Techniques for calculating the hydrodynamic characteristics of mechanical face seals with gaps of complex forms

This paper presents numerical and analytical techniques for calculating the hydrodynamic characteristics of mechanical face seals with gaps of complex forms that feature tapering and undulation. The numerical technique is developed using the finite volume method and takes into account inertial forces. With the tapering and undulation parameters of the clearance taken equal to zero, the analytical expressions obtained for the working fluid leakage through the gap of complex form are reduced to well-known relations. The techniques developed are applicable to both hydrodynamic and contact face seals.