Influence of the real dimple shape on the performance of a textured mechanical seal

Abstract Surface texturing the friction faces of a mechanical seal reduces friction as well as leakage and wear, where dimples machined on the surface enhance the formation of a full lubricating film in the seal interface. Numerical simulation is used to determine the optimal surface texturing for the investigated operating conditions of the seal. The geometry of the dimples introduced in the model assume a perfect shape, but machining causes the dimple shapes to be imperfect in terms of the roughness in the dimples, absence of sharp angles, deformed boundaries, and so on. The effect of the real geometry must be considered to confirm that surface texturing will provide the desired results. In the present work, surface texturing is performed using low-temperature plasma coupled with a thermo-chemical surface treatment on stainless steel sealing rings. The real dimple shapes are analysed and considered within the hydrodynamic lubrication model. The influence of different types of defects is studied. It is shown that there is a limit above which surface imperfections dispel the texture's positive effects. Controlling the dimple shapes is important when performing surface texturing.