Structural design and experimental study of mechanical seal for space station urine processing assembly
In response to the challenge of sintering silicon carbide ceramic into complex part,which limits it application in certain mechanical seal,a design was developed that integrates silicon carbide ring with metal component to create a mechanical sealed with intricate structure.Type tests and durability tests were designed and conducted in the context of urine processor assembly for space stations,the test results indicate that the static liquid leakage rate of mosaic type mechanical seal did not exceed 0.88 mL/h under a pressure differential of 50 kPa,and the dynamic liquid leakage rate did not exceed 0.47 mL/h at a rotational speed of 400 r/min.The vibration and impact qualification tests of dynamic environment were conducted under the conditions of mechanical seals installed.There was no change in sealing performance observed before and after the tests.Following that,a 4 500-hour durability test was performed in pretreated urine.The results showed good sealing performance.After the test,the mechanical seals were disassembled and checked.the installation and appearance of ceramic rings were found to be in good condition,with no visible corrosion or wear.The results suggest that this integrated structure meets the requirements for complex mechanical structures and can operate stably over extended periods under acidic and corrosive liquid conditions.