Friction Performance of Typical Spiral Groove End Face with Dry Gas Sealing Rings

Abstract The friction performances of the end face in dry gas seals with spiral grooves were investigated. In the meantime, the influence of the spiral groove structural parameters on friction performance was revealed under dry frictional conditions. Hard-hard friction pairs consisting of SiC end faces with spiral grooves and DLC (Diamond like Carbon) micro-textured sealing ring end faces were chosen as the research subjects. Dry friction tests were conducted using a HDM20 end face friction and wear testing machine on spiral groove dry gas sealing rings with spiral angles of 16° and 18°. By analyzing the variations in friction temperature and friction coefficient, the friction mechanisms of the sealing rings and the impact of the spiral angle on end face friction performance were examined. The results proposed that the 18° spiral groove end face exhibits slightly lower friction temperature and friction coefficient compared to the 16° spiral groove end face, indicating a more pronounced reduction in wear and smoother operation of the friction pair. The findings of this study provide a basis for understanding the frictional characteristics of sealing ring end faces and optimizing groove structures.