Method and apparatus for isotropically finishing a seal ring for manufacturing a sealing assembly of a machine

Abstract

A seal ring (111, 112) for a seal assembly (30, 36) includes a body (240) and a sealing flange (137). The body (240) is generally cylindrical and extends along a longitudinal axis (LA) between a load end (131) and a sealing end (132). The sealing flange (137) is disposed adjacent to the sealing end (132) of the body (240) and radially projects from the body (240) in an enveloping manner. The sealing flange (137) includes a sealing surface (136) having a sealing band (140) for sealing contact with a mating seal ring (111, 112). A coating composition layer (142) is applied to at least the body (240) and is formulated to help increase the corrosion resistance of the seal ring (111, 112). A mask (300, 400) is applied to the sealing ring (111, 112) to cover at least a portion of the sealing ring (111, 112) having a coating composition layer (142) applied thereto, such that the sealing tape (140) remains exposed. The sealing tape (140) is polished by an isotropic finishing process. The mask (300, 400) is removed after the sealing tape (140) is isotropically polished.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present patent disclosure generally relates to a seal ring of a seal assembly for a machine, and more particularly to a seal ring of a seal assembly having a rotational face-to-face contact relationship via a pair of isotropically finished seal rings. Background Art

[0002] For example, the sealing environment in a machine such as an off-road truck may include high pressures, high speeds, and high deflections between relatively movable parts. A seal assembly for retaining lubricant within a seal cavity and for excluding foreign matter from bearing surfaces between relatively movable parts disposed within the seal cavity may include a face-type seal in which sealing is achieved by matching the surfaces of relatively rotating hard material sealing parts. In seals that employ two rings that rotate relatively in face-to-face contact, there is a pressing need to economically produce sealing surfaces that will withstand and maintain a seal over many hours of heavy use.

[0003] Isotropic finishing is a process that produces a non-directional finish, which helps reduce surface stress in the machined component. However, during isotropic finishing, the corrosive coating applied to the component may have a tendency to be removed.

[0004] Commonly owned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0335969 is entitled “Isotropically Finished Seal Ring, Seal Ring Assembly, and Method of Making Seal Ring for Seal Assembly of Machine.” The '969 patent application publication relates to a seal ring for a seal assembly, the seal ring comprising a body and a sealing flange. The body is generally cylindrical and extends along a longitudinal axis between a load end and a sealing end. The sealing flange is disposed adjacent to the sealing end of the body. The sealing flange protrudes radially from the body to its outer periphery in an enveloping manner. The sealing flange comprises: a sealing face having a sealing band disposed adjacent to an outer periphery of the sealing flange; and an inner relief area disposed between the sealing band and an inner periphery of the sealing flange. After applying a layer of a coating composition to at least the body, the sealing band is polished by an isotropic finishing process. The coating composition layer is formulated to withstand an isotropic finishing process and helps increase the corrosion resistance of the seal ring.

[0005] It should be appreciated that this background description was created by the inventor to aid the reader and is not to be taken as an indication that any of the problems noted are themselves understood in the art. Although the principles described may, in some aspects and embodiments, alleviate problems inherent in other systems, it should be appreciated that the scope of the protected innovation is defined by the appended claims, rather than by the ability of any disclosed feature to solve any specific problem mentioned herein. Summary of the invention

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, an embodiment of a method for manufacturing a sealing ring for a sealing assembly is described, the method comprising producing the sealing ring. In one embodiment of the method for manufacturing a sealing ring for a sealing assembly, the manufacturing method comprises producing the sealing ring. The sealing ring comprises a load end, a sealing end, a load surface, and a sealing face. The load end and the sealing end are in a spaced relationship with each other along a longitudinal axis. The load surface extends along the longitudinal axis between the load end and the sealing end. The sealing face is disposed at the sealing end and is annular. The sealing face extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0007] A coating composition layer is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface of the seal ring. The sealing surface of the seal ring is machined to define a sealing band. The sealing band is disposed radially outward of an inner release region along the sealing surface. After applying the coating composition layer, a mask is placed over at least one region of the coating composition layer applied to the outer surface of the seal ring. The mask is positioned relative to the sealing band so that the mask is offset from the sealing band to expose the sealing band. After placing the mask, the sealing band is polished by subjecting the sealing band to an isotropic finishing process.

[0008] In another aspect, the present disclosure describes an embodiment of an apparatus in a method for manufacturing an annular seal ring of a sealing assembly. In one embodiment, an apparatus in a method for manufacturing an annular seal ring of a sealing assembly is described, wherein the annular seal ring has a load end, a sealing end, a load surface, and a sealing face. The load surface extends axially between the load end and the sealing end, the sealing face extends radially at the sealing end, and the sealing face has a sealing band. The apparatus includes a mask member.

[0009] The mask member defines a circumferential groove. The circumferential groove is configured such that the annular sealing ring can be disposed within the circumferential groove, wherein the load end is within the circumferential groove, the load surface is covered by the mask member, and the sealing band is exposed.

[0010] Additional and alternative aspects and features of the disclosed principles will be appreciated from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. As will be appreciated, the method of manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly and the apparatus in the method of manufacturing an annular seal ring for a sealing assembly disclosed herein can be implemented in other and different embodiments and can be modified in various aspects. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely exemplary and explanatory and do not limit the scope of the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagrammatic side view, partially in section, of an embodiment of a machine having an embodiment of a seal assembly constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 2 is corresponding to Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional diagrammatic view of the sealing assembly at the location enclosed by circle II.

[0013] Figure 3 It is in no-load state Figure 2 Axial end view of the load ring of the seal assembly.

[0014] Figure 4 is along Figure 3 An enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV.

[0015] Figure 5 yes Figure 2 An axial end view of the sealing ring of the sealing assembly.

[0016] Figure 6 is corresponding to Figure 5 The position enclosed by the ellipse VI in Figure 5 An enlarged fragmentary view of the sealing ring.

[0017] Figure 7 is along Figure 5 An enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line VII-VII in FIG.

[0018] Figure 8 is an exploded view of an embodiment of an apparatus for use in a method of manufacturing an annular seal of a seal assembly, the apparatus being constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0019] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an apparatus.

[0020] Fig.10 is an exploded view of another embodiment of an apparatus for use in a method of manufacturing an annular seal of a seal assembly, the apparatus being constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[0021] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of an apparatus.

[0022] Fig.12 is a flow chart illustrating steps of an embodiment of a method of manufacturing a seal ring for a seal assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Embodiments of apparatus in the method for making a sealing ring for a sealing assembly and an annular sealing ring for making a sealing assembly are described herein. In an embodiment, the sealing ring for the sealing assembly may include a sealing surface having a sealing band disposed adjacent to its outer periphery. The cross section of the sealing band may be annular and substantially flat between the inner radial edge and the outer periphery. In an embodiment, the sealing surface may include an inner release area between the inner periphery of the sealing band and the sealing ring. The sealing band may be isotropically finished.

[0024] In an embodiment, any suitable isotropic finishing technique may be used to polish the sealing surface. In an embodiment, the sealing strip may be isotropically finished so that the sealing strip has a consistent surface finish with an average surface roughness of 0.3 microns Ra or less. In an embodiment, the sealing surface of the sealing ring may be prepared without any polishing step (e.g., using sandpaper, etc.) in addition to the isotropic finishing process.

