Current research status and future development trends of reciprocating seals in aviation hydraulic actuator

Abstract

Reciprocating seals in hydraulic actuators are critical to ensuring the performance and reliability of aerospace systems. This review presents a comprehensive overview of their operating conditions, material properties, modeling approaches, and testing methodologies. First, the operational environments of aviation hydraulic reciprocating seals are examined, with particular emphasis on the challenges posed by high pressures, elevated temperatures, and dynamic loading. The properties of candidate materials and temperature-sensitive sealing compounds are analyzed, focusing on material selection criteria tailored to specific application requirements. Macro-scale characteristic modeling, micro-scale lubrication mechanisms, and wear prediction are discussed in detail to enhance understanding of the tribological behavior at the seal interface. The integration of finite element analysis (FEA) with mixed lubrication methods is identified as a promising approach for improving the accuracy of seal performance predictions. Experimental techniques for evaluating macroscopic characteristics, visualizing seal conditions, and assessing service life are also reviewed, and the limitations of current testing methods are critically discussed. These studies provide valuable insights into seal behavior under realistic operating conditions, guiding the optimization of seal design and material selection. Finally, key challenges in the field are highlighted, including wear, leakage, and performance degradation, along with potential directions for future research aimed at enhancing the durability and reliability of reciprocating seals in aviation hydraulic systems.