The thermal-hydrodynamic lubrication (THD) numerical model of mechanical seals with double row reverse Rayleigh steps was established by the CFD method, and the THD characteristics and cavitation flow laws were investigated. The results indicate that large-scale cavitation occurs in the double row reverse Rayleigh step, forming a low-temperature region, which has a significant cooling effect on the liquid film end face and sealing ring. It may be seen from the changes in speed, pressure, and groove depth that larger cavitation areas are correlated with high-speed, low-pressure and shallow grooves. The level of cavitation cooling depends on the cavitation area, and on the cavitation intensity. Temperature valleys and peaks are formed at the rupture and reformation boundaries of the liquid film in the groove, and vortex flow is formed under the combined action of pressure flow and shear flow. The edge position of the vortex corresponds well with the position of cavitation regeneration and the end of the high-temperature zone. The formation of large-area cavitation effect in the reverse step groove also leads to good suction effect in the seal, greatly reducing the seal leakage rate.
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