Temperature Distribution Measurement and Internal Flow Visualization in the Lubrication Film of Non-contacting Mechanical Seals

Abstract The surface textures of non-contacting mechanical seals form a few micrometers thick lubrication film that aids in achieving high performance of the seal. Improved texture design can control internal fluid flow, improving the sealing performance and lubrication characteristics. However, film thickness is sensitive to thermal deformation, making seals vulnerable to heat. Excessive temperature increases and deviations in temperature distribution can cause performance degradation or damage to seals. Previous studies have suggested that heat transfer impacting these thermal issues may be influenced by the internal flow, however, experimental studies examining flow fields have not been conducted yet. This study presents the design of experimental equipment, measurement of temperature distributions and observation of flow fields in lubrication films with three different textures—non-textured, Rayleigh step, and spiral groove. Furthermore, the results were compared with those of numerical analysis. Temperature was found to be higher at the downstream end of the flow. In particular, the Rayleigh step seal exhibited a nonuniform temperature distribution that alternated between low and high-temperature areas. This was caused by cooling related to radial grooves that had a pumping effect. In contrast, a uniform temperature distribution was confirmed in the case of the spiral groove seal, which was formed by mixing outer and inner side fluids. The results indicate that the temperature distribution in lubrication films can be controlled via flow field by the surface texture shape or depth to protect against thermal degradation and to achieve high reliability of non-contacting mechanical seals. Graphical Abstract