Parameter study and shape optimisation of a generalised ellipse dimple‐textured face seal

AbstractA new type of generalised ellipse dimple has been introduced to improve load‐carrying capacity (LCC) of gas face seal. Theoretical model was developed to study the influence of key geometrical parameters of generalised ellipse dimple texture on LCC and leakage rate of gas face seal. Then the optimised shape of dimples for maximum LCC under different working conditions were obtained using genetic algorithm method. It is observed that generalised ellipse dimple with proper unit number and long axis included angle can enhance LCC and make a better balance between LCC and sealing characteristics of gas face seal compared with conventional ellipse or circle dimple at high speed. Dimple‐textured gas face seal with multirow radial dimples outperforms that with single‐row radial dimple on sealing characteristics.