Numerical and experimental study of convergent integral embedded magnetic fluid seal

Abstract

To enhance the pressure resistance of small clearance magnetic fluid seals, a new convergent integral embedded magnetic fluid seal (CIEMFS) structure was proposed. The magnetic field distributions in the radial sealing clearance and axial sealing clearance were studied, and the theoretical pressure resistance capability values were obtained. The effects of magnetic fluid injection volumes, pole tooth (PT) heights and sealing clearance on the pressure resistance capability of the CIEMFS were experimentally investigated and compared with that of the ordinary magnetic fluid seal (OMFS). The results showed that the experimental pressure resistance capability of the CIEMFS was in good agreement with the theoretical pressure resistance, and both of them were better than the OMFS. The pressure resistance capability of the CIEMFS is not only affected by the radial sealing clearance but also limited by the axial seal clearance. The height of the pole tooth and the magnetic fluid (MF) injection volume will also have an impact on the pressure resistance capability, the higher the pole tooth, the higher the pressure resistance capability of the magnetic fluid sealing (MFS) structure. As the magnetic fluid injection volume increases, the pressure resistance capability of the CIEMFS increases and then plateaus.