Calculating Friction Force for a Waterproof Seal in a Syringe Setup

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating the friction force for a waterproof seal in a syringe setup, specifically involving a rubber component against a metal or plastic container. The key challenge is determining the necessary spring force to move the rubber piece approximately three inches. It is established that the coefficient of friction cannot be calculated theoretically and must be measured experimentally. The recommended approach includes preloading the spring to ensure it generates sufficient force throughout the entire movement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of friction force calculations
  • Knowledge of spring mechanics and preload concepts
  • Familiarity with experimental measurement techniques
  • Basic principles of materials science regarding rubber and seal applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for measuring the coefficient of friction in rubber materials
  • Explore spring preload calculations and their impact on force generation
  • Study the principles of waterproof sealing in mechanical systems
  • Review relevant academic papers on friction in seal applications, such as the one mentioned in the discussion
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, product designers, and anyone involved in the design and testing of sealing mechanisms in fluid systems.

Stephen0311
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Hi Friends,

So I'll go into a bit of the setup that I'm having some trouble figuring out. I have a piece of rubber that will be pushing up against the side of a metal (or plastic) container to create a waterproof seal. The easiest way to think about this would be to imagine the rubber piece of a syringe that is pushed up and down. Basically I'm trying to determine the force I need from a spring to have that rubber interior move about three inches.

When I'm looking at the formulas for friction, all of them reference a coefficient of friction (but it's always a given in example problems). Is there a way to calculate the force of friction of the sliding waterproof seal I mentioned above?

Thanks for the help
 
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Edit: Sorry, you can't calculate the coefficient of friction. It is a quantity measured by experiment.

But I did find a paper that might help you. http://thescipub.com/PDF/ajassp.2005.626.632.pdf
 
Best bet is to measure the required force. You will need to preload the spring so it continues to generate the required force right to the end of the required travel. This means it will generate more force than needed at the start of the travel.
 

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