Tribological Characteristic of a Ring Seal with Graphite Filler.

Wojciech Szczypinski-Sala,Janusz Lubas

doi:10.3390/ma13020311

Wojciech Szczypinski-Sala, Janusz Lubas

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ma13020311

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Abstract

This paper presents the outcome of the measurement of the tribological characteristic of O-ring seals in the event of operating in conditions with a lack of lubrication. The measurement was carried out on a seal and rod model. The measurement was carried out during the condition of the round cross-section seal sliding on the surface of the piston rod. We analyzed how the friction force during rod movement, which resulted from the cooperation of the sliding nod and the rod, was changing. The experiment was conducted for various rubber materials. The aim of the research was to evaluate the friction reducing capability of graphite in rubbers of commercial sealing parts. Typical materials used for the seal and the materials, which contained the filler in the form of graphite powder, were compared. Synthetic graphite powder with a particle size of 1–2 µm was applied, and nitrile rubber (NBR) and fluoroelastomer (FKM) were compared as typical materials for O-ring seals. In the case of the two tested materials, the addition of graphite powder had an influence on the decrease in the friction force.

Highlights

Rubber O-ring seals are one of the cheapest and simplest types of seals, and are, extensively used in mechanical systems [1]
The tribological characteristic of two different rubber materials in particular operation conditions was studied in the presented paper
The experimental research presented in this paper led to the following conclusions: The friction force during relative motion of the rubber element and the chromed surface of the counterface element can achieve very high values

Summary

Introduction

Rubber O-ring seals are one of the cheapest and simplest types of seals, and are, extensively used in mechanical systems [1]. During friction in conditions without lubrication, friction force can reach very high values during relative movement In applications such as ring seals, this is an unfavorable phenomenon. In conditions of reciprocation movement, one can always observe higher friction force at the beginning of the rod stroke It is especially visible when the elements remain motionless for a long time. In case of the materials used for sealing rings, it is important to evaluate their tribological properties in conditions of friction without lubrication. In such conditions, the surface of the sealing element can quickly become worn and damaged. At short notice, the element will not fulfill its task

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