Multi-stage magnetic-fluid seals for operating in water – life test procedure, test stand and research results

The edge criteria for magnetic-fluid seals durability research were described in previous article [24] and now the tests results are presented. The tests were made with three magnetic fluids using various magnets quantity in magnetic assemblies. If values obtained in the repeated test deviated by more than 10 % from results of the first test an additional control test was made for final characteristics. The characteristics are: critical pressure, critical motion velocity and working life of the seal. The test stands were prepared for particular seals dimensions and results of tests are presented in the form of tables, cross section draws and diagrams. In conclusion one can see that multi-stage magnetic-fluid seals could be efficiently used in water for rotating shaft seals in a limited range of motion velocity and cycles quantity. Nevertheless a particular applications can be provided by magnetic-fluid seals only.