The friction state of the end face of the mechanical seal is a key factor that determines the working life and the performance of the mechanical seal. The friction mechanism of the end face of the mechanical seal is discussed from a microscopic point of view, and the end face of the mechanical seal is analyzed in dry friction, boundary friction, fluid friction and mixed friction states. The working characteristics of the mechanical seal are introduced. The method of judging the friction state of the end face of the mechanical seal is introduced, and the influence of the friction state of the end face on the performance of the mechanical seal is analyzed. For ordinary mechanical seals, the best friction state of the end face should be the mixed friction state, such as the sealing performance requirements. High, it should be a boundary friction state.