Elastohydrodynamics and Mechanics of Rectangular Elastomeric Seals for Reciprocating Piston Rods

Abstract

A numerical model was developed to study the sealing performance of rectangular elastomeric seals for reciprocating piston rods used in linear hydraulic actuators. The model takes into account a large number of parameters and has been applied in the study of seals for aircraft actuation assemblies in a broad range of temperatures (−55°C to +135°C) and sealed pressures (1–50 MPa or more). The model is used to calculate the contact pressures and film thickness maps as well as the leakage rates and friction for the dynamic or static contact between a seal and a reciprocating piston rod, aiming at the minimization of both the leakage and the wear of the seals.