[0025] In an embodiment, a coating composition layer is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface of the body of the seal ring to help increase the corrosion resistance of the seal ring. In an embodiment, after applying the coating composition layer, the sealing tape is polished by subjecting the sealing tape to an isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, a coating composition layer is applied to the outer surface of the body of the seal ring to help protect the surface measurement of the outer surface below the coating composition layer from being affected by the isotropic finishing process. For example, in an embodiment, a coating composition layer is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface of the seal ring to help increase the corrosion resistance of the seal ring.

[0026] In an embodiment, the coating composition layer is applied to the sealing ring before the sealing ring is subjected to the isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer is applied to the sealing ring using any suitable technique, such as an automatic deposition process, an electrodeposition process, or a plating process (e.g., an electroplating process or an electroless plating process).

[0027] In an embodiment, a mask is placed over at least one area of ​​the outer surface of the seal ring before subjecting the seal ring to the isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, a layer of coating composition is applied to the seal ring, and a mask is placed over at least one area of ​​the layer of coating composition applied to the outer surface of the seal ring before subjecting the seal ring to the isotropic finishing process.

[0028] In an embodiment, the mask may be made of any suitable material (e.g., a relatively soft and flexible material) so that the seal ring can be easily installed in the seal ring groove defined in the mask. For example, in an embodiment, the mask can be made of a material having a durometer hardness of 60 Shore A or less. In an embodiment, the mask is made of a material that is acid-resistant and does not react with the chemicals and polishing media used during the isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, the mask can be manufactured using any suitable technology. In an embodiment, the mask can be manufactured by reverse molding a prototype seal ring. By covering up portions of the seal ring that are not intended to be isotropically finished, the mask helps protect the coating composition layer applied to the seal ring that is intended to be retained after the isotropic finishing process is completed.

[0029] Referring now to the drawings and in particular Figure 1 , schematically illustrates an embodiment of a machine 10. The machine 10 includes a housing or frame 12 having a wheel assembly 14 coupled thereto. The wheel assembly 14 includes a hub 16, a spindle 18 journaled with the hub 16 via bearings 20, and a wheel 22. The machine 10 includes a braking system 24 disposed with the wheel assembly 14 and configured to selectively stop rotation of the wheel 22.

[0030] A seal assembly 30 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure can provide an operational seal between a first member 32 mounted to the hub 16 of the wheel assembly 14 and a second member 34 in the form of a brake housing of the brake system 24. The brake housing 34 is arranged so that the brake housing 34 can rotate relative to the first member 32 about an axis of rotation that is aligned with the longitudinal axis "LA" defined by the spindle 18. The seal assembly 30 is disposed between the first member 32 and the second member 34.

[0031] The second seal assembly 36 constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure is configured to form a second operating seal between a different pair of first and second components 38, 34 of the machine 10, the first and second components being rotatable relative to each other about the longitudinal axis "LA". In embodiments, the first and second seal assemblies 30, 36 may be substantially identical. In other embodiments, the second seal assembly 36 may be different from the first seal assembly 30.

[0032] A first seal assembly 30 in the form of a metal-to-metal face seal assembly is disposed in a first seal cavity 40 that extends axially between the first member 32 and the second member 34. A second member 34 in the form of a brake housing is rotatable relative to the first member 32 about the longitudinal axis "LA" with the first seal assembly 30 providing an operational seal therebetween. A second seal assembly 36 is similarly disposed in the second seal cavity 42. In an embodiment, the first seal assembly 30 and the second seal assembly 36 may be used to retain brake coolant and / or lubricant. In other embodiments, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, seal assemblies constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure may be used in other applications.

[0033] In embodiments, machine 10 may be any suitable machine, such as a wheel loader, a backhoe, an excavator, a material handler, and the like. In embodiments, machine 10 includes other types of equipment including pivot linkage arrangements utilizing seals, seal assemblies, and joints having seal assemblies constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure. Examples of other such machines include machines used for compaction, mining, construction, agriculture, transportation, and the like. Although the present disclosure may be implemented in the context of a wheel assembly, the present disclosure is not limited thereby. A wide variety of other applications are contemplated, including various components of track-type tractors, such as track seals, track rollers and seals for load bearing rollers, pin joint assemblies and barrels, final drive arrangements, auger drive / support arrangements, and other suitable machine systems utilizing rotatable seal assemblies.

[0034] The first member 32 and the second member 34 are rotatable relative to each other about the longitudinal axis "LA", wherein the seal assembly 30 provides a means for fluidly sealing the first member and the second member using an operating seal between the first member 32 and the second member 34. In an embodiment, the first member 32 may include a component mounted to the frame 12 or otherwise stationary relative to the frame 12, and the second member 34 may include a component that is rotationally movable relative to the first member 32 about the longitudinal axis "LA". In other embodiments, the second member 34 may be stationary and the first member 32 may be rotatable relative to the frame 12. However, it should be understood that the use of the terms "first", "second", etc. herein is merely for convenience of reference and is not limiting in any way.

[0035] The illustrated first seal assembly 30 and second seal assembly 36 are substantially identical to one another. Therefore, it should be understood that the description of one seal assembly also applies to the other seal assembly.

[0036] refer to Figure 2, a first seal assembly 30 is shown. The first member 32 is rotatable relative to the second member 34 about the longitudinal axis "LA". The first member 32 and the second member 34 are disposed in a spaced relationship with each other such that they are separated by a seal gap distance "SG" along the longitudinal axis "LA". During use, the first member 32 and the second member 34 are axially movable relative to each other along the longitudinal axis "LA" to change the seal gap distance "SG".

[0037] The first sealing assembly 30 includes first and second sealing rings 111 and 112, each of which is annular, and first and second load rings 121 and 122. The first and second sealing rings 111 and 112 and the first and second load rings 121 and 122 are disposed in the first sealing cavity 40 between the first member 32 and the second member 34. The first and second sealing rings 111 and 112 of the first sealing assembly 30 are disposed in an abutting relationship with each other. The first and second load rings 121 and 122 are mounted to the first and second sealing rings 111 and 112, respectively. The first and second sealing rings 111 and 112 may be made of any suitable material, such as a suitable metal (including an iron alloy). The first and second load rings 121 and 122 are preferably made of a suitable elastomeric material (e.g., nitrile, low temperature nitrile, hydrogenated nitrile (HNBR), silicone resin, or fluororubber).

[0038] In the first seal assembly 30, the first load ring 121 acts as a gasket and sealingly engages the first member 32 and the first seal ring 111 to provide a fluid-tight seal therebetween. The second load ring 122 acts as a gasket and sealingly engages the second member 34 and the second seal ring 112 to provide a fluid-tight seal therebetween.

[0039] The outboard end 124 of the first member 32 is in adjacent relation to the inboard end 126 of the second member 34. The outboard end 124 of the first member 32 and the inboard end 126 of the second member 34 each include a load ring engagement surface 130. The load ring engagement surfaces 130 of the first member 32 and the second member 34 at least partially define the first seal cavity 40, which extends in the axial direction and is interposed between the first member 32 and the second member 34. It will be appreciated that the members 38, 34 cooperate in a similar manner to at least partially define the second seal cavity 42.

[0040] The load ring engagement surface 130 is generally annular and coaxial with the longitudinal axis "LA". In the illustrated embodiment, the load ring engagement surface 130 maintains Figure 2 As shown, the cross-sectional shape is substantially continuous about the entire circumference of the first and second members 32, 34 circumscribed about the longitudinal axis "LA".

