Thermomechanical coupled analysis of split mechanical seal under different rotation speeds

Numerical analysis is employed to investigate the influence of parting surface and combined thermal factor (rotation) on deformation of split mechanical seal. Parting surface takes little effect on the temperature distribution, verified by comparison experiment. Shaft rotation speed does not much affect the radial temperature gradient of the seal end faces but can raise the temperature when being increased. The simulated model turns to a drum, with the parting surfaces, close to the primary sealing interface presenting a convergent taper, becoming open-shaped. Increasing rotation dramatically intensifies the seal end face deformation of both split stationary and rotating seal rings and slightly increases the convergent taper size of the primary sealing interface. However, it takes little effect on the parting surface deformation. Compared with integral mechanical seal, parting surfaces distinctly reduce the primary sealing interface cone as well as the seal end face deformation of both split seal rings.