An Experimental and Theoretical Study of Pressure and Thermal Distortions in a Mechanical Seal

Abstract

Distortions of mechanical face seal components have a significant effect on the seal performance. The finite element method is often employed to analyze complex seal sections; however, experimental verification is needed.

In this paper, a technique for measuring pressure and thermal distortion of seal components is demonstrated for the first time in a production-type seal under normal running conditions. The technique uses capacitance probes which measure the fluid film geometry directly. The seal components have also been numerically analyzed for pressure and thermal distortion by the boundary integral element (BIE) method and the results are correlated with experimental measurements.

While seals may be designed to be insensitive to the sealant pressure, the thermal distortion is shown to be very significant. The mechanisms and the effect of boundary conditions on thermal rotation are discussed. The BIE method is a rapid technique, which from an integral part of a modular seal design system and has been applied to seals now in successful service.

Presented at the 40th Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada May 6–9, 1985

Notes

Presented at the 40th Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada May 6–9, 1985