Elastic leak of a seal

Qihan Liu,Zhengjin Wang,Yucun Lou,Zhigang Suo

doi:10.1016/j.eml.2014.10.001

Qihan Liu, Zhengjin Wang + Show 2 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eml.2014.10.001

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Abstract

An elastomeric seal may leak by elastic deformation without any material damage. We describe elastic leak using a theoretical model, and watch a seal deform and leak using a transparent experimental setup. The elastomer seals the fluid by forming contact with surrounding hard materials. As the fluid pressure increases, the contact stress also increases but not as much. When the fluid pressure surpasses the contact stress, the elastomer and the hard materials lose contact in some region, forming a leaking path. The critical fluid pressure for elastic leak depends on the geometry and constraint of the seal, but is insensitive to the rate at which the fluid is injected. Our study points to the significance of elastic deformation in modes of failure that also involve material damage.

Highlights

The softness of an elastomer is essential to both the function and failure of a seal
Elastic deformation is of central significance to the leak of seals
Seals may be insufficiently constrained due to the uncertainty of the sizes of boreholes, unexpected damage of the gauge rings, and insufficient swelling of the elastomers (Lou, Robisson et al 2012). Such seals can leak without appreciable damage of the elastomer (Nijhof, Koloy et al 2010)

Summary

Introduction

The softness of an elastomer is essential to both the function and failure of a seal. When the fluid pressure surpasses the contact stress, the elastomer and the hard materials lose contact in some region, forming a leaking path. The fluid pressure can cause the seal to deform and damage, leading to leak (Nau 1987; Flitney 2007).

Results

Conclusion