Abstract

This study is focused upon the radial leakage points between the bottom steel plate and the composite tip seal of a scroll expander device. The critical components of the scroll expander were thoroughly studied with the use of the TE 57 sliding micro-friction machine and examined from the perspective of both friction and wear. Various friction graphs were produced using different load, speed and temperature combinations adjusted to simulate the expander’s operating conditions. The wear analysis showed that a higher PV (Pressure × Velocity) factor can enhance the performance of the scroll, lowering the wear rates and simultaneously reducing the leakage paths. Surface analysis revealed the wear damage mechanism of the scroll steel plate and highlighted the tribological performance of the tip seal.