Novel method for the hybrid composite electroplating of the upstream pumping mechanical seal

The upstream pumping mechanical seal has been widely used in recent years because of its excellent seal performance. However, it is difficult to machine using the common manufacturing technology because of its complex microgroove structure, high machining accuracy requirement, and difficult-to-machine material application. In this work, a novel method that combines composite electroplating and gradient composite brush electroplating is developed for manufacturing the upstream pumping mechanical seal. The effects of the hybrid composite electroplating parameters, such as the SiC concentration in the electroplating liquid, current density, stirring speed of the electroplating solution, on the microstructure of the growth layer, and wear performance, are investigated. Results show that the SiC distribution on the surface of the growth layer is uniform, the quantity of the SiC particle deposited in the growth layer, and the microhardness of the growth layer increases gradually from the bottom to the top of the metal matrix ring. Moreover, slight abrasive wearing occurs with appropriate manufacturing parameters: a SiC concentration of 40 g/L, current density of 4.5 A dm(-2), and stirring speed of 300 r/min.