Elastohydrodynamic Analysis of Reverse Pumping in Rotary Lip Seals With Microundulations

Abstract

An elastohydrodynamic analysis of a rotary lip seal containing microundulations, incorporating both the fluid mechanics of the lubricating film and the elastic behavior of the lip, has been performed numerically. The results indicate that, under dynamic conditions, the undulation pattern deforms such that it produces reverse pumping. The reverse pumping rate is substantial, and overwhelms the natural leakage induced by the sealed pressure, thereby preventing leakage through the seal. The results also show that the undulations hydrodynamically generate sufficiently high pressures, within the film, to provide load support and maintain the integrity of the film.