Two-scale stochastic modelling and analysis of leakage through metal-to-metal seals

Sammanfattning: A seal is a commonly used machine element whose function is to preventthe flow of a fluid from a high to a low pressure region. Metal-to-metalseals, in particular, are used whenever extreme conditions prevent theuse of less expensive rubber seals. Situations where such extreme condi-tions may be encountered are found, for example, in oil wells and nuclearpower plants. In such applications, the failure of a metal-to-metal sealcan become catastrophic, as it might mean the leakage of hazardousfluids to the environment. In order to minimize the risk, it is critical tounderstand the mechanisms controlling the seal