Experimental verification of textured mechanical seal designed using multi-objective optimization

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to simultaneously enhance the load-carrying capacity and control the leakage rate of mechanical seals by optimizing the texture shape. Design/methodology/approach A multi-objective optimization approach is implemented to determine the optimal “free-form” textures and optimal circular dimples. Experiments are conducted to validate the simulation results. Findings The experimental coefficient of friction (COF) and leakage rate are in good agreement with the calculated results. In addition, the optimal “free-form” texture shows a lower COF and a lower leakage in most cases. Originality/value This work provides a method to optimize the surface texture for a better combination performance of mechanical seals.