Modelling of non-laminar phenomena in high reliability hydrostatic seals operating in extreme conditions

A numerical study of hydrostatic seals is presented. The theoretical model takes account of the transition to turbulence and inertia effects in the lubricant fluid film. The thermo-elastic deformations of the seal faces and heat transfer are considered using influence coefficient matrices. To obtain a good correlation between numerical simulations and measurements taken in French nuclear power stations, it is necessary to deal with entrance and exit pressure losses. It is shown that the seal operates in a laminar or near turbulent flow regime, depending on the inlet temperature.