Investigation of a Unique Macro/Micro Laser Machined Feature for Mechanical Face Seals with Low Leakage, Low Friction, and Low Wear

摘要

Numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the effects of micro dimple surface texturing on friction reduction in mechanical seals [1-7]. Optimum ratios for a dimple configuration, depth (h) to diameter (D) (Fig. 1), range from 0.02 to 0.5, and area density ratio, ratio of dimple area to seal face area, range from 20 to 55%. Within this range it has been shown that friction can be reduced by as much as 50%. These studies indicate that if the ratio of depth to dimple diameter is reduced below 0.02 a dramatic reduction in performance is seen.