Direct fluid–structure coupling analysis of reciprocating series seals in hydropneumatic suspension

Abstract

The reciprocating piston seals are crucial parts in hydraulic system, which are widely used in aerospace and military industry. A direct fluid–structure coupling method with high efficiency is proposed for solving the transient Elaso-Hydrodynamic-Lubrication problem in float piston series seal system of hydropneumatic suspension. The method is validated by theory solution of a simple pad-bearing film model. Detailed three-dimensional fluid–structure coupling model of the seal system is built using finite element discretization. Rubber material tests are carried out to obtain parameters of the third-order Ogden constitutive model for the O-ring seal. The sealing performance and friction force of the complicated series seal system are analyzed with direct fluid–structure dynamic coupling simulation in high pressure and high speeds conditions. The critical speed from mixed lubrication to full film lubrication is obtained. The fluid velocity and pressure distribution in the sealing gap along axial direction is compared. The outlet volume flux leakage in different piston speeds and inlet pressures is calculated to evaluate the sealing performance. The friction force experiment for the float piston system is carried out in various speeds. The friction force from direct fluid–structure interface simulation coincides well with the test result.