - Theoretical and Experimental Results.
Abstract
In this report the results of theoretical and experimental investigations on the effects of waviness on mechanical face seal performance are presented. In previous work it was shown how waviness imposed on a seal face leads to reduced friction and wear while creating only a small leakage in a water seal. It was also shown that the waviness must be moved slowly around the seal ring in order that the effect of waviness remain indefinitely. A test apparatus for measuring the effects of waviness is described. A computer based system is used to record the data and monitor the test. A test procedure is outlined. Results from wavy seal experiments show that waviness reduces seal wear compared to a flat face seal a factor of four to forty and reduces torque a factor of four. Long term tests show that by moving the wave the effect remains indefinitely. As the amount of waviness is increased, friction torque decreases and leakage increases. Wear profiles show that the seal faces have a tilt in addition to waviness. This alters the pressure distribution significantly when compared to the radially parallel wavy faces analyzed previously. Tests using a converging radially tapered seal show that the taper wears away with time.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA083933
Entities
People
- A. O. Lebeck
- L. A. Young
Organizations
- University of New Mexico