Abstract:Based on fractal theory, the contact between the surface of dynamic and static rings is simplified as the one between a rough surface and an ideal rigid plane. The characterization methods of surface topography of the contact mechanical seal is discussed, and then the contact mechanical seal wear model is established. Finally, the effects of fractal parameters, the material parameters and the working parameters on the established model are analyzed to obtain some results as follows. The relationship between the fractal dimension D and the wear rateγof the contact mechanical seal is bathtub shaped. The characteristic length scale parameter G is directly proportional to the wear rate γ. The unit load pg is directly proportional to the wear rateγ. The comprehensive elastic modulus E of the contact mechanical seal is inversely proportional to the wear rateγ. The rotation rate of n is directly proportional to the wear rate of contact mechanical seal. Moreover, the model data are compared with the experimental data.