[0041] The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are substantially identical to each other. The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are in the form of annular bands, respectively. The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 can be rotated relative to each other around the longitudinal axis "LA". In this arrangement, the first seal ring 111 can be regarded as a stationary seal ring due to its rotational connection with the first member 32. The second seal ring 112 can be regarded as a rotating seal ring due to its connection with the second member 34, which can rotate relative to the first member 32 around the longitudinal axis "LA".

[0042] The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 respectively have a load end 131 and a sealing end 132 in a spaced relationship with each other along the longitudinal axis “LA”, an axially extending inclined or sloped load surface 134, and a sealing surface 136 disposed at the sealing end 132 and extending radially relative to the longitudinal axis “LA”. The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 abut each other such that the sealing surfaces 136 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are in contacting relationship with each other.

[0043] The sealing surface 136 is defined by a radially extending sealing flange 137. The sealing surfaces 136 of the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 form a radially extending annular band and are in sealing relationship with each other.

[0044] Each sealing surface 136 extends radially to an outer periphery 138. Each sealing surface 136 has a sealing band 140 disposed adjacent the outer periphery 138. The first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 abut each other such that the sealing bands 140 of the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 are in contacting relationship with each other.

[0045] The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 are respectively mounted to the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112. The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 elastically support the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 respectively. The first annular load ring 121 engages the load surface 134 of the first annular seal ring 111, and the second annular load ring 122 engages the load surface 134 of the second annular seal ring 112.

[0046] The first seal assembly 30 employs a double cone in the form of a first seal ring 111 and a second seal ring 112. Axial loading of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 along the longitudinal axis "LA" is achieved by means of the first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122. A tapered or inclined load surface 134 is formed along the outer surface of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 to receive the first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122, respectively. The load ring engagement surfaces 130 of the first member 32 and the second member 34 are positioned in a corresponding facing inclined relationship with the inclined load surfaces 134 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 to accommodate the first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122, respectively, therebetween. Therefore, axial loading of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 is achieved by axial loading of the first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122, respectively.

[0047] The first load ring 121 is compressed so that it engages the load ring engagement surface 130 of the first member 32 and the inclined load surface 134 of the first seal ring 111. The second load ring 122 is compressed so that it engages the load ring engagement surface 130 of the second member 34 and the inclined load surface 134 of the second seal ring 112. The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 are positioned so that they elastically support the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 and drive the sealing surfaces 136 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 together to define a contact band 141 between the sealing bands 140. The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 act in a spring manner to apply axial loads to the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112, respectively, in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis "LA" so that the sealing surfaces 136 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are in face-to-face sealing contact under pressure along the contact band 141 so that an operating fluid-tight seal is formed.

[0048] In an embodiment, the sealing band 140 of both the first annular seal ring 111 and the second annular seal ring 112 is isotropically finished. In isotropic finishing, defects are generally non-directional, or constant in all directions, as opposed to directional defects (e.g., machine marks). In an embodiment, the sealing band 140 of the first and second seal rings 111, 112 can be isotropically finished, so that each sealing band 140 has a non-periodic or random surface texture as will be understood by a person skilled in the art. In an embodiment, the sealing band 140 of both the first and second annular seal rings 111, 112 is isotropically finished, so that the sealing band 140 has a surface roughness average of about 0.3 microns Ra or less, and in some embodiments has a surface roughness average of about 0.2 microns Ra or less, and in other embodiments has a surface roughness average of 0.15 microns Ra or less. In an embodiment, at least substantially the entire sealing surface 136 of both the first and second annular seal rings 111, 112 is isotropically finished. In an embodiment, any suitable technique may be used to isotropically finish the sealing bands 140 of the first and second annular sealing rings 111 , 112 to achieve a desired polished surface smoothness.

[0049] In an embodiment, the first annular seal ring and the second annular seal ring each include a coating composition layer 142 applied to at least a portion of the load surface 134. In the illustrated embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 of each of the first annular seal ring 111 and the second annular seal ring 112 substantially covers an outer side exterior surface 143 of both the first annular seal ring 111 and the second annular seal ring 112. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 may be applied to at least a portion of an inner cylindrical surface 144 of each of the first annular seal ring 111 and the second annular seal ring 112. Figure 2 The coating composition layer 142 shown in FIG. 1 is not necessarily drawn to scale but is used for explanation purposes only.

[0050] Any suitable technique may be used to apply the coating composition layer 142. For example, in an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 is applied using at least one of an autodeposition process, an electrodeposition process, and a plating process (eg, an electroplating process or an electroless plating process).

[0051] In an embodiment, before the sealing band 140 is isotropically finished, a coating composition layer 142 of both the first annular seal ring 111 and the second annular seal ring 112 is applied, and the coating composition is formulated to withstand the isotropic finishing process for polishing the sealing band 140. In an embodiment, the coating composition can be made of a material having enhanced properties or characteristics relative to the material of the seal ring. For example, in an embodiment, each of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 is made of a seal ring material, and the corresponding coating composition layer 142 is more corrosion resistant than the seal ring material. In an embodiment, the coating composition includes a material having rust-proof properties.

[0052] In an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 is applied using an automated deposition process and includes an epoxy resin. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 includes an epoxy-acrylic resin.

[0053] In an embodiment, coating composition layer 142 comprises a suitable autodepositable coating composition, including, for example, those sold by Henkel Surface Technologies under the brand name or Autophoretic Coating In an embodiment, the autodepositable coating composition comprises an epoxy-acrylic resin. Coating Composition. In some embodiments, the autodepositable coating composition comprises a coating composition sold by Henkel Surface Technologies as Bonderite Metal Pre-treatment Paint Process (BONDERITE M-PP) 930. In still other embodiments, the coating composition layer 142 may include other suitable autodepositable coating compositions.

[0054] In other embodiments, the coating composition layer 142 includes a suitable phosphate coating. For example, in an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 includes a manganese phosphate coating material. In an embodiment, any suitable phosphate coating process can be used to apply the coating composition layer including a phosphate material.

[0055] The load ring engagement surfaces 130 of the first member 32 and the second member 34 are mirror images. The load surfaces 134 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are substantially identical to each other. Therefore, it should be understood that the following description of the load ring engagement surface 130 of the first member 32 and the load surface 134 of the first seal ring 111 also applies to the load ring engagement surface 130 of the second member 34 and the load surface 134 of the second seal ring 112, respectively. In addition, it should be understood that the foregoing description of the load surface 134 contemplates that the coating composition layer 142 can be applied thereto and can be considered as part of the load surface 134. In addition, the description of the relationship between the first member 32, the first load ring 121 and the first seal ring 111 also applies to the relationship between the second member 34, the second load ring 122 and the second seal ring 112.

[0056] The load ring engagement surface 130 of the first member 32 and the inclined load surface 134 of the first seal ring 111 are in a facing, spaced relationship such that they define an annular load ring cavity 146 in which the first load ring 121 is disposed. The load ring engagement surface 130 of the first member 32 and the inclined load surface 134 of the first seal ring 111 cooperate to define a seal end restriction 148 adjacent to the sealing surface 136 of the first seal ring 111. The seal end restriction 148 is configured to help prevent the first load ring 121 from axially sliding out of the first seal ring 111 in a direction toward the second seal ring 112 and to help prevent the first load ring 121 from extending into a pinch point therein. The load end 131 of the first seal ring 111 cooperates with the first member 32 to define a load end restriction 149.

