Numerical simulation and experimental study of shaft pumping by laser structured shafts with rotary lip seals

A simulation model to predict pumping by shafts with various surface finishes, in combination with a rotary lip seal, has been developed and validated by experiment. The model consists of a fluid mechanics analysis of the flow in the sealing zone coupled with a deformation analysis of the seal. The experimental validation consists of pumping rate measurements with shafts whose surface structures contain laser generated oblique grooves. Plots of pumping rate vs. various parameters show good agreement between the model and experiment. Plots of torque vs. speed, as well, show good agreement between the model and experiment.