A Percolation Method of Leakage Calculation and Prediction Within the Mechanical Seal Interface

Abstract The size and change of leakage channel within the mechanical seal interface are investigated to calculate and predict the leakage rate of mechanical seal. Based on the percolation theory, the computing method of the leakage channel within the mechanical seal interface is analyzed; the critical size and change of leakage channel and leakage rate are obtained. The results show that during the period of normal wear, the magnification of the leakage channel increases exponentially with load and time, the height of leakage channel follows a polynomial decline with load and decays exponentially with time. According to the load-dependence or time-dependence of magnification and height, the size of the leakage channel and the leakage rate of the mechanical seal could be calculated and predicted, which is helpful for the optimum design and safe operation of the mechanical seal.