Application of acoustic emission technology for detecting the onset and duration of contact in liquid lubricated mechanical seals

Abstract

The continuous quest for higher efficiency has led machinery to be designed closer to their limits and with minimum clearances in order to reduce leakage and consequently increase efficiency. This is particularly the case in the seal industry, where the inappropriate selection or deterioration of seals can greatly influence the life and efficiency of machinery. Typically, a mechanical seal unit consists of rotating and stationary parts separated by a fluid film. The aim of this investigation was to assess the applicability of Acoustic Emission (AE) technology for detecting the onset and duration of seal-to-seal contact; a possible result of breakdown of the separating film. It was concluded that the AE technology successfully identified the onset and duration of seal-to-seal contact.