Experimental study of symmetrical ferrofluid seals with single magnetic source and small clearance.

To enhance the sealing pressure of normal ferrofluid seals with single magnetic source and small sealing clearance, a symmetrical ferrofluid seal (SFFS) was designed. The study utilizes a combination of finite element simulation and experiments to investigate the influence of crucial factors, including sealing clearance, number of pole teeth, step height, and pole teeth position, on the sealing pressure of SFFS. The findings indicate that the experimental sealing pressure values for SFFS closely match the theoretical sealing pressure values. The sealing pressure of the SFFS decreases as the sealing clearances and step height increase. It increases with an increase in the number of pole teeth. • A symmetrical ferrofluid seal with single magnetic source and small sealing clearance is designed. • Determine the maximum sealing pressure when the pole teeth are on the outer circular surface of the shaft and the end face of the pole piece. • This provides an important reference for the design and application of ferrofluid seal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]