An Initial Experimental Study Of Rotating Micromechanical Liquid O-ring Pressure Seals

Shrinking macroscopic concepts of machinery to microscopic scales presents several interesting challenges. One of these is the achievement of shaft pressure seals on rotating micromachines. This study investigates the feasibility of using surface tension to create a liquid o-ring. A simplified experimental setup using readily available materials to control contact angles is utilized. Based on results of stationary and relative motion experiments performed in this study, the use of surface tension to create a liquid o-ring appears feasible.