6. Conclusion

Mechanical seals are dynamic sealing systems for rotating shafts used for all types of fluid, whether liquids, gases or mixtures of the two. The latter two are referred to as compressible and two-phase fluids.

In the case of gases, mechanical seals are generally equipped with spiral grooves to encourage the formation of a gas film between the surfaces. While the behavior of these seals is well mastered at low pressures, it becomes more difficult to simulate their operation at high pressures. This regime occurs when the gas flow velocity is close to the speed of sound, and is characterized by strong thermal gradients and possible sonic blockage near the mechanical seal outlet.

Two-phase flow generally occurs with smooth-face mechanical seals for liquids. The liquid vaporizes in the contact when the fluid supply temperature is close to the...