Abstract
Analyses for incompressible and compressible spiral groove thrust bearings (SGTBS) and face seals (SGFSS) are presented. A successive approximation linearizes the partial differential equation of pressure that arises in the compressible fluid analysis. The zeroth-and first-order equations giving the static and dynamic performance of SGFSS, respectively, are solved using the finite element method for both the incompressible and compressible fluid cases. Favorable comparisons with the Narrow Groove Theory (NG7-) and a Finite Element Method (FEM analysis validate the incompressible fluid case for SGTBs without inward radial flow. A parametric study indicates effects of changing face seal geometry on the opening force, force coefficients, leakage rate, and power loss and gives the optimum SGFS geometry. Validation of the isothermal compressible fluid model occurs by comparison of the static and dynamic SGTB and SGFS behavior with previous NGT analyses. The optimum compressible fluid SGFS geometry follows from a parametric study, indicating the advantages of using grooved face seals with seal dams over traditional mechanical face seals and oil lubricated seal rings.
Zirkelback, Nicole Lisa (1997). Computational analysis of spiral groove thrust bearings and face seals. Master's thesis, Texas A&M University. Available electronically from
https : / /hdl .handle .net /1969 .1 /ETD -TAMU -1997 -THESIS -Z57.