The Design and Adaptation of an Experimental Test Setup to Characterize Metal Spring Energized Seals

Abstract

Fluid sealing technology is critical to the performance and longevity of equipment in a variety of industries. They prevent harmful fluids from being released into the environment, especially in the case of the oil and gas industry who commonly work with corrosive or toxic materials. Seals prevent harmful debris from entering internal areas of equipment which could damage internal components. It is important to test seals to better understand their level of performance for specific applications. The best method for characterizing seals based on their pressure limitations, fluid compatibility, or durability during dynamic sealing is to inspect them on a test stand. Typically, these tests stands are specific to each application and therefore are costly and time consuming to develop. To help save on project costs, an adaptation to an existing test system can be undertaken in order to test new or existing designs or apply new parameters. This thesis presents the design approach enabled to adapt an existing test stand to characterize the performance of metal spring energized (MSE) seals under linear reciprocating motion. The test stand was adapted to meet new mechanical and data system requirements which were not capable of being met by the previous iteration. Throughout the design and construction of the test stand, the following research objectives were achieved. The changes which needed to occur with the previous system were identified. New requirements were created, and the setup was adapted to meet them through the design and implementation of new components with a focus on minimal change to reduce project costs. Lastly, the adaptation to the setup was validated using data collected from initial tests showing proper function and its ability to meet system requirements.