Typically machine parts are sealed using nuts and bolts or some sort of adhesive to "glue" the sides together. These techniques are successful yet tend to allow for leaking of fluids through the seams, especially in moving parts. Often times, some sort of rubber o-ring is also placed on these moving parts to help stop leakages. These o-rings must be replaced relativity frequently creating more cost for companies.
The new proposed method centers upon creating a magnetic field in place of using bolts or adhesives. A circuit made of one of the rare earth metals would provide many advantages over traditional sealing techniques. These magnetic circuits last "longer and are [more] durable in sealing lifetime, compact in system configuration, light in unit weight, higher in performance efficiency, and stable in sealing functioning" [1]. Each of these advantages will benefit companies economical. By increasing efficiency and lifetime of the seal, companies will be able to delegate these funds to improving their products quality.
I found this article interesting due to the recent BP oil spill crisis. Maybe some sort of magnetic sealing could be used in the future to seal these ocean oil lines. Just a thought. Here is a picture I thought was funny about the BP crisis. Enjoy.
[1] Li, Jeremy "Zheng". "Computer aided modeling and design of a new magnetic sealing mechanism in engineering applications." Engineering 2.1 (Jan 2010): 22(6). Academic OneFile. Gale. Clemson University Libraries. 20 Oct. 2010
http://find.galegroup.com/gtx/start.do?prodId=AONE&userGroupName=clemson_itweb
thats a pretty cool idea. if it's an electric magnet it seems like it would use electricity and increase the companies over head for that particular machine. I noticed the quote you had said "higher in performance efficiency" so I have to assume they account for it but did they say anythign about the costs?
ReplyDeleteThe article was more about the development of the technology and the uses of it. Cost was not covered, but was implied in most of the efficiency arguments.
ReplyDeleteThis is a great idea until your electromagnetic field collapses or poles switch. One o-ring on a certian part of a machine may break and need to be replaced, but if the whole magnetic field goes down, then you are looking at many leaks to fix the problem. I could see it working in separate mechanisms, but companies are going to limit overhead by using one circuit and the everything is going to go down hill quick.
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