Abstract
In this paper, we conducted durability tests of V-packings to propose a new maintenance assessment method. V-packings are fiber-reinforced rubber components to seal the mechanical shaft from fluid. They are used at hydraulic power generator and abraded by rotating shaft. Durability tests were conducted by the device reproducing usage condition of the V-packings in the generator. After the durability test, V-packings were abraded intensely. Nevertheless, from the leak tests results, these V-packings had maintained high seal performance. Then durability test considering environment of river water was conducted. The test powder defined JIS Z 8901 was mixed into circulating water to evaluate the effect of river water on the durability of V-packings and steel shaft. From the test result, effect of the JIS test powder on the abrasion of V- packings and steel shaft was described.