[0057] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , a first load ring 121 is shown. The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 are substantially identical to each other. Therefore, it should be understood that the description of the first load ring 121 is applicable to the second load ring 122. The first load ring 121 is in the shape of an annular belt. Figure 4 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the first load ring 121 is in an unloaded or uncompressed state, it has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape 235. In the unloaded state (see FIG. 1 ), the first load ring 121 has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape 235. Figure 4 ), the cross-sectional shape 235 has a predetermined cross-sectional radius "R".

[0058] refer to Figure 5-7 , a first sealing ring 111 is shown. The first sealing ring 111 is an example of an embodiment of a sealing ring constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure. The second sealing ring 112 is substantially the same as the first sealing ring 111. Therefore, it should be understood that the description of the first sealing ring 111 also applies to the second sealing ring 112.

[0059] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , the first sealing ring 111 is annular. The sealing flange 137 includes a sealing surface 136. The sealing surface 136 includes a sealing band 140 disposed adjacent to an outer periphery 138 of the sealing flange 137 and a sealing band 140 (for the purpose of illustration, the isotropic finishing process is performed on the sealing band 140). Figure 5 and 6 The inner relief area 245 between the sealing band 140 and the inner periphery 248 of the first sealing ring 111 is shown as a shaded area. The inner relief area 245 may be tapered between the sealing band 140 and the inner periphery 248 so that the inner periphery 248 is axially displaced from the sealing band 140 (see Figure 2 ).

[0060] In an embodiment, the sealing band 140 of the first sealing ring 111 is isotropically finished so that the sealing band 140 has a surface roughness average value of about 0.3 microns Ra or less. In other embodiments, the sealing band 140 of the first sealing ring 111 is isotropically finished so that the sealing band 140 has a surface roughness average value of about 0.3 microns Ra or less, and in some embodiments has a surface roughness average value of about 0.2 microns Ra or less, in other embodiments has a surface roughness average value of about 0.15 microns Ra or less, and in other embodiments has a surface roughness average value of about 0.1 microns Ra or less. In an embodiment, at least a portion of the inner relief area 245 of the sealing surface 136 is also isotropically finished together with the sealing band 140. In an embodiment, substantially the entire sealing surface 136 of the first sealing ring 111 is isotropically finished.

[0061] The surface roughness average value may be calculated using any suitable technique known to those skilled in the art. For example, in one arrangement, the surface roughness average value (Ra) of the sealing band 140 may be determined using a profilometer set with a 0.25 mm cutoff value and evaluated for five cutoff lengths. The first sealing ring 111 may be inspected at a predetermined position and / or at least three positions approximately 120° apart from each other circumferentially. The lateral direction of measuring the surface marks may be perpendicular to the direction of any initial machine or directional wear marks.

[0062] refer to Figure 7 , the first seal ring 111 includes a body 240 and a sealing flange 137. The body 240 is generally cylindrical and extends along the longitudinal axis "LA" between the load end 131 and the sealing end 132, which is in an opposite relationship to the load end 131. The cylindrical body 240 can extend radially between an inner periphery 248 and a substantially cylindrical inner cylindrical surface 144 and a majority of the inclined load surface 134, which is in an outer radially spaced relationship with the inner periphery 248.

[0063] In an embodiment, the coating composition layer 142 is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface 143 of the body 240. In the embodiment shown, the coating composition layer 142 is applied to substantially the entire outer surface 143 of the body 240.

[0064] The sealing flange 137 is disposed near the sealing end 132. The sealing flange 137 surrounds the body 240 and protrudes radially from the cylindrical body 240 to its outer periphery 138. The sealing surface 136 is disposed on the sealing flange 137 and extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis "LA". The cross-section of the sealing band 140 can be substantially flat between the inner radial edge 257 and the outer periphery 138 (see also Figure 6 In an embodiment, the sealing band 140 may include an outer relief region disposed adjacent the chamfered or tapered outer perimeter 138 .

[0065] It should be understood that in other embodiments, the sealing ring constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure may have Figure 2 and 5 -7 may have different configurations of seal rings 111, 112, for example, heavy-duty double-sided metal face seals using disc-type springs, other types of dual cone seals having different load surfaces and / or sealing surfaces and / or used with load rings or annuli of different shapes, and other seals for other sealing assemblies, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0066] Any suitable technology known to those skilled in the art can be used to manufacture the sealing ring constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure. For example, the sealing ring blank or "granular material" can be manufactured by any suitable technology, for example, such as by stamping and forming, or casting. The sealing ring granular material can be machined by any suitable technology, such as by turning using a lathe and / or grinding using a grinder, for example, to achieve the desired configuration of the sealing ring. The sealing ring can be machined so that the thickness of the sealing flange is within a predetermined tolerance, the sealing bevel angle is within a predetermined tolerance, and, for example, other dimensional tolerances are met. It should be understood that the dimensional details related to the sealing ring and other components of the sealing assembly constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure as described herein are nominal values. As understood by those skilled in the art, it is conceivable that appropriate tolerance changes are also included within the described nominal values.

[0067] refer to Figure 8 and 9, an embodiment of an apparatus (or mask) 300 is shown, which is used in a method for manufacturing an annular seal ring of a sealing assembly and is constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure. An embodiment of an apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure can be used in a method for manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure to manufacture a seal ring with an isotropic finishing sealing band as described herein. In an embodiment, any embodiment of an apparatus according to the principles discussed herein can be used in a method for manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. An apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure can be used in a method for manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. An apparatus constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure can be used in a method for manufacturing a seal ring to mask a portion of the outer surface of the seal ring to protect a corrosion-resistant coating applied to the outer surface of the seal ring during isotropic finishing, but still allow the seal ring to be polished by the isotropic finishing process.

[0068] refer to Figure 8 , the apparatus 300 includes a mask member 310 and a connector assembly 315. The mask member 310 can be placed above at least one area of ​​the coating composition layer applied to the outer surface of the sealing ring. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 can be configured so that the mask member 310 can be positioned relative to the sealing band of the sealing ring so that the mask member 310 is offset from the sealing band to expose the sealing band.

[0069] Figure 8 and 9 The mask member 310 defines a first circumferential groove 321 and a second circumferential groove 322 therein, wherein the first circumferential groove and the second circumferential groove are configured to receive the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 therein, respectively, so that the sealing bands 140 of the two sealing rings 111, 112 disposed in the mask member 310 are exposed, and isotropic finishing can be performed simultaneously during the use of the polishing medium 325 (see also Fig. 9 ). In other embodiments, the mask member 310 may be configured to define a single circumferential groove or more than two circumferential grooves as desired.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the first circumferential groove 321 and the second circumferential groove 322 have substantially the same configuration, so that the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 can be interchangeably disposed therein. In other embodiments, the first circumferential groove 321 and the second circumferential groove 322 can have different configurations from each other.

[0071] In an embodiment, the mask member 310 defines at least one circumferential groove, the at least one circumferential groove being configured such that the load end of the seal ring can be disposed in the circumferential groove. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 defines at least one circumferential groove, the at least one circumferential groove being configured such that the seal ring can be disposed in the circumferential groove, wherein the load surface is covered and only the portion of the sealing surface containing the sealing band is exposed. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 defines at least one circumferential groove, the at least one circumferential groove being configured such that the seal ring can be disposed in the circumferential groove, wherein: the load end is in the circumferential groove, the load surface is covered by the mask member, and the sealing band is exposed. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 defines at least one circumferential groove, the at least one circumferential groove being configured such that the seal ring can be disposed in the circumferential groove, wherein at least a portion of the inner release area 245 is exposed. In the illustrated embodiment, the first circumferential groove 321 and the second circumferential groove 322 of the mask member 310 are configured so that the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 can be respectively arranged in the circumferential grooves 321, 322, wherein the load end 131 is in the corresponding circumferential grooves 321, 322, the load surface 134 is covered by the mask member, and the sealing band 140 and a portion of the inner release area 245 are exposed.

