Numerical and experimental study of dynamic elastomeric seals behaviour under actively controlled temperature conditions

Clearance forming between rotating shafts and radial lip seals has been investigated both numerically and experimentally at various temperature conditions. Numerical models of clearance forming has been developed taking in account the effect of temperature, defining the material constituting properties according to empiric WLF function. Experiments have been performed with a special apparatus that allows control of lubricant temperature and level at each shaft speed . Results agree with simulations and give useful indications for pratical applications. NOMENCLATURE τ relaxation time pd dynamic stress Ψ phase displacement ps static stress ω shaft speed pt total stress Ra surface roughness t time Tg glass transition temperature xd dynamic strain ed dynamic eccentricity xs static strain es static eccentricity xt total strain