Abstract

Current trends concerning hydraulic cylinder sealing systems are aimed at decreasing energy consumption which can be materialized by minimizing leaks and reducing friction. The latest developments in the field of materials and sealing system geometries as well as modern simulation possibilities allow maximum performance levels of hydraulic cylinders. Reducing friction is possible by hydro-dynamic separation of the sliding and sealing points already at very low velocities and by using materials, such as plastomers, from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (virgin PTFE and filled PTFE). It is within this context that this paper discusses a theoretical and experimental study focused on the tribological behavior of coaxial sealing systems mounted on the pistons of hydraulic cylinders. It presents a methodology for the theoretical determination of the lubricant film thickness between the cylinder piston and the seal. The experimental installation used for measuring fluid film thickness is presented, and the results obtained under various working conditions are compared to the theoretical ones. For the analyzed working conditions related to pressure, speed, and temperature, the paper concludes with a set of criteria for the selection of the optimum seal material so as to maximize energy efficiency.

Highlights

  • An important characteristic of hydraulic motors, whether linear or rotary, is their high energy density

  • The present paper analyzed the mechanism and character of friction in coaxial sealing systems made from PTFE and its compounds

  • In the case of coaxial sealing systems, the conducted experimental research has revealed that fluid friction is present even when the average thickness of the fluid film falls below the sum of the roughness values Rmax of the two surfaces [26]

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Summary

Introduction

An important characteristic of hydraulic motors, whether linear or rotary, is their high energy density. The present paper analyzed the mechanism and character of friction in coaxial sealing systems made from PTFE and its compounds The use of these materials was justified by their low friction properties that ensure a high level of energy efficiency. The real non-dimensional contact area is less than unity and is a quantity quantity that accounts for the materials of the two elements of the friction friction pair (i.e., seal and cylinder), cylinder), the initial specific radial deformation εεr0 of the the O-ring, O-ring, and and the the pressure pressure of the working fluid. Elements will be completely by a “wedge”-shaped gap Figure 4

Distribution
Theoretical results
12. Variation
Experimental Results
Results
15. Variation working velocity
Conclusions

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