[0072] In an embodiment, the mask member 310 may be made of any suitable material. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of an acid-resistant material that does not react with a predetermined polishing medium used in the isotropic finishing process.

[0073] In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a soft material, such as a soft material having a durometer hardness of 60 Shore A or less, to facilitate the insertion of the sealing ring into the circumferential groove (or multiple circumferential grooves) defined therein. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a material having a durometer hardness in the range of 20 to 60 Shore A and in other embodiments in the range of 20 to 45 Shore A. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a suitable rubber material. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a suitable silicone material (e.g., a suitable high temperature vulcanized silicone rubber or a room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber). In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a silicone material, which is a pourable, addition-cured, two-component silicone rubber that is vulcanized at room temperature, for example, available from Wacker Chemie AG of Germany under the trade name (For example M4601). In other embodiments, the mask member 310 is made of a material with a hardness greater than 60 Shore A, such as a hard plastic or metal. In an embodiment, the circumferential grooves 321, 322 can be configured in such a manner as to receive the sealing rings 111, 112 therein, respectively, wherein the mask member 310 flexes within acceptable limits of the material used to manufacture the mask member 310 during the sealing ring insertion sequence.

[0074] In an embodiment, the mask member 310 may be manufactured using any suitable technique, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 may be manufactured by reverse molding a prototype seal ring (or several prototype seal rings) such that each circumferential groove 321, 322 defined therein has a shape complementary to the outer surface of the seal ring intended to be masked. In such a reverse molding technique, the finished mask member may be shaped such that when the prototype seal ring is inserted into the mating circumferential groove defined by the mask member, the sealing band of the prototype seal ring is exposed.

[0075] refer to Figure 8 , the mask member 310 shown includes a first portion 331 and a second portion 332. The first portion 331 and the second portion 332 have substantially the same configuration. Each of the first portion 331 and the second portion 332 includes a base 334 and a face 335. The face 335 of the first portion 331 defines a first circumferential groove 321, and the face 335 of the second portion 332 defines a second circumferential groove 322 (see Fig. 9 ).

[0076] The connector assembly 315 is configured to removably connect the first part 331 and the second part 332 together so that the base 334 of the first part 331 and the base 334 of the second part 332 are in an abutting relationship with each other, and the face 335 of the first part 331 and the face 335 of the second part 332 are in an outwardly opposing relationship with each other. Figure 8 and 9 The connector assembly 315 includes a threaded fastener 351, a nut 352, and a pair of backing plates 354, 355. Each of the first and second parts and the pair of backing plates 354, 355 can define a corresponding central opening 357, 359 therein, which is configured to receive the threaded fastener 351 therethrough. The nut 352 can be threadably mounted to the threaded fastener 351 to secure the backing plates 354, 355 and the first and second parts 331, 332 together.

[0077] The connector assembly 315 can be arranged so that the first portion 331 and the second portion 332 are interposed between a pair of backing plates 354, 355. As described above, the first portion 331 and the second portion 332 can be disposed in an abutting relationship. The backing plates 354, 355 can be configured to help provide rigidity to the first portion 331 and the second portion 332 made of a flexible soft material, so that the first portion 331 and the second portion 332 do not bend excessively during the isotropic finishing process, thereby not allowing the sealing rings 111, 112 disposed therein to fall off. For example, the backing plates 354, 355 can be made of a suitable metal (e.g., steel).

[0078] refer to Fig.10 and 11 , an embodiment of an apparatus (or mask) 400 is shown, which is used for a method of manufacturing an annular seal ring of a sealing assembly and is constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure. The apparatus 400 includes a mask member 410 and a connector assembly 415. The mask member 410 can be placed above at least one area of ​​a coating composition layer applied to the outer surface of the seal ring. In an embodiment, the mask member 410 can be configured so that the mask member 410 can be positioned relative to the sealing band of the seal ring so that the mask member 410 is offset from the sealing band to expose the sealing band.

[0079] Fig.10 and 11 The mask member 410 defines a first circumferential groove 421 and a second circumferential groove 422 therein, wherein the first circumferential groove and the second circumferential groove are configured to receive the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 therein, respectively, so that the sealing bands 140 of the two sealing rings 111, 112 disposed in the mask member 410 are exposed, and isotropic finishing can be performed simultaneously during the use of the polishing medium 425 (see Fig.11 ). refer to Fig.11 In the illustrated embodiment, the first circumferential groove 421 and the second circumferential groove 422 have substantially the same configuration, so that the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 can be interchangeably disposed therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first circumferential groove 421 and the second circumferential groove 422 of the mask member 410 are configured so that the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 can be disposed in the circumferential grooves 421, 422, respectively, wherein the load end 131 is in the corresponding circumferential grooves 421, 422, the load surface 134 is covered by the mask member 410, and the sealing band 140 and a portion of the inner release area 245 are exposed.

[0080] The mask member 410 includes a first mask portion 431, a second mask portion 432, and a third mask portion 433. The first mask portion 431 includes a first face 434 and a second face 435, each of which has an inner sidewall 437 and a base 438 that define a first circular recess 441 and a second circular recess 442, respectively. The second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 have substantially the same configuration. The second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 434 each have an outer periphery 444 that cooperates with the first mask portion 431 to define a first circumferential groove 421 and a second circumferential groove 422, respectively. In embodiments where the mask member 410 includes a single circumferential groove, the second circular recess 442 of the first mask portion 431 and / or the third mask portion 433 may be omitted.

[0081] The second mask portion 432 is configured such that the second mask portion 432 is positionable within the first circular recess 441 of the first mask portion 431. The inner sidewall 437 of the first face 434 of the first mask portion 431 and the outer periphery 444 of the second mask portion 432 cooperate to define the first circumferential groove 421.

[0082] The third mask portion 433 is configured such that the third mask portion 433 is positionable within the second circular recess 442 of the first mask portion 431. The inner sidewall 437 of the second face 435 of the first mask portion 431 and the outer periphery 444 of the third mask portion 433 cooperate to define the second circumferential groove 422.

[0083] The connector assembly 415 is configured to removably connect the first mask portion 431 , the second mask portion 432 , and the third mask portion 433 together such that the first mask portion 431 is interposed between the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 . Fig.10 and 11 The connector assembly 415 includes a threaded fastener 451, a nut 452, and a pair of backing plates 454, 455. Each of the first portion 431, the second portion 432, the third portion 433, and the pair of backing plates 454, 455 may define a corresponding central opening 457, 458, 459 therein, the central opening being configured to receive the threaded fastener 451 therethrough. The nut 452 may be threadably mounted to the threaded fastener 451 to secure the backing plates 454, 455 and the first mask portion 431, the second mask portion 432, and the third mask portion 433 together.

