Rotary union

High school (ages 12+)
Science & Technology

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/rotary-union

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the engineering disciplines involved?Requires expertise in fluid dynamics, tribology, material science, and mechanical design
2. How does a rotary union keep the fluid from leaking while it spins?It uses a dynamic seal that can handle rotation, pressure, and heat, so the fluid stays inside the pipe even when the machine turns.
3. Why do machines need rotary unions?They let machines that spin, like CNC tools or turbines, get the water, oil, or steam they need without stopping, which makes the machines work faster and last longer.

Tribology: The scientific study of friction, wear, and lubrication between surfaces in relative motion.
Dynamic Seal: A seal designed to function between moving parts, as opposed to a static seal between stationary parts.
Fluid Power Media: Pressurized liquids (like hydraulic fluid) or gases (like compressed air) used to transmit power in machinery.