Parametric study of helix configuration in ribbed lip seal

In this study, the effects of the principal geometric parameters in a helix ribbed lip seal on the pumping performance are systematically investigated, through a combined finite element analysis/computational fluid dynamics simulation approach. It is shown that the sealing performance of the modified seal based on the geometrical parameters suggested by the numerical simulations is significantly better than that of the original seal model. The results presented in this study provide a versatile and cost-effective means to derive a set of basic guidelines for designing the conventional helix parameters in such a way as to maximize the reverse pumping effect.

► A hybrid FEA/CFD scheme is used to investigate the design of a helix lip seal.
► Effects of rib's number, height, width and angle on sealing efficiency are examined.
► A modified seal was built according to suggested values by numerical simulations.
► The modified seal provides a much higher pumping rate than the reference model.