[0084] The connector assembly 415 may be arranged such that the first mask portion 431 is interposed between the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433, and a pair of backing plates 454, 455 sandwich the first mask portion 431, the second mask portion 432, and the third mask portion 433 therebetween. The backing plates 454, 455 may be configured to help provide rigidity to the first mask portion 431, the second mask portion 432, and the third mask portion 433 made of a flexible soft material, so that the first mask portion 431, the second mask portion 432, and the third mask portion 433 do not bend excessively during the isotropic finishing process, thereby not allowing the sealing rings 111, 112 disposed therein to fall off. For example, the backing plates 454, 455 may be made of a suitable metal (e.g., steel).

[0085] The mask member 410 may include a plurality of mask portions to facilitate insertion of the respective seal rings 111, 112 therein. In one arrangement, the first seal ring 111 may be placed in a first circular recess of the first mask portion, and the second mask portion may be placed in the first seal ring so that the first seal ring 111 is sandwiched between the first mask portion and the second mask portion. The second seal ring 112 may be placed in a second circular recess of the first mask portion, and the third mask portion may be placed in the second seal ring so that the second seal ring 111 is sandwiched between the first mask portion and the third mask portion. The connector assembly 415 may be used to secure the backing plates 454, 455 and the first, second, and third mask portions 431, 432, and 433 together so that the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are disposed and retained in the first and second circumferential grooves 421, 421.

[0086] In the case where the mask member 410 is used in conjunction with polishing a single sealing ring, the sealing ring can be positioned within one of the first circular recess and the second circular recess, and one of the second mask portion and the third mask portion can be associated with a selected one of the first circular recess and the second circular recess of the first mask portion. The other of the second mask portion and the third mask portion can be omitted. The connector assembly 415 can be used to secure the components joined together with the sealing ring.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner sidewalls 437 of the first circular groove 434 and the second circular groove 435 of the first mask portion 431 may be configured to have a shape complementary to an outer portion of a sealing ring intended to be disposed within the respective circular grooves 434, 435. In an embodiment, the outer peripheries 444 of the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 may be configured to have a shape complementary to an inner portion of a sealing ring intended to be disposed radially between the associated inner sidewall 437 of the first mask portion 431 and the respective outer peripheries 444 of the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433.

[0088] In other embodiments, the inner sidewalls 437 of the first circular recess 434 and the second circular recess 435 of the first mask portion 431 and the outer perimeters 444 of both the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 may be substantially cylindrical. The connector assembly 415 may be used to compressively engage the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 such that the inner sidewalls 437 of the first circular recess 434 and the second circular recess 435 of the first mask portion 431 and the outer perimeters 444 of both the second mask portion 432 and the third mask portion 433 substantially conform to the complementary shapes of the first and second sealing rings 111 and 112 to which the corresponding portions are engaged.

[0089] In an embodiment, the mask member 410 may be made of any suitable material. In an embodiment, the mask member 410 is made of an acid-resistant material that does not react with a predetermined polishing medium used in the isotropic finishing process.

[0090] In an embodiment, the mask member 410 is made of a material having a suitable hardness (e.g., a material having a durometer hardness of 100 Shore A or less). In an embodiment, the mask member 410 is made of a material having a durometer hardness in the range of 20 to 100 Shore A and in other embodiments in the range of 45 to 100 Shore A. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a suitable rubber material. In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a suitable silicone material (e.g., a suitable high temperature vulcanized silicone rubber or a room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber). In an embodiment, the mask member 310 is made of a silicone material, which is a pourable, addition-cured, two-component silicone rubber that is vulcanized at room temperature, for example, available from WackerChemie AG of Germany under the trade name (For example In other embodiments, the mask member 410 is made of a material with a hardness greater than 100 Shore A, such as hard plastic or metal.

[0091] Fig.10 and 11 The apparatus 400 may be used in other aspects with Figure 8 and 9 The apparatus is similar. Fig.10 and 11 Variations of the apparatus 400 shown in FIG. 4 may also be combined with Figure 8 and 9 The apparatus 300 is implemented in a similar manner as discussed above. From the foregoing discussion it will be appreciated that still other embodiments of apparatuses in a method for manufacturing an annular seal of a sealing assembly and constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure are possible.

[0092] In embodiments, methods of manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure may be used to manufacture embodiments of a seal ring in accordance with the principles discussed herein. In embodiments of methods of manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, an apparatus constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure is used to manufacture a seal ring having an isotropically finished sealing band as discussed herein. In embodiments, methods of manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure may be used together with embodiments of an apparatus in accordance with the principles discussed herein.

[0093] refer to Fig.12 , steps of an embodiment of a method 500 for manufacturing a seal ring for a sealing assembly according to the principles of the present disclosure are shown. A seal ring is produced (step 510). In an embodiment, the seal ring may be manufactured in step 510 using any suitable technique (e.g., such as by stamping and forming or by casting). For example, in an embodiment, the seal ring is produced by stamping a seal ring blank or pellets to form the seal ring. In an embodiment, the seal ring may be manufactured using any suitable casting technique (e.g., such as by a static casting process). In an embodiment, the seal ring may be heat treated as part of its being produced.

[0094] The sealing ring may include a load end, a sealing end, a load surface and a sealing surface. The load end and the sealing end are in a spaced relationship with each other along the longitudinal axis. The load surface extends along the longitudinal axis between the load end and the sealing end. The sealing surface is disposed at the sealing end and is annular. The sealing surface extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0095] In an embodiment, the seal ring can be machined to at least one predetermined tolerance. The seal ring can be machined so that the thickness of the sealing flange is within the predetermined tolerance, the sealing bevel angle is within the predetermined tolerance, and other dimensional tolerances are met, for example. The seal ring can be machined by any suitable technique (e.g., such as by turning using a lathe and / or grinding using a grinder).

[0096] A coating composition layer is applied to at least a portion of the outer surface of the seal ring (step 520). Any suitable technique may be used to apply the coating composition layer. For example, in an embodiment, at least one of an automatic deposition process, an electrodeposition process, and a plating process (e.g., an electroplating process or a chemical plating process) is used to apply the coating composition layer. In an embodiment, any suitable automatic deposition process, electrodeposition process, or plating process known to those skilled in the art may be used to apply the coating composition layer.

[0097] In an embodiment, before the coating composition layer is applied to the sealing ring, the sealing ring can be cleaned to remove any foreign matter deposited on the outer surface of the metal substrate of the sealing ring to which the coating composition layer is applied. Such foreign matter may include, for example, grease, dirt, dust, oil, or any other substance that may interfere with the coating process. Any known physical or chemical means can be used to clean the sealing ring and / or remove oil stains from the sealing ring. For example, a cleaning agent can be used, such as any commercially available alkaline or acidic cleaning agent. In addition, the sealing ring can be sandblasted using a suitable abrasive medium to enhance the adhesion of the coating composition layer to the outer surface of the sealing ring.

[0098] In an embodiment, the coating composition can be made of any suitable material. For example, in an embodiment, the coating composition is formulated to withstand an isotropic finishing process for polishing the sealing band so that it will not be removed from the sealing ring during the isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, the coating composition can be made of a material with enhanced properties or characteristics relative to the material of the manufacturing sealing ring. For example, in an embodiment, the sealing ring is made of a sealing ring material (e.g., an iron alloy), and the coating composition layer is more corrosion-resistant than the sealing ring material. In an embodiment, the coating composition includes a material having rust-proof properties. In an embodiment, the coating composition includes a suitable phosphate coating. For example, in an embodiment, the coating composition includes a manganese phosphate coating material.

