Bearing-Seal System for Safe Motion Transfer in Deep Submersible Pressure Vessels

Designers of deep submersibles are reluctant to use conventional shafts and seals to penetrate the hulls of deep submersible, pressure vessels fearing seal failure under extreme pressures. The unique design of this patented system, designated LAMIFLEX®, incorporates elastomeric bearings in order to achieve an absolute hermetic seal and permit leak-free transfer of rotary motion up to at least 15 degrees through the hull of these highly pressurized vessels. External functions, such as control surface deflection, can be driven internally with inherent safety and backup. There are no sliding surfaces (packings, lip, or face seals) that could fail. It also exhibits a smooth spring-like reaction and limited shaft movement without friction. The new designs have been implemented and tested at pressures of 10,000 psi for more than a million cycles at ±15 degrees with no leakage.