Date of Award

2022

Degree Type

Capstone Project

Abstract

MAGSEAL has entrusted team 18 “The Challengers” with creating a new system for tribology testing of seals with a 1.5” inner diameter. The device is also expected to work with Team 17’s seal design. Obtaining understanding of seals and tribology testing was vital for a well-designed machine. This knowledge was obtained through literary research and a patent search. After touring the MAGSEAL facility to get an even better understanding of how they currently run tests the team was ready to begin. Each member generated 30 preliminary design concepts for a total of 150. The best designs were selected through QFD and Pugh analysis. After compiling the best aspects of the design, it was crucial to make sure it met every design specification set by our sponsor. A weighted pressure system would be used to evenly distribute a pressure of 15psi to the seal face. 300℉ heat generation would be accomplished through a induction band heater. The seal face temperature will be recorded by thermocouples embedded in the stator side of the seal. All of this would be attached to a 1.5” shaft using an electric motor and gearbox to rotate at speeds of up to 7500 RPM. The electronics would be run by a PLC to set the inputs and allow for real time data acquisition from the tests.

When the general design was thought through it was demonstrated in a working prototype that was constructed. The prototype would forgo the heat elements of the design so it could be made of 3D printed parts and wood with no risk of fire. However, it still demonstrated the efficiency of the gearbox and motor working to achieve a reliable rotation. It also proved the seal would stay in place on the rotating shaft while carrying the required load to achieve the required seal face pressure. The extremely successful prototype has validated our design and will allow us to complete the final design while meeting all the design specifications and budget restrictions. Moving forward, the team focused on the true tribometer. The spring semester brought many challenges with supply chain issues, financial costs, and being able to organize multiple systems into one designated space. Through these challenges, many positives shined. These positives were the team being able to design a fully functional apparatus with planned resolutions for all issues that arose. The tribometer will help MAGSEAL gain market value and bring the company to a whole new venture. The venture of the eVTOL market will bring new ideas to MAGSEAL and encompass what the tribometer stands for. This tribometer will help shape new business capabilities for MAGSEAL for years to come.

Comments

Team Name: Team 18, The Challengers

Sponsor: MAGSEAL Corporation

Document Reference: URI-MCE-CAP-FDR-2022-18

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