[0099] In an embodiment, the coating composition layer is applied using an autodeposition process and includes an epoxy resin. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer includes an epoxy-acrylic resin. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer includes a suitable autodepositable coating composition, including, for example, those sold by Henkel Surface Technologies under the brand name or Autophoretic Coating In an embodiment, the autodepositable coating composition comprises an epoxy-acrylic resin. Coating Composition. In some embodiments, the autodepositable coating composition comprises a coating composition sold by Henkel Surface Technologies as Bonderite Metal Pre-treatment Paint Process (BONDERITE M-PP) 930. In still other embodiments, the coating composition layer 142 may include other suitable autodepositable coating compositions.

[0100] In an embodiment, the coating composition layer is applied using any suitable auto-deposition process, wherein the aqueous coating composition is applied to the seal ring by means of a chemical reaction. Specifically, the seal ring can be dipped or immersed in a chemical bath, wherein the pigment and resin particles can be deposited on its outer surface (or at least a portion thereof).

[0101] As is known in the art, after applying the auto-depositable coating composition, the sealing ring may undergo one or more cleaning stages. For example, the sealing ring may undergo a first cleaning to remove any coating composition material that is not adhered to the outer surface of the sealing ring. In addition, a reactive cleaning may be provided to allow new properties (e.g., increased corrosion resistance) to be introduced into the auto-depositable coating composition before curing. After the cleaning stage, the sealing ring may be heated to a temperature sufficient to cure the auto-depositable coating composition using any suitable technique known to those skilled in the art. Specifically, the sealing ring may be heated to a target temperature for a predetermined time to fully cure the auto-depositable coating composition.

[0102] In addition, it should be understood that in an embodiment, the coating composition layer may be applied to an area larger than the expected application area of ​​the sealing ring during the application process. In an embodiment, one or more parts of the sealing ring having the coating material application layer can be processed to remove the applied coating composition layer therefrom, for example, by a mechanical processing process. For example, the coating composition layer can be applied to the outer surface of the sealing ring by immersing the entire sealing ring in a chemical bath. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer can be applied to the sealing surface and / or the inner cylindrical surface of the sealing ring. In an embodiment, the coating composition layer applied to the sealing surface and / or the inner cylindrical surface of the sealing ring can be removed using mechanical processing techniques known to those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, masking techniques can be used to protect one or more parts of the outer surface of the sealing ring so as to inhibit the coating composition from adhering thereto.

[0103] The sealing surface of the seal ring is machined to define a sealing band (step 530). In step 530, the sealing surface may be machined to define a sealing band using any suitable technique (eg, by grinding with a surface grinder).

[0104] In an embodiment, the sealing surface of the sealing ring can be machined to define an inner release area. The sealing band is arranged along the sealing surface radially outside the inner release area. In an embodiment, the sealing surface can be machined to define the inner release area using any suitable technique (e.g., by grinding with a spherical grinder).

[0105] After applying the coating composition layer, a mask is placed over at least one area of ​​the coating composition layer applied to the outer surface of the seal ring (step 540). The mask is positioned relative to the sealing tape so that the mask is offset from the sealing tape to expose the sealing tape.

[0106] In an embodiment, the mask is applied by disposing the sealing ring in a mask member. The mask member defines a circumferential groove. The load end of the sealing ring is disposed in the circumferential groove. In an embodiment, the circumferential groove defined by the mask member is configured such that the sealing ring is disposed in the circumferential groove, wherein the load surface is covered and only the portion of the sealing surface containing the sealing band is exposed.

[0107] In an embodiment, the mask member includes a first mask portion and a second mask portion. The first mask portion includes an inner sidewall and a base defining a circular recess. The second mask portion has an outer periphery. The second mask portion is configured so that the second mask portion can be positioned within the circular recess of the first mask portion. The inner sidewall of the first mask portion and the outer periphery of the second mask portion cooperate to define a circumferential groove.

[0108] In an embodiment, the mask member may be made of any suitable material. In an embodiment, the mask member is made of an acid resistant material that does not react with the polishing medium used in the isotropic finishing process. In an embodiment, the mask member is made of a material having a durometer hardness of 60 Shore A or less. In an embodiment, the mask member is made of a material having a durometer hardness in the range of 25 and 55 Shore A.

[0109] In an embodiment, the mask member may be manufactured using any suitable technique, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.In an embodiment, the mask member is manufactured by reverse molding a prototype seal ring.

[0110] After the mask is placed, the sealing tape is polished by subjecting the sealing tape to an isotropic finishing process (step 550). In an embodiment, the sealing tape is polished by subjecting the sealing tape to an isotropic finishing process so that the sealing tape has a surface roughness average of about 0.3 microns Ra or less; in other embodiments, a surface roughness average of about 0.2 microns Ra or less; in still other embodiments, a surface roughness average of about 0.15 microns Ra or less; and in still other embodiments, a surface roughness average of about 0.1 microns Ra or less.

[0111] In an embodiment, the sealing tape of the inner relief area and the sealing surface has substantially no coating composition layer applied thereto once the sealing tape is polished in step 550. In other words, the sealing tape of the sealing surface has substantially no coating composition layer applied thereto once the sealing tape is polished. To the extent that the coating composition layer is applied to the sealing surface, the coating composition layer may be removed from the sealing surface during the machining step and / or by other machining operations, such that the sealing tape may be isotropically finished.

[0112] In an embodiment, any suitable isotropic finishing process can be used to polish the sealing band. In an embodiment, the machining procedure of isotropic finishing can involve two cycles, namely a cutting cycle and a polishing cycle. The cycle time can vary depending on the initial surface finish and the part geometry tolerance. In an embodiment, the cycle time can be determined so that the sealing ring part geometry (e.g., corners, roundness, slope, opening, etc.) remains within tolerance.

[0113] In an embodiment, subjecting the sealing tape to an isotropic finishing process includes applying a cutting fluid to a surface of the component to produce an isotropic surface finish. In an embodiment, the cutting fluid has a pH of about five to about six. For example, in an embodiment, the acid used in the cutting cycle is one of phosphoric acid and oxalic acid, and has a pH between about five and about six.

[0114] For example, in an embodiment, the seal ring is subjected to acid resurfacing, wherein the seal ring is immersed in a cutting fluid mixture of a suitable acid (e.g., phosphoric acid or oxalic acid), which has a pH between about five and about six as described above. The acid resurfacing can be performed in a processing tank. The cutting fluid can be introduced into the processing tank from a cutting fluid reservoir through an electrically controlled cutting fluid valve operated by a trimming processor. The trimming processor may include a digital microcomputer or microprocessor associated with a non-transitory computer readable digital memory containing computer executable code for controlling the operation of the trimming processor. An agitator or other flow enhancement device may also be used to accelerate the processing of the seal ring in the processing tank.

[0115] The cutting process can be carried out by removing the uneven parts (i.e., high points) of the sealing band surface of the seal ring, while the elements in the solution protect the low points. In this way, the uneven parts are widened and reduced to the extent that the irregular parts eventually become small enough and isotropic.

[0116] In an embodiment, subjecting the sealing tape to isotropic finishing further comprises applying a polishing solution to the surface of the component. In an embodiment, the polishing solution has a pH of about seven to about nine. For example, in an embodiment, the solution used in the polishing cycle is a lubricant having a pH of about seven to about nine. In an embodiment, the cutting fluid or the polishing fluid does not need to be removed before adding the fluid for the polishing cycle or before adding the fluid to maintain the pH of the fluid. After polishing, the treated seal ring can be completely cleaned to prevent further etching or erosion.

