DYNAMIC SHAFT SEALS IN SPACE.
Abstract:
The objective of the program is to acquire the techniques for sealing high speed rotating shafts under the operating conditions of high temperature liquid metals and vapors, the vacuum environments of space and to provide long seal life. The liquid metal seal rig was completely assembled for preliminary check-out tests. The supporting facilities for these tests were installed and satisfactorily operated. Electromagnetic shake tests of the installed seal rig were carried out. Static tests of the externally pressurized argon gas bearings which carry the seal spindle were carried out for several supply pressures. Dynamic gas bearing evaluation was completed. Dynamic seal evaluation using light turbine oil was also carried out. Reduction of data obtained during experimental evaluation water of the squeeze seal configurations was completed.