Enhanced mechanical face seal performance using modified face surface topography

Mechanical Seals have contradictory aims, to prevent fluid passage at a rotating machine shaft entry or exit and use the fluid to be sealed for lubrication, whilst maintaining sufficient life. High performance mechanical sealing is provided by the use of laser-machined faces having both designed in waves and face tilt. This combination provides good sealing performance with a self-generated lubrication regime. Seals using this technology and some duties are described, including a novel approach using surface tension of the fluid.