[0117] For example, in an embodiment, once the surface cutting stage is completed, the sealing strip is polished in an embodiment. A polishing solution (e.g., a lubricant having a pH of about seven to about nine) is flowed through the sealing strip of the sealing ring. In an embodiment, the cutting fluid is discharged before the polishing solution is introduced. In other embodiments, the polishing solution itself is used to replace the cutting fluid. The electrically controlled cutting fluid valve of the cutting fluid reservoir can be closed, while the electrically controlled drain valve is opened to drain the processing tank. At the same time, the electrically controlled polishing solution valve arranged with the polishing solution tank can be opened to allow the polishing solution to enter the processing tank.

[0118] The polishing solution can be used to further smooth the sealing band of the seal ring and also to neutralize the cutting fluid to prevent further cutting. After the polishing cycle, the seal ring can be cleaned to stop the isotropic finishing cycle.

[0119] Industrial Applicability

[0120] From the foregoing discussion, it will be readily appreciated that the embodiments of the alloy for the seal ring, the seal ring for the seal assembly, the method of making the seal ring, and the apparatus in the method of making the annular seal ring of the seal assembly herein have industrial applicability. The principles described are applicable to machines and equipment including a wheel assembly so that one component can be rotatably moved relative to another component. The wheel assembly may include at least one seal assembly constructed according to the present principles. In other embodiments, the seal ring constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure may be used in a seal assembly used in different applications, such as, for example, a slurry pump auger or a pin joint assembly for a connecting rod assembly.

[0121] During use, the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 can help prevent fluid (e.g., lubricant (not shown)) from leaking, for example, from the inner cavity. The first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 provide an operational seal therebetween. Specifically, the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 rotate relative to each other in sealing engagement. The first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 act in a spring manner to apply axial loads to the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112, respectively, in opposite directions of the longitudinal axis "LA" so that the sealing bands 140 of the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 are in face-to-face sealing contact under pressure, so that an operational fluid-tight seal is formed. The structure of the sealing cavity 40 can help maintain the first load ring 121 and the second load ring 122 in adjacent relationship with the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112, respectively, to promote the opposite axial forces applied by the first seal ring 111 and the second seal ring 112 relative to each other. Therefore, under difficult loading conditions, fluid can be inhibited from escaping from the sealing cavity 40.

[0122] The construction of the sealing band 140 makes it easy to create an effective fluid tight seal when the first sealing ring 111 and the second sealing ring 112 are installed in the joint. The sealing band 140 can have a consistent surface finish produced using an isotropic finishing process. Isotropic finishing can modify the surface finish and / or texture of the sealing band to improve its performance by reducing burrs or wear when relative sliding occurs. Subjecting the sealing band to isotropic finishing can help reduce pitting fatigue and extend the service life of the sealing ring.

[0123] In addition, before the isotropic finishing process is performed, for example, a coating composition layer can be applied to the outer surface of the seal ring to enhance its corrosion resistance and / or rust resistance. During the isotropic finishing process, the coating composition layer applied to the area of ​​the seal ring other than the sealing band can be protected by a mask constructed according to the principles of the present disclosure.

[0124] In an embodiment, the mask may be made of a soft material to help increase the useful life of the mask during multiple uses as a mask during polishing of different seals in multiple cycles of an isotropic finishing process. The soft material wears very little when rubbed against the ceramic polishing media used in the isotropic finishing process and can therefore be used over multiple cycles.

[0125] It should be understood that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed systems and techniques. However, it is contemplated that other embodiments of the present disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to the present disclosure or its examples are intended to reference the specific examples discussed at the time, and are not intended to imply any limitation on the scope of the present disclosure more generally. All distinctions and unfavorable remarks about certain features are intended to indicate that these features of interest are not preferred, but unless otherwise indicated, these features are not completely excluded from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0126] Unless otherwise indicated herein, recitation of ranges of values ​​herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a sealing ring (111, 112) for a sealing assembly (30, 36), the manufacturing method comprising: Producing the sealing ring (111, 112), the sealing ring (111, 112) comprising a load end (131), a sealing end (132), a load surface (134) and a sealing surface (136), the load end (131) and the sealing end (132) being spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis (LA), the load surface (134) extending along the longitudinal axis (LA) between the load end (131) and the sealing end (132), the sealing surface (136) being arranged at the sealing end (132) and being annular, and the sealing surface (136) extending radially relative to the longitudinal axis (LA); applying a coating composition layer (142) to at least a portion of an outer surface (143) of the sealing ring (111, 112); Mechanically processing the sealing surface (136) of the sealing ring (111, 112) to define a sealing band (140); After applying the coating composition layer (142), placing a mask (300, 400) over at least one area of ​​the coating composition layer (142) applied to the outer surface (143) of the sealing ring (111, 112), the mask (300, 400) being positioned relative to the sealing tape (140) so that the mask (300, 400) is offset from the sealing tape (140) to expose the sealing tape (140); After placing the mask (300, 400), polishing the sealing tape (140) by subjecting the sealing tape (140) to an isotropic finishing process; The mask (300, 400) is applied by arranging the sealing ring (111, 112) in a mask member (310, 410), the mask member (310, 410) defining a circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422), and the load end (131) of the sealing ring (111, 112) is arranged in the circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422).

2. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the sealing ring (111, 112) is made of a sealing ring material, and the coating composition layer (142) is more corrosion-resistant than the sealing ring material.

3. The manufacturing method of claim 1, wherein the coating composition layer (142) comprises manganese phosphate.

4. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the mask member (310, 410) is made of an acid-resistant material that does not react with a polishing medium used in the isotropic finishing process and has a durometer hardness of 60 Shore A or less.

5. The manufacturing method according to claim 1, wherein the circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422) defined by the mask member (310, 410) is configured so that the sealing ring (111, 112) is arranged in the circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422), wherein the load surface (134) is covered and only the portion of the sealing surface (136) containing the sealing band (140) is exposed.

6. The manufacturing method according to claim 5, wherein the mask member (310, 410) is manufactured by reverse molding a prototype seal ring.

7. A manufacturing method according to claim 5, wherein the mask member (410) includes a first mask part (431) and a second mask part (432), the first mask part (431) including an inner side wall (437) and a base (438) defining a circular recess (441), the second mask part (432) having an outer periphery (444), the second mask part (432) being configured so that the second mask part (432) can be positioned within the circular recess (441) of the first mask part (431), the inner side wall (437) of the first mask part (431) and the outer periphery (444) of the second mask part (432) cooperating to define the circumferential groove (421).

8. The manufacturing method according to claim 7, wherein the mask member (410) is made of an acid-resistant material that does not react with a polishing medium used in the isotropic finishing process and has a durometer hardness of 100 Shore A or less.

9. An apparatus for use in a method of manufacturing a sealing ring (111, 112) of a sealing assembly (30, 36), the sealing ring (111, 112) having a load end (131), a sealing end (132), a load surface (134) and a sealing surface (136), the load surface (134) extending axially between the load end (131) and the sealing end (132), the sealing surface (136) extending radially at the sealing end (132), and the sealing surface (136) having a sealing band (140), the apparatus comprising: a mask member (310, 410) defining a circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422); The circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422) is configured so that the sealing ring (111, 112) can be arranged in the circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422), wherein the load end (131) is in the circumferential groove (321, 322; 421, 422), the load surface (134) is covered by the mask member (310, 410), and the sealing band (140) is exposed.

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