A FULLY INSTRUMENTED SYSTEM FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF END FACE MECHANICAL SEAL PERFORMANCE UNDER SIMULATED SERVICE CONDITIONS

The measurement of friction torque during operation of end face mechan ical seals is complicated by interference due to friction of the shaft bearings. The authors have developed a test stand which accommodates a torque cell supporting the stationary seal insert. This system provi des an accurate real-time measurement of friction torque. Furthermore, the authors' system permits independent control of box pressure and s eal closing force, allowing one to reproduce loading conditions encoun tered in service for pressure-velocity (PV) limits up to 70 MPa m/s (2 million psi-feet/min). The data acquisition system monitors temperatu res, flow rates, pressures, seal face load, and friction torque. Resul ts from this tester using water and a synthetic lubricant are presente d.