Abstract: A multi-channel rotary joint with which a plurality of fluids of the same or different types can be made to flow as desired, including first connecting spaces sealed by mechanical seals and second connecting spaces sealed by mechanical seals and by elastic seals, such connecting spaces being between a joint housing and a rotator. A series of fluid passages that pass through the connecting spaces are also formed in the joint housing and the rotator. The mechanical seals are end-contact type seals and comprise balanced seals with a balance ratio &kgr; such that 0≦&kgr;≦1. Each elastic seal has a U-shaped cross section and is engaged and fixed to one of the opposing peripheral surfaces in a state in which an annular groove between inner and outer peripheral lips opens into the space with the higher pressure out of the second connecting space and its adjacent space.

Abstract: A multi-channel rotary joint with which a plurality of fluids of the same or different types can be made to flow as desired, including first connecting spaces sealed by mechanical seals and second connecting spaces sealed by mechanical seals and by elastic seals, such connecting spaces being between a joint housing and a rotator. A series of fluid passages that pass through the connecting spaces are also formed in the joint housing and the rotator. The mechanical seals are end-contact type seals and comprise balanced seals with a balance ratio k such that 0≦k≦1. Each elastic seal has a U-shaped cross section and is engaged and fixed to one of the opposing peripheral surfaces in a state in which an annular groove between inner and outer peripheral lips opens into the space with the higher pressure out of the second connecting space and its adjacent space.