Characteristics of Blood Sealing by Magnetic Fluid Seals

Abstract

Magnetic fluid seals are used in a wide variety of gas and dust sealing applications. However, it is difficult to seal for liquid because of its characteristics. The objective of this study is to clarify the characteristics of magnetic fluid seals for liquid, especially for blood. Sealing pressure test, and durability test have been conducted for this seal. In this study, magnetic fluid, sealing fluid, eccentricity ratio, revolution speed were selected as parameters. As results of the tests, it has been found that properties of magnetic fluid seal depend on the solvent and the saturation magnetization of magnetic fluid. Therefore, the selection of magnetic fluid is important for this seal. It also has been found that eccentricity ratio of the shaft caused harmful effect for seal properties. In conclusion, it has been showed that magnetic fluid seals could be possibly used in medical instruments such as rotary